(Part of a Series)
Finding and getting a job in a specific industry utilizes all of the basic job search skills you already have. But to find a job in a specific industry takes a specialized effort. It takes special training and skills as well as knowing nuances that only experienced people can tell you.
If you want to get a job specifically in the field of Information Technology (IT) than there are some very basic things you need to know.
If you want a job in IT you probably already know what IT is. But for those who don’t know, let’s start there. In its simplest definition IT is the management of data using computers and telecommunications equipment.
This is a growing segment when it comes to new jobs so it’s good to know what types of jobs are there in IT.
What types of jobs are there in IT? (Remember, these are just a few.)
Applications Developers look at what a business wants to achieve and actually writes the code that tells the computer how to go about solving that issue. Most specialize (ex: mobile, financial, graphics)
Systems Developers create software solutions that enable computers to work alone and together. This job is for those who enjoy testing and launching new systems.
IT Sales Professionals handle the sales process from presale to post-sale support of software and hardware.
IT Managers are who we commonly see walking around the office as everyone begs for their time. They oversee installations, purchases and implementations of new equipment… and basically make sure you don’t break anything.
There are plenty of other jobs in the industry so remember that this is an introduction and look into sites such as vault.com and indeed.com for more info.
Education needed for IT jobs
You can perform the work of many IT jobs without ever going to school at all if you are passionate about it, but to actually land a good job, your best bet is to go to a good school. We all know how great MIT, California Institute of Technology and Stanford are, but any nationally accredited school that offers a degree in Computer or Information Sciences is worthwhile. Many even offer online courses.
A typical course of study might include:
- software engineering
- information management systems
- digital design
Do not rack up debt to get an education when it is available for less.
Where to find the IT jobs
The key is to start somewhere because if you are good you will probably receive offers before you have to look. How to get the first job might mean an internship or freelance. Dice.com is a job board many technology job seekers use. There’s many more with some covering a particular types of jobs. Go to startup events near you if you’re new, and just start talking to people.
Information Technology jobs are mostly well-paid positions and with long hours but they are also in high demand and that means the worker calls more of their own shots when it comes to some personal freedoms and benefits. If you love computers, are curious about IT, or just like money, you should look into this field.