The tech industry may appear as a glamorous and unified sector to many observers, influenced by portrayals of Silicon Valley and media coverage of Big Tech. However, in reality, it encompasses a diverse ecosystem with various entry points in product development, marketing, strategy, business expansion, and data analysis. For professionals transitioning into tech from non-STEM backgrounds during their mid-careers, the key lies not only in coding skills but also in effectively showcasing their existing experience, acquiring relevant skills, and navigating a fiercely competitive job market.
A significant Bangladeshi community in the US is employed in the tech sector. Individuals with STEM degrees from Bangladesh find it relatively easier to enter the industry compared to those with business backgrounds. For the latter group, pursuing an MBA from a reputable US institution can be advantageous. An MBA provides access to on-campus recruitment opportunities and valuable networks. Lamia Aroni, who pursued business studies in Bangladesh before earning an MBA in the US and establishing a tech career, acknowledges the high-risk, high-reward nature of the tech industry. She emphasizes the intense competition in tech recruitment and mentions recent layoffs affecting experienced professionals. The current job market favors employers, allowing them to select from a wide pool of skilled candidates. Lamia underscores the importance of globally recognized MBAs for business graduates to enhance credibility and transition into business or managerial roles within tech.
Mid-career professionals view an MBA not only as a qualification but also as a means to make a career shift more attractive to recruiters. These transitions can revolve around three aspects: geography, function, and industry. Abreshmee Haque, who followed a similar trajectory from business studies to an MBA and a tech career in the US, advises maintaining at least one constant among those three dimensions. For Bangladeshis aiming to relocate to the US, this could involve changing functions within the same industry or switching industries while retaining the same function, such as moving from FMCG marketing to a marketing role in tech. Abreshmee notes that an MBA signifies adaptability, making graduates perceived as quick learners who can adeptly navigate unfamiliar environments in a structured manner.
When attempting to shift into tech, prior experience can be beneficial but needs to be articulated to showcase transferable skills. Candidates usually must demonstrate how their past work has prepared them for their desired roles, unless applying for similar positions in comparable companies. Abreshmee and Lamia highlight that many skills, both technical and interpersonal, can transition effectively into tech if presented strategically during the hiring process.
Cross-functional collaboration is a highly transferable skill required across various roles. Roles like marketing and product management necessitate strong stakeholder management skills, with product positions often demanding collaboration with engineers. Reflecting on her background, Lamia mentions her experience working with diverse teams in a multinational firm, emphasizing the importance of cross-functional interaction. Abreshmee stresses the value of navigating ambiguity and managing stakeholders, skills honed through working in multinational corporations.
For numerous graduates, strategy or business positions serve as entry points into tech, with technical upskilling occurring on the job. Candidates from diverse backgrounds need to familiarize themselves with emerging technologies and develop a robust product understanding. When recruiting from MBA programs, companies seek individuals who can offer fresh perspectives, possess strong interpersonal skills, and demonstrate sound business acumen.
Abreshmee highlights the increasing significance of data literacy, with skills like SQL and Tableau serving as essential qualifications. Building expertise in Scrum, Agile methodology, product management, and cloud basics can further distinguish a candidate’s profile. She also notes the growing importance of AI fluency in the eyes of employers, emphasizing that any exposure to AI, whether in daily life or as a hobby, can be beneficial. Employers value candidates who stay ahead on the adoption curve regarding AI technologies.
Lamia underscores the importance of grasping B2B tools tailored for business audiences, noting a gap in Bangladesh in terms of B2B operations maturity and CRM adoption, critical aspects in the global tech landscape.
Many companies recruit directly from university campuses, providing networking avenues for students. When a preferred company is not actively recruiting on campus, candidates often rely on their networks to have their resumes referred to hiring managers. Lamia emphasizes the utilization of all available networks, including educational and professional circles, to enhance job prospects.
Candidates typically undergo multiple rounds of interviews and assessments, encompassing case-based, behavioral, or situational interviews to evaluate competencies, experiences, and interests. Interview scenarios may involve scenarios like navigating business challenges, designing products or services, or exploring new markets. Abreshmee highlights the need for candidates to understand the company thoroughly, including its culture and leadership, to perform well in interviews.
Her advice to potential candidates is to select a niche and delve deeply into it, signaling genuine interest to employers. For those considering an MBA, Lamia suggests gaining relevant experience before commencing the program, citing opportunities in local startups to acquire pertinent experience. She advises aspiring individuals to acknowledge the industry’s volatility and
