The IT field appeals to people for different reasons, whether they are looking for an exciting and fast-paced career or a way out of a dead-end job. As more and more businesses find ways to use technology, the need for trained specialized IT professionals is increasing, making it a desirable choice for many people seeking a new career. This article discusses the benefits of choosing an IT career and tips to enter the field no experience necessary:
How to get a job in Tech
It is possible to become a part of this booming industry without prior experience. Below are six tips to help you get started.
- Find a Mentor
Finding a mentor is one of the most important steps you can take no matter where you are in your career. Mentorship offers many benefits, such as boosting confidence, providing support, advice, constructive feedback, and answering any questions you might have. However, mentorship is not just a byproduct of chance. Seek out professionals who can provide honest feedback and provide insight. You might find a mentor at work, at technology events, or in online communities.
- Learn relevant technical skills and gain experience
Making a career pivot might require boosting your skills and gaining additional education through internships or classes. Moreover, it shows your employer that you are serious about changing and advancing your career.
You can learn a lot about technology if you’re interested in it.
- Consult the Human Resources department to determine if continuing education courses are offered or funded by your company.
- You may be able to attend conferences and classes held by your alma mater.
- Using the Internet is also an option. For example, YouTube is a fantastic resource for learning new skills and reinforcing old ones.
- Consider joining training courses for skill development.
- Networking
You may be able to benefit from your connections in unexpected ways. For example, employers prefer hiring someone based on a recommendation instead of interviewing strangers in most cases.
Use your address book and social media to connect with anyone you know in the tech world. They might even be able to refer you to someone looking for the kind of position you’re seeking. The right connections can help you outperform your competitors and even lead you to a job you’ll love for life.
- Look for Crossover Positions
Though you may not have had direct experience with IT, it is present in just about every industry. For instance, if you have a lot of experience in car sales, you might consider a position in IT at a car dealership. Even if your technical skills aren’t stellar, knowing the business can make you an essential employee right from the start. While you will still need to work your way up, this can give you a headstart in the IT field.
- Build an online portfolio
Your online portfolio can help you both create a great resume and enhance your application. Depending on what job you want, building an online media presence can be crucial in the tech industry. Employers hiring tech job applicants may also find it interesting when candidates have both a portfolio and a professional social media presence. In addition, an employer may be more receptive to your application if your social media history and networking interactions are more extensive.
- Earn Industry Certifications
If you are certified, you will be able to break into the information technology field faster. Technical degrees and certifications can help you achieve this.
It might take you up to four years to complete your tech degree, but you’ll learn all the skills you’ll need for your dream job. On the other hand, though certifications last just a few weeks, you might have to take a few of them to gain all the skills you need. With certifications, you can also prove to potential employers that you possess the skills they are looking for. Especially in the absence of experience, this can make up for it.
IT certifications suitable for entry-level learners
Some of the IT certifications that can get your foot into IT are:
CompTIA A+ is a vendor-neutral certification that verifies a general knowledge of multiple IT areas. You are required to demonstrate your basic understanding of networking, hardware, cloud computing, mobile devices, and troubleshooting. It can provide you with the knowledge base you need to secure your first help desk job.
CompTIA Security+ is an excellent place to start if you intend to pursue the cybersecurity field. The certification verifies your understanding of how to implement best security practices. This course covers various topics, including networks, data and host security, threats and vulnerabilities, compliance, access control, and cryptography.
CompTIA Network+ is another vendor-neutral certification for beginners. The objectives of this certification include networking concepts, troubleshooting, infrastructure, operations, and security.
In addition to these certifications, Alpha Tech Training offers entry-level certifications that can lay the foundation for a career in networking, cybersecurity and other fields.
How do you get certified?
To prepare for the certification exam, you must first study the objectives. Next, you may opt for self-study or a variety of training options such as certification preparation programs, on-site training, or online on-demand training. Typically, the best option for those with little to no experience is to take a course taught by an expert with real-world experience so they can ask questions and gain a comprehensive understanding.
Benefits of working in the technology industry
The tech industry offers many benefits. A few of them are as follows:
- Work-life balance: Technology jobs may offer flexible schedules so that you may have more time for personal pursuits.
- Flexible working arrangements: Some companies offer the option of working from home, working different shifts to accommodate school or childcare needs, or doing freelance work outside business hours.
- Constant evolution: Technology jobs are continually evolving as new technologies emerge, enabling you to take on more challenging work and increase your level of job satisfaction.
- High pay: These positions pay well compared to many other fields, even for entry-level positions.
- Advancement opportunities: If you start your career in tech, you’ll likely find plenty of opportunities for advancement as you gain more skills.
Currently, demand for tech talent outstrips supply. In fact, if you can demonstrate a grasp of the skills required for your desired position, plus a willingness to further your skills, landing a junior position shouldn’t be too hard.
