## Introduction:

Switching careers can be a daunting task, especially when it comes to entering the dynamic world of Information Technology (IT). While some individuals have successfully made the transition during the pandemic, many still hesitate to take the leap. In this article, we will explore the qualities of individuals who are capable of changing professions and discuss the psychological barriers that often hinder their decision. We will also provide insights on how to overcome these challenges and make a successful transition into the IT industry.

## Getting Started in IT:

Embarking on a new career path can be intimidating, but it's essential to take the first steps towards your goal. To begin your journey into IT, consider attending various thematic events and networking opportunities. Take the time to observe, listen, ask questions, and connect with professionals in the industry. Fortunately, many of these events now take place online, allowing you to explore new career options from the comfort of your own home. Engaging in these activities will provide valuable insights into the IT field and help you build a network of like-minded individuals.

## Overcoming Age-Related Concerns:

![Image by gstudioimagen on FreePik](img/business-people-clock_24908-56084.jpg "Image by gstudioimagen on FreePik")

Image by gstudioimagen on FreePik

One of the most common barriers faced by career switchers is the fear of discrimination based on age. Whether you are in your 20s or over 40, it's important to note that age is not a decisive factor in the IT industry. In the virtual world, software products are designed for specific target groups, catering to the needs of both the younger and older generations. In IT, what matters most is the combination of valuable life experience and fresh perspectives, as they contribute to the development of innovative solutions. Therefore, age should not deter anyone from pursuing a career in IT.

## Acquiring the Necessary Skills:

Transitioning into IT requires acquiring the relevant skills and knowledge. This can be achieved through various means, such as enrolling in online courses, participating in coding boot camps, or pursuing a degree in computer science. The IT industry is constantly evolving, so it's crucial to stay updated on the latest technologies and trends. Additionally, consider gaining practical experience through internships or freelance projects to enhance your skill set and demonstrate your abilities to potential employers.

## Leveraging Transferable Skills:

While switching careers, it's important to recognize the transferable skills you already possess. Many skills acquired in previous professions can be valuable assets in the IT industry. For example, problem-solving, analytical thinking, communication, and project management skills are highly sought after in IT roles. Identify these transferable skills and highlight them in your resume and interviews to showcase your unique value as a candidate.

## Building a Strong Professional Network:

![Image by pch.vector on FreePik](img/girl-standing-growing-arrows-looking-through-binoculars-woman-searching-opportunity-job-flat-vector-illustration-business-strategy-goal-pathway-career-concept_74855-25996.jpg "Image by pch.vector on FreePik")

Image by pch.vector on FreePik\
\
Networking plays a crucial role in any career transition. Connect with professionals in the IT industry through online platforms, forums, and social media groups. Engaging with like-minded individuals will not only provide valuable insights but also open doors to potential job opportunities. Attend industry conferences, webinars, and workshops to expand your network further and stay updated on the latest developments in the IT field.

## Conclusion:

Transitioning into IT from another field may seem challenging, but with the right mindset and approach, it is entirely possible. Overcoming age-related concerns, actively seeking knowledge and skills, leveraging transferable skills, and building a strong professional network are key steps towards a successful career switch. Embrace the opportunities that the IT industry offers and embark on a new journey filled with growth, innovation, and endless possibilities. Remember, finding your path in IT is within your reach.

Considering a career change into IT? Discover how to overcome psychological barriers and age-related concerns, acquire essential skills, leverage transferable abilities and build a strong professional network.

Career Crossroads: Making the Leap to IT from Non-Tech Backgrounds

## Introduction:

![Image by mego-studio on FreePik ](img/portrait-young-business-woman-standing-outside-office-buildings-business-success-concept_58466-12282-1-.jpg "Image by mego-studio on FreePik ")

Image by mego-studio on FreePik \
\
The rapid development of technology in the modern times has made networking the crucial tool for the people who want to advance their careers, to be in knowledge enhanced, and to become the person who would be in new opportunities. The core principles of networking are still the same; however, the tools and platforms we use have undergone a transformation. This article is about effective strategies to adapt your networking methods, set clear goals and build long-lasting professional relationships. 

## Networking in the Digital Era:

The networking used to be about personal meetings, which were indeed the main source of networking. Nowadays, the networking has become digital and the way the networks are built and how the businesses and professionals interact has completely changed. Nevertheless, the internet has made the networking much better. The forums and the email evolved as new means of communication for the professionals, which were added to the old meetings and discussions. Today the digital world has experienced a real revolution with the dawn of social media platforms such as LinkedIn, Facebook, and Twitter. These web-based platforms enable the professionals to create digital profiles that they can use to show their skills, experiences, and professional interests. Networking has now shifted from the physical to the online world, and, thus, is no longer labor-intensive and depends on physical encounters, but rather, it transcends the geographical boundaries.

## Defining Networking Goals:

Networking is a means to achieve your goals; thus, knowing your objectives is the key element to be able to make the most of it. The goals will be the determinants of your networking technique and the most effective way of networking will be the result of this. Here are some common personal and professional networking goals:

a. Career Growth: If you are looking for ways to boost your career, try to connect with the big shots in your industry, get all the info about job openings, and go for any chances to develop your professional skills.

b. Business Expansion: Entrepreneurs and sales professionals can network in order to find new clients, partners, and the new market information. The essence of the sentences is that concentrate on the specific industries to build a network that can provide you with the valuable business insights.

c. Knowledge and Skill Enhancement: The professionals who are on a quest to augment their knowledge and abilities can get themselves in touch with the experts, thought leaders, and peers who are in their respective fields. Involve in the talks, take part in the webinars, and join the online communities that are related to your field of interest to get the information that you need.

## Building a Digital Network:

The growth of networking has been mainly in the digital world, thus, it is very important to be creative in finding solutions to build and nurture your network. Here are some key steps to consider: 

a. Optimize Your Online Presence: Make a professional digital profile that accentuates your knowledge, accomplishments, and hobbies. Join professional social media like LinkedIn to display your professional brand and to make connections with people who are of the same mind as you.

b. Engage in Meaningful Interactions: Join the industry related discussions, comment on the articles and posts, and share valuable insights. Present your views carefully so that they are seen as the ones of a person having dialogues and thus becoming really good at setting up reputability and thus building the paths for the one to grow as long as their achievement is on the level of the social profession.

с. Give and Receive: Networking is a bi-directional process. Help others, convey your expertise, and contribute to others' network by offering your assistance, knowledge, and value. To sum up, if someone wants to travel any distance don't be afraid to ask for advice, recommendations and help if you need it.

## Nurturing Long-Term Relationships:

![Image by marymarkevich on FreePik](img/nurturing-longterm-relationships.jpg "Image by marymarkevich on FreePik")

Image by marymarkevich on FreePik\
\
The process of creating a great network is not only about making the first friendships but also about taking care of and keeping the long-lasting relationships. Here are some key practices to cultivate lasting professional connections:

a. Follow Up: After the meetings, follow up with the contacts to show your appreciation, share more resources or talk about future partnerships. The main idea is that the old familiar face-to-face chat over the phone is the behind the weakening of the emotion and the distance that will grow.

b. Offer Support: Don't just care about your network's success and well-being but be really interested in it. Aid the students, advice them, and honor their successes. A supportive approach will create a trusting atmosphere and a sense of mutual responsibility.

c. Attend Networking Events: If it is possible, go to industry conferences, seminars, and workshops to meet your contacts from the industry face to face. The face-to-face communication can be the basis for the formation of the strong bonds and it may give rise to the new prospects.

d. Be Authentic: Authenticity is the key in making a genuine connection with other people in networking. Be honest to yourself, try to understand others, and concentrate on creating friendships that are useful to both parties rather than just collecting contacts. Individuals like sincerity and as a result, they are more willing to have personal conversations with you.

## Conclusion:

Networking is still a great way to advance your career and in the digital era it is more accessible and has a more wide reach than ever before. Through the change of the networking situation, the setting of goals and the cultivation of long-lasting relationships, you can get your professional capacity and thus be able to make it possible to enter into new chances. Accept the principles of the effective networking that are presented in this article and your career will just fly five times higher.

Accept the principles of the effective networking that are presented in this article and your career will just fly five times higher!

Impact of Networking: Secrets of the Successful Contacts

## Introduction

Web Summit, one of the world's largest tech conferences, is not just about the main stage presentations and panel discussions. It's also an opportunity for attendees to connect, collaborate, and build relationships at the various side events organized by startups and organizations. In this article, we'll explore some exciting networking events happening alongside Web Summit and how they can enhance the overall conference experience.

## Startup Event: ne4tec networking dinner @ Web Summit Lisbon 

![Image from CORAL Coletivo](img/coral.jpg "Image from CORAL Coletivo")

Image from CORAL Coletivo\
\
Date: Monday 12 November 2023
Time: 19:30 PM - 23:00 PM
The ne4tec networking dinner is a unique opportunity for Web Summit attendees to enjoy a delightful dining experience while networking with like-minded individuals from the startup ecosystem. This event offers a relaxed setting where participants can connect, share insights, and foster meaningful relationships over a delicious meal.

## Startup Event: Networking Web Summit Lisbon

![Image from Web Summit 2023](img/без-названия.jpg "Image from Web Summit 2023")

Image from Web Summit 2023\
\
Date: Monday 13 November 2023
Time: 18:00 PM - 21:00 PM
The Networking Web Summit Lisbon event offers attendees a chance to network and connect with fellow entrepreneurs, investors, and industry professionals. Held at a vibrant location in Lisbon, this event promises an engaging atmosphere where participants can exchange ideas, forge partnerships, and explore potential collaboration opportunities.

## Startup Event: Business Breakfast Networking 

![Image from Lisbon Founders](img/https___cdn.evbuc.com_images_635066549_1880915090463_1_original.jpg "Image from Lisbon Founders")

Image from Lisbon Founders\
\
Date: Tuesday 14 November 2023
Time: 10:00 AM - 12:30 PM
For Web Summit attendees looking to kickstart their day with meaningful connections and valuable partnerships, the Business Breakfast Networking event organized by Lisbon Founders is a must-attend. This exclusive entrepreneurial breakfast focuses on networking, providing participants with an ideal environment to meet potential collaborators, engage with fresh ideas, and expand their professional networks.

## Conclusion

Attending Web Summit offers more than just listening to keynote speakers and attending panel discussions. The side events organized by startups and organizations provide a unique platform for networking, collaboration, and relationship building. Whether it's a networking dinner, a business breakfast, or a happy hour event, these gatherings create an environment conducive to meaningful connections and fruitful partnerships. By taking advantage of these networking opportunities, Web Summit attendees can maximize their conference experience and unlock new possibilities in the tech industry.

Discover the power of networking at Web Summit side events. Explore exciting networking opportunities like business breakfasts, happy hours, and networking dinners. Connect, collaborate, and forge valuable partnerships alongside the main conference. Maximize your Web Summit experience with these networking events.

Unleashing the Power of Networking at Web Summit Side Events

In today's vibrant IT scene, a new hero is making waves – the Chief Networking Officer (CNO). But this role is more than just a snappy title. The CNO is all about making meaningful connections, nurturing relationships, and opening the gateway to fresh opportunities. So, let's delve into why this friendly figure is becoming a vital part of the IT family.

## **Why a Chief Networking Officer is Like Your Best Friend**

Every IT family needs someone who knows the broader tech neighbourhood inside out, someone who can spot trends, seize opportunities, and steer clear of challenges. That's our CNO, an active participant in a multitude of professional communities and a regular face at industry gatherings. They're the company's social butterfly, always staying in the loop and keeping the organization connected with the industry's pulse.

<iframe src="https://giphy.com/embed/PZsZkFjvGJPXnkba1a" width="480" height="270" frameBorder="0" class="giphy-embed" allowFullScreen></iframe><p><a href="https://giphy.com/gifs/buildyourdreamnetwork-business-career-networking-PZsZkFjvGJPXnkba1a">via GIPHY</a></p>

## **Responsibilities and Tasks of a Chief Networking Officer**

Here's what a typical day looks like in the life of a CNO:

1. **Fostering Friendships**: The CNO is all about people. They're continuously building new bonds with industry peers, prospective partners, customers, and stakeholders, while strengthening existing relationships. It's this network of friendships that becomes a treasure trove of insights, problem-solving resources, and potential partnerships.
2. **Keeping Up with the Times**: By attending industry events and joining community conversations, the CNO ensures they're always in the know about the latest industry trends, innovations, and best practices. They then weave these insights into practical strategies for their company.
3. **Being the Company's Ambassador**: As the company's representative at various forums, the CNO plays a vital role in waving the company flag, spreading its mission, and sharing its values. They also use their platform to attract new talent, partnerships, and potential customers.
4. **Playing the Telephone**: Inside the company, the CNO ensures that valuable insights from the outside world find their way into the company's strategy sessions. They're the friendly bridge between the external industry environment and internal company workings.

[Lily Mitina,](https://www.linkedin.com/in/liliiamitina/) the Editor-in-Chief and community catalyst at The Cymes, couldn't have put it better:

`"The Chief Networking Officer is the heartbeat of modern IT companies. They're not just a role, but a strategic necessity. Without a CNO, businesses risk being adrift in a sea of tech advancements, missing out on essential connections that can turn the tide in their favor."`

![](img/img_4851.jpeg)

The role of the CNO goes far beyond simply 'attending events'. They are a vital conduit of knowledge and opportunities, bridging the gap between the company and the wider industry.

## **What Makes a Great Chief Networking Officer?**

The perfect CNO is a mix of skills:

* **Top-notch Chatter**: A CNO needs to be a people person, with top-tier communication skills that enable them to build and maintain relationships.
* **Tech Savvy**: They need a deep understanding of the IT world, including its trends, challenges, and who's who.
* **Future Forecaster**: They must be able to translate industry happenings into strategic plans for their company.
* **Team Player**: As a senior role, the CNO must have the ability to inspire, guide, and work collaboratively with different teams.

Be realistic: You need a REAL LIFE NETWORKER, not a 'perfect skill-set' person. 

## **Meet a Real-life Chief Networking Officer**

Let's take a peek into the life of a CNO. Meet Sarah, the CNO of a budding IT firm. She's a seasoned pro in the industry, a regular at tech events, and an active member of numerous professional communities. Known for her warm personality and sharp eye for trends, Sarah has a knack for connecting people and turning industry insights into winning strategies for her company. Her extensive network has facilitated key partnerships, boosting her firm's growth and strengthening its position in the market.

<iframe src="https://giphy.com/embed/xUA7aRuBrh8DNTVcze" width="480" height="480" frameBorder="0" class="giphy-embed" allowFullScreen></iframe><p><a href="https://giphy.com/gifs/cbc-funny-comedy-xUA7aRuBrh8DNTVcze">via GIPHY</a></p>

## So...

... a Chief Networking Officer is becoming the friendly face IT companies need to stay ahead in a highly competitive and ever-evolving industry. By leveraging the power of networking, CNOs can give their companies a significant advantage, making them a beloved and valuable addition to the team.

Explore why the Chief Networking Officer (CNO) is becoming a vital figure in IT companies. Understand their role, responsibilities, skills, and witness how they can revolutionize your business through the power of networking.

The Friendly Face of IT: Introducing the Chief Networking Officer

WE INVITE ALL TALENTED AUTHORS TO JOIN OUR COMMUNITY🤗 ADD YOUR PUBLICATION AND TAKE THE FIRST STEP TO A WORLDWIDE AUDIENCE!