Breaking into tech isn’t just about what you know, it’s about who you connect with. Whether you’re self-taught, coming from a non-tech background, or fresh out of a bootcamp, networking in tech can accelerate your learning, uncover hidden job opportunities, and help you feel less alone in the journey.
In this guide, we’ll explore how beginners can start networking in tech with actionable tips, platform recommendations, and free resources to build authentic connections.
🧠 Why Networking Matters in Tech
- Referrals account for up to 40% of hires in tech roles
- Mentorship shortens your learning curve and boosts confidence
- Community support helps you stay motivated and accountable
- Conversations lead to collaborations, freelance gigs, and job leads
🌐 Where to Network Online
- Follow companies, recruiters, and tech influencers
- Post your learning journey, projects, and reflections
- Engage with others’ posts – comment, share, and connect
📘 Learn how to optimize your LinkedIn profile with LinkedIn’s Career Guide
🧵 Twitter (X)
- Follow hashtags like
#100DaysOfCode,#TechTwitter,#DevCommunity - Share small wins, ask questions, and join threads
- DM people for advice or collaboration
💻 GitHub
- Star and fork interesting projects
- Contribute to beginner-friendly repos (look for
good first issue) - Use your profile to showcase your portfolio and activity
📘 Explore GitHub’s networking potential with GitHub Docs
🗣️ Discord & Slack Communities
- Join servers like CodeNewbie, Learn Teach Code, or Frontend Horse
- Participate in live chats, events, and peer support channels
- Ask for feedback on your projects or portfolio
🏢 How to Network Offline
🧑💻 Local Meetups & Tech Events
- Use Meetup.com to find coding groups, hackathons, and workshops
- Attend beginner-friendly events and introduce yourself
- Bring a project or question to spark conversation
🎤 Conferences & Career Fairs
- Look for free or low-cost events like Tech Career Fair or Women Who Code
- Prepare a short intro and bring your portfolio link
- Follow up with people you meet via LinkedIn or email
🧩 What to Say When You’re New
Not sure how to start a conversation? Try:
- “I’m switching careers into tech and just built my first portfolio – do you have any advice?”
- “I’m learning JavaScript and looking for beginner-friendly projects to contribute to.”
- “I really admire your work on [project] – how did you get started?”
Authenticity beats polish. People appreciate curiosity and effort.
🆓 Free Resources to Build Your Network
- CodeNewbie Podcast – Real stories from career changers
- Virtual Coffee – Weekly chats and mentorship
- Tech Twitter Starter Pack – Lists of accounts to follow
- LinkedIn Learning – Free trial for networking courses
- GitHub Community Forum – Ask questions and get feedback
💡 Final Thoughts
Networking isn’t about selling yourself, it’s about showing up, sharing your journey, and supporting others. Whether you’re posting your first GitHub repo or attending your first meetup, every interaction builds momentum.
Coming Up Next:
In Part 8 of the Switching to Tech series, we’ll explore how to choose your first tech role, whether it’s frontend, backend, data, or support, and how to align your learning path with your career goals.
Missed Earlier Posts?
- Start with Part 1: Want to Switch Careers Into Tech? Here’s How to Start🚀
- Explore Part 2: Switching to Tech: The Best Free Resources for Beginners 💻
- Stay on track with Part 3: Learning Tech for Career Changers: How to Stay Consistent 📅
- Create your portfolio with Part 4: Switching to Tech: How to Build Your First Developer Portfolio🧰
- Build a strategy with Part 5: How to Apply for Entry-Level Tech Jobs 📬
- Stand out with Part 6: How to Prepare and Stand Out at Your First Developer Interview🎯