I'm diving into programming and I've got a grasp on the basics of object-oriented programming – like classes, methods, and properties. I understand how to use libraries and piece them together, but I haven't had much hands-on experience building full projects. I can write and comprehend code, and I really enjoy problem-solving. However, I often feel like I "don't know enough" to actually apply for a job. Is it okay to apply while still learning? I'd love to hear about your experiences and how much you knew before your first tech interview.
5 Answers
Landing a position is more about your accomplishments than just your knowledge. Focus on what you've done instead of just what you know. And remember, most projects at work won’t require you to build something from scratch. You’ll usually join an existing project, so strong problem-solving skills can be more critical than expert programming knowledge. Familiarize yourself with common interview questions to boost your confidence!
Go for it! Keep learning and start applying. Some companies focus on industry experience, while others might be open to hiring someone without experience, as long as you have the right attitude. You’ve got nothing to lose by trying!
As a beginner, you might find it tough to land a job. You need to demonstrate in the interview that you can offer value. Companies usually ask about data structures, algorithms, and math problems. If they can pick a non-beginner for a junior role, they will. So, you'll need to show that you're not a total newbie.
Absolutely, it's totally fine to apply while you keep learning! You'll likely always feel like you don’t know enough until you gain real experience. So, don’t stress—just go ahead and submit those applications while working on your skills.
Hiring trends have changed over the years. While historically, some companies might have taken a chance on beginners, today they often expect minimal guidance. Many hiring managers prefer candidates who can hit the ground running. Even for internships, they expect you to be ready to tackle coding challenges independently. That said, it couldn’t hurt to apply and see what feedback you get. Have you tried creating a small web application to showcase your skills?
I’ve actually built quite a few things from scratch in my career, but it really varies by the company. Some give you the freedom to innovate, while others just want you to follow directions. Balancing your approach can be key to getting promoted!