How To Be Successful In Your Information Technology Career by Tyrina Lassiter

If you are reading this article, you are already taking the proper steps to start or elevate your IT (Information Technology) career. Congratulations on making that important decision! 

Now that you have decided on this career path, it's time to lay out your career action plan. First, ask yourself, “Why did I choose to pursue a career in IT, and what steps do I need to take to gain more experience?”

First, let's think about what you are doing now in your career. No matter what you currently do for a living, your role is part of the bigger picture. Getting into IT no matter what sector allows you to gain more exposure and offers better industry advancement opportunities. 

Then, think about all the reasons you should continue to pursue a career in IT. 

1. You don't have to obtain a college degree to be successful in this field.
2. There are tons of different roles within the IT industry.
3. You have great potential to make a good amount of money.

Next, let's discuss the skills you need for an IT career. When you think about it any sector of IT entails:

1. Database Management 
2. Operating System Knowledge 
3. Network Configuration
4. Coding 
5. Technical Writing

Just to name a few!

Do you have these skills? Is it effectively presented on your current resume? To excel in your IT career, you must show the employer you have the core competencies to do the job. 

Along with understanding what skills you need to excel in your IT career, you also need experience. “How do I gain experience if I have never worked in a specific IT field?”

If you are currently working, ask your manager if you can have more responsibilities that involve leading a small project in your department. Even if you can just assist in leading a project, that is the experience you can add to your resume. 

You can also get more involved with a current project or assignment that is already in the works. Let your manager know your plans of eventually obtaining an IT position with more responsibilities and if they are a great manager, they will be as much support as they can. Anyone you directly report to must know your career goals to set you up for success.

Now, let's say you already have great IT experience. Do you have the proper certifications to go along with the experience? I know it can be a pain, but you must have these certifications to progress in this field. If you don't know where to begin, speak with a career strategist and ask them how to obtain a specific certification. 

The 3 important steps you need to take to excel in your IT career.

1. Gain the experience 
2. Obtain any certifications needed
3. Ensure you have a resume that reflects the core competencies needed for the title

Once you have taken these steps, you will have the proper tools to grow in your IT career! 

Need more guidance? Let's set up a meeting to discuss this! Click the link below to set up a meeting with someone from the T. Lassiter Services team. We will develop an action plan so you can be successful and progress in your IT career.

Link to book a meeting: https://calendly.com/tlassiter-services/15min