Whether you are looking for a job fulfilling your needs or transitioning from the military, everyone has different reasons to jump into the IT industry. The timing is perfect. This industry faces a huge shortage of workers. But it also offers excellent pay and benefits, as well as lots of employment opportunities.
You don’t need much experience; you need to be interested in joining this growing industry and have a well-written resume. SkillHub linkedin profile writers service can help you and deliver an amazing resume if you want to spare yourself time and stress. These are seven ways to get your foot in the door of the IT industry.
1. Reexamine Your Past Experiences and Apply them to the IT Industry
It is important to look at your previous experience before you decide to start a new career as an IT professional. Although you might not have the necessary skills to fill the job openings, “soft skills” are important and can be used in IT roles.
If you are looking for a job as a help desk agent (a common entry-level IT position), customer service and communication skills can make a big difference to your resume. You may be able to find valuable experience by looking at your past roles from the perspective of the job you want.
Many veterans find their military experience helps them in their IT careers. Military personnel has the right training and experience to pursue a career as a technology professional. To help you transition to an IT career, many funding programs, and career programs are available for veterans, such as WIOA and VETTEC.
A new resume with relevant experience tailor-made for the job you are applying for will be required. In addition, employers will likely look at your LinkedIn profile during the application process. Therefore, you should review your resume using your new one. Reach out to SkillHub if you need instant help. Also, you should take the time to create a cover letter explaining your previous experience and how it will be helpful in your new position.
2. Earn Industry Certifications
The fastest way to get into information technology is to become certified. A tech degree can take between 1-4 years. However, certifications can be completed in a matter of weeks. While there are many similarities between earning a degree and earning certifications for IT jobs, a degree is not necessary.
You can show potential employers that your skills are relevant by becoming certified. This certification can make up for the lack of experience. The right credentials can help you climb the ladder in certain roles more than applicants with little knowledge or no certifications. The best part is that certificates can open up new entry-level positions rather than just accepting the first IT job you find.
What IT certifications are suitable for entry-level learners
- CompTIA A+ certification is vendor-neutral and proves that you have a broad knowledge of IT. This certification verifies your expertise in networking, hardware, cloud, and mobile devices, as well as troubleshooting. It will give you the information you need to land your first help desk job.
- CompTIA Security+ can be a great place to start if you are interested in cybersecurity. This vendor-neutral certification certifies that you are proficient in best security practices. These objectives include key concepts such as networks, data, host security, vulnerabilities, compliance, and identity control.
- CompTIA Network+, another vendor-neutral certification for beginners, is also available. This certification covers networking concepts, troubleshooting, operations, and security.
- ITIL(r) Foundation certification is for a framework of service management. This certification will validate your knowledge of the processes that enable IT staff to deliver quality services.
These certifications, found in ACI Learning’s entry-level Computer User Support program, can help you prepare for cybersecurity and networking roles later in your career.
How can you become certified?
First, you will need to learn the objectives of the certification exam that you are interested in taking. Then, you have the option of self-studying, or you can choose from multiple training options, such as certification preparation programs or in-person training. A course taught by an expert with real-world experience is the best choice for those with little or no knowledge.
After you have reviewed the exam objectives, you will need to buy an exam voucher at the certification vendor store. Then you can schedule a time to take the exam. The process will vary from one certification vendor to the next. Some vendors require you to take the exam at Pearson Vue, while others allow you to do the exam online. These tips will help you prepare for your exam.
3. A degree in another field may be a huge asset
It’s possible to feel guilty and wonder what you did with all your time studying for a degree that doesn’t help you pursue a career. However, don’t get too hard on yourself. Employers are more likely to offer you a job if you have a degree.
Instead of dwelling on how much your degree costs, think about the benefits. They can bring to your career as an IT professional. A literature degree in IT will help you to be creative and communicate well. Philosophy majors have a greater understanding of logic and unique problem-solving approaches. Your degree will make you stand out among applicants with the only computer or tech experience.
There is a great demand for people with diverse backgrounds and unique perspectives due to the rapid advancement of IT.
4. Always be open to starting at the bottom
It is important to remember that IT may require you to “start over.” It doesn’t matter if you are a manager or an expert in your industry. But recognize that you are leaving it for a purpose. Start in an entry-level position, and then work your way up. The experience gained at the bottom will be invaluable as you move up the ladder.
Don’t be too worried, though. Your earning potential in IT depends on how hard you work. You can expect to start at around $40K per annum in a help desk job. After five years of experience and some cybersecurity certifications, you might be able to earn about $65K in a Cybersecurity Analyst position. It all depends on how willing you are to learn and how much time you invest in improving your craft.
Consider getting a degree and a few certifications if you want a head start. These credentials can be a huge help.
It shows you are committed to the industry and gives you an edge over other applicants. This can prepare you for higher-level positions later on. Even if you have no prior experience, it won’t stop you from climbing the ladder. With many IT jobs available, you can quickly rise to more highly paid and specialized IT positions.
5. Networking is a powerful tool that can be used to your advantage
Your connections may surprise you. Employers are more likely to hire someone based on recommendations than interviewing everyone. A mentor in IT can help you grow your career and offer valuable advice.
Use social media, everyone in your contact list, and reach out to anyone you know that is involved with the tech industry. You might be surprised at the opportunities that may arise from simply posting a message to your network letting them know you are interested in tech.
Ask your connections and friends if they know anyone looking for people to fill the positions you are interested in. A good connection can give you an advantage over your competition and may even ignite a passion for the job.
6. Get relevant tech skills and experience
You can learn many things about technology that will improve your resume. Your next employer might find it useful to learn everything from Salesforce to how to post on WordPress. YouTube is a great place to learn new skills or reinforce existing ones.
Learn about hardware and software in your spare time by following your passions. These skills can be added to your resume when you are proficient. They could make all the difference between getting hired or being overlooked.
Virtual labs are a great way to gain hands-on experience. Practice Labs is an ACI Learning Company that hosts and manages virtual labs where learners can practice their digital and IT skills in a safe and controlled environment. This allows you to experience real servers without worrying about breaking them. In addition, this will enable you to gain confidence in real-world settings.
7. Consider Crossover Jobs
Even though you may not have direct experience in IT, IT workers work in almost every industry that uses computers and networks. For example, it might be worth looking for an IT job at a dealership if you have years of car sales experience. Even if you don’t have the best tech skills, understanding half the business will make you a valuable employee. Although you’ll still need to start from the bottom, it can be a great way to get your first year of IT experience.
It is possible to get a job in IT without any experience. However, many people are still skeptical about making the jump into it. You can greatly increase your chances of starting a successful career in IT by acquiring the right tools and knowledge.
