10 Essential Tips for Landing an Entry Level It Job With No Experience
Landing an Information Technology (IT) job in today’s market is not as difficult as it may seem, but it does require tenacity.
Given all the benefits, from earning potential to minimal education requirements, it’s worth it. So where should you start?
In this article, we will explore ten valuable tips on how to get an entry-level IT job with no experience. Let’s dive in!
- Research IT Jobs Before embarking on this journey, we recommend asking yourself this question. “What piques my interest in the IT industry?.” You want to find jobs in the field and ensure the job descriptions and company culture align with your career trajectory. Be sure to utilize platforms like Linkedin, Glassdoor, Dice, and Indeed to narrow your search. Here are some entry-level IT jobs to consider: Cyber Security Specialist IT Technology analyst Service Desk Operator Network Engineer Network Technician IT Technician IT Support Tech Help Desk Analyst Deskside Support Tech Entry-level Cloud Operations Engineer
- Build IT Skills Now that you’re set on which IT career you want to pursue, it’s time to acquire the skills needed to get the job. For example, if you want to become a software developer, research what you need to learn for the job and do just that, learn.
These days, endless free resources can help you build your skillset from software development to cloud computing. If you want to take it up to another level, consider pursuing industry-recognized certifications like the CCNA, Security+, or AWS Solutions Architect.
Additional options are to attend college, bootcamps, or YouTube University. Many individuals in tech today are self-taught learners. Being able to learn on your own is an essential skill in the I.T. industry. The more you can do this, the further you will go. 3. Build Your Resume/Portfolio Now that you’ve acquired the knowledge and skills, it’s time to amplify your resume. Actually, even if you haven’t completed a certification, it helps to list the certificate noting when you will finish and that you are “actively working” towards its completion. There are many ways to beef up your resume while still learning.
For instance, if you are in the process of learning coding skills, you can explore online platforms to discover software development projects that align with your interests. By showcasing these projects in a GitHub repository or contributing to open-source initiatives, you can demonstrate your practical experience and commitment to their learning journey.
Moreover, sharing their learnings and progress online serves as a powerful testament to your dedication, growth mindset, and eagerness to seize opportunities in the IT field.
Protip: Once you’ve created your resume, hire a professional resume writer to review it to make sure it is up to industry standards.
- Build Your Personal Brand Next up? Time to clean up your professional online presence. Mindfully crafting your brand can boost your visibility and credibility amongst employers.
When it comes to marketing yourself, no one can do it better than you. Embrace your authenticity and openly share your learning experiences. Consider purchasing your name as a domain and start blogging about your journey in the field of IT.
This approach allows you to build your personal brand, establish your expertise, and potentially generate passive income. By creating a platform to document and share your insights, you enhance your visibility and demonstrate your commitment to self-improvement and contribute to the IT community.
A few spaces we encourage you to take up are Youtube, Instagram, Tik Tok, Linkedin, and Twitter. Engage actively in industry-related discussions, join relevant groups, and share insightful content about your journey. You never know who is watching. 5. Apply, Apply, Apply You’ve made it this far on your journey. Now it is time to apply to every job that aligns with your mission. Regardless of requirements and your current level, still apply to every job! The odds could be in your favor, especially if you present a good resume. Job listing sites we recommend are: Tech-Specific Job Sites Dice Github TechCareers StackOverflow General Job Sites Linkedin Glassdoor Indeed CareerBuilder Upwork
Bonus! According to comptia.org , these are the level of expertise tech recruiters seek for each IT category.
- Network Networking is vital to get an entry-level IT job with no experience. Connect with professionals in the field at in-person events, online platforms like Slack or Linkedin, and industry conferences.
Actively participate in discussions that will help you expand your professional circle, gain invaluable insights and discover hidden job opportunities. Relationships are key in any industry.
- Seek Internships and Apprenticeships Did you know one of the best ways to get your foot in the door is working directly with a company at a lower level? We know you are looking for a job, but while you build your skillset, this could be a great start!
Try to seek out opportunities with local organizations, small businesses, or non-profits where you can not only contribute but learn from experienced professionals. If all goes well, the company will hire you more often than not.
Attend Job Fairs Job fairs are an excellent place to network and connect with employers looking for new talent. Meeting employers in person can leave a memorable impression and can lead to interview opportunities.
Freelance Opportunities Although there are pros to being directly employed, starting freelance also has some pros as well. It is an effective way to gain practical experience and build your budding portfolio.
Platforms like Upwork, Fiverr, and even Slack have IT projects available for you to explore. This is a great way to build on your collaborative skills, project management, and expertise.
- Stay Persistent and Be Positive Your mindset will determine how far you will go in this market. Be open to starting smaller or in positions that could be better with the hope and perseverance to get to where you want to go.
In the end, to get an entry-level IT job with no experience won’t be rainbows and butterflies, but these tips will increase your chances of success. Do your research, build your skillset and brand, and put yourself out there. You only miss all the opportunities you don’t take. You got this! You can find more resources at #Labeveryday.