From this article you will learn:
What is IT work?
IT (information technology) is a branch of the economy responsible for collecting, storing, and transmitting information using computer technology and the latest means of communication.
The key task of an IT technician is to make it easy for users to handle information using algorithms and computer hardware.
How to get into IT? 10 tips from IT specialists
Thinking about how to build a resume and prepare for an interview to get into IT?
We’ll share 10 tips on identifying and getting your dream IT profession.
Tip 1 to get into IT: Use your education.
With the rapid development of IT comes a huge demand for people with different backgrounds and unique perspectives. So even if you don’t have an IT profession, present your education as a plus.
Use your degree as an advantage when you write your resume, cover letter, and interview.
Tip 2 to get into IT: Research the market.
A step-by-step algorithm on how to select the right jobs in IT:
- Make a list of IT companies.
- Identify an area in IT that matches your interests and long-term goals.
- Gather the jobs you like and read the terms and conditions carefully.
Tip 3 to get into IT: Use your work experience.
Look more broadly than traditional IT professions. There are many professions at the intersection of IT and other fields.
- Are you interested in biology? Try your hand at being a bioinformatician.
- Are you into design? Dive into the profession of Flash animator or UI-designer.
- Are you interested in management? Train as a Team Lead or an IT recruiter.
Look for jobs in industries where you’ve worked before. Your knowledge will help you get an interview and your first IT job experience.
Tip 4 to get into IT: Choose programming languages.
Make a list of in-demand programming languages. Match your area of interest with the programming languages that employers require.
A list of popular programming languages for beginners:
- Html — for front-end website development.
- Python — for a website, app development, data analysis, and machine learning.
- JavaScript — for building applications and back-end website development.
- PHP — for server development.
- Java — for server-side applications, front-end, and back-end web development.
Tip 5 to get into IT: Get a head start on your math
You don’t have to learn advanced math, but your math and problem-solving skills will be an asset.
Tip 6 to get into IT: Get Qualified.
Most IT companies will ignore your resume if you don’t demonstrate qualifications and work experience.
If you prefer a classical education, look out for three college majors:
- Computer science
- Information technology
- Computer engineering
You’ll be able to hone your programming skills, gain knowledge in related fields, and write a qualifying paper that will be an advantage when applying for a job.
If you don’t want to spend four years on a bachelor’s degree, take courses in IT. The courses will take a few weeks, and at the end, you’ll take an exam and get a certificate.
If you have a specialization, look closely at narrowly focused certifications.
Learning the functionality of the systems, you plan to work on is helpful. Microsoft MD-100 certifications for Windows 10 or ACSP macOS Support Essentials for Apple can help.
Tip 7 to get into IT: Improve your soft skills.
We’ve compiled a list of 8 soft skills that every IT professional needs to develop:
- Problem-Solving Skill
- Teamwork skill
- Communication skills
- Emotional intelligence
- Speech and writing skills
- Creativity
- Time Management
- Self-Reliance
Tip 8 to get into IT: Get to know people in IT.
Most employers find it easier to hire an employee by recommendation than to interview people they don’t know.
Find an IT mentor. They will share their experience, help with job placement, and accelerate your career path.
Tip 9 to get into IT: Find the right jobs.
The job search is a full-time job. Spend enough time and effort searching for jobs.
Make a list of 5-10 jobs you like and send your resume to companies to get into IT.
Tip 10 to get into IT: Prepare for your interview.
You must answer technical and behavioral questions when interviewing for an IT position.
4 examples of interview questions:
- What are the major hardware components of a computer?
- What methods of computer protection do you think are most effective?
- How do you handle a problem you don’t know how to solve?
- Tell us about your experience as a team member.
Your confidence and knowledge of your position will allow you to pass the interview and get your dream job easily.
Show that you are taking action to gain the skills and knowledge you need for your future profession.
Is it easy to get into IT?
Catch 4 ways to get into IT without experience:
Work on personal projects
Write software and apps, create websites, and present them at events. Participate in hackathons competitions where developers have to solve a business problem in a short time.
Offer your services
Find out about IT job openings at startups and small businesses. Working at local companies can be the start of your IT career.
Post your resume on Ucanremote for free and respond to employers’ job openings. You will find around 50 remote IT vacancies on the website immediately.
Join IT communities and meet potential colleagues and employers in person.
Get an internship
If you have a degree in IT or are certified, apply for an internship in IT.
Internships will give you work experience and help you develop soft skills such as time management and teamwork skills.
Contact the career center
If you’re a student, make an appointment with the career center. It will help you create a resume and cover letter, find a potential employer, and prepare for an interview.
Explore jobs on Ucanremote
Ucanremote offers remote job opportunities: you can apply for an IT job at any company worldwide.
Set up your search filters and apply to the right jobs today. The more effort you put into your search, the better your chances of landing the job you want.
Which jobs are available in IT? 10 Jobs
Let’s elaborate on specific IT jobs. In this paragraph, we’ll explain the difference between IT jobs and where to get the highest salaries.
The IT field includes many different professions, so you shouldn’t worry about the lack of jobs: everyone can find a job to their liking.
IT professions can be divided into 3 groups:
- Programmers (coders/ software developers) create programs.
- Administrators are responsible for the smooth operation of equipment and programs.
- Managers organize the work of programmers and administrators.
Here is a list of 10 popular and in-demand jobs in IT:
Android Mobile Software Developer
An Android mobile software developer creates and improves programs for Android mobile devices. He is responsible for the text of the computer program — the code.
Tasks:
- Meet user needs with new programs.
- Improve existing programs.
- Plan cooperative operation of individual program parts.
- Test the software.
- Track and fix bugs in your programs.
- Create reference documentation.
Average annual salary: 184,532 USD.
Webflow Developer
A Webflow Developer creates and maintains websites.
Tasks:
- Identify the needs of website users.
- Create and test Web applications.
- Write code for the Web site.
- Create interfaces and layouts for Web sites.
- Monitor website traffic and evaluate the effectiveness.
A web developer can hold three positions:
1. The back-end developer designs the server, application, and database.
2. The front-end developer develops the website interface.
3. Full-stack developer performs the work of both backend and frontend developers.
Average annual salary of a web developer: 77 200 USD.
Blockchain Developer
Blockchain engineer develops and implements projects with blockchain technology.
Tasks:
- Design and develop blockchain-based systems.
- research the market for cryptocurrencies — independent digital currencies.
- Develop rules for transactions between blockchain participants.
Average annual salary: 112 226 USD.
Computer support specialist
A computer support specialist solves technical problems for users and company employees.
Tasks:
- Evaluate and meet the needs of users.
- Repair the computer equipment and devices.
- Train the user in the use of the equipment and devices.
Average annual salary: 55,510 USD.
Network and computer systems administrator
The network and computer systems administrator maintains the company’s website. He solves user problems and monitors the quality of work of technical specialists.
Tasks:
- Improve and repair web networks.
- Protect Web networks from cyber-attacks.
- Train users to work with computer hardware and devices.
- Troubleshoot technical errors by users.
Average annual salary: 80,600 USD.
Database administrator and architect
The database administrator and architect collects, stores, and protects companies’ big data. He ensures quick and easy interaction between external systems and company databases.
For example, a database administrator at a pharma company is responsible for securing customer health insurance data.
Tasks:
- Meet user needs with new databases.
- Improve the old databases.
- Maintain all databases in good working order.
- Provide users with the ability to use the data.
- Create data backups and recover lost data.
Average annual salary: 170,026 USD.
Data Scientist
Data Scientist uses big data to solve a specific business challenge.
Tasks:
- Analyze databases.
- Automate websites and applications with models.
Average annual salary: 116,260 USD.
Computer systems analyst
A computer systems analyst creates computing systems to meet the technical needs of a company.
For example, in a financial company, a computer systems analyst may develop a system to store customer bank account numbers.
Tasks:
- Analyze the strengths and weaknesses of the company’s IT operations.
- Assess the technical needs of the company.
- Choose and set up the company’s hardware and software.
- Train users how to work with computer systems.
Average annual salary: 134,572 USD.
Information security analyst
The information security analyst protects the company’s network and systems from cyber-attacks and removes their consequences.
Tasks:
- Assess new threats to company networks and systems in the industry.
- Document security violations of company networks and systems.
- Test potential vulnerabilities in company networks and systems.
- Develop and implement security measures for company networks and systems.
Average annual salary: 98,550 USD.
IT Project Manager
The IT Project Manager brings the company’s IT projects to life.
He connects the work of the IT department and the company’s stakeholders (individuals who are interested in the company’s success) to determine IT project goals, development, and implementation milestones.
Tasks:
- Determine the scope and timing of IT projects with stakeholders.
- Define necessary resources for the project and plan its implementation.
- Keep track of the project’s progress.
- Identify and eliminate potential problems during project implementation together with the IT team.
Average annual salary: 120,000 USD.
How many jobs are available in information technology?
Ucanremote, a remote job service, has the best IT job offers and is constantly updated. You’ll be able to find a current job that fits your needs.
What is the highest paying job in IT?
Cloud engineers are most in demand now, as most companies are moving to cloud-based tools and storage.
Do you want to build a career as a remote specialist and get offers from good companies? Or are you tired of working in the office and want to try remote work from home?
Ucanremote will find the most suitable jobs for you where the chance of getting a positive response is close to 100%.
You will be able to create a resume that will distinguish you from other applicants.
Create a professional profile, compare your resume to your competitors and get a salary recommendation based on your knowledge, skills and experience.
Why Ucanremote is what you need now?
Employers value soft skills, hard skills in IT, and your motivation to learn new things. Find the direction and profession in IT that you like, be persistent, and you will get the job of your dreams.
