How I Landed Tech Jobs: Persistence, Boldness, and Playing the Numbers Game

Breaking into tech is tough, but persistence pays off. From sending 20 applications a day to bold follow-ups and building genuine connections, here’s my take on landing and growing in tech jobs.

Watch the Video

https://youtube.com/shorts/C6_iDU4uyLw

Outline

• Why breaking into tech feels overwhelming
• The importance of persistence in applications
• Following up with boldness
• Treating applications as free feedback
• The power of inside connections
• Showing up at events and building trust
• Always preparing for the next move

Why Breaking Into Tech Feels Overwhelming

I recently attended a Ruby meetup while still wearing my PHP hat, and I overheard junior developers discussing how hard the market felt for them. Their concerns reminded me of my own early days, when sending out applications felt like shouting into the void. It can feel impossible, but I learned that persistence and strategy matter more than raw luck.

The Importance of Persistence

Back then, I sent out 20 applications every single day, sometimes for months. The truth is, you only need one “yes,” but you might have to collect hundreds of “no”s to get there. If no one gets back to you, maybe your resume isn’t strong enough yet — and that’s okay. The process itself helps you improve your writing, communication, and ability to present yourself better each time.

Following Up With Boldness

One of my favorite tactics was sending bold follow-up messages. I would write something like, “Hey, when do we do our interview? Is today a good time?” Surprisingly, about 1–10% of recruiters would respond positively. It wasn’t about arrogance — it was about confidence. That small act often unlocked opportunities faster than waiting around.

Treating Applications as Free Feedback

I also saw applications as free feedback loops. Every rejection was an opportunity to tweak my resume or adjust how I positioned my skills. Your resume should highlight expertise, not just generic projects. Open-source contributions, for example, are a strong way to stand out. The goal is consistent improvement while still playing the numbers game.

The Power of Inside Connections

Over time, I stopped blind-applying altogether. Instead, I focused on knowing someone inside the company. This almost guaranteed a response. Even if they weren’t hiring immediately, being remembered meant I was top of mind when an opportunity opened. Relationships matter as much as technical skills.

Showing Up at Events and Building Trust

Beyond resumes, I invested in going to events, talks, and meetups. Sometimes I attended, sometimes I presented, and sometimes I simply helped organize. The key was genuine engagement. Authentic interest builds trust, and that trust often leads to referrals or interview opportunities that move much faster and smoother than cold applications.

Always Preparing for the Next Move

Even after landing a job, I kept interviewing every year or two. This served two purposes: testing my relevance in the market and ensuring I wasn’t stuck using outdated tools. It also acted as insurance. If something went wrong at my current job, I already had connections and opportunities lined up. Career growth isn’t just about the first job — it’s about setting yourself up for the next one.

Closing Thoughts

Breaking into tech requires persistence, boldness, and a willingness to learn from every rejection. But it doesn’t stop there — once you land the job, you need to keep preparing for the next step. It’s a continuous journey of improvement and connection.