This week I am talking about IT careers. I know it is not the first time I have discussed this, but I have had a lot of questions on how to get into the industry, and how to advance in the industry. Now I have often told people about getting some certifications under your belt. In the IT industry these certifications can get you into the interview, but people ask me how do I find the jobs?
Online job boards are good place to start, they are very popular. Remember with a job board, you must apply to a lot of positions to get a call back. These days resumes are reviewed by automation, so you need to be certain that you get key words on your resume to get noticed and in the list of candidates to be contacted. You will never hear me say you send out too many resumes!
In the IT industry it is important to build your portfolio. Create personal projects or contribute to projects. Getting these projects on your resume or on LinkedIn can help you stand out in the job market. Remember those key words get notices.
Network! Attend your local industry events and online forums to connect with others in the field. Networking can help you find out about opportunities. Network on LinkedIn too! Join IT groups that have a common interest and comment in groups, remember networking means talking to others. Don’t just join a group, engage in the group!
Reach out to local employers. If you have Managed Service Providers in your area, they present a significant avenue for IT employment. Businesses of all sizes are increasingly reliant on technology, driving the demand for IT support. MSPs fill this need by providing outsourced IT services. Most MSPs have several levels of techs so they can also provide an opportunity for learning and growth.
In today’s world of cybersecurity, many MSPs are also MSSPs, Managed Security Service Providers. These companies outsource monitoring and management of security systems. If you are looking to move into the security side, look at MSPs that also offer security services.
Finally, depending on where you live, look to larger corporations. Large corporations often have their own IT departments that utilize help desks. These departments quite often can get you some on the job experience but also allow you to learn and grow into a higher level technical position.
The demand for IT professionals is still widespread, but it does take determination and persistence. The desired IT Tech needs to be a lifelong learner that updates their skills and loves technology. IT roles evolve quickly, and you need to keep an eye on the market to know the current in demand skills.
The IT market is not diminishing, but it is ever changing and those in the industry must follow the changes.
Talk to you next week!
Mike
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