Tips on how to become a software developer with no experience

Do you enjoy coding, do you speak other languages and are you looking for a software developer job? In this article, we’ll tell you what skills you need to work as a developer and give you advice on how to learn to code if you don’t have any coding experience.

A software developer is irreplaceable in a development team. The software developer job description depends mainly on their specialization, but in general, a software developer is responsible for creating software applications using programming languages, analyzing requirements, designing and agile development of software solutions, as well as fixing bugs or making Code Reviews. To become a Java developer, however, you’ll need soft skills as well as hard skills. We’ll advise you on which skills will help you get a developer job.

Software developer job requirements

As a developer, you should definitely have some experience with programming in at least one programming language. In our company msg life Slovakia we use mainly Java programming language, so if you know how to code in Java, you can apply for the Java developer junior job for example. This position requires only the basics of Java programming, English language skills, and a willingness to learn new things and master new technologies, while previous experience as a developer in most IT companies is not required.

Did you know that…
… despite the low skill requirements for junior positions, the beginner Java developer salary is actually above standard? You can earn up to €1,600 when you work as a junior Java developer.

To work as a software developer you need good analytical and logical thinking, a great abstract imagination and you must be precise, independent, responsible and patient. The job of a developer is not only time-consuming, but also mentally demanding, as you spend a lot of time coding and learning. Therefore, it is important to bear this in mind when choosing a job.

What to do if you have no coding experience

Are you interested in a developer job but have no experience and necessary education in the field? Don’t let that keep you from your dream job! For junior positions, the basics of programming are enough, which you can easily catch up with our help. We’ll give you advice on how to learn coding and how to become a software developer with no experience or a degree in IT.

1. Think about what area you want to work in

Whether you’re interested in web development, software application development, business process automation, or artificial intelligence programming, each specialization comes with a different set of required skills and responsibilities that you’ll perform in a given developer position. So before you start programming, think carefully about what jobs you want to pursue in the future. You can always change your developer specialization, but it’s definitely helpful to start with a clear idea of what kind of work you want to do.

2. Choose one programming language and get better at it

After choosing the area you want to work in, it’s time to choose a programming language. This should depend on your specialization and the skills required for the job. For example, if you want to work as a Java developer, don’t start by learning PHP or HTML. It is important to choose one programming language and continuously improve in it outside of work. Programming languages work on a similar principle, so the others will be much easier for you than the first.

3. Get professional training without a degree

Internet, training courses or professional books for developers? As a future developer, you have a huge advantage in the availability of information, as you can find resources for learning to code just about anywhere. Just choose the method that works best for you and you can start as a self-learner.

Nowadays, there are many tutorials available on the Internet, and you can also take IT courses from the comfort of your own home. Interesting online programming courses for beginners are offered by Skillmea, Green Fox Academy, Code.org or Springboard. So even if you don’t have a university degree, you can get professional programming training this way.

We recommend you:
Have you come across an area where you don’t know what to do or feel like you’re not progressing as fast as you’d like? Other developers who have gone through similar problems can help you. Communities for developers are extremely helpful and motivating when learning a programming language. Do not hesitate to join them!

4. Nothing beats field practice

You learn the most when you put theory into practice. So don’t be afraid to start your own projects, apply for an internship or send your CV directly to junior programming positions. The more you code in a particular language, the more skills you have and the more valuable you are on the job market. Before you know it, you’ll be an accomplished software developer.

Developer jobs come with many tough challenges, but if you are interested in programming and want to work in a dynamic and well-paid industry on interesting projects, you will not be disappointed. The time of those who wait will come, and those who start programming will not stop. The most important thing is not to give up at the first obstacles, and soon you will see that all the hard work and hours of programming have paid off.

We are also looking for promising developers at msg life Slovakia, where you can expect, in addition to many employee benefits, an attractive salary and the opportunity for career growth. Check out our job offers and become part of an international team of software developers at a leading IT company focused on developing intelligent software solutions.