How to start a career in IT: a complete guide

Have you always been the go-to person for family and friends whenever their computers or phones acted up? Do you have a passion for tinkering with gadgets? Are you captivated by the power of technology? 

If so, a career in IT may be the job you’ve always dreamed of. The Information Technology (IT) sector is one of the most dynamic and fastest-growing industries worldwide. With the increasing reliance on technology, the demand for IT professionals continues to grow. So, if you're considering a career in the technology field, this guide will teach you how to start a career in IT. 

Read on as we dive into: 

• 7 steps to starting a career in IT with no experience

• 10 hot jobs in the tech field

• Additional resources for getting started in tech 

7 Steps to starting a career in IT with no experience

Starting a career in IT can be a rewarding and lucrative choice, given the industry's rapid growth and the variety of opportunities available. By following these steps, you can set yourself up for success in the tech world: 

1. Understand the IT industry

Knowing how to start a career in IT first begins with gaining a foundational understanding of the industry. IT encompasses a wide range of roles and specializations, from software development and network management to cybersecurity and data analysis.

These are some of the key areas in the technology field: 

• Software development. Software developers often work in teams and collaborate closely with clients, designers, and other IT professionals to deliver high-quality software solutions.

• Network administration. Network administrators play a vital role in ensuring reliable and secure communication across an organization's network infrastructure.

• Cybersecurity. With the increasing frequency and sophistication of cyber threats, cybersecurity is a critical area within IT, requiring constant vigilance and adaptation to new threats.

• Data analysis. Data analysts play a crucial role in transforming raw data into valuable information that supports business growth, optimization, and decision-making processes.

• Technical support. Technical support specialists require strong problem-solving skills, patience, and the ability to clearly communicate technical information to non-technical users.

2. Identify your interests and skills

Identify which areas of IT align with your interests and skills. This will help you focus your learning and career development efforts.

For instance, do you enjoy solving complex problems and coding? You might thrive in software development. Are you interested in protecting data and systems from threats? Cybersecurity could be your path. Do you have a knack for interpreting data? Consider a career in data science or analysis. 

3. Get the right training

While some IT roles may require a formal degree, others can be accessed through alternative educational pathways such as bootcamps, online courses, and certifications.

Bachelor’s degrees are common for roles like software development, data science, and network administration. Coding bootcamps are intensive programs focused on practical skills in areas like web development and programming.

Online courses via platforms like Coursera, Udemy, and edX offer courses in various IT disciplines and there are several certifications that can enhance your credentials with certifications such as CompTIA A+, Network+, and Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP).

4. Gain practical experience

Employers look for candidates who have hands-on experience with technologies and tools relevant to their field. While you are exploring how to start a career in IT with no experience, there are actually several ways to gain experience. 

Here are a few ideas: 

• Internships. These offer real-world experience and networking opportunities.

• Personal projects. Build a portfolio by creating your own projects, such as developing a website or a mobile app. 

• Freelancing. Platforms like Upwork and Fiverr allow you to take on small projects to build your experience.

• Volunteer work. You can offer your skills to non-profits or community organizations to gain experience and build your portfolio. 

5. Build your professional network

Networking is a powerful tool for advancing your IT career. Connecting with professionals in the industry can lead to job opportunities, mentorship, and valuable connections that pay off throughout your entire career.

You can join professional groups and online forums centered around IT and engage with the members. Attending conferences and industry events can also be a great way to meet established leaders in the field. 

When networking, ask questions about the field and their journey. People in general like to help, so don’t be afraid to ask for advice or introductions to other IT professionals. Throughout your networking efforts, if you identify someone you want to learn from, ask them to be your mentor to provide ongoing guidance and support as you navigate your IT career. 

6. Keep learning and stay updated

The tech world is constantly evolving, so continuous learning is essential to stay current with new technologies and trends. To keep pace, actively follow industry news, subscribe to leading tech news websites and blogs, and participate in workshops and webinars. 

These platforms provide insights into emerging technologies and industry trends that can shape your career trajectory. Additionally, consider pursuing advanced certifications relevant to your field to deepen your knowledge and expertise, enhancing your professional qualifications and staying ahead in the competitive IT landscape.

7. Craft a strong resume and online presence

Your resume and online presence are critical components of your job search. Make sure they effectively showcase your skills, experience, and accomplishments. On your resume and LinkedIn profile, emphasize your technical skills and relevant experience, listing essential certifications and showcasing any IT projects you’ve completed. 

A strong resume will be critical to your success in the IT world, so  create one that calls out your transferable skills and articulates your value as an IT professional.

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Develop a personal website or portfolio to showcase your projects and achievements in one centralized location. This not only allows you to point potential employers to your body of work, but it also helps you to be searchable in Google when employers are looking for someone with your skills. 

8. Apply for jobs

With your skills, experience, and resume ready, start applying for jobs in the IT field. Tailor your resume to each role and company to increase your chances of success. Utilize online job boards like LinkedIn to find IT job listings, which often feature a wide range of opportunities across different specializations and locations. 

Applying directly through company career pages can also give you a direct line to potential employers. Additionally, tapping into your network through professional connections and industry events can uncover hidden job opportunities and provide valuable insights into the IT job market. 

10 Hot IT jobs right now

Here are 10 IT roles that are currently in high demand and expected to grow in the coming years. These include: 

1. Software developer. This involves designing, coding, testing, and maintaining software applications.

2. Data scientist. The role focuses on analyzing data to provide actionable insights for decision-making. 

3. Cybersecurity analyst. Analysts protect an organization’s data and systems from cyber threats.

4. Cloud engineer. In this position, one designs and manages cloud infrastructure and services.

5. DevOps engineer. Engineers bridge the gap between development and operations, focusing on automation and efficiency.

6. AI/Machine learning engineer. An engineer develops algorithms and models for AI applications.

7. Network administrator. The job manages and maintains an organization’s network infrastructure.

8. IT support specialist. This provides technical support and troubleshooting for users and systems.

9. UX/UI designer. In the role, you design user-friendly interfaces and experience for applications and websites.

10. Technical writer. One creates clear and concise documentation for technical products and services.

The key to a successful IT career is continuous learning and adaptability. The tech landscape is ever-changing, and those who keep up with the latest trends and technologies will find the most success. 

Additional resources

If you need some additional websites to help you kick off your IT career, these websites can help: Coursera offers a wide range of online courses in IT and related fields. Udemy is another excellent platform for online IT courses. Another example, CompTIA provides various IT certifications that can boost your career. LinkedIn Learning has courses and tutorials on various IT topics. Dice.com is a job board with 70,000+ job openings from tech's hottest employers. 

By utilizing these resources and following the steps outlined in this guide, you'll be well on your way to launching a successful career in IT. 

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Key takeaways

1. Gain a foundational understanding of various IT roles to identify where your interests align.

2. Reflect on your preferences to focus your learning and career development.

3. Choose the appropriate educational pathway, whether it’s a degree, bootcamp, or certification.

4. Build your portfolio through internships, projects, freelancing, or volunteer work.

5. Build professional connections and continuously learn to keep up with industry trends.