How to start a career in blockchain

Oluwatosin Jegede

14 September 2023

The digital world is evolving, and at its forefront stands blockchain technology. Originating as the backbone for cryptocurrencies, blockchain has expanded its reach far beyond financial transactions. It promises enhanced transparency, improved security, and unparalleled decentralization.

As industries across the globe recognize its transformative potential, a rising demand for blockchain expertise emerges. In this context, many professionals and aspirants ask an important question: is a career in blockchain a promising venture? Let’s delve deeper to understand its professional trajectory.

Table of Contents

What is blockchain

Blockchain is a chain of digital blocks. Each block contains information stored securely in a public database known as the chain. Unlike centralized systems, blockchain operates on a decentralized platform. This setup offers a non-repudiable, distributed ledger. For businesses, the advantages are clear. Enhanced transparency.

No need for third parties. Cost reductions. The capability for micropayments. Robust cryptographic security. And once a transaction is on the blockchain? It’s permanent, unalterable. In short, blockchain is reshaping our digital world, promising security, efficiency, and transparency.

Blockchain is revolutionizing how we view and handle digital transactions, offering a blend of security, transparency, and efficiency.

The rise of blockchain

Blockchain is on the move. Born as a simple digital ledger, it’s now making waves across industries. It’s young and has challenges, but it’s here to stay. From finance to healthcare, sectors are tapping into its power. Why? It promises transparency, cuts out middlemen, and decentralizes control.

A Gartner study drops a big number: $3.1 trillion in business value by 2030, all thanks to blockchain. And as for its global market growth? The predictions are bullish, and the numbers are climbing.

Simply put, blockchain isn’t just a fade. It’s shaping the future of business.

Blockchain skills shortage

Blockchain is booming. As its applications grow, so does the thirst for experts in the field. Yet, it’s a tricky situation. There’s no textbook pathway into blockchain. Most of us didn’t study it at school.

The numbers paint a stark picture: the hunger for blockchain expertise is skyrocketing, outpacing the number of pros in the field. A staggering 500% jump in demand for these skills has been observed recently. Given its spread across various industries, it’s hardly a surprise. Companies everywhere are waking up to blockchain’s potential, triggering a mad dash to snatch up the best talent.

A quick peek at LinkedIn for blockchain job openings shows numerous vacancies. The trend? It’s been multiplying—more than 5x between 2020 and 2022.

A career in blockchain: exploring the opportunities

Blockchain isn’t just about cryptocurrencies—it’s so much more. And with its growing reach, the job market is opening up in fascinating ways.

Start-ups: Ever since cryptocurrencies gained momentum, start-ups have been on the frontline, innovating and pushing boundaries;
Legacies: These are the big players, like banks, who can’t ignore blockchain any longer. The distributed ledger technology is a game-changer for them;
Tech giants: Companies like Facebook, Google, and Microsoft? They’re all in. Blockchain holds potential that even these tech behemoths can’t pass up;
Governments: Cost efficiency is always in vogue. With potential savings on the table, many governments are exploring how blockchain can streamline their operations.

Now, when it comes to actual jobs, yes, there’s a massive demand for tech roles—think software developers and engineers. But here’s the fun part: the blockchain wave is also creating ripples in other sectors. Marketing pros, accountants, lawyers? There’s room for them too. The blockchain universe is expanding, and it’s bringing all sorts of talents on board.

How to get started with a career in blockchain?

So, you’re eyeing a career in blockchain? Great choice. Let’s break down the steps.

Educate yourself: Dive into online courses. Platforms like Coursera, Udemy, and edX offer courses in blockchain basics;
Networking: Join blockchain communities. Engage in forums, attend conferences, or participate in webinars;
Hands-on experience: Play with blockchain. Set up your own blockchain, experiment with crypto transactions, or try building a basic dApp;
Tech skills: If you’re tech-inclined, learn relevant programming languages. Solidity for Ethereum, for instance;
Broaden your horizon: Remember, it’s not just about tech. Understand the business, legal, or marketing side of blockchain if that’s where your passion lies;
Stay updated: Blockchain evolves fast. Subscribe to newsletters, follow relevant blogs, and keep your knowledge fresh;
Apply: Start small. Internships, freelance projects, or even offering to assist blockchain start-ups can open doors.