The tech landscape is changing fast. Make sure you stay ahead with these top tips when securing your next role.
Even with in-demand tech skills, landing the right tech role isn’t always simple. Today’s tech candidates face hurdles at every step. According to data from Tribepad, in January 2025, there was an average of 35.5 applicants per role.
Yet, don’t let the numbers throw you. With the right strategy, you can stand out and take control of your job search. From crowded job boards to multi-stage interviews, here’s how you can stay ahead in a changing recruitment landscape.
Know your worth
If you’re looking for a new tech role or contract, take time to consider your workplace non-negotiables. By doing so, you’ll be happier in your career. On average, we spend one-third of our lives at work, around 90,000 hours over a lifetime.
Finding the right fit
You’re qualified, but not every role aligns with your strengths, goals, or values. Breathe’s Culture Economy report reveals that almost a third (27%) of employees quit due to company culture. Knowing how accessible leadership is, can give you insight into the company’s support structure and openness to collaboration.
How to crack it:
- Apply only for roles that match your skills and interests.
- Be clear on what you want from the role and company.
- Use interviews to assess the culture, not only to sell yourself.
Tech moves fast. Careers in blockchain, ERP, and AI are growing. Working with NU Concept Solutions means you’ll hear about roles before they go live and get honest feedback on where you fit best.
Emerging roles and shifting skills
Tech is evolving fast. It’s not traditional IT anymore. Careers in data, development, cybersecurity, blockchain, ERP, and UX design are leading the UK’s digital economy.
AI and automation are also changing what employers look for. New roles are emerging across sectors, including:
- Heads of AI
- Machine learning engineers
- Data curators
- AI security
This rapid change adds pressure, but also opportunity. Staying informed helps you stay ahead and shows where to focus your upskilling efforts.
Upskilling
Thanks to the emergence of AI and other technological advances, there is a skills gap in the sector. The constant evolution in tech requires that you stay ahead by mastering the skills in highest demand. Once you have identified the skills you want to develop, create a plan.
How to upskill
Upskilling goes beyond mentoring, shadowing, and lunch-and-learn sessions. You can upskill outside of the office with
- microlearning or online training courses
- reading content
- videos and podcasts
Certifications relevant to your field can enhance your credibility and increase your market value. Employers value certifications such as AWS Certified Solutions Architect, Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNP), Microsoft Certified Azure Solutions Architect, ERP Module certifications, and Certified Generative AI Specialist (CGAI).
Standing out
With so many tech applicants, only those whose CVs and applications are tailored and relevant are likely to be shortlisted. To make the shortlist for the interview, your CV needs to be concise and strong. You only have one chance to impress, and you have to get your CV right.
Recruiters and hiring managers don’t only want to know which platforms or frameworks you have used. They want to understand the value you delivered. Instead of only naming systems or technologies, explain what you achieved and how it made a difference to the business.
The job description offers clues about what the company values most. A great CV makes a hiring manager's job easy.
How to stand out:
- Tailor your CV and cover letter for each role.
- Lead with results, not responsibilities.
- Use keywords from the job description.
Ensure your key skills, experience, behaviours, and achievements are listed. And remember to update your LinkedIn profile too.
Interviews and technical tests
It sounds simple, but start by researching the company. Know what they do and why you want to work there. If you’re interviewing through NU Concept Solutions, our consultant can give you key insights.
Prepare for both video and in-person formats. Show how your skills match the job. Use examples, from cloud migrations to process automation wins. Provide examples of real-world applications, such as solving complex coding challenges or architecting business solutions.
Don’t only talk tech; talk teamwork, too. Explain how you solve problems and work with others.
How to ace your interview:
- Use the STAR method to structure your answers.
- Guide the interview and try to keep the conversation around your strengths.
- Don’t forget to ask smart questions. Show you're thinking long-term.
It’s not uncommon for tech tests to form part of the interview process. Tech tests can be daunting, even for experienced professionals. They’re designed to filter out candidates. Some platforms simulate the kinds of tasks candidates might face in hiring pipelines, especially for roles in software engineering, data, or DevOps. Some platforms are built for employers, but candidates often engage with them during tech hiring, so it’s worth knowing how the platform works before you're tested on it.
Practising on them will help you sharpen problem-solving speed, code clarity and become familiar with timed assessments.
How to ace technical tests:
- Practice on platforms like LeetCode or HackerRank.
- Understand the tools and languages mentioned in the job spec.
- Ask your recruiter for insights into what to expect.
Partnering with a specialist recruiter like NU Concept Solutions can give you an edge in securing a tech role. With strong industry connections, recruitment consultants are often aware of vacancies before they are advertised. NU Concept Solutions ensures a confidential and streamlined process, ideal for skilled tech candidates in high demand.