What is a good starting salary in tech after changing career path?

Technology is a thriving industry that offers vast career opportunities for people from diverse backgrounds. According to the Tech Nation Report 2021, the UK tech industry has grown by 40% in the past two years, creating thousands of new jobs across the country. With such rapid growth, more people are considering a career change to join the tech industry. One of the critical factors to consider when switching careers is the starting salaries for new entrants. In this blog, we will explore what constitutes a good starting salary in tech after changing career paths in the UK.

What is a Good Starting Salary in Tech?

Determining what constitutes a good starting salary in tech can be tricky since there are numerous factors to consider. Some of the factors that affect starting salaries include the job role, experience, location, and company size. However, based on available data, we can make generalisations about what constitutes a good starting salary in tech.

The average starting salary for a tech job in the UK ranges from £25,000 to £30,000 per annum. However, salaries vary significantly depending on the job role and location. For instance, a software developer in London can earn between £35,000 and £45,000 per annum, while a junior software developer in Manchester can earn between £22,000 and £30,000 per annum.

To put these figures into perspective, we can compare them to the national minimum wage in the UK. As of April 2021 (changing April 2023), the national minimum wage for people aged 23 and over is £8.91 per hour, which translates to approximately £18,500 per annum. Therefore, any starting salary that exceeds the national minimum wage can be considered a good starting salary.

Factors That Affect Starting Salaries in Tech

As mentioned earlier, several factors affect starting salaries in tech. Below are some of the most significant factors:

1. Job Role

Tech is a broad industry that offers numerous job roles, and each role has its unique salary range. For instance, software developers and data analysts tend to earn more than technical support specialists and IT technicians. Therefore, before embarking on a career change to the tech industry, it’s crucial to research different job roles to find the ones that pay well and align with your skills and interests.

2. Experience

Experience is a critical factor that affects starting salaries in tech. Employers tend to pay more for people with experience in a particular role or industry. Therefore, if you’re switching careers to the tech industry, your previous work experience might not be directly relevant to your new role. As a result, you might have to start at a lower salary and work your way up as you gain experience.

3. Location

Location is another significant factor that affects starting salaries in tech. Salaries tend to be higher in areas with a high cost of living such as London, Bristol, and Manchester. Therefore, if you’re moving to a new city for a tech job, it’s essential to research the cost of living and compare it with the offered salary to ensure that it’s enough to cover your living expenses.

4. Company Size

The size of the company also affects starting salaries in tech. Startups and small businesses tend to offer lower salaries than large corporations. However, startups and small businesses offer other benefits such as flexible working hours, equity options, and a more relaxed work environment.

Tips for Negotiating a Good Starting Salary

Negotiating a good starting salary can be challenging, especially if you’re new to the tech industry. However, with the right approach and preparation, you can increase your chances of getting a good starting salary. Below are some tips for negotiating a good starting salary:

Do Your Research

Research the industry you’re entering, as well as the position you’re applying for. Find out what the average salary is for someone in your position and with your level of experience. This information can be found through online job postings, industry publications, and networking with people in your field. There are several websites that can provide you with this information:

1. Glassdoor: This website provides information on salaries, bonuses, and other compensation for different job titles in various companies.
2. Salarycom: This website provides salary data for different job titles, industries, and locations.
3. Payscale: This website provides salary data based on job title, experience, and location

Knowing Your Worth

Once you have researched pay in your new field, you should have a good idea of what you can expect to earn. However, it’s important to remember that your worth is not solely based on your previous salary or experience. Consider the value you can bring to the company and the skills you have developed during your career change.

Negotiating Your Salary

When it comes time to negotiate your salary, be prepared to make a strong case for yourself. Start by thanking the employer for the job offer and expressing your enthusiasm for the position. Then, present your research on pay and explain why you believe you should be compensated at a certain level. Be confident but also flexible, and be willing to negotiate on other aspects of the job if necessary.

 

HOW CAN WE HELP?

At Total Career Solutions, we offer the expert, knowledge, experience, and insights and help you change career and find a new career path. Book a free 15-minute consultation with our professional career consultants to learn more.