How to Switch from a Non-Tech Background to a Tech Job in Viet Nam
Last Updated: December 25th 2024
Too Long; Didn't Read:
Switching from a non-tech background to a tech job in Vietnam is achievable as Viet Nam's tech industry, contributing over 10% of GDP, thrives with giants like Samsung and local unicorns like VNG Corp. Key strategies include leveraging transferable skills, enrolling in coding bootcamps like CoderSchool, networking at events, and showcasing projects on platforms like GitHub. With an industry projected to reach $16.5 billion by 2024, opportunities abound in fintech, e-commerce, and software outsourcing.
Viet Nam's tech scene is straight-up booming right now! The top tech companies are killing it - we're talking major global players like Samsung, Intel, and even homegrown unicorns like VNG Corp and MoMo.
This industry is contributing over 10% to the country's GDP, and the government is all about supporting it with sick STEM education programs and incentives for foreign investment.
The IT workforce is projected to keep growing rapidly, with a projected $1.99 billion market revenue in 2024 alone.
E-commerce, fintech, and software outsourcing are where it's at. Stats show IT Outsourcing alone is expected to hit $690 million in 2024.
With a young, tech-hungry population and rising internet access, Viet Nam is well on its way to becoming the next big tech hub in Southeast Asia. And don't forget to check out these job hunting tips from Nucamp to land your dream gig in this booming industry!
Table of Contents
- Identifying Transferable Skills from Non-Tech Backgrounds
- Tech Education and Training Resources in Viet Nam
- Building a Strong Tech Portfolio and Resume
- Networking and Job Search Strategies in Viet Nam
- Frequently Asked Questions
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Identifying Transferable Skills from Non-Tech Backgrounds
(Up)Switching careers to the tech world in Viet Nam ain't as tough as it seems, even if you're coming from a totally different background. Companies here are on the hunt for folks with mad problem-solving skills (85%), solid communication (76%), and the ability to roll with the punches (71%) – talents you can pick up in all sorts of non-tech gigs.
Just look at Nguyen Thi Huong, who went from marketing to killing it as a UI/UX designer at a top tech firm in Hanoi. She took her creative flair, user mindset, and eye for detail from her marketing days and used 'em to crush her new tech career.
Other in-demand skills that can make the jump with you include:
- Project management: Keeping projects on track and organized
- Innovative thinking: Out-of-the-box thinking
- Time management: Time management skills on point
- Collaboration: Being a team player who can collaborate
To really sell these abilities when applying for tech roles in Viet Nam, here are some tips:
- Quantify achievements: Quantify your past achievements and give solid examples of when you rocked those transferable skills.
- Customize your application: Customize your resume and cover letter for each job, highlighting the relevant skills they're looking for.
- Commit to learning: Level up with online courses or certs to show you're committed to upskilling for the new career.
- Build a portfolio: Build a portfolio with projects that flaunt how you put those transferable skills into action.
As David Wilson, who went from accounting to data analytics, put it:
Showcasing my analytical thinking, attention to detail, and ability to crunch huge data sets was key to landing my tech gig. Employers dig diverse skill sets and fresh perspectives.
Tech Education and Training Resources in Viet Nam
(Up)Switching careers to tech in Viet Nam has never been easier, thanks to a ton of awesome coding bootcamps in Ho Chi Minh City.
These intensive programs, like CoderSchool, give you a solid foundation in full-stack web development or data science without dragging on for years. And the best part? They've got a straightforward deal – you only pay after landing a software engineering gig.
But bootcamps aren't the only game in town.
If you prefer going the self-study route, online courses from platforms like The Knowledge Academy cover everything from cybersecurity basics to cloud computing.
And with so many free resources out there like freeCodeCamp, you can start building those coding skills without spending a dime.
Of course, traditional university programs are still an option if you want that full academic experience.
Top universities like Hanoi University of Science and Technology and Ho Chi Minh City University of Technology offer solid computer science degrees. But in this fast-paced tech world, continuous learning is key.
That's where local meetups and communities come in, keeping you in the loop with the latest trends and technologies. The tech scene in Viet Nam is booming, so why not hop on board and score yourself a cool, high-paying job?
Building a Strong Tech Portfolio and Resume
(Up)Crafting a dope tech portfolio is key if you're switching from a non-tech background to tech in Vietnam. Your portfolio needs to showcase your skills and impress potential employers.
Here's what you gotta include:
- Code Samples: Show off your coding skills with clean, well-documented code from personal projects or online challenges.
- Technical Writing: Prove you can explain complex tech stuff clearly by adding blog posts, documentation, or tutorials you've written.
- Projects: Highlight your problem-solving abilities and tech expertise with real-world projects, complete with descriptions, code snippets, and visuals.
As for your resume, tailor it to the local job market in Vietnam.
Emphasize relevant skills like Java, Python, or mobile app dev that employers are looking for. Show off your passion by mentioning personal projects or open-source contributions.
And don't forget to highlight your language skills, as many tech companies operate in multiple languages.
To really stand out, use resources like GitHub to host your code and projects.
Platforms like FreeCodeCamp and CodinGame are great for sharpening your skills and earning certs. And check out local meetups and hackathons in Ho Chi Minh City or Hanoi to network and stay updated on industry trends in Vietnam.
Networking and Job Search Strategies in Viet Nam
(Up)Landing a tech job in Viet Nam is all about networking and searching smart! You gotta hit up those industry events to connect with the big dogs and expand your circle.
Mark your calendars for significant events like TECH PLAN DEMO DAY in Vietnam 2024 where startups pitch their cutting-edge ideas, or Vietnam Innovation Summit to learn from the top innovators and link up with investors. Online, sites like VietnamWorks and Vibiz are goldmines for tech openings across the country.
But to really stand out, you gotta flex those skills hard! Build a slick online portfolio to showcase your projects and let those coding talents shine.
And don't sleep on platforms like LinkedIn and GitHub to connect with fellow techies and companies. With Viet Nam's tech scene booming (experts say it could hit $16.5 billion by 2024!), now's the time to hustle and grab those opportunities.
Upskill like crazy, maybe with a coding bootcamp to lock in the hottest skills like JavaScript and Python. And most importantly, never stop networking - those connections could lead to your dream gig! Just stay driven and Viet Nam's thriving tech world will be yours for the taking.
Frequently Asked Questions
(Up)What are the key industries driving the tech scene in Viet Nam?
Key industries include e-commerce, fintech, and software outsourcing. These sectors are projected to significantly grow, with e-commerce alone expected to hit $690 million in 2024.
How can someone from a non-tech background transition into a tech career in Viet Nam?
Identify transferable skills such as project management, innovative thinking, and collaboration. Customize applications to highlight these skills, and consider online courses or bootcamps to acquire tech-specific knowledge.
What educational resources are available for tech career transitions in Viet Nam?
Options include coding bootcamps like CoderSchool, online resources like freeCodeCamp, and traditional universities such as Hanoi University of Science and Technology offering computer science degrees.
How important is a tech portfolio and what should it include?
A strong tech portfolio is crucial and should include code samples, technical writing, and project showcases. These elements demonstrate problem-solving skills and technical expertise.
What strategies should be employed for job searching in the tech industry in Viet Nam?
Engage in networking at industry events, utilize job sites like VietnamWorks, and maintain active profiles on LinkedIn and GitHub. Building a strong online presence and continuous skill development are key.
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Chevas Balloun
Director of Marketing & Brand
Chevas has spent over 15 years inventing brands, designing interfaces, and driving engagement for companies like Microsoft. He is a practiced writer, a productivity app inventor, board game designer, and has a builder-mentality drives entrepreneurship.