High-Tech Careers for Low-Tech People [Paperback]

Bill Schaffer (Author)

Book Description

Publication Date: March 25, 1999

It's no secret that the high-tech industry is one of the most vital segments of our economy. Now, is it fair that just because you preferred reading Shakespeare in college to studying microprocessors you should miss out on a high-paying job in this industry? Enter William Schaffer, a manager at Sun Microsystems and a self-confessed former technophobe who's convinced that even if you think Wintel is a glass cleaner, there's still hope. In clear, concise language, the author demystifies the industry for the uninitiated, discusses the jobs that are available to those without a background in technology, and details successful strategies for getting hired. Over 100 interviews from industry insiders round out the book, making this one-of-a-kind resource truly indispensable for anyone eager to take advantage of the limitless opportunities in technology.

Editorial Reviews

Review

A "terrific book."-Fortune

About the Author

A self-confessed former technophobe, author William Schaffer parlayed a B.A. from Columbia into a job in Silicon Valley, and he hasn't looked back since.

Product Details

• Paperback: 272 pages
• Publisher: Ten Speed Press; 2 edition (March 25, 1999)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 1580080391
• ISBN-13: 978-1580080392
• Product Dimensions: 6.1 x 0.8 x 9 inches
• Shipping Weight: 15.2 ounces (View shipping rates and policies)
• Average Customer Review: 4.9 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (13 customer reviews)
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #2,100,439 in Books (See Top 100 in Books)

Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

19 of 19 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars I am living proof that this book really works!, August 30, 1999

By 

[e-mail] (San Bruno, California) - See all my reviews

This review is from: High-Tech Careers for Low-Tech People (Paperback)

I read the book, "High-Tech Careers For Low-Tech People," and I was also fortunate enough to meet Mr. William Schaffer at a seminar he did at the Career Action Center in Cupertino, California. I was really in a bind because I was a victim of the BofA/NationsBank merger and I was on the street looking for a job. It's really amazing. I've been a resident in Silicon Valley for over 25 years and I never thought of looking for employment with the high-tech companies because I didn't have a technical background. Mr. Schaffer's book changed all of that. It showed me how I could take my 13 years of banking industry experience and convert it into the high-tech field. This book is an excellent roadmap because it takes the mystery out of high-tech and indentifies the low-tech career paths that are available. THANK YOU Mr. Schaffer for changing my life and opening my eyes to the remarkable careers available in high-tech for low-tech people like myself. In less than three weeks after reading your book and attending your seminar, I had two high-tech companies fighting over me. Now I don't have to fear unemployment ever again because you have given me the tools to ensure my future.

15 of 15 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars Excellent counsel for people considering high-tech careers, November 5, 1999

By A Customer

This review is from: High-Tech Careers for Low-Tech People (Paperback)

High-Tech Careers for Low-Tech People gave me the encouragement and insight I needed to pursue a career in this industry. What Bill writes is true! My background is theology, but thanks to the process Bill describes in this book, I have a great job in a firm that sells enterprise-wide software solutions.

9 of 9 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars Great help for people who might be intimidated by High Tech!, July 29, 1999

By A Customer

This review is from: High-Tech Careers for Low-Tech People (Paperback)

I read "High Tech Jobs for Low Tech People" near the start of my job search. I want to change industries, and there is a lot of growth in High Tech near me. I was somewhat frustrated by the use of on-line job searches, where you send in a resume electronically and get an electronic response. Job fairs seemed even worse, because although I had been a vice president of operations in a healthcare company, the recruiters felt I had no skills they could use. Mr. Schaffer's book convinced me that I was getting a typical response to these approaches, and reinvigorated my search. By the time I completed his book, I had two informational interviews with target companies, and a plan to try temping to get in the door. I have a much better idea of what I can expect, and how to hopefully convince people to give me a try. The resume examples were helpful, reinforcing how to highlight skills rather than inappropriate job history. I think any low tech person would benefit from this book, as well as new college graduates.