Introduction
In my previous post "How Do I Get into the I.T. Field? (Part One: An Overview)" I discussed myths about getting into the I.T. field and why you should not necessarily let that stop you from striving to be an I.T. professional. I also talked about reasons someone may want to get into the I.T. field. The reasons will vary because everyone's journey is different. I also covered why motivation is one of the keys to success in the I.T. field, let alone getting into the field. In this blog post, I hope to provide hopefully useful information that can not only help you get started in the I.T. field, but also provide some clarity.
Drawing from my own experiences, I will offer some guidance and practical tips for getting your foot in the door, and hopefully provide some useful information for those interested in pursuing a career in I.T., particularly in Cybersecurity. If you are keen on learning more about cybersecurity, I invite you to check out my YouTube channel, Cyb3r-0verwatch, which offers additional resources and insights. You can also watch my YouTube video (https://youtu.be/33rmA9BAMBA) on this very subject, as well.
First Things First
To set yourself up for success in the field of I.T., it's essential to have a foundational understanding of the industry. This can involve learning some of the basics of hardware, software, networking, security, and programming concepts, among others. By taking the time to familiarize yourself with these fundamentals, you'll be better equipped to handle the challenges of the I.T. world, whether you're pursuing a helpdesk role, a cybersecurity position, or another path within the field. Fundamentals such as:
Computer Fundamentals: Familiarizing yourself with the basic components inside your system - such as RAM, hard disk, CPU, and GPU - is crucial for developing foundational knowledge in IT. This knowledge can be particularly beneficial for entry-level roles, such as Helpdesk Analyst or Desktop Support Technician. You can gain this knowledge by disassembling an old computer and reassembling it or by watching YouTube videos or reading IT books on the subject. (Resource: https://www.tutorialspoint.com/basics_of_computers/index.htm)
Network Fundamentals: Networking is very crucial in IT, but knowing the complete in's and out's of networking may not be essential unless you aim to pursue a career in Networking. However, having a solid understanding of networking fundamentals, such as protocols, network types, and network security measures, can greatly benefit you in any IT career. With this knowledge, you can effectively communicate with network specialists and troubleshoot common issues, ultimately improving your overall performance in the field. (Resource: https://www.practicalnetworking.net/index/networking-fundamentals-how-data-moves-through-the-internet/)
Operating Systems (OS) Fundamentals: Regardless of whether you work in the public or private sector you can't escape operating systems. You will more than likely run into a variety of OS's. It's best to start with an OS you're comfortable with and learn as much as you can about it, including the command line interface (CLI), security options, and user management functions. Additionally, familiarize yourself with the OS startup process, application installation, and updates. For Windows, the CLI is PowerShell or CMD, and for Linux, it's Bash. It's recommended to learn the fundamentals of both Windows and Linux since they're commonly used in the IT field. (Resource: https://www.tutorialspoint.com/operating_system/index.htm)
Programming Fundamentals: As mentioned in part one of "How to Get Into the I.T. Field," coding is not a requirement to succeed in IT. However, having a grasp of the fundamental concepts of programming - such as loops, variables, and arrays - can be immensely beneficial on your journey. By mastering these basics, you'll gain the ability to read scripting languages like Bash or Python. Even a basic understanding of programming can help you create useful scripts that automate tasks and boost your overall efficiency. This can set you apart as a skilled and valuable IT professional. (Resource: https://developer.cisco.com/learning/modules/programming-fundamentals/)
Useful Pointers for Achieving Your Goals
1. Keep Yourself Healthy To overcome obstacles and achieve success in the I.T. field, it's essential to adopt a growth mindset. This means viewing challenges as opportunities for growth and improvement, rather than as failures. When faced with obstacles, try to identify the root cause and take action to address it. For example, if you're struggling to learn a new programming language, consider finding a tutor or taking an online course to help you improve. Also, stay focused by setting goals for yourself. You can break down your goals into different timeframes, such as one month, six months, one year, and five years. This will help you stay on track and make progress towards achieving your goals.
Maintain a healthy work-life balance, it's important to engage in activities outside of I.T. that you enjoy. This can include hobbies, sports, or spending time with family and friends. By doing so, you can keep your mind stimulated and prevent burnout. Remember that setbacks are a normal part of the journey, and it's important to not view them as failures. Instead, try to learn from your experiences and use them as opportunities for growth. If you don't get a job after an interview, don't be afraid to ask for feedback and use it as a learning experience. This feedback can help you identify areas where you can improve and work towards strengthening those areas. Remember to celebrate your successes and accomplishments, no matter how small they may seem. By recognizing and celebrating your achievements, you can stay motivated and continue to strive for success in the I.T. field. Finally, don't be afraid to take risks and try new things. Pursue opportunities that may be outside of your comfort zone, and don't let fear hold you back. Remember, success in the I.T. field requires hard work, dedication, and a willingness to learn and adapt to new challenges.
2. Apply Your Past Experience to the IT field If you're new to the I.T. field, don't worry – you can still showcase transferable skills gained from past work experience and volunteer work to help you land a job. While technical skills are essential, don't overlook the importance of soft skills in the I.T. field. Effective communication, problem-solving, critical thinking, time management, and interpersonal skills are crucial when working in I.T. You'll interact with people regularly, whether it's attending meetings, responding to tickets, or emailing customers or management, so these skills will be invaluable.
When highlighting your skills to potential employers, be sure to emphasize both your soft skills and I.T. skills. Mention any training platforms you've used or I.T.-related tasks you've performed, whether it was for a non-profit or local library. This demonstrates that you have a passion for technology and have taken the initiative to develop your skills.
Remember that persistence and dedication are key to breaking into the I.T. field and building a successful career. Don't be discouraged if you don't land your dream job right away – keep honing your skills, networking, and seeking out opportunities to gain experience. With hard work and a positive attitude, you can achieve your goals and thrive in the I.T. field.
3. Earn Industry Certifications While a degree in I.T. can take several years to complete, getting certified is a quicker way to break into the field. While there are debates on the validity of certifications, they can be helpful in getting past the HR gate and getting an interview. Certifications can show potential employers that you have the skills they need, even if you don't have much experience. However, it's important to note that not all entry-level positions require certifications, such as a help-desk analyst. That being said, certifications can help you stand out from other applicants with limited experience and no certifications.
When deciding which certifications to pursue, research which ones are relevant to the roles you're interested in. Some certifications that can be helpful for entry-level positions include CompTIA A+, Network+, and Security+.
While certifications can help you land your first job in I.T., it's important to continue learning and gaining experience in the field. Certifications are not a substitute for hands-on experience, but they can be a helpful supplement to show that you're committed to the field and willing to learn. In my opinion certifications will help you most effectively though. A good idea is to go with general vendor neutral certifications (NOTE: This is just my opinion and I recommend you make your decision only after you do own research on certifications.):
CompTIA A+ is a vendor neutral certification that shows a general knowledge across multiple areas of I.T.. It validates that you have a base level knowledge of OS's, Desktop/Laptop hardware, networking, hardware, cloud, mobile devices, and troubleshooting. The study content also provides a good knowledge base help you land your first help desk role.
CompTIA Security+ is a good entry-level certification if you are interested in the cybersecurity field. It’s a vendor neutral certification and shows that you have an understanding of how to implement best security practices. The objectives cover several key concepts in I.T. security, including network security, data security and host security, threats and vulnerabilities, compliance, access and identity control, and cryptography.
CompTIA Network+ is another vendor neutral certification that provides general knowledge about networking. The objectives for this certification cover networking concepts, troubleshooting, infrastructure, operations, and security.
Extra Credit:
ITIL® Foundation is a certification on a service management framework. It will show you have an understanding of the processes that help I.T. staff delivery quality service. This is mainly for showing you have awareness of customer support processes.
Python Institute Certified Entry-Level Python Programmer is a entry-level certification that measures the candidate's ability to accomplish coding tasks related to the essentials of programming in the Python language. It is also a good idea to learn how to code.
4. Getting certified
To maximize your chances of success, it's crucial to research a certification and its exam objectives before starting your studies. A great place to begin is the certification vendor's website, such as CompTIA, which provides extensive information on the certification and exam.
Once you've selected a certification, it's time to determine the best way to prepare for the exam. You'll need to consider factors such as your learning style, budget, and availability. Some individuals may benefit from in-person training, while others may prefer self-studying or virtual instructor-led training. There are also numerous free resources available online, so be sure to take advantage of those as well.
When you're ready to take the exam, you'll need to purchase an exam voucher from the certification vendor's website and schedule a date to take the exam. The process for taking the exam may vary depending on the vendor, with some requiring you to take the exam at a test center while others allow you to take it online from home.
Remember, earning a certification can be a valuable investment in your career, but it's essential to approach it strategically. Take the time to research and choose the right certification for you, select a preparation method that aligns with your learning style and budget, and use all available resources to maximize your chances of success on the exam.
5. A Degree is a Big Asset
The pursuit of a degree can certainly enhance your prospects in transitioning into an I.T. career, but it's not necessarily a prerequisite for success. While some employers may give preference to candidates with a four-year degree, it's crucial to recognize the significance of the skills and knowledge you acquire during your degree, and how they can be translated to the I.T. field. For example, if you're a literature major, your writing and communication skills can be assets in an I.T. role. Similarly, if you've studied philosophy, your problem-solving approach could give you an edge over other candidates. By showcasing your unique strengths and demonstrating how they can be applied to I.T., you can set yourself apart from candidates with only technical expertise. However, if you lack technical skills, it's also important to emphasize any soft skills you've gained from your degree that are applicable to the I.T. field. Ultimately, while a degree can be valuable, it's not the only path to success in the I.T. industry, and a combination of skills and experience can also lead to success.
6. Keep an Open Mind about Entry Level Jobs (Don't be afraid to work your way up from the bottom) If you're new to the I.T. field or transitioning from another field, it's essential to be prepared for entry-level opportunities and to work your way up. Although starting from the bottom may seem overwhelming, maintaining a positive mindset and reminding yourself of your goals can keep you motivated. In the I.T. field, the experience you gain from working entry-level positions is invaluable in transitioning to more challenging roles.
It's important to recognize that your earning potential in I.T. will be grealy determined by your hard work and dedication. While entry-level positions like help desk may offer salaries around $40K per year, with experience and certifications, you can earn upwards of $65K per year as a Cybersecurity Analyst within five years of joining the field. To advance in your career, it's crucial to stay motivated and invest in your education. This could include working on lab projects, reading I.T. books, watching educational videos on platforms like YouTube, or obtaining field-recognized certifications. By demonstrating a commitment to learning and improving your skills, you'll have an advantage over other applicants and be better positioned for more advanced roles in the future.
Although it may not be feasible to jump to the top of the career ladder with no prior experience, the vast number of available positions across the I.T. field provides ample opportunity for advancement to higher-paying and more specialized positions. Always keep in mind that your success in the I.T. field will ultimately depend on your efforts, the time and dedication you put in will pay off in the long run.
7. Networking can Greatly Improve your Chances To increase your chances of getting hired in the I.T. field, networking is an essential tool that can help you build connections and find job opportunities. One great platform to start building your network is LinkedIn. With over 700 million users, LinkedIn is the largest professional network on the internet, and you can use it to showcase your skills and experience, connect with other professionals in your field, and learn about job openings.
In addition to using LinkedIn, attending I.T. meetups, conferences, and job fairs can be an effective way to meet people and expand your network. Keep in mind that many job openings are filled through referrals, so having a connection who can vouch for you or recommend you to their employer can give you a big advantage. Another valuable resource for building your network is finding a mentor who can provide guidance and advice based on their experience in the field. A mentor can offer insights into the industry and help you navigate the job search process.
By building a strong network of contacts, you can increase your chances of finding job opportunities and advancing your career in the I.T. industry. Remember to always be professional and respectful when reaching out to potential contacts, and don't be afraid to ask for advice or help. Networking is a two-way street, and you can also offer support and assistance to others in your network.
8. Learn Relevant Tech Skills and Gain Experience To succeed in the rapidly evolving IT industry, continuous learning is crucial. You need to keep enhancing and expanding your skills to stay up-to-date in the field. The range of skills and knowledge you can learn is vast, including operating systems, office suites, virtualization, compliance regulations, and CMS platforms such as WordPress. Programming is also an essential skill to have, and a great starting point is to learn Python. To learn and reinforce skills, free videos on YouTube can be a great resource, and you can also search for websites that specialize in your field of interest. Platforms like Cybrary or INE offer free or affordable courses and tutorials. Many vendors, such as Microsoft, AWS, Cisco, and VMware, offer virtual academies on their technologies. Additionally, investing in IT books and training materials can be helpful.
To learn and practice new skills, building and working on your personal lab can be an effective approach. Vendor lab platforms, such as TryHackMe, HacktheBox, and Range Force, are excellent resources to improve your knowledge. Pursue your interests and use your free time to teach yourself about software and hardware. Volunteering your time and skills is also a great way to enhance your resume. For example, you could set up a small office/home office (SOHO) network or troubleshoot laptops for a non-profit. The effort you put into learning and practicing skills can make the difference between getting hired and getting overlooked.
Conclusion
Thank you for visiting my website, Cyb3r-S3c. While my work with Cyb3r-S3c is in its infancy, my goal is to provide valuable and informative content about the I.T. field, with a focus on cybersecurity. Whether you're just starting out or looking to advance your career, I hope you find my content useful and informative. I believe that the I.T. field offers tremendous opportunities for those who are passionate about technology and are willing to learn. With fewer requirements for entry-level positions, it's never too late to transition to the I.T. field. If you are interested in this field, I encourage you to check out my YouTube channel, Cyb3r-0verwatch, and visit Cyb3r-S3c regularly for new content.
To help you on your journey, I've included a variety of resources in the Cyb3r-S3c Resources section, including training courses, certifications, and job boards. Additionally, if you have any questions, please don't hesitate to reach out to me using the Cyb3r-S3c Contact Form. I encourage you to check out my YouTube channel, Cyb3r-0verwatch, for even more informative content about the I.T. field and cybersecurity. Thank you for visiting Cyb3r-S3c, and remember - keep learning, the only way to improve is to keep learning!
/Signing Off
Pragmat1c_0n3
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