Career Development after a Career Change in Ireland

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Key Takeaways

• Your first IT job is the beginning of your new career.
• Build skills around your chosen specialisation.
• Use your previous professional experience as an advantage.
• Focus on progress rather than comparing yourself with others.
• Get professional advice when planning your next move.
• Keep your career development plan flexible.

Changing careers is only the first step. Once you enter a new field, the next challenge is building confidence, gaining experience and progressing towards better opportunities. This is where career development becomes important.

For adults moving into IT in Ireland, the early stages can feel very different from their previous career. You may have years of professional experience but still be learning the technical side of your new role. Your previous experience has value, but you also need to understand how to apply it in an IT environment.

The number of ICT specialists has increased by more than 50% since the pandemic. Irish technology sector provides several routes for continued growth. The Irish Government has also identified AI, digital infrastructure and technology skills as important areas for future development. A successful career change therefore should not end when you get your first IT job. You should have a plan for career development after a career change.

Why Career Development Is Hard for Career Changers

Career development can be challenging after a career change because you are building two things at the same time: technical experience and professional confidence. Someone entering IT at 30, 40 or later may have substantial experience in another industry. However, they may initially have fewer years of IT experience than younger professionals who entered the field directly. This can create uncertainty about progression.

You may wonder:

• Am I ready for a more senior role?
• Which certification should I take next?
• Should I specialise?
• Should I change companies?
• Which technical skills should I develop?
• How can I make my previous experience useful?