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If I am interested in being a IT or a career in Tech field, what types of jobs, experiences, or skills are employers looking for on a resume?

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Doc’s Answer

Jahmai the Information Technology (IT) field offers great long-term careers and job growth. If you have an interest in IT, knowing these skills will help you prepare to get a job.

1️⃣ SECURITY
Security should be foundational to any IT team. Starting out in a help desk, networking, or system administration role can introduce you to concepts that are helpful to know for security purposes. The following skills can help you qualify for IT security positions—like familiarity with physical, software, and network security along with installing firewalls and routers entry-level and beyond.

2️⃣ CODING
One of the most common and basic skill sets an employer requires from an IT professional is the ability to write code. Most IT jobs perform programming and software and web development tasks. It is also beneficial to have coding skills in several languages such as C++, Python, Java and Ruby.
• PYTHON — Known for its simplicity and readability, Python is widely used in data analysis, machine learning, and web development.
• JAVASCRIPT — The go-to language for web development, JavaScript is essential for creating interactive and dynamic websites.
• JAVA — A versatile language, Java is commonly used for developing Android applications, enterprise-level software, and server-side applications.
• C++ — Known for its performance and efficiency, C++ is widely used in game development, operating systems, and embedded systems.
• RUBY — Popular among web developers, Ruby offers an elegant syntax and is often used with the Ruby on Rails framework for building web applications.

3️⃣ NETWORK CONFIGURATION
Another common skill set professionals need for most jobs is networking knowledge. If you know more than average about networks, you could become a network administrator. Administrators are responsible for setting up networks and administering them, which involves knowledge such as IP setup, wireless routers, cloud services and coding.

4️⃣ ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE
Applying AI tools to your daily workflow to increase productivity has become an invaluable skill in IT. However, it's essential to be able to recognize risks and be strategic about the implementation of AI. Here are a few AI skills you can benefit from mastering as an IT professional:

5️⃣ OPERATING SYSTEMS
Understanding how to work and fix various operating systems is an important IT skill. While an individual business may utilize only one operating system, having proficiency in multiple system software can increase your appeal to employers who may want to switch over to a new system in the future.

HOW TO ACQUIRE IT SKILLS
Working in IT can mean anything from resolving a employee’s wifi issues to cloud infrastructure. Here are a few ways to learn the skills that can contribute to a successful career in information technology.
• TEACH YOURSELF — Many programming languages, data analysis techniques, and certain IT skills can be self-taught through online courses or home projects. You can find several courses on Coursera, including introductory classes to Python or cybersecurity.
• CERTIFICATIONS — Certifications can be a solid way to ensure your abilities meet professional standards. You’ll generally have to study for and pass an exam. See what entry-level certification fits your interests.
• BOOTCAMPS — Generally lasting several weeks or months, bootcamps are intensive courses that are designed to bring you specific skills in that time period. Though coding bootcamps are popular, bootcamps exist for topics like cybersecurity as well.
• BACHELOR'S DEGREE — The minimum degree that most IT jobs require is a bachelor's degree. Areas of study for this field include computer science, information technology and computer engineering.

Hope this will be helpful Jahmai
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James’s Answer

Begin your journey with a CompTIA certification such as A+ or Security+. If you can pass these entry-level tests, it’s a great sign that IT is the right path for you! To gain practical experience, consider joining a coding community, attending a camp, or applying for an IT Support Tech position. Also, make sure to enhance your LinkedIn profile to get noticed for job opportunities!
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Leslie’s Answer

Great skills would include problem solving, critical thinking, organization, being a team player, being able to collaborate with other team members, active listening so that you can assist in troubleshooting an issue or solving a client's problem. Understanding general business processes and operations will help you immensely as this translates into how companies use their software programs. Understanding general sales processes (what is a sales order? or how does a particular company make revenue), purchase processes (what is a purchase order or a purchase invoice), manufacturing processes.
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Jarad’s Answer

Depending on what you're interested in—like networking, programming, or support—here are some important skills to have:

**General IT**: Helps you understand how information technology works, including different applications and their uses.

**Windows & Linux OS**: These are the two main operating systems used in most businesses.

**Networking Basics**: Learn about TCP/IP, DNS, and DHCP to understand how networks operate.

**Active Directory & Office 365**: While there are other options, Active Directory is widely used for network security, and Office 365 is the go-to suite for tools like Word, Excel, and PowerPoint.

**Programming / Development**:

- **Languages**: Python, JavaScript, C#, and Java are common in many offices. It's good to keep learning new ones.
- **Web Basics**: HTML, CSS, and JavaScript are essential for web development.
- **Frameworks**: Knowing React, .NET, or Django can be crucial, depending on your tech stack.

**Cybersecurity**:

- **SIEM Tools**: Get familiar with tools like Splunk and QRadar.
- **Basic Vulnerability Scanning**: Understand the basics of checking for security weaknesses.
- **CompTIA Security+**: Having this knowledge is a plus.

**Cloud / DevOps**:

- **AWS / Azure Basics**: Learn the fundamentals of these cloud platforms.
- **Bash / PowerShell Scripting**: Useful for automating tasks.
- **CI/CD Tools**: Tools like GitHub Actions and Jenkins help automate the software development process.

Jarad recommends the following next steps:

most languages are free to learn about and develop in. Choose one and get started! Python is very popular these days and has loads of tutorials, books, and sites geared toward learning
if you have an older computer, install a version of linux and get to know it. Linux is freely available and runs well on older computers
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E’s Answer

Keeping your skills and platform experience current to the market will always be key for IT roles. Take advantage of online industry news and information sharing platforms, and online learning communities to explore different areas of interest specific to the areas you find most compelling. Professional skills like communication and project management are always transferrable as well
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Wahab’s Answer

There are various skills that employers will look for like coding in multiple languages, troubleshooting, monitoring, being a team player, collaboration and attention to details. If you have experience with anything related to tech support, system engineering and application development it would catch the eye of an employer depending on the role.
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Laura’s Answer

Types of Jobs

Software Developer: Dive into coding, testing, and maintaining software applications—an exciting field where creativity meets technology!

IT Support Specialist: Be the hero who provides technical support and solves hardware and software issues with ease.

Network Administrator: Take charge of managing and maintaining network infrastructure, ensuring everything runs smoothly.

Cybersecurity Analyst: Protect systems and networks from cyber threats, playing a crucial role in keeping data safe.

Data Analyst: Use your skills to analyze data and help organizations make smart decisions.

Relevant Experiences

Internships: Get valuable hands-on experience in real-world settings, boosting your confidence and skills.

Projects: Showcase your talents through personal or academic projects that highlight your abilities.

Freelance Work: Offer your expertise on platforms like Upwork or Fiverr and build a diverse portfolio.

Volunteer Work: Make a difference by helping non-profits with their IT needs, while gaining practical experience.

Skills to Highlight

Technical Skills:

Programming Languages: Master languages like Python, Java, C++, and JavaScript.

Operating Systems: Become proficient in Windows, Linux, and Mac OS.

Networking: Understand LAN/WAN, VPNs, routers, and switches.

Cybersecurity: Learn about firewalls, encryption, and threat analysis.

Data Analysis: Get skilled in SQL, Excel, and data visualization tools.

Soft Skills:

Problem-Solving: Develop the ability to troubleshoot and resolve issues effectively.

Communication: Communicate clearly and effectively with team members and clients.

Teamwork: Collaborate well with others to achieve common goals.

Adaptability: Stay flexible and ready to learn new technologies in changing environments.

Certifications

CompTIA A+: Start your IT journey with this entry-level certification.

Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA): Gain recognition in networking.

Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP): Advance your career in cybersecurity.

Microsoft Certified: Azure Fundamentals: Explore cloud computing with this certification.

Google Data Analytics Professional Certificate: Enhance your data analysis skills with this certification.
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Kyle’s Answer

To break into the competitive tech industry, your resume needs to showcase both technical skills and relevant experiences. Employers are looking for evidence of your abilities, not just a list of qualifications. The technical skills don't always have to be in a professional environment maybe your hobby is building computers that can also help you land a job. I would also recommend grabbing some certifications these can give you an edge over some of the other candidates.
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Jeffrey’s Answer

When I look at what is important to get started in technology, I look at eagerness to both listen and learn. This industry moves too fast to say do this or do that. Think about things in an upstream and down stream scenarios - the technology that you implement will impact others before and after you in a business process.

Find a topic that has an interest and find a book - focus on a chapter a day, then move to get certified in that area. Certifications go a long way - even if it is not relevant a particular job it shows that you take your trade seriously.
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Doug’s Answer

Hi Jahmai.

By asking this question, you’re already one step ahead of many candidates whose resumes I’ve reviewed.

As noted in the other answers, there are several different knowledge areas in IT. The position you apply for will usually focus on one knowledge area. Since any IT position overlaps and interacts with other IT positions, having some experience or some working knowledge in any of these areas is valuable and should be pointed out on your resume.

Having said that, if you’re applying for a developer position that is using C# and ASP.NET, noting on your resume that you assembled your own desktop PC and have CompTIA A+ certification won’t attract much interest. But if you’re applying for a desktop support position, that experience and certification is what the hiring manager is looking for.

Focus your education and training on IT knowledge areas important to an IT career field that you’d like to pursue (web developer, desktop support, security specialist, quality assurance tester, network engineer, etc.).

Edit your resume for each job you apply for by tuning it to highlight education and experiences related to the position. The skills and experience that the job opening requires will be listed in the position description.

For an entry-level position, the hiring manager is not going to expect much experience. A relevant technical certification helps. For a desktop support position, A+, Google IT Support, or Microsoft 365 certification will attract attention. If you are applying for a developer position in an organization using cloud-based infrastructure, consider Microsoft Certified Azure Developer Associate for an Azure environment or AWS Certified Developer Associate for an AWS environment. Note that some certifications require experience, others do not.
Most IT departments in medium to large organizations organize work into teams. The hiring manager will be looking for evidence of teamwork on your resume. Be sure to note any education classes where assignments were worked on as a team and highlight any work experience where you worked as part of a team.

Many IT departments in medium to large organizations follow an agile framework, for example, Scrum, Kanban, or SAFe. Consider getting an agile certification such as Professional Scrum Developer from Scrum.org. Having at least a basic understanding of Agile when applying for a position at an organization following an agile framework will help you adapt and having an agile certification on your resume will be noticed.

I hope some of these ideas help you. Good luck.
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Robert’s Answer

When it comes to technical skills, looking at a few job descriptions on LinkedIn can help you understand what's needed. But I think communication skills and business sense are even more important. No matter where you work, it's crucial to clearly explain how your work helps the business. You also need to know how your efforts, both alone and with a team, support the company's goals.
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Haumshini’s Answer

Hey Jahmai, if you're thinking about a career in IT or tech, it's important to know some key skills. Employers like it when you understand programming (like Python, Java, or JavaScript), web development (such as HTML, CSS, and React), and networking and systems (like Windows, Linux, and Cisco). They also look for knowledge in databases (SQL, NoSQL), cloud technologies (AWS, Azure), and cybersecurity (like firewalls and encryption).

Besides these technical skills, employers really appreciate soft skills. Being good at solving problems, working well in a team, communicating clearly, adapting to changes, and managing your time are all important. Getting certifications like CompTIA A+, AWS, or Microsoft can also make your resume stand out and show what you know.
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Srijita’s Answer

Hi Jahmai, times are changing and companies are really into AI. Having said that there are other tech fields apart from AI that companies are recruiting like Web-developer(Frontend, Backend but preferable Full-stack), Data Analysts, AI-ML engineers, Product designers, Product Managers. But no matter any field of work you enter you should be able to use AI in that field of work so that you are ahead of everyone and also you get recognized as someone who has the knowledge as well as can use AI to get things done faster.

For web-development you can state with JAVASCRIPT, HTML, CSS and then go for frameworks based on JavaScript like ReactJs, AngularJs, VueJs for frontend and then go on ahead with SQL , Java Springboot for the backend stuff.

For Data Analysis you can start with SQL, Microsoft PowerBI, understanding how Excel sheet work.

For ML-AI engineers you can start by learning Python, Databases, ML algorithms and theories.

Hope this helps!
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Nidhi’s Answer

Hello Jahmai,

You have several career paths to consider, such as Data Science, Analytics, Programming, and Support.

1. Start by deciding which field interests you the most and where you want to work.
2. After choosing your focus area, look into courses and training that can boost your skills and marketability.

- If you're still in school, consider courses like BTech or IT Computing.
- If you've graduated, think about getting certifications from companies like Microsoft or Google. For IT Support, explore courses on Azure, Cloud Services, and AI. For Programming, look into AI, Cybersecurity, and languages like Python, Java, SQL, and Web Development.

For Data Science, consider BTech or MTech programs nearby. These can lead to roles like Data Analyst, Data Scientist, Business Intelligence Specialist, or Database Administrator.
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Andres’s Answer

I'm a Data Scientist, so I can share some insights about this role. Technical skills are important, but you also need good communication skills. You should be able to explain your analysis/models clearly and simply. It's also important to work well with others and manage your professional relationships. To improve these skills, consider taking online courses on business communication and stakeholder management. These non-technical skills are crucial for a data scientist.
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John’s Answer

While technical skills are primary, there are skills that are sought when those skills are the same as all of your competitors.
I look for communication skills. Those can be represented in the quality of the resume, the attached email, and during the interview.
Having experience in problem solving is key. This is not just in fixing code or troubleshooting a printer, it is understanding what the business needs and how the IT tools can move the business forward.
When interviewing, I am also looking for attitude; primarily toward the users. I want someone that works for the customers, not in spite of them.
Many technical skills can be taught; there are other soft-skills that are harder to manage. I know that technology will change; how to work with people does not.
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Jamie’s Answer

Hey Jahmai,

Working in IT means there are some key things to keep in mind. It's important to show off these skills on your resume because they're important to almost every employer. If you're thinking about switching jobs, list the skills you've gained from past jobs and think about how they fit with the job you want. Most likely, the skills you've developed will be useful in a new role. These skills can include:

- Teamwork and collaboration
- Data analysis
- Critical thinking and decision-making
- Leadership and management
- Creative problem-solving
- Adaptability
- Communication and interpersonal skills
- Dependability and time management
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Erin’s Answer

Hi Jahmai,

Great question! I thought it would be helpful to explain: (1) the different fields you can pursue in IT, (2) the different roles you can prepare for, regardless of which field you prefer, (3) what you can do to make your resume standout and get interviews, and then finally (4) what you can do to ace interviews and actually obtain an offer. Please let me know if you would like me to provide a list of great companies grouped by Fields I suggested below:


1. Fields in IT (What you can specialize in):
--Software Development – Building apps, websites, and software tools.
--Data & AI – Working with data, machine learning, and analytics.
--Infrastructure & Cloud – Managing servers, networks, or cloud platforms like AWS, Azure.
--Cybersecurity – Protecting systems and data from threats.
--IT Support & Operations – Helping users and keeping tech systems running.

2. Roles in IT (Types of jobs across departments):
--Sales & Pre-Sales – Helping customers understand tech solutions.
--Professional Services/Delivery – Implementing and customizing tech for clients.
--Customer Success & Support – Making sure clients get value and stay happy.
--Product Development – Designing, testing, and shipping new tech products.

3. Making Your Resume Strong:
--Get Experience: Do internships, join tech clubs, build small projects, or volunteer in tech roles.
--Show What You Know: List college courses, self-led projects, certifications (e.g. CompTIA, AWS, Google IT Support).

4. Speak the Language: In interviews, be ready to explain relevant experiences from college courses, internships, and personal projects:
--What you built or contributed to
--The problem it solved.
--How you worked with others.
--Soft Skills Matter: Communication, problem-solving, and curiosity are just as important as technical know-how.
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Gari’s Answer

Some of the skills an IT company will look for:

Soft skills:
1. problem solving, critical thinking, organization, leadership
2. drive, challenging the status quo type of attitude
As the current environment is very dynamic, you need to adapt fast, be resilient, embrace change and lead the change it in most of the cases.
3. data interpretation, data analysis

Hard skills:
excel
Power BI
Python
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Michael’s Answer

Consider the role AI will play in your field. As AI continues to expand, avoid wasting time and resources on tasks that will be automated. However, make sure you understand basic programming to interpret AI effectively and maintain its integrity.

Align your career path with your interests. Decide if you want to take on a leadership role with people reporting to you, or if you prefer being an individual contributor. If leadership is your goal, invest in management and leadership courses early. If you want to deepen your expertise in a specific area, focus on gaining in-depth knowledge there.

Take formal training in conflict management. This will equip you with tools to effectively interact with diverse people and personalities. It also shows employers that you have essential interpersonal skills, reducing cultural risks.
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Danielle’s Answer

If you're interested in a career in IT or the tech field, employers look for a mix of technical knowledge, hands-on experience, and strong soft skills. They want to see that you can solve problems, work well with others, and communicate clearly. Experience with troubleshooting, customer service, or helping people with technology is a big plus, especially for entry-level roles. It’s also helpful to show that you’re organized, can learn quickly, and are comfortable working with computers and common software. Even if you don’t have a lot of formal experience, showing curiosity, a willingness to learn, and any relevant certifications or training can make a big difference.
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