Which tech should I learn to land a job? I am really looking to learn a safer tech which can lend me a job.

So this is not a post where I showcase my skills to find a job. I am just explaining my situation. I am a backend developer. I cannot make application that looks good cause my choices are so bad. I am in my third year of b.tech in computer engineering with total 2+ years of experience and stuck on current company as intern since a year (long story dm if you want to know) .

Main content: I currently in my company I work on python, django , jaspersoft and etc. I am looking for a job but found out that python developer positions on LinkedIn mostly require 3+ years of experience. I am asking that "what skill set should I learn to get a job?" I am also able to switch to different stream like springboot, cloud computing, cyber security or ML(found out you cannot get this until phd or prior experience) anything .

Which stream should I learn and than apply for jobs on that ? Which are safer to lend me a job? Cause I think web development is not any more to lend me a job. I am also applying through different platforms like indeed, naukri, glass door and etc.

I am here from advice. What should I do?

Jobadvisor

It's smart to be proactive about your career path, especially in a rapidly evolving field like tech. While Python/Django is a solid backend stack, it's true that more senior roles often demand more experience. Given your situation, let's explore some "safer" tech streams that are in high demand and might offer better entry points or career longevity, even with your current experience.

Here's a breakdown of options, considering your backend background and desire for job security:

1. Cloud Computing (Highly Recommended)

• Why it's safe: The world is moving to the cloud, and this trend is only accelerating. Cloud engineers are in massive demand across all industries. Companies of all sizes need people who can design, deploy, and manage their infrastructure on cloud platforms.
• Your advantage: As a backend developer, you already have a good understanding of how applications work and interact with data, which is a great foundation for cloud roles.
• Key skills to learn:
  • One or more major cloud providers: AWS (most popular), Azure, or Google Cloud Platform (GCP). Pick one and go deep. AWS is a very strong starting point due to its market share.
  • Infrastructure as Code (IaC): Terraform or CloudFormation (for AWS). This is crucial for automating cloud infrastructure.
  • Containerization: Docker and Kubernetes. These are essential for modern application deployment in the cloud.
  • CI/CD (Continuous Integration/Continuous Delivery): Jenkins, GitLab CI/CD, GitHub Actions, or similar. Understanding how to automate deployments is vital.
  • Scripting: Python is widely used for cloud automation and scripting, so your existing Python skills will be a huge asset here.
  • Networking fundamentals: Understanding VPCs, subnets, security groups, etc.
• Job roles: Cloud Engineer, DevOps Engineer, Cloud Architect (though this often requires more experience), Site Reliability Engineer (SRE).
• Entry-level potential: Many entry-level cloud or DevOps engineer roles exist, especially if you can demonstrate hands-on experience through personal projects and certifications.

2. Spring Boot (Strong Backend Focus)

• Why it's safe: Java and Spring Boot remain incredibly prevalent in enterprise-level backend development. Many large companies rely on them for their stability, scalability, and robust ecosystem. It's a "battle-tested" technology with a huge community.
• Your advantage: You're already a backend developer, so the transition to Java and Spring Boot would be more about learning a new language and framework rather than an entirely new paradigm.
• Key skills to learn:
  • Java (JRE 17+): Master core Java concepts, OOP, lambdas, streams, multithreading.
  • Spring Framework: Deep understanding of Dependency Injection (DI), Inversion of Control (IoC), Aspect-Oriented Programming (AOP).
  • Spring Boot: Auto-configuration, starter dependencies, profiles, Actuator.
  • RESTful APIs: Designing and building robust APIs.
  • Spring Security: Authentication and authorization (JWT, OAuth2).
  • Database Integration: Spring Data JPA, working with SQL databases.
  • Testing: JUnit, Mockito, Testcontainers.
  • Microservices Architecture: Spring Boot is excellent for building microservices.
• Job roles: Java Backend Developer, Spring Boot Developer, Microservices Developer.
• Entry-level potential: While some roles might ask for 3+ years, many companies hire junior Spring Boot developers, especially if you have strong fundamentals and demonstrate practical projects.

3. Cybersecurity (Growing Demand, but can be competitive at entry-level)

• Why it's safe: Cyber threats are constantly evolving, making cybersecurity professionals indispensable. The demand is projected to continue surging.
• Considerations: This is a broad field. While there's high demand, entry-level roles can be competitive, and some areas might prefer degrees or specialized certifications. However, the industry is increasingly valuing skills over formal degrees.
• Key skills to learn (focus on entry-level friendly areas):
  • Networking fundamentals: TCP/IP, firewalls, network security.
  • Operating Systems: Linux, Windows security.
  • Security tools: SIEM (Security Information and Event Management), vulnerability scanners (Nessus), penetration testing tools (Kali Linux, Metasploit, Burp Suite).
  • Incident Response: Understanding how to react to security breaches.
  • Compliance & Governance: Basic understanding of regulations (GDPR, NIST).
  • Cloud Security: As cloud adoption grows, so does the need for cloud security. This ties in well with the cloud computing stream.
  • Scripting: Python is also useful here for automating security tasks.
• Job roles: Cybersecurity Analyst, Security Operations Center (SOC) Analyst, Junior Penetration Tester.
• Entry-level potential: Look for "Cybersecurity Analyst" or "Associate Security Engineer" roles. Certifications like CompTIA Security+ are highly regarded for entry-level positions.

Why Web Development (Frontend) might be less "safe" for you currently:

• You mentioned your difficulty with frontend aesthetics, which is crucial for good web design.
• While full-stack developers are valuable, if your passion and skill lean heavily towards the backend, doubling down on specialized backend or infrastructure skills might be more effective than forcing yourself into frontend development.

ML/AI (More challenging for entry-level without specific background)

• You're right, ML/AI often requires a strong mathematical/statistical background, research experience, or advanced degrees (PhD). While some roles exist, they are generally more competitive for entry-level candidates without prior ML project experience.
• However, if you go the cloud computing route, you can get into MLOps (Machine Learning Operations), which focuses on deploying and managing ML models in the cloud. This combines your backend and cloud skills.

What to do now:

1. Deep Dive into a Chosen Path: Based on the above, seriously consider Cloud Computing or Spring Boot. Cloud computing offers immense flexibility and future-proofing, while Spring Boot capitalizes on your existing backend aptitude and is a strong industry staple.
2. Hands-on Projects are KING: Since you have 2+ years of internship experience, you need to showcase practical skills.
   • For Cloud: Build small applications (e.g., a simple API) and deploy them using AWS/Azure/GCP. Use Docker, Kubernetes, and set up a CI/CD pipeline.
   • For Spring Boot: Build several backend services, perhaps microservices that communicate with each other. Implement security, connect to different databases, and deploy them.
   • For Cybersecurity: Set up a home lab (e.g., using Kali Linux in a VM), practice with security tools, and participate in CTF (Capture The Flag) challenges.
3. Certifications:
   • Cloud: AWS Certified Cloud Practitioner or AWS Solutions Architect Associate (if you can manage it), Microsoft Certified Azure Fundamentals, or Google Cloud Associate Cloud Engineer. These validate your knowledge.
   • Spring Boot: While not as formal, demonstrating proficiency through open-source contributions or complex personal projects is key. Pivotal (now VMware Tanzu) used to have Spring certifications, but hands-on skill is paramount.
   • Cybersecurity: CompTIA Security+, CySA+, or vendor-specific certs like AZ-500 (Azure Security Engineer).
4. Optimize your Resume and LinkedIn:
   • Tailor it: For each job application, customize your resume to highlight the skills and experiences most relevant to that specific role.
   • Quantify achievements: Instead of "worked on Python project," say "developed a Python/Django API that reduced processing time by 15%."
   • Showcase projects: Link to your GitHub or a personal website where your projects are clearly explained.
5. Networking: Connect with professionals in your desired field on LinkedIn. Attend virtual meetups or conferences. Sometimes, the best jobs come through referrals.
6. Don't undervalue your current experience: Even if you're stuck as an intern, you're still gaining valuable experience in Python, Django, and working in a professional environment. Frame this experience positively on your resume, focusing on the skills you've developed (backend logic, debugging, working with databases, etc.). Highlight your ability to learn new technologies quickly.

You're in your third year of B.Tech, which means you have a solid academic foundation. Combine that with targeted learning and strong project work in a high-demand area, and you'll significantly increase your chances of landing a good job. Good luck!

Tired of working and only 27

Anyone else feel like they're already burnt out and they haven't even hit 30 yet? I've been grinding since college, went straight into a decent job after graduation, and now I'm sitting here wondering if this is really it for the next 40 years.

Don't get me wrong, I'm grateful to have steady income and all that, but man the routine is killing me. Wake up, commute, sit at a desk for 8+ hours, commute back, maybe squeeze in some dinner and Netflix, then repeat. Weekends fly by doing errands and trying to recover enough energy for Monday.

I see older coworkers who seem content with this setup and I genuinely don't understand how they do it. Maybe I'm just naive or expecting too much from life, but there has to be more than this right? Sometimes I think about just saying screw it and trying something completely different, but then reality hits and bills need to get paid.

The worst part is feeling guilty for complaining when I know plenty of people have it worse. But that doesn't make the existential dread go away when my alarm goes off every morning.

Anyone been through this phase and found a way out of the funk? Or is this just what being an adult is and I need to suck it up?

Jobadvisor

It's completely normal to feel this way, especially at 27. What you're describing is a classic case of burnout and existential questioning, and it's far more common than you might think, particularly among young professionals who entered the workforce with high expectations.

Here's why you're likely feeling this, and some thoughts on what might help:

Why you're feeling this way:

• The "Grind" Culture: Many careers, especially entry to mid-level, emphasize long hours and constant productivity. This can be draining.
• Lack of Novelty: The routine you describe, while stable, can become monotonous and soul-crushing if there isn't enough variety or challenge.
• High Expectations: Society often tells us that a good job, steady income, and material stability are the keys to happiness. When you achieve them and still feel unfulfilled, it can lead to a sense of "Is this all there is?"
• Comparison Trap: Seeing older coworkers seemingly content can make you feel like something is wrong with you. However, their contentment might be born of different priorities, a longer adjustment period, or simply a different personality. You don't know their internal struggles.
• The "Quarter-Life Crisis": This is a very real phenomenon, typically occurring in your mid-20s to early 30s, where you start to question your life choices, career path, and overall direction. It's a period of significant self-reflection.
• Lack of Purpose: While your job provides income, it might not be fulfilling your deeper need for purpose or meaning.
• Blurred Lines: With constant connectivity, the lines between work and personal life can easily blur, making it hard to truly "switch off" and recharge.

You are NOT alone. Seriously, countless people in your age group are experiencing similar feelings. The guilt you feel for complaining is also very common – it's a testament to your empathy, but it doesn't invalidate your own feelings of discomfort.

Ways out of the funk (or at least managing it):

1. Acknowledge and Validate Your Feelings: The first step is to accept that what you're feeling is real and legitimate. Don't beat yourself up for it.

2. Identify the Root Cause:

   • Is it the job itself (the tasks, the industry)?
   • Is it the company culture (demanding, toxic, unsupportive)?
   • Is it the lack of personal time/hobbies?
   • Is it a deeper need for meaning or impact?

3. Small Changes, Big Impact: You don't have to quit your job tomorrow to feel better.

   • Boundary Setting: Be stricter about work hours. When the workday is done, it's done. Avoid checking emails or doing work tasks outside of those hours.
   • Prioritize Hobbies & Interests: Actively schedule time for things you enjoy, even if it's just an hour. This provides mental breaks and a sense of personal accomplishment.
   • Movement & Outdoors: Even short walks can clear your head and boost your mood.
   • Social Connection: Make time for friends and family. Isolation can worsen feelings of dread.
   • New Learning: Take a class (online or in person) in something completely unrelated to your job. This can spark new interests and a sense of growth.
   • Optimize Your Commute: Can you listen to podcasts, audiobooks, or music you love? Can you try a different route sometimes?

4. Explore Career Adjustments (Gradually):

   • Within Your Current Company: Are there other departments, roles, or projects that might offer more challenge or align better with your interests? Talk to your manager or HR.
   • Skill Development: What skills could you acquire that might open doors to different types of roles or industries?
   • Side Hustle/Passion Project: Even a small side project that you genuinely enjoy can provide a sense of purpose and creative outlet that your main job might lack. It can also be a low-pressure way to test new waters.
   • Networking: Talk to people in different fields. Informational interviews can give you insights into other career paths without the pressure of applying.

5. Financial Planning: If the idea of "saying screw it" keeps coming up, it might be worth looking at your finances. Could you save up an "escape fund" that would give you a safety net to take a break, pivot careers, or even work part-time for a while? Knowing you have options can reduce the feeling of being trapped.

6. Seek Professional Help: If the dread is persistent, impacting your sleep, appetite, or overall well-being, consider talking to a therapist or counselor. They can provide strategies for managing burnout, exploring your values, and navigating big life questions.

7. Reframe Your Perspective:

   • Your Job as a Tool: View your current job as a means to an end – it's providing the stability and income you need now while you figure out what's next. It doesn't have to be your forever.
   • Growth Mindset: Every experience, even the challenging ones, offers opportunities for learning and growth. What can you learn from this period of feeling burnt out?
   • Defining Success Differently: What does "success" truly mean to you? It might not be the conventional definition of career progression or material wealth.

This phase is a stepping stone. It's a sign that you're evolving and questioning, which is a good thing! It means you're not content to just drift along. Use this discomfort as a catalyst for exploration and change, rather than letting it paralyze you. You have plenty of time to figure this out.