Landing a remote tech job with no prior experience might sound like a long shot — but with the right approach, it’s absolutely possible, especially in South Africa’s growing tech ecosystem. Here’s a practical roadmap to get started.
1. Choose a Focused Skill Area
Start with one area — web development, data analysis, UI/UX, or cybersecurity. Avoid spreading yourself too thin. Pick a learning path and stick to it for at least a few months.
2. Build Real Projects
Create practical, problem-solving projects you can showcase in a portfolio. For example:
- A budget tracker app
- A data dashboard for local business metrics
- A responsive landing page for a product
Publish these online (GitHub + live demos) so potential employers can see your skills in action.
3. Get Active on Freelance Platforms
Websites like Upwork, Fiverr, and Toptal are excellent places to gain early experience. Start small with competitive rates. Even small jobs add credibility to your resume.
4. Network in Remote Tech Communities
Join global Slack or Discord groups, LinkedIn tech communities, or local meetups like DevConf and ZATech. Many job leads and mentorship opportunities arise from being visible and helpful in these spaces.
5. Learn How to Job Hunt Remotely
Create a strong LinkedIn profile and write a short, clear CV that highlights your skills and projects. Tailor your applications to remote job boards like We Work Remotely, Remote OK, and Jobspresso.
6. Volunteer or Contribute to Open Source
If you can’t find paid work yet, offer to build or improve websites for NGOs or small businesses. Open-source contributions also provide real-world experience and community exposure.
7. Be Interview-Ready
Practice coding challenges on HackerRank or LeetCode. Prepare answers for common behavioral and tech questions. Even remote companies value soft skills like communication and time management.
Conclusion
You don’t need a degree or previous job to get into tech — you need a strategy, consistent learning, and a willingness to prove your value. Start building, sharing, and applying — your first remote job could be just around the corner.