Landing First Tech Job

ust finished a Bootcamp – what should I learn next to help land my first job in tech? Hey everyone! I just finished a full stack development bootcamp where I learned JavaScript, React, Python, SQL. Right now, I’m actively looking for my first job in tech, and I’d love some advice on what to focus on next to improve my chances. I feel like I have a few paths I could take, but I’m not sure which one would be the most effective: 1. Double down on what I already know – like going deeper into JavaScript, Python or React. 2. Learn something new – maybe start with Java, PHP, node.js, or try Angular. 3. Explore a specialization – such as cybersecurity, machine learning/AI, or advanced full stack. If you’ve been through this stage or have any insight into what skills are most in-demand for entry-level roles, I’d really appreciate your thoughts! What would you focus on next if you were in my shoes and trying to land that first tech job? Thanks so much in advance! Upvote 1 Downvote 2 Go to comments Share Share u/hasuragraphql avatar hasuragraphql • Promoted What do you think you need for 100% RAG: Better LLMs, Better Retrieval or Better Planning? promptql.hasura.io Thumbnail image: What do you think you need for 100% RAG: Better LLMs, Better Retrieval or Better Planning? Code a blog. Get a cheap domain. Host it for free on Netlify. Every time you learn something new using an LLM distill it into better documents yourself. I use obsidian to compose and create more complex outputs from LLM learning exercises I do. Then think of a project. Brainstorm it fully. Document everything you do on your blog. This will not only help you build a resume of projects you have created, but each time you push to your blog you are getting a commit for your github account as well and you can easily track how active a person has been contributing to github to see if they are actually making things or not. I am still on this process. I am hoping that it leads to something more than my current employment options. I still do not feel confident enough to freelance and take an entire project on by myself and want to work with coworkers in a professional enviroment. So in the mean time I have been working on this project to recreate personalities. Anyway. I don't know if my plan is going to work. But my advice would be to continue to learn at the same rate or greater than you did in your boot camp and just treat it like a job already and try to put in as many hours as you can studying and coding until you are proficient enough to either take on a freelance contract alone or you get hired working with others. Comment

Your approach is solid—treating learning like a job and consistently building projects will make you stand out. Since you're already comfortable with JavaScript, React, Python, and SQL, here’s how I’d prioritize your next steps: 1. **Deepen Your Current Skills** – Mastering the tech stack you already know makes you more job-ready. Strengthen your React skills by learning **Next.js**, since it's widely used in production. On the backend, explore **FastAPI** for Python, and practice designing **RESTful APIs** and **GraphQL** with Hasura or Apollo. 2. **Build & Document Projects** – Start a **portfolio** site (host it on Netlify, Vercel, or GitHub Pages). Use it to showcase 2-3 well-documented projects that demonstrate real-world problem-solving. Bonus: Write blog posts explaining your solutions—this builds credibility. 3. **Learn DevOps & Deployment** – Companies love candidates who understand **CI/CD pipelines, Docker, and cloud services (AWS, Render, Vercel, or Firebase)**. Knowing how to deploy applications gives you an edge. 4. **Apply for Jobs & Contribute to Open Source** – Apply early and often. Even if you don't feel "ready," applying is its own learning process. Contribute to **open-source projects on GitHub** (even small PRs improve visibility). 5. **Networking & Freelancing** – Join tech communities on Discord, Reddit, and LinkedIn. Look for **freelance gigs on Upwork or Fiverr**—even small projects build experience. If you want to specialize: - **AI/ML** → Learn TensorFlow.js or integrate OpenAI APIs into projects. - **Cybersecurity** → Get hands-on with **OWASP top 10, JWT security, and penetration testing tools.** - **Backend Focus** → Learn **Node.js, Express, and PostgreSQL** to become a full-stack powerhouse. Most importantly, **keep coding daily** and document everything—your GitHub and blog will be proof of your journey. 🚀