Leaving Trading to Tech - burnt out and not cultural fit
Hi guys, currently work as a trader at a bank (1 yr) and been increasingly unsatisfied with the job, as well as the culture. I dont see myself as a cultural fit and i dont really think i like the idea of the sales-aspect of the job (of which i have yet to participate). I have a computer science degree and was interested in pursuing a path into tech, but after receiving the internship and then offer to my current role, i stopped pursuing that path.
I was thinking of starting to prepare interview questions, but to be very honest, Im not sure where to start and what roles make the most sense to apply for. A role in data science is most appealing, followed by product manager, and potentially SWE.
Would greatly appreciate any advice or testimonies from any who have made similar transitions. Thanks!
Switching from trading to tech, especially with a computer science background, is a strategic move that can open up a variety of opportunities. Given your interest in data science, product management, and software engineering (SWE), here's how you can leverage your skills and experiences:
Data Science: Your analytical skills from trading can be a significant asset in data science. Start by refreshing your knowledge in statistics, machine learning, and programming languages relevant to data science, such as Python or R. Engage in projects or Kaggle competitions to build a portfolio that showcases your ability to extract insights from data.
Product Management (PM): As a PM, you'll need to understand the market, define product vision, and work with cross-functional teams to execute it. Your trading experience, which requires quick decision-making and understanding market needs, can be valuable. Familiarize yourself with the product lifecycle, agile methodologies, and tools like JIRA or Asana. Consider taking online courses or certifications in product management to strengthen your understanding.
Software Engineering (SWE): Given your computer science degree, transitioning to a SWE role might be the most straightforward path. Brush up on your programming skills in languages relevant to the roles you're interested in (e.g., Python, Java, C++). Practice coding problems on platforms like LeetCode to prepare for technical interviews. Contributing to open-source projects can also help you gain practical experience and demonstrate your coding skills to potential employers.
For all paths, networking is crucial. Connect with professionals in your desired field on LinkedIn, attend industry meetups, and participate in forums like Wall Street Oasis to gain insights and advice from those who've successfully made similar transitions. Tailor your resume to highlight transferable skills and experiences that align with the tech roles you're targeting.
Remember, transitioning careers is a journey that requires patience, persistence, and continuous learning. Your unique background can provide a fresh perspective in the tech industry, so embrace your experiences as strengths.
Sources: Software Engineering seems like the best job one could have, Best Business Roles at Tech Companies?, Transitioning from tech to a serious finance job (yes, you read that right), https://www.wallstreetoasis.com/forum/trading/move-to-tech-in-search-of-better-wlb?customgpt=1, PE to Tech Advice
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