Is 35 Too Old To Start in the Tech Industry?

Common Tech Industry Age Myths - Is 35 Really Too Old to Start in the Tech Industry?

There are a lot of common myths related to ageism in the tech industry, but statistics don't back them up.

For example, many think that older tech workers are less valued and, therefore, have a lower salary than similarly-aged people in other industries. But the truth is that tech workers of any age, from millennials to baby boomers, make at least twice as much as their counterparts when working in non-management positions - the difference is smaller for managers, but tech workers still come out on top.

There are also rumors that workers 35 and over are paid less as new hires than younger people entering the industry - not only are all new hires given nearly the same starting salary as current workers, but older hires are given a higher salary than younger ones due to their experience.

This proves that there's no way that 35 is too old to start in the tech industry, but being that age does come with a few unique challenges to consider.

Unique Challenges That Older Tech Workers May Face

Despite the untrue myths above, there is one very real issue that people 35 and older will face as they enter the tech industry - there's age discrimination in hiring practices at tech companies that can be hard to overcome.

Hiring rates for tech workers take a steep dip just before 30 for normal workers and after 40 for managers compared to non-tech positions - however, this could just be a sign that you need to shoot for a management position, or that younger workers who remain in tech are getting promoted more often than older new hires.

So while you're going to be fine once you're hired, it can be harder for an older candidate to be hired right off the bat without having an impressive technical skill set and resume.

Advantages of Entering the Tech Industry at 35

Those challenges aside, there are some advantages of going into tech over 30, too.

At this age, you've gained a good amount of experience - even if it's not in the tech field, it can still be useful. You've also proven yourself to be a reliable and valuable employee, whether that's because of your networking abilities, your communication skills, your tendency never to be late, your expertise, or something else entirely that you've made yourself known for during your career.

Your age also comes with other perks - often, people over 35 have learned to deal with workplace stress, have settled into families, or may even be almost done raising their children, and overall have different time constraints and commitments than 20-year-olds just starting in tech do. This gives you the advantage as someone who can make more time in the morning, prioritize your job, and do the best work regardless of the deadline's stress - making you invaluable and sought after regardless of position.

Tips for Success as a Tech Worker Over 35

Here are some things you can do that will help you be successful in breaking into the tech field at 35.

Get a Degree or Certificate

The best and most basic way to showcase that you're ready to work in the tech industry is to complete a degree or certificate program.

Certificate programs can help with specialization, such as if you want to go into cybersecurity or IT. A bachelor's degree in computer science can open the door to many new positions while showing that you can still learn and grow as an older employee.

Either way, you prove you're up to the job through your educational background.

Emphasize Your Transferrable Skills

Any skills that you've gained through your previous work, especially soft skills like leadership and communication, should be emphasized when you apply for tech positions.

This way, you can show your value regardless of whether you have specific tech skills, and you can also use these transferable skills to your advantage to move up into management instead of having to start from the ground up all over again in tech.

Build a Strong Network

Establishing a strong network through education, internships, or your previous employment can help spread the word in the tech industry that you're ambitious, skilled, and capable employee, no matter what field you're in.

This can help you find hidden work opportunities that only people in the know could hear about, as well as give you a good reputation to fall back on when you apply to sought-after positions.

Work With a Career Advisor or Recruiter

If you're unsure how to get started in tech, even with education and a network under your belt, it might be time to talk with a career advisor or recruiter to help you find the positions you want and qualify for in tech.

They'll do a lot of searching and contacting on your behalf, so you can just focus on sharpening your tech and interview skills.

Get Your Start in the Tech Industry Today

Now that you know that if 35 is too old to start in the tech industry, what advantages and disadvantages you have as an older worker, and some of the best tips for success as you change your career, it's time for you to get your start in the tech industry today so you can start reaping the rewards of an ever-growing, fulfilling career tomorrow.