Why learn to code if finding a job is more difficult?

Today, I’m tackling a question that’s been on many minds lately: “Why learn to code if no one is hiring?”

I got many emails every week, and this question has popped up lately.

It’s a valid concern, especially given the recent tech layoffs and hiring freezes we’ve seen. But let me tell you why learning to code is still one of the best investments you can make in yourself.

While we’re currently facing a downturn in the tech job market, it’s important to remember that the industry has always been cyclical.

Periods of rapid growth are often followed by slowdowns, and then the cycle repeats.

We’ve seen this in the dot-com bubble in the early 2000s.

Anyone that barely knew what a computer was, was in high demand.

We’ve seen this in the great recession in 2007-2009.

Now we’re seeing the effects of everyone hiring like mad in 2020-2021, when many companies had to rapidly shift to remote work and digital transformation. This caused a sudden surge in demand for software engineers, web developers, data scientists, and other technical roles to build and maintain new digital infrastructure and applications.

At the same time, the rise of remote work opened up a much larger talent pool for tech companies, as they were no longer limited to hiring locally. This intensified the competition for skilled tech workers.

Today, in 2024, we’re not seeing that level of hiring anymore.

It’s not like “no one is hiring”.

We’re simply back to normal, back in a normal job market.

History has shown us that the tech industry always bounces back. And when it does, those with in-demand coding skills will be the ones in high demand.

Learning to code well is not a skill that you learn in a month, it’s something that can take multiple years.

By learning to code now, building a portfolio of projects, you’re positioning yourself to be ready for the next upturn.

You’ll have the skills and knowledge to take advantage of the opportunities that are sure to arise.

One common misconception is that coding skills are only useful in traditional tech roles. But the reality is that coding has become an invaluable skill across a wide range of industries.

From marketing to finance to healthcare, the ability to automate processes, analyze data, and create custom digital tools is highly sought after. Coding skills make you a more versatile and valuable asset, no matter what field you want to work in.

So, even if the tech job market is sluggish, your coding abilities can still open doors to exciting opportunities in other industries.

Freelancing offers a unique set of opportunities for coders, even when traditional job markets are tight.

I’ve been a freelancer and contractor (which means freelancing for a single client) for years. I think freelancing is a great alternative to having a full-time job.

Here are some key advantages:

• Flexibility: As a freelancer, you have the freedom to choose your projects, work hours, and location. This flexibility can lead to a better work-life balance.
• Diverse experience: Freelancing allows you to work on a variety of projects across different industries, broadening your skill set and making you more adaptable.
• Global market: With remote work becoming more common, you can access job opportunities worldwide, not just in your local area.
• Higher earning potential: Skilled freelancers often command higher hourly rates than their salaried counterparts, especially for specialized or in-demand skills.
• Control over workload: You can scale your work up or down based on your preferences and financial needs, giving you more control over your income.
• You are your own boss, in a sense. It can be really freeing and interesting thinking that you can fire your clients any time you want.

Platforms like Upwork, Freelancer, and Toptal have made it easier than ever to connect with clients and find coding projects. By building a strong portfolio and reputation, you can create a sustainable career as a freelance coder, even in challenging economic times.

Moreover, freelancing can serve as a stepping stone to full-time employment. Many companies hire freelancers for trial projects, which can lead to permanent positions when the job market improves.

When you learn to code, you open up a world of possibilities for creating your own products. Here are some exciting avenues you can explore:

• Desktop Applications: Develop software for Windows, macOS, or Linux using languages like Python, Java, or C++. These could range from productivity tools to creative software.
• Mobile Apps: Create apps for iOS or Android using Swift, Kotlin, or cross-platform frameworks like React Native or Flutter. The mobile app market continues to grow, offering opportunities for innovative ideas.
• SaaS (Software as a Service) Applications: Build web-based applications that solve specific problems for businesses or consumers. Examples include project management tools, CRM systems, or specialized calculators.
• E-commerce Platforms: Develop online stores or marketplaces using platforms like Shopify or WooCommerce, or create custom e-commerce solutions.
• Educational Products: Create online courses, coding tutorials, or interactive learning platforms to share your knowledge and skills with others.
• AI and Machine Learning Tools: Develop applications that leverage artificial intelligence and machine learning to solve complex problems or automate tasks.

By building your own products, you’re not only creating potential income streams but also gaining valuable experience and building a portfolio that can impress future employers or clients. It’s a great way to showcase your skills, creativity, and entrepreneurial spirit.

In a challenging job market, entrepreneurship can be a viable path to financial security and personal fulfillment. And the coding skills you develop will be essential to making your entrepreneurial dreams a success.

The tech world is constantly evolving, with new languages, frameworks, and technologies emerging all the time. By learning to code now, you’re positioning yourself to adapt to these changes and stay relevant in the job market.

Continuous learning is a key part of a successful tech career. The more you’re able to pick up new skills and stay ahead of the curve, the more valuable you’ll be to employers, clients, or your own entrepreneurial ventures.

Finally, one of the most valuable aspects of learning to code is the way it sharpens your critical thinking and problem-solving skills.

The logical, step-by-step process of breaking down problems, analyzing them, and devising solutions is a powerful cognitive exercise. This type of thinking can be applied to any challenge you face, both in your professional and personal life.

Employers across all industries highly value individuals who can think critically, approach problems systematically, and come up with innovative solutions. By learning to code, you’re developing these sought-after skills that will serve you well throughout your career.

Remember, learning to code is about playing the long game. It’s a skill that will serve you well throughout your career, regardless of market conditions.

So, don’t let temporary setbacks in the tech job market discourage you. Keep learning, keep coding, and stay ready for the opportunities that are sure to come.