Navigating 2025's Tech Landscape + Job Market with STEM Babe

Glowing in Tech

We welcome back award-winning tech professional Yemurai to discuss the current state of the tech industry. In this insightful conversation, we explore:

How the tech job market differs from 2020-2021, particularly for entry-level versus senior roles

The challenges of breaking into tech in today's competitive environment

Why networking has become essential for landing tech jobs in the current market

Practical networking tips for introverts and beginners

The importance of building your LinkedIn presence and personal brand

Balancing online visibility with privacy and safety concerns as a tech professional

Whether you're looking to break into tech, advance your career, or build meaningful industry connections, this episode offers valuable advice from someone who successfully navigated a "squiggly career" from chemistry to cybersecurity.

Don't miss this candid discussion about the realities of today's tech landscape and actionable strategies for success!

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Timestamps:

0:00 - Welcome and introduction to Yemurai

1:23 - The current state of the tech job market

2:45 - Entry-level challenges vs. senior opportunities

4:18 - Web3 and blockchain: Then vs. now

6:02 - How long does it really take to break into tech?

7:30 - Why networking is non-negotiable for job seekers

9:15 - The secret weapon: Working with recruiters

10:48 - How AI is changing recruitment strategies

12:30 - Networking tips for introverts

15:04 - Setting realistic networking goals

16:42 - "Your network is your net worth"

17:25 - Balancing online visibility with privacy

19:53 - Building a powerful LinkedIn presence

22:17 - Simple ways to start your LinkedIn journey

24:05 - Final thoughts and where to find Yemurai

Notable Quotes

"Your network is your net worth." - Yemurai

"I think from an entry level perspective, it is incredibly challenging... But I know from a senior level and mid-entry level, there's a lot of opportunity once already working within the industry." - Yemurai

"Even if you're not necessarily seeing the immediate benefits... it's those warm introductions. Somebody's seen your post, they recognize your name, they've seen your face. It just makes you stand out above the people that have sent the CVs that have got the exact same trajectory as you thus far." - Jessie

Practical Takeaways

Go beyond the CV: In today's competitive market, networking is non-negotiable for breaking into tech

Start small with networking: Begin with online events if you're nervous, observe before participating

Work with recruiters: Even entry-level candidates can benefit from recruiter relationships

Document your journey: Use LinkedIn to share your experiences attending events and learning

Set realistic networking goals: Aim for quality connections rather than quantity

Maintain privacy boundaries: Be strategic about what personal information you share online

Leverage in-person events: As AI makes perfect CVs easier to create, face-to-face connections become more valuable

About Yemurai

Yemurai has successfully navigated a career transition from chemistry to cybersecurity, winning recognition from We Are Tech Women along the way. She maintains a thoughtful approach to her online presence, balancing professional visibility with personal privacy, and actively shares entry-level tech opportunities through her platforms.

Resources Mentioned

We Are Tech Women awards

Industry events and recruitment networking opportunities

LinkedIn as a career development platform

Renee Louise - BlaqByte

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