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by DirtyAndy 5779 days ago
A London company I consult with is currently looking for junior staff and having a nightmare finding anyone. I don't think you would like the work, you wouldn't learn anything, and they are not the sort of company to take the risk on you - so I can't help you there. But there is a massive lack of candidates in London at the moment, so you are probably picking a good time to come.

In terms of finding a position I think you've got two real options. 1. Hope that there is someone that is willing to spot your potential and train you up. I think this is a risky strategy because the majority of recruitment goes through recruitment agencies and/or HR departments - unless your CV says 2 years doing C++ development they aren't even going to look at you for C++ development. Personally I always think skills can be learnt, it is the candidates fit for the team/environment that is important - sadly a lot of people like to check boxes.

Your second option is to basically take the hit and try and go in as a grad - as you suggest. You wont get paid much, but you can be honest on your CV and say you got stuck in the wrong job, didn't learn new skills etc. If you get into a good company you can then start building your career. I think you'd be surprised just how much you have learnt in the past few years, coding is only a small part of a job, so you'll be miles ahead of other grads in other areas. A small step backwards can often result in a big step forwards. Obviously some companies will be hesitant as you are not a recent grad, but really they are getting more for their money because of your other experience.

Alternatively of course you could try your hand at your own startup (or try interning at another - depends if you can afford to live in London without a real income)!

1 comments

I am glad to hear that it is a good time to move to London.

I have no problems whatsoever to join a company as a graduate. I have an excellent salary right now but I don't care if I even have to earn half of it. Money isn't the top priority for me right now, otherwise I would stay where I am. I was just afraid I would not be considered for such a position, but I will definitely try.