5 Common Myths in the Technology Industry

In today’s age of innovation and technology, with rapid developments emerging every day, it is not surprising to encounter common beliefs and myths that, in most cases, often discourage beginners and people transitioning into the tech industry.

First, it is important to acknowledge that we have all been there. By “we”, I mean professionals across the tech industry, from Senior Developers and Senior Data Analysts to Operations Specialists and DevOps engineers. In this article, I will highlight five common myths about the tech industry and offer ways to overcome the fear they evoke.

1. Tech is coding: No doubt, most tech-related careers involve writing lines of code. Careers such as Software Development (which includes Website Development, App Development, Game Development, and others). However, times have changed, and this no longer defines the entire industry. With the rapid evolution of technology today, the industry is no longer limited to code-writing professions. Virtually every traditional real-world profession now requires some level of technological knowledge. As a result, even if you are starting your career or transitioning into tech, you can still find your place in the industry without necessarily having to write code.
2. You don't belong in tech (Impostor Syndrome): Like many highly competitive professions, the tech industry often exposes people to impostor syndrome. This feeling commonly arises when a beginner observes experienced professionals discussing complex technical topics or communicating in heavy technical jargon. In such situations, someone just transitioning may feel out of place or begin to believe they do not belong in the room.
   However, the truth is that this feeling is far more common than most people realise. Many professionals in the industry, including experienced ones, occasionally experience the same sense of self-doubt. One effective way to overcome this is by developing a curious, continuously learning, and confident mindset. With time and consistent learning, you will gradually find your footing in the industry.
3. Tech is only for the young: This section of the article is directed toward older readers. It is a common belief that the technology industry is only for the younger generation. This perception may exist because a large percentage of people in the industry are young. However, this does not mean that older individuals cannot transition into the tech industry or switch careers later in life.
   In fact, history is filled with highly successful people who achieved success later in life. Success in tech, like in many other fields, is not defined by age but by curiosity, continuous learning, and persistence.
4. You need a Computer Science (CS) degree: This is, with no doubt, one of the most common myths in the tech industry. Although a CS degree may be required in some areas, it is generally not a prerequisite for starting or transitioning. Just as you do not necessarily have to code to be in tech, you also do not need to be a CS major. Many highly successful individuals have entered the tech industry from other fields and have made significant contributions along the way.
5. Tech is a Get-Rich-Quick scheme: I had to place this at the end of the list because it is a common belief that you can get rich in a few months of being in tech. This is a common misconception that always ends up discouraging most beginners whose sole intention is to start making money in their first few months of starting or transitioning.
   This belief is mostly reinforced by industry niche YouTubers or bloggers talking about how they got rich, and in no way is this article meant to downplay their achievements. The truth is that there is money in tech, but you have to be a learner before becoming an earner. And, if we are honest, this principle applies to many professions, not just the tech industry.

Now that we have come to the end of the article, here's a quick recap on the myths highlighted:

1. Tech is coding.
2. Impostor Syndrome.
3. Tech is only for the young.
4. You need a CS degree.
5. Tech is a get-rich-quick scheme.

As a beginner in tech, remember that the senior professionals you admire today were once in the same position you are in now. They felt the same frustrations you are experiencing, yet through consistency, persistence, and curiosity, they became experts in their fields. Never underestimate your ability to achieve greatness in the industry, because you can.

PS: As a continuation of this series, there will be subsequent articles dedicated to exploring tech career paths you can follow in the modern innovation era. Stay tuned.