I’ve been self-learning for a little over two years and even have some products out in the app and google play stores. Lately I’ve been working on my github and putting more small pwrsonal projects in my portfolio. I’ve also started leetcoding and have been working through chapters in Cracking the Coding Interview. At what point does one just start applying for jobs? I’ve sent out a few resumes and applications but have gotten the same response - “looking for more experience”. Are there any self-taught devs out there that would mind sharing your story? Edit: FANNG isn’t necessarily a “goal” for me.
Network and get your job that way.
You should apply to FAANG and similar ones, because those have the backbone to hire "less experienced" devs. Once you make it to a reasonably known company, it gets way easier to get interviews.
Do you think FANNG gigs are “easier” to get than dev jobs at non-tech companies?
Not easier. They are probably harder in a way, but they can afford to have non experienced people. Others won't take the risk of having non experienced people. With that said, the strategy is to work at some dev job on an NGO or shitty startup while applying and interviewing with FAANG & other public tech companies. After you get a well-known company on your resume, recruiters from big tech will hit you every week.
Did you try asking the IT dept for opportunities at your current company?
I would, but the tech jobs are at headquarters in a city where neither I nor my wife want to live.
brah be flexible if u want to change careers. Could be for just a year or two. but I hear more often devs going flying than the other way around. u sure u want to do this?
Usually you have to go to a shitty startup that will take you in, get a few yoe, only then you can have a shot at FANG.
How about tech roles in non-tech companies? Without green card/citizenship, would those be easier to get into than startups?
Wouldn't know, since I'm fortunate not to have to deal with visa issues.