Nepal’s IT industry is booming, but so is the competition. From web development and mobile app development to AI and cybersecurity, thousands of graduates enter the market every year. Even in merojob, the demand for IT professionals is high.

However, to secure your dream IT role, you need more than just a degree. You need in-demand skills and a strong portfolio. Here are some tips on how to stand out in Nepal’s competitive IT job market.

1. Focus on In-Demand Skills

The IT field is evolving rapidly, so it is essential to stay updated with the market and focus on in-demand skills. Here are some fields that are popular in IT right now:

Tip: Choosing a domain of your interest leads to optimization in performance along with enhancement in career progression.

2. Build a Portfolio That Gets You Hired

A portfolio is your proof of skill far more convincing than a CV alone. 

Portfolio Tips for Nepal’s IT Job Market:

• Include real projects – Include some self-initiated projects that should solve actual problems.
• Highlight your process – Show how you approached challenges, not just the final product.
• Use Nepal-relevant examples –For instance, build a school management system, local e-commerce app, or Nepali language chatbot.
• Update regularly – Remove outdated work and add new projects every few months.

3. Participate in Hackathons and Open Source

Employers value candidates who go beyond coursework. Participating in hackathons, coding competitions, or contributing to open-source projects:

• Builds problem-solving skills.
• Proves you can work under deadlines.
• Expands your professional network.

Not only this but it also helps to emphasize your real-world skills. You can be updated regarding the ongoing events by visiting the Merojob events page.

4. Master Soft Skills 

According to HR recruiters, communication, teamwork, and adaptability are just as important as technical skills. When the technical skills are the same, what persuades the recruiters to hire you are your soft skills. These are some approaches you can take to showcase your soft skills:

• Communication: Explain technical concepts in simple terms to clients or non-technical team members.
• Problem-solving: Approach issues creatively and proactively.
• Collaboration: Show you can work with diverse teams, especially in remote environments.

 Tip: Mention your soft skills with examples in interviews  e.g., “Led a 4-member team in developing a task management app, resolving conflicts and ensuring timely delivery.”

5. Build Your Online Presence

Your digital footprint matters more than you think. Employers often go through your social media accounts to review your work, while some go as far as to ask you for one. You can use the following to build your online presence:

• GitHub: Share code, documentation, and contributions to open source.
• Personal Website: Create a simple site with your bio, skills, and portfolio.
• Merojob: Create a merojob profile and stay updated on appropriate opportunities 

6. Network Like Your Career Depends on It

In Nepal, referrals can make a huge difference. They can help your employers value your skills and land your dream post. These are some ways you can network:

• Attend tech meetups
• Join online communities
• Keep in touch with professors, internship supervisors, and past colleagues.

7. Stay Persistent 

Getting into Nepal’s IT industry can take time. Some people have reported applying to 50+ jobs before landing one interview.

• Don’t get discouraged :every rejection is feedback.
• Keep learning new tools and updating your portfolio.
• Be flexible with your first job. It's okay if it’s not perfect; it’s a stepping stone.

The IT scope in Nepal is expanding across AI, fintech, e-commerce, and digital services. But with high IT job competition, the winners are those who combine technical expertise, strong portfolios, and excellent communication skills.

If you:

• Pick an in-demand niche,
• Build a portfolio with real, relevant projects,
• Network actively both online and offline,

You can stand out in Nepal’s IT job market and open doors to better opportunities both locally and globally.