5 Steps to a Great Job in IT

1. Leverage Your Current Experience

Take what you already know and use it to your advantage. If you are a student, be sure to build on specific skills or leadership positions that might apply to a new career. If you currently work in HR, stress your communication and problem solving skills. If you are in a position that requires great attention to detail, the need to work independently, or as part of a group. All of these types of experience are needed in IT.

A willingness to learn and work very hard are the best qualifications a person can have. Don't be afraid to rank potential experience over better pay in the beginning. Having hands-on skills in addition to education and certification is extremely important.

2. Choose a Certification

Choose what certification you want to work towards. You can do this before looking for employment and/or ask potential employers if they provide training for or require certifications for certain positions. Here are some resources to help you decide which certifications will work best for you:

• Which certification is more respected?
• Top 10 Certifications to Begin Your IT Career
• Top Certifications for Freelancers and Consultants
• Top Networking Certifications

3. Study For and Take the Exam(s)

There are many ways to prepare for your certification exams. You can attend full classroom training, and I recommend this for people who are completely new to IT. You can use online training courses and practice test software. You can also self-study with books; there are several good ones out there. Put a lot of time and effort into your preparation. Make sure you know the material not just to you can pass the exam, but so you can take that knowledge into your workplace and really use what you have learned. Again, here are a few helpful resources:

• 6 Great Study Tips
• How to Study
• Top Software Study Tools

4. Write a Resume & Search for Jobs

Writing a good resume is critical. Employers see hundreds of them so make sure yours looks good, is accurate, focused, and highlights your strengths. Need help with this? Read on:

• Building a Technology Resume
• The Job Search
• Good IT Job Sites

5. Build Your Experience and Certifications

Whether you land the perfect job or not, continue to build your experience and attain the applicable certifications. Use certification as a learning tool and as a resume-builder. I would recommend continuing formal education as well if you have the time and resources. Both education and certification show your willingness to learn and a dedication to to your career.

• Get University Credit for Your Certification
• Salary Surveys