Making a career transition into an entirely new industry can feel daunting, especially when it involves learning what feels like a completely new language. My journey from writing and marketing roles to proposal writing for a software agency has been one of the most rewarding challenges of my professional life.

The leap of faith

Before joining Pubgenius, I had always worked in roles involving writing or marketing, and I also had experience developing and managing initiatives in organizations. While I had never done proposal writing for a software agency, I had handled business development tasks in other contexts, so the idea of contributing to a company's growth felt familiar to me. As a writer, I enjoy experimenting with different forms of writing, so when the opportunity with Pubgenius came up, I didn't hesitate.

Stepping into the tech space meant learning many new terms, tools, and workflows, which at first felt like learning a whole new language. But I saw this as a chance to combine my creative skills with a new and growing industry, and the mix of familiar responsibilities with fresh challenges made the switch exciting rather than intimidating.

Learning to speak tech

When I started, terms like tech stack, API integration, or backend development were completely unfamiliar. I remember sitting in my first few project meetings feeling like everyone else was speaking in code. But rather than being discouraged, I embraced the learning curve with curiosity and determination.

Now, just months later, I can follow project discussions, understand the basics of different stacks, and connect them to a client's needs when writing proposals. This growth came from being in an environment where asking questions is encouraged and where the team is always open to explaining things. The transformation wasn't overnight, but it was steady and rewarding.

The pubGENIUS effect

Pubgenius has given me the freedom to think creatively in business development and the confidence to contribute to discussions I once found intimidating. The startup environment has taught me how fast things can move, and I have learned to adapt quickly and stay focused while still thinking outside the box. That combination of speed and creativity has shaped my vision for the future and made me more confident about my place in the tech industry.

What I've discovered is that the technical knowledge, while important, is only part of the equation. The ability to translate complex technical concepts into compelling business propositions requires both understanding and creative communication skills. This is where my writing background has proven invaluable, creating a unique bridge between technical capabilities and client needs.

Lessons for fellow career switchers

If you're considering a similar transition, here's what I've learned along the way:

• Be willing to learn and grow with the company, and develop a sense of belonging in your workplace. It makes learning much easier. I used to think work was mainly about earning a salary, but now I see it as a way to gain experiences and skills I can carry anywhere.

• Leverage all available learning resources. There are many ways to learn, from YouTube and online courses to AI tools that can make complex topics easier to understand. Don't limit yourself to traditional learning methods.

• Do not hesitate to ask questions, even if you think they sound basic. The fastest way to learn is to ask. I've found that most people are eager to share their knowledge, and what might seem like a "stupid question" to you often leads to valuable insights and deeper understanding.

• Most importantly, be adaptable. Startups move fast and things can change quickly, so the ability to adjust and keep moving forward is essential. The pace can be challenging, but it also makes the experience exciting and rewarding.

AI as my daily co-pilot

One of the most interesting aspects of my journey has been how AI has become part of my daily routine. I use ChatGPT to refine my grammar, especially as a non-native English speaker, and to help me make sense of technical terms so I can write more tailored proposals. It's also my go-to for brainstorming new angles for pitches and finding better ways to track data. It's like having an extra teammate who's always available to help me think through ideas.

This integration of AI tools has not only improved my efficiency but has also enhanced my ability to bridge the gap between technical complexity and clear communication. It's a perfect example of how embracing new technologies can amplify existing skills rather than replace them.

Looking forward

My journey at Pubgenius has taught me that career transitions, while challenging, can be incredibly rewarding when you approach them with the right mindset. The key is to remain curious, stay adaptable, and never stop asking questions. The tech industry moves fast, but it also offers incredible opportunities for those willing to learn and grow.

The combination of my writing background with newly acquired technical knowledge has created opportunities I never imagined when I first stepped into this world. It's a reminder that diverse backgrounds and fresh perspectives are valuable assets in any industry, especially in tech where innovation thrives on different ways of thinking.