The job of an IT Specialist is to ensure that companies, agencies, and firms stay active and competitive in a global tech village.
To do this, IT Specialists work with hardware, software, networks, databases, and enterprise systems. They handle the technical aspects of businesses by conducting network analysis and IT audits, installing hardware to boost computer performance, and securing all systems to control data.
Basically, if a company depends on computers to run their operations, they need an IT Specialist. So, it is no surprise that IT specialists have grown to become extremely valuable in a technology-driven world like ours.
If you’re looking to start your career as an IT Specialist, or perhaps, you’re considering a career switch and confused about where to start, here is a complete rundown on all you need to launch your IT career.
Obtain a Bachelor’s Degree
The first step in launching your IT career is by getting a bachelor’s degree. A bachelor’s degree in computer science, engineering, mathematics, statistics, or a related field puts you on the right track and acts as an instant boost to your career.
In addition to a degree, you could also take up a course online to equip you with the essential skills needed to help you scale. These skills include cybersecurity, methodology, communication skills, logical thinking, problem-solving skills, flexibility, time and project management skills, writing, creativity, resourcefulness, customer service, Microsoft Excel and coding.
In any case, the skills you would require all boils down to your preferred area of specialization.
For a skill like coding, you may or may not learn it all. However, understanding code writing is highly beneficial as the average employer is looking for someone who can write codes, even for entry-level jobs. You are expected to have at least a basic knowledge of coding languages like C++ and HTML.
However, if you’re hoping to specialize in software development or programming, it’s important to know how to write codes in multiple languages like JavaScript, Ruby, PHP, and Python.
Gain Valuable Work Experience
Work experience is the best asset that could accompany excellent skills and distinct academic qualifications.
One of the best ways to acquire valuable experience when starting out or switching careers is by applying for an internship with a reputable organization. While it may not offer much in terms of money, it would provide you with the much-needed experience and the ability to solve real-life problems when working in teams or independently.
Volunteering is another excellent way to get your foot in the door. This is a less preferred option by most, but you get rewarded with a worthy experience that could boost your portfolio and help you get paid jobs.
Whatever medium you choose, ensure that you pick an organization with well-seasoned professionals that you could learn from. At the end of your volunteer or internship program, you would have gained enough insight and additional experience to make you more competitive in the job market.
Get Certified
Obtaining a professional certification in IT significantly boosts your career and places you above the competition.
Getting certified by recognized professional bodies helps you stand out from other job seekers and elevates your status in the eyes of a prospective interviewer.
It also serves as a stamp of approval and solid proof that you possess the skills required to succeed.
Some professional bodies for IT specialists in Nigeria include the Information Technology Association of Nigeria, Computer Professionals Registration Council of Nigeria and, The Institute of Software Practitioners of Nigeria.
With a certification from one of these bodies, you are well on your way to getting advanced and well-paying jobs.
Choose a Field to Specialize in
As you might already know, information technology is a very vast field, and it is crucial that you identify a particular field to specialize in. There are so many areas like web development or network engineering that you could choose from.
When selecting your preferred area of specialization, conduct extensive research and access your skills and interests. This will aid you in narrowing down your ideal field and make your career journey easier.
While it is okay to want to know a little bit of everything, failing to specialize in a specific field would make you a typical “jack of all trades and a master of none.” This would, of course, affect your chances of getting a well-paid job as employers would prefer someone who is an expert in at least one field.
Find a Mentor and Network Widely
Networking and acquiring a mentor are widely advised across different careers, and IT isn’t left out.
As you can imagine, the importance of a mentor cannot be overemphasized. Having a mentor means having access to first-hand knowledge from someone who has been in the industry longer than you have.
A mentor can offer you tips and insights on how to remain competitive among your peers and other helpful advice.
Networking is also a great way to get into IT and build your career successfully. When you’re actively involved in a community of IT professionals, you could find a dream opportunity, learn valuable tips or connect with an ideal mentor.
Networking puts you amid great minds at several stages of their career who can offer substantial advice and become powerful assets in the future.
Conclusion
While education, experience, skill acquisition, and networking are crucial in launching your career as an IT Specialist, it is vital never to stop learning.
As the world becomes more technologically advanced, innovations are springing up every day. Thus, it is imperative to stay updated on emerging trends and research the latest technology.
This will help you work on more projects, enhance your portfolio, and make you a valuable asset to employers.
