There’s no question that opting for a career in the public sector can be a fantastic decision. Taking your skills to a not-for-profit organisation, a public body or a government agency can deliver a rewarding feeling that your skills are being valued, whilst your efforts are making a real difference to the lives of others in your community. From integrating new systems to improve the service, to overseeing policing technology, there’s plenty of scope to develop a rewarding tech career. Yet it’s also the case that moving into a role within the public sector can mean calling on a slightly different set of skills than those prioritised by the private sector.
Excellent Communication Skills
Perhaps the most crucial skill to bring to the table is excellent communication skills. This doesn’t just mean the ability to write clear emails (although this certainly is part of it). It also means being able to verbally convey your work effectively to a range of different people across different departments, many of whom may not have much technical know-how. You’ll also need to be able to get on well with a range of different people, too, so great interpersonal skills are a must. Whether it’s working with an immediate team of colleagues, reporting to stakeholders, or interacting with customers or service users, being able to confidently communicate will stand you in good stead.
Superb Problem Solving
If you work in the public sector, then you’ll definitely need the ability to think on your feet and solve problems fast. Without the big budgets that are often enjoyed by the private sector, you may well find that you have to get creative to find the best solutions for your organisation. Having a flexible, can-do attitude will take you a long way and help to alleviate some of the inevitable stress when problems arise. After all, you will also need to be able to stay calm under pressure and be able to take a logical approach to projects. There’s a good chance that you’ll be working to tight deadlines, and have to take on a large proportion of the work yourself, so being a motivated self-starter with excellent organisational skills will also be essential.
Passion For The Role
Of course, perhaps the most vital ingredient for satisfying tech careers in the public sector is a genuine enthusiasm for the organisation in question. If you feel passionate about the work that you do, then you will find yourself enjoying the challenges that this sector can bring, and feel motivated to carry on learning and developing in your role.
A Fantastic Career Choice
If you are a solutions-focused professional who wants to build a rewarding career where their skills are truly needed, then moving to the public sector can be a wonderful step. If you feel that this is the perfect direction for your career, then don’t delay: get in touch with Data Careers to be connected with the most exciting opportunities out there. Whether you specialise in robotics and AI, or systems and infrastructure, Data Careers can help you to achieve your career goals.
Please contact us at Data Careers Ltd 2nd Floor Langton & Moat House Bird Street, Lichfield, Staffordshire WS13 6PY, on 0330 0977 809, or at info@datacareers.co.uk to find out more.
