How to start a career in information technology with no experience
Thanks to strong demand and high salaries, information technology is a popular career path. But can you work in the field with no experience? Find out how you could get a job in IT even if you haven't worked in the field before.
By: Genevieve Carlton, Edited by: Rebecca Munday, Reviewed by: Monali Mirel Chuatico
Published: June 24, 2025
What skills are necessary for a career in information technology
IT careers require technical abilities. You'll need to learn one or more programming languages, develop cybersecurity skills, and know how to solve tech problems. But working in information technology requires more than tech knowledge. Here are other essential skills for a career in information technology:
- Coding
- Troubleshooting
- Project management
- Communication
- Analytical thinking
- Technical writing
If you want to launch a career in IT or computer science, you can build on your current skills while developing the technical knowledge required for tech careers.
Steps to a career in information technology without experience
1. Identify transferable skills.
If you want to get a job in IT without experience, start by identifying the transferable skills you've gained from your existing work and/or educational career.
For example, organizational and time management skills are critical in IT, where professionals often complete project-based tasks. Strong project management abilities and communication skills also benefit those moving into IT.
Consider the skills you've developed in your current field — or as a student — and use them to launch your IT career.
2. Learn to code.
Learning programming languages is key for working in tech. Fortunately, learners benefit from many resources to develop coding skills. But what language should you learn?
Your first coding language depends on your career path. Common options include Python, JavaScript, and SQL. Focus on JavaScript, HTML, and CSS if you want to work in web development, or invest in Python for cybersecurity careers. App developers benefit from studying C#, Java, or Swift.
3. Contribute to an open-source project.
Working on projects is the best way to expand your programming skills and demonstrate your knowledge. Open-source projects provide public access to their source code, allowing anyone to modify the software. By contributing to an open-source project, you'll gain work samples to include in your portfolio and expand your network.
Coding is one way to contribute to an open-source project. You can also contribute in other ways, such as expanding the project's documentation, implementing usability changes, or answering user questions on forums.
4. Build a portfolio.
A portfolio showcases the projects you've created. Early-career professionals often build their first portfolios during tech classes or programs. You can include class assignments, open-source projects, and personal projects. Over time, you'll replace these projects with more recent work samples.
GitHub is a great tool to start your first portfolio. However, GitHub largely focuses on code, limiting your options for showcasing non-technical projects. You can also create a website for your portfolio, which offers greater customization options.
5. Earn cybersecurity certifications.
Professional certifications demonstrate your knowledge and skills. Earning a cybersecurity certification can help you stand out in the job market and advance your IT career, even if you have no work experience in the field.
Industry associations and tech companies offer certifications in information systems security, cloud security, penetration testing, and other specialties. Most certifications require passing scores on an exam, and some may also include education or experience requirements.
Outside of cybersecurity, you can consider pursuing certifications in areas such as data science, project management, or programming.
6. Network with industry professionals.
Networking is one of the best ways to break into a new industry. When you connect with tech professionals, you'll discover ways to learn and innovate. Your network can also play a critical role in your career advancement.
How can you build a network?
- Attend industry events.
- Participate in online forums.
- Prioritize building relationships with peers, colleagues, and mentors.
- Consider joining a professional association that hosts meetups and events.
- Optimize your online presence to engage with industry professionals.
- Provide value to your network.
7. Start with entry-level or cross-over positions.
Target entry-level or cross-over positions early in your career to gain experience and build on your current skills. For example, with a background in customer service, you could become an IT technician. You can also consider in-demand roles like cybersecurity analyst.
Use your prior experience as a strength by highlighting the transferable skills you'll bring to your new career. You can also target contract or freelance opportunities to expand your portfolio and network before applying for full-time roles.