Become an IT Worker

Become an IT Worker

IT is the management of files and information through computing and telecommunications. Employment within an IT role, therefore, very broadly means, to be employed within a role based around the use of computers and telecommunications to process and store information. The Worldwide IT services revenue totalled $763 billion in 2009, so for some employers and employees; there is money to be made.

The role of an IT professional

The role of an IT professional can vary considerably and depend of several factors including job specifics, employment subsector and level of expertise, for example. The role of an IT professional could include the installation of applications, the design of IT networks and databases or the management of data and engineering of computer hardware. There has long been a need for IT professional roles within the corporate environment but now that so many of us rely on IT in our personal lives the role of an IT professional can be seen more and more outside of the corporate environment.

What qualifications does IT professional need?

One of the major challenges that face most individuals looking to find employment within IT is the lack of a recognised qualification. A degree in IT or a related specialist subject demonstrates an individual’s commitment and dedication and allows the individual the opportunity to analyse the subject as well as get a hands on approach. Though a certification is constantly current, which in an ever changing subject matter; is paramount. To gain a foot up in the IT industry an individual requires a specialist area of expertise, which a Masters degree can often afford them.

It is important to remember that in all fields of employment, a graduate can often expect a higher starting salary. It would appear that the important thing to ensure is that you get the most up to date certifications and that you have at least a base knowledge of either Microsoft systems or Cisco systems, or both. These appear to be the most sought courses. Some internationally recognised qualifications include: MCDST, CompTIA A+, Microsoft Windows and Cisco CCNA. The CompTIA A+ qualification introduces the individual to the fundamentals of system hardware components and common system operating errors including Windows.

The A+ qualification enables the individual to demonstrate competency as a computer technician. The Microsoft MCTS (Windows 7 and Windows server 2008) teach the individual to install, configure and administer these systems as well as learning to optimise, monitor and trouble shoot the systems; a key part of any IT helpdesk technicians basic skill set.

The Cisco CCNA – Cisco Certified Network Associate confirms the individual’s knowledge of networking. It is also recognised as the most commonly held Cisco certificate. This is a particularly accessible entry-level certificate if you have an interest in networking. The course offers expertise in Cisco’s IOS, TCP/IP, LAN and WAN technologies and management as well as routing and switching protocols. Chartered status could set you apart from other professionals within the industry and prove you have the skills, knowledge and dedication to have a rewarding career.

Where can a IT professional work?

An IT professional can work in almost any environment. Almost every single corporate sector in the world uses IT these days to manage their business and customers as well as to communicate to them and between colleagues. For example and IT professional could be employed within a specialist IT organisation and work for their clients to manage data and design networks, or an IT professional could work within an organisation and manage these areas from within.

What salary can an IT professional expect?

It is difficult to pin point how much an IT professional can expect to earn. There are so many deciding factors including location, experience, skill set and employer. One area that will definitely set one individual apart from the rest is the area they specialise in. For example, it is recognised that software engineers tend to earn more than hardware engineers.

Software Engineers should earn an average of £56,200, whereas Systems Engineers should earn around £35,307 per annum. The average salary of an IT a manger in a developed country should be around £44,500. Project managers should on average be earning a salary of £48,300 per annum and Information Technology Directors should earn an average salary of £63,000