Are you trying to get a job after graduating from a coding bootcamp?

Making the leap into tech through a coding bootcamp is a smart move. Bootcamps can equip you with sought-after tech skills across dozens of roles.

Yet, the real challenge of attending a bootcamp comes after graduation as you enter a competitive job market.

Below, we'll give you some advice to boost your odds of landing a new role.

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This guide accompanies Exponent's complete software engineering interview and system design interview courses, which have been used by 25,000+ engineers to ace their interviews.

Set clear goals

Be clear in your job hunt rather than applying to hundreds of jobs.

Hone in on a few roles or companies that align directly with your skills or values.

Rather than casting a wide net, a laser-focused approach can yield better results.

For every job application you send, customize your resume and cover letter that highlights projects most relevant to that company's mission.

Then, keep a detailed record of your applications in a spreadsheet.

A spreadsheet can help you keep track of your application progress.

Network

Networking is your golden ticket in tech. Forge industry connections that could unveil roles that never hit the job boards.

Attend tech events in your city at incubators or co-working spaces. Use LinkedIn to check in with your professional network—you never know if someone else pivoted to tech.

Remember, networking is reciprocal; engage in a give-and-take relationship with referrals and resume reviews.

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Learn more: Connect with hiring managers and recruiters at top tech companies and startups.

Big cities like New York, LA, and San Francisco have regular tech meetups.

Build personal projects

Don't overlook the power of personal projects and open-source involvement.

They're sterling additions to your resume, showing off your initiative and practical know-how.

Volunteer your tech skills with non-profits for hands-on experience and to broaden your network.

Prep for interviews

First, focus on leveling up your technical interview skills. Technical interviews can be daunting, but with targeted prep, you can shine.

Are you prepared for these types of interviews?

Technical Coding Interviews: These test your coding skills. You'll be asked to solve problems using a code editor. Practice 1:1 coding mock interviews with peers for free on our platform, Pramp.
Whiteboard Interviews: Similar to coding interviews, but you'll be sketching out your thought process and solutions on a whiteboard. They test not only your coding and system design skills but also your ability to communicate your problem-solving approach.
System Design Interviews: These are common for mid-level and senior positions. You'll design a complex software system, demonstrating your understanding of architecture and scalability. Review the fundamentals of system design for interviews.
Behavioral Interviews: Often called "soft skills" interviews, these assess how well you'll fit into the company culture. Expect questions like "Tell me about a time when..." that require you to narrate past experiences and demonstrate your teamwork, leadership, and problem-solving skills. Review essential SWE behavioral questions or Amazon's leadership principles.
Technical Knowledge/Theory Interviews: You might be quizzed on computer science fundamentals like data structures, algorithms, system architecture, operating systems, and database management. Reviewing standard computer science curricula or textbooks can be beneficial.
Pair Programming Interviews: These simulate a day-to-day work environment where you'll be coding with an interviewer or another candidate. The focus here is on your ability to collaborate and code in real-time.

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Learn more: Check out our complete Software Engineer Interview Course.

Practice mock interviews with peers for free every day on Pramp.

Follow up

Persistence is key. Post-interview, a thoughtful follow-up can underscore your interest.

Yet, brace for a marathon, not a sprint.

Rejections are part and parcel of the process—don’t let them dampen your spirits. Keep the momentum going with daily application goals.

Be patient

Lastly, don't let the job search consume you. Balance it with self-care, and lean on your support network to keep spirits high.

Securing a post-bootcamp job demands a blend of clear goal-setting, strategic applications, robust networking, showcasing your technical prowess, rigorous interview prep, and undying perseverance.

Take care of your well-being along this journey, and stay optimistic. Your dedication is bound to culminate in a fulfilling tech career!

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