Software developer

[Lovely13]

Hello all.
Does anyone have any connections with software development that may help a son? He has a 2.1 in computer science, has applied for 80 jobs. So far, only four have replied. He needs relevant work experience to get his CV zinging. Could do it unpaid. London-based. He’s been working hard, but just not getting that initial break into his relevant industry. Any contacts or suggestions would be much appreciated. Thank you. 😊

Just to add, I’m trying help him out as he’s getting so down at not even getting contact from firms. He got a rejection email the other day and that made him think, at least they’ve bothered replying. It’s really harsh out there. So I’m thinking, if he could get some actual work experience on to his cv, that would help.

Hi, unfortunately the market is very competitive. Have you tried looking on fiverr.com website, it connects businesses with freelancers, he could offer he’s services on there. It’s worth a check. Also, have you tried researching your local business community ie, young business startups, who may be looking for a website or phone app to go with their business. Other than that, he may have to start with an apprenticeship programme. You could also try do-it.org they sometimes list software developers, it is a voluntary website. Hope this helps.

What stage has he got to in the process? Is it the CV screen that he is not getting past? Interview? Coding test?

Could contacting a recruiter help? Doing a project he could put on his cv? Perhaps look at the CV and see if there are ways of improving it to highlight strengths?

Thank you so much for your advice. Yes, he’s not getting past CV stage. Has all the coding sorted, apparently. And linked to recruiters. Great idea to look at young business start-ups. And the fiverr forum. He has a good idea for an app. Much appreciated for your ideas.

Hello @Lovely13 I run a small software consultancy with my DH and we often need developers. We focus on embedded software - mainly Linux/Yocto and IoT, so if this is your son's area we'd be happy to take a look at his CV.

PM me for more info.

Which language does he have the most experience in?

Thank you sedentarycat that’s a a fabulous offer. He’s away working at the moment. But I’m hoping he will be back soon for a brainstorm. Will forward him all of these brilliant ideas.

IBM did do good apprenticeships but I think they took below graduate level. Getting into IBM as a grad is a completely different kettle of fish. They arent the company they used to be, but the apprenticeships are very good.

Small start ups often need SQL people. Depends what he can code in? Problem with the big companies are that the clients often need extensive security clearing

I would probably get him out of London - it's saturated with graduates and experienced devs. But drop along the south coast a bit and you'll find more jobs available.

Brighton, Portsmouth, Bournemouth etc even if for a year or so to get the experience.

My office hired me on the basis of my online portfolio. Has your son got a solid project up on GitHub that showcases his skills? Has he tried attending any networking type events for his main languages? I think lots of programming meetups are still running online.