How to Land Your First Job as a Developer

Introduction

Getting your first job as a developer may seem overwhelming, but with the right approach and good tools, it's entirely possible to get a fantastic start to your IT career. In this guide, you'll find concrete tips on how to build expertise, apply for jobs, and succeed in interviews. With Lønna.no, you also gain access to current vacancies and salary information – invaluable for both graduates and self-taught developers.

Build Basic Skills

All developers start somewhere. For those looking for their first developer job in 2025, it's essential to master a selection of relevant technologies. Most employers seek basic skills in:

• HTML, CSS, and JavaScript
• A modern framework like React, Vue, or Angular
• A backend technology such as Node.js, .NET, or Java
• Basic databases: SQL, MongoDB, or similar
• Version control with Git

The most important thing is to show that you can execute actual projects – not just that you've "read" about the technologies.

Create Your Own Projects

One of the best ways to stand out is to demonstrate your capabilities. Create simple apps, websites, or automations and post them on GitHub or your own portfolio. This provides tangible proof of your skills and shows initiative.

Understand the Market – What a Developer Earns in 2025

Salary is often a significant motivation. According to SSB table 11419, a newly graduated developer earns an average of between 570,000 and 630,000 kroner per year, depending on the workplace, technology, and experience. There are jobs with both higher and lower salaries, so always check what is offered in job postings, for example, on Lønna.no, before you apply.

Requirements and Expectations for First-Time Applicants

As a recent graduate or new to the field, there are typical requirements you should be prepared for:

• Basic education (college/university or relevant vocational certificate/course)
• Familiarity with relevant tools and frameworks
• Ability to work both independently and in teams
• Good communication skills
• Willingness to learn

More and more employers are positive about self-study and alternative educational paths, so leverage your projects and experiences to their fullest.

How to Write a Compelling CV and Application

An attractive CV and application are your first impressions. Here are some good practices:

• Start with a clear profile statement at the top of your CV
• Highlight your projects, whether from studies, courses, hobbies, or work
• Reference relevant technologies and frameworks you master
• Keep the application simple and concrete – tailor it for each position
• Have someone proofread before you submit

On Lønna.no, you can find ready-made templates for both CVs and applications. You can even track the application process from creation to response.

Preparing for the Interview

If you've landed an interview, you've already done a lot right. Now it's about convincing them that you not only know coding on paper but will also fit into the company:

• Carefully read the job advertisement and familiarize yourself with the company
• Practice typical questions about both expertise, motivation, and collaboration
• Have examples ready of how you’ve tackled challenges
• Show curiosity and ask about the work environment, academic environment, and technology

Don't be afraid to show that you're still learning – the most important thing is that you are eager to learn and engaged.

What Awaits You as a Junior Developer?

The first months often focus on acclimating to the workflow, learning technical systems and routines, and building relationships with colleagues. Be open about what you don’t know – and ask for guidance early. Most companies offer a buddy or mentoring program for new employees. Familiarize yourself with internal documentation, attend professional gatherings, and seize opportunities to ask questions.

Use Lønna.no to Find Relevant Jobs with Salary

Whether you want to compare positions, map salary levels, or create a targeted application, Lønna.no provides you with the tools you need. You can search for available developer jobs while also seeing salary estimates associated with each position – perfect when you’re negotiating salaries or evaluating different career paths. You also receive help in crafting CVs, writing applications, and keeping complete track of your processes.

Summary

• Build practical experience, create projects, and document them well
• Write targeted applications and show genuine motivation
• Find relevant positions and check salary levels via Lønna.no
• Prepare for interviews, be honest about what you can do and where you want to go
• Establish good relationships and seize learning opportunities from day one

If you follow these tips, you significantly increase your chances of landing your first developer job. Good luck – the future of work is waiting for you!

Sources: SSB table 11419 (salary statistics), SSB work and salary