The Tension of Transition

The most challenging phase was undoubtedly my internship at Tata Consultancy Services in India, where I earned less than in Brazil. The uncertainties were palpable; I had a one-year contract, and it had to succeed within that timeframe since I had bills to pay. What if it didn’t pan out? What if I struggled to learn or found it unfulfilling? It was a significant risk. Alongside mastering new technology, I was also adapting to a different culture. Being an intern at 30 required a shift in mindset since I was used to being the problem-solver.

I fully committed to the internship, arriving early and dedicating my weekends to study until I felt assured in my abilities. I completed my year in India with a strong belief that this decision would lead to success.

After that, my story became more positive. I returned to Brazil and collaborated with fantastic companies and talented individuals. My journey began at iMaps, where I delved into Business Intelligence (BI). I advanced, received salary increases, obtained certifications, and fostered friendships. I subsequently explored new technologies, particularly the much-discussed Power BI, and joined Whitecube, a Microsoft Gold Partner. There, I stumbled upon Data Engineering and recognized its vast potential. With renewed focus, I acquired rare certifications, initiated personal projects, and participated in international endeavors. Building relationships and demonstrating dedication led me to Datalakers, a subsidiary of iMaps Data Group, where I experienced tremendous professional growth alongside skilled data engineers. My work in Data Engineering at Datalakers caught the attention of the German company I currently serve.

Key Insights for Career Transition

For those contemplating a career shift, here are some essential tips:

Getting Started:

Avoid my initial mistake of haphazardly studying various subjects. Use your time effectively, engage with others, and consider hiring professionals to guide you. Research your target field thoroughly to refine your study focus.

What to Study:

Skip enrolling in a degree or postgraduate program initially. These can be slow, costly, and yield minimal returns. A degree may only be advantageous for leadership roles. Focus on foundational knowledge in your chosen field, alongside essential IT skills like software engineering principles, algorithms, data structures, and system architecture. Remember, you don’t have to know everything!

Language Skills:

If you haven’t begun learning English, you’re missing out. The IT industry is nearly borderless. Opportunities for working with international firms while in Brazil or immigrating through the IT sector are very real.

Considerations for Transition:

Recognize that reducing your salary and possibly your job satisfaction can vary in difficulty based on your circumstances. For me, it was manageable as I had fewer financial obligations. If your situation differs, stay motivated; the long-term benefits will outweigh the short-term challenges. Lean on your family for support—this will pay off for everyone involved.

Portfolio Development:

Can you believe I only set up a Git repository and LinkedIn profile nearly a year after my career shift? Don’t make the same mistake! Start creating repositories for your projects early on and showcase them on LinkedIn. This can significantly enhance your job prospects.

LinkedIn Networking:

Similar to your portfolio, establish a LinkedIn presence early. Connect with influential figures in your field and recruiters who may discover your profile later. Engaging in discussions and networking on this platform is crucial for career advancement and staying informed about industry trends.

Effective Study Habits:

Don’t fall into the trap of taking courses without application. I used to do this! You risk forgetting most of what you learn without practical application. Aim to study one week and create something useful the next week, even if it’s simple enough to add to your portfolio. Research indicates that you may forget 60% to 80% of newly acquired knowledge unless you review it.

Resume Crafting:

The same principles apply to your resume as to LinkedIn. If you’re changing fields, you might lack direct experience. Try to relate your previous skills to your new role. For instance, as a machine designer transitioning to BI/SQL development, I emphasized my experience in monitoring machine performance in my resume, highlighting relevant tasks.

For Seasoned Professionals:

Leverage your previous experience to showcase your maturity and corporate acumen. Your attitude is invaluable, and companies recognize this. Use your experience to demonstrate emotional stability, dedication, and focus—traits often found in seasoned professionals.

These insights are just the tip of the iceberg, but I hope they provide valuable guidance for anyone navigating a career transition. If you found this helpful, let’s connect on LinkedIn!