I never intended to work in tech, but I stumbled into it this landscape and haven’t had any regrets yet. It's a growing industry filled with endless possibilities. Technology has come to define a large part of the world we live in, and although Nigeria is just settling into the game, the growth so far has been pretty impressive. However, before entering the industry, it's understandable that a newbie might have some reservations about where tech is headed in our country, and if it is going to be the right fit for them.
Well, I listed a couple of popular but very wrong tech assumptions that might prevent a number of talented minds from venturing into the sector:
The younger, the better
Tech isn’t like football, you don't suddenly age out of it. I mean, sure it helps to be young and bubbly, but having a desire to succeed is the first step towards doing well in this industry, not how old you are. Suggesting otherwise just perpetuates the whole ‘you can't teach an old dog new tricks’ stereotype, and that’s plain stupid.
You must know how to code
I don’t know how to code at all, and I’m working two tech jobs (rather well, if I might add). Sure, knowing how to code would come in handy in this industry, but don’t think for a second that it is a necessity. There are plenty of ways that you can succeed in tech that don't include a single line of code. So, please don't count yourself out just yet.
You have to be a nerd
The idea that only book-obsessed introverts can fit into the tech sector is probably the most ridiculous assumption on this list. I mean, you don’t have to get a tech-boner anytime apple releases a new device to fit in (although techies make it look like you do). Don't get me wrong, being a nerd isn’t a bad thing (I’m a big one myself), but being one isn’t a job requirement, creativity and passion is.
Men only
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The most poisonous stereotype in tech right now is that it is a misogynistic industry. Certainly, the numbers reflect an inconsistency in male/female success rates in the tech sector all around the world. However, that doesn't mean that women are unable to do well altogether. That's why our women in tech series aims to shine the spotlight on women who have managed to stake their claim in a seriously male-dominated field. Sure there is a problem of gender equality in tech (I hope to write about that soon), but insisting that women are unable to succeed altogether is just wrong.
It’s a money magnet
People only seem to see the glamorous stories regarding startups, but sadly 9 out of 10 startups fail. Sure, the ones that do succeed end up reaping heavy benefits, but it isn't nearly as easy as you think. You have to be original, innovative, and relentless if you plan on diving into tech. If you want to make it big in the game, you need to realize that there's a long, expensive, and time-consuming road ahead of you.
