Sheila Flavell Exclusive: How to make it in the IT industry

Here at graduate-women.com we give you access to expert advice from leading women in different Industries. This week we hear from Sheila Flavell, COO of FDM Group and winner of the Every woman in Technology award for "Leader of the Year". Whether your considering a career in IT, or want to know what its like to succeed in the fastest growing industry in the world, read on for Sheila's top tips on making it in the industry.




1. Stand out from the crowd
Recent research from TargetJobs found that there is an average of 15 applicants to every one job currently advertised so in order to get the chance to interview, you need to make sure you stand out from the crowd even if you don't necessarily have the most relevant experience. I would advise you to take something from every job or academic experience you've had and demonstrate that in your applications. For example, I started my career with the Glasgow police force, which gave me focus, discipline and resilience, I then spent time working in the Middle East for an airline, which gave me independence and flexibility. Afterwards, I went back to university to study a Masters to gain the academic qualification I needed and it is all these qualities that have allowed me to have a wonderful career in IT for over 20 years.

2. Work experience
I cannot express the importance of gaining work experience. Although it's not imperative to have the most relevant experience, it is definitely something that can make you and your application unique. Although I didn't have IT experience prior to joining FDM, my leadership skills overpowered this. If you make a difference during your time there, you may secure a longer placement or even a full time job. Use your initiative, build robust relationships, be willing to help and become indispensible through hard work and commitment. Never forget that you have a voice so use it!

3. There are many opportunities and routes into IT - you don't have to be a technical wizard
There are so many opportunities for a career in the IT industry from Java Development to Sales Manager to Marketing. We're all aware of the common 'geeky' stereotype of IT professionals but IT is one of the world's fastest growing industries and is now at the forefront of business with great career prospects. Depending on what career you are looking into, I would suggest a degree in Computer Science, numerical sciences or business is advantageous. You don't necessarily have to have a Masters, at FDM we take on fresh graduates with a degree and offer further training within specific streams of IT to further develop their qualifications.

4. Don't be afraid to take risks
I know this is a cliché but I can't stress the importance of trusting your gut instinct because nine times out of ten it'll be the right choice for you. I'm sure you are aware of the success of Steve Jobs and Bill Gates despite both of them dropping out of university. Yes, this was a risk but look how far they have come and the legacy they have created. I'm not promising that risk taking will always pay off but how will you know if you don't try? We opened our first office in New York in 2010 right in the middle of a recession and its success has been overwhelming, so much so that we are now expanding onto another floor to accommodate the growing demand.

5. You will step on people's toes eventually
My final top tip is to speak your mind; don't be afraid to speak out even if your opinion is against the gradient. At the beginning you're not expected to know everything so if you make a mistake, learn from it and if you have an idea which you feel would benefit the company and team or a specific campaign even if it is not in agreement with a colleague who has been at the company longer than you, still speak up and make your voice heard.

I hope these tips have helped you to consider the many paths available to an exciting IT career and realise it is possible to get a place on a graduate scheme in such a crowded job market. There is no question that education is vital but you need to demonstrate drive, determination and the will to go above and beyond order to stand out from the crowd. Remember that barriers only exist in your mind so believe in yourself and don't be afraid to follow your dreams.