Advice needed, please: Entry-level IT
Hi Ladies!
So, I'm currently working as an admissions advisor but I applied for an entry level IT role within my company; I was sent the next steps & I'm really considering it...but I'm also nervous with making the change.
Just like starting any other job, I'm nervous about not being successful. What were some challenges you faced when breaking into tech? If you started in IT, how did you transition into another tech position? Lastly, is IT a great gateway for other tech positions (e.g. web development, QA, technical writing, etc.)?
N T
I'm here to help
187
10/21/20 at 7:36PM UTC (Edited)
Hi Anon, that's really exciting! I worked as an RN in a hospital and transitioned to health tech after 2 years. I have done extensive research on tech culture and tools that can help along the way like watching tutorials on Youtube of how to photoshop. Another good tool to familiarize yourself with, if you haven't already, is Excel and Google sheets. Those skills went a long way in helping me as an intern. Having a curiosity to learn and find answers will go a long way in tech since you have to be scrappy and sometimes there's no one around to train you as you go. The other thing to consider is if your position is fairly new, consider how to build trainings and documentation off of the skills you learn so it can be used as a resource for your company. If you can train someone in the skills you learn, it will demonstrate leadership and hopefully advance you to your next desired role.
IT support would be a great stepping stone to QA since QA will require understanding the many failures that go wrong with your product and how to create better and faster tests to catch them. For QA you will want to learn how to use tools like Git software. I will mention it may feel overwhelming transitioning to different tech roles after your first one, so be sure to form good relationships with the people whose teams you want to join. They will teach you the ropes and end up being your best advocate when you're ready to make your move.
Good luck in your new role! (I hope you got it!) Rooting for you!
Marnie JohnsonCustomer service focused IT professional.
20
12/03/19 at 2:31AM UTC
IT is such a great field! Be humble, always open to learning what others are willing to teach you. It is a Male dominated field so you will have to prove yourself but you can do it!
