9 answers
`Isaiah
Student
Martins Ferry, Ohio
1
Question
Asked
1085 views
How to begin your IT career with a lack of experience?
What’s the best way to leverage my first IT certification (CompTIA A+) for a job, especially without long-term experience? I’ve also completed a bootcamp and a Coursera support course. While I know they’re not top-tier credentials, I believe they show commitment and staying power.
I’m aiming to build a mostly remote-based IT career. What steps should I take to get started in that direction?
Lastly, how realistic is it to break into chat support (text support) at the entry level? It seems like companies expect multitasking and prior experience with multiple chats, almost like a near-L2 role. Is it possible to get in without that background?
And thanks for answering.
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9 answers
Rod Park
Technology Strategist
2
Answers
Wellington, New Zealand
Updated
Rod’s Answer
Earning qualifications can really help you stand out, especially when starting out in your career. It's a good idea not to limit yourself to one type of job too soon. You'll probably try different jobs before finding what you truly enjoy. Also, consider taking roles where you can meet new people and learn from them. This is a great way to fit into the company culture. Good luck, and remember to have fun along the way!
Anika Behrens
Sr Account Executive
1
Answer
Berlin, Germany
Updated
Anika’s Answer
Hi Isaiah,
It's awesome to see your interest and recent certifications in IT!
To get started, think about what you enjoy and what you're good at. Do you like sales, customer success, product management, or software development? You might want to ask friends or family what they think your strengths are, and consider what activities you find fun. For example, do you enjoy talking to people and being competitive, or are you more detail-oriented and fascinated by tech products?
Once you have a better idea, try connecting with industry leaders on LinkedIn and attend events in your chosen field. Many companies offer entry-level positions in these areas.
I suggest joining a larger company where you can learn a lot from their resources and experienced leaders.
It's awesome to see your interest and recent certifications in IT!
To get started, think about what you enjoy and what you're good at. Do you like sales, customer success, product management, or software development? You might want to ask friends or family what they think your strengths are, and consider what activities you find fun. For example, do you enjoy talking to people and being competitive, or are you more detail-oriented and fascinated by tech products?
Once you have a better idea, try connecting with industry leaders on LinkedIn and attend events in your chosen field. Many companies offer entry-level positions in these areas.
I suggest joining a larger company where you can learn a lot from their resources and experienced leaders.
Ralph Figueiredo
Manage Partners and Alliances
2
Answers
Long Beach, California
Updated
Ralph’s Answer
If you have a dream job or company in mind, try to enter that industry through a related role if your ideal position isn't available or needs more experience. When I graduated, I wanted to sell technology but couldn't get hired due to lack of experience. Instead, I took a job as a buyer, which didn't require experience. I worked hard, and after six months, I got a part-time sales role and helped build computers. A year later, I had a full-time sales job. My experience as a buyer and builder made me better at selling.
My advice: start wherever you can, work hard, and network. Make friends and show you're open to challenges. This can lead to your dream job, or you might find you love your current role and build a career out of it. I stumbled into my career and love it. I've also hired people from other roles within my company because they were known and recommended. Career changes happen. The key is to start working. You'll learn a lot from doing, meeting new people, facing challenges, and gaining soft skills beyond what you've studied.
My advice: start wherever you can, work hard, and network. Make friends and show you're open to challenges. This can lead to your dream job, or you might find you love your current role and build a career out of it. I stumbled into my career and love it. I've also hired people from other roles within my company because they were known and recommended. Career changes happen. The key is to start working. You'll learn a lot from doing, meeting new people, facing challenges, and gaining soft skills beyond what you've studied.
Kent Howard
Security Risk Management
14
Answers
Frisco, Texas
Updated
Kent’s Answer
First, congratulations on earning your CompTIA A+ certification!
Now, let's talk about gaining experience. Networking is key. Try to attend events where you can meet new people. Look into your local Chamber of Commerce or search online for IT networking groups nearby. Making connections can lead to job opportunities, even through friends of friends.
Think about which area of IT interests you the most and start learning about it. There are many courses available, but you can also use AI chatbots to explore topics and gain insights. Remember, many IT fields are interconnected, so focus on foundational areas like networking.
Others have shared great tips, so I won't repeat them.
Finally, always keep learning. Dive into books from the library, explore online articles, and watch YouTube videos. Keep expanding your knowledge!
Now, let's talk about gaining experience. Networking is key. Try to attend events where you can meet new people. Look into your local Chamber of Commerce or search online for IT networking groups nearby. Making connections can lead to job opportunities, even through friends of friends.
Think about which area of IT interests you the most and start learning about it. There are many courses available, but you can also use AI chatbots to explore topics and gain insights. Remember, many IT fields are interconnected, so focus on foundational areas like networking.
Others have shared great tips, so I won't repeat them.
Finally, always keep learning. Dive into books from the library, explore online articles, and watch YouTube videos. Keep expanding your knowledge!
Nice work on the A+ + extra courses that combo shows you’re serious. Easiest way in is helpdesk or tech support (even hybrid/contract to start), then pivot to remote once you’ve got some ticket/chat experience.
Chat support can be tough at entry since they want multitasking skills, but if you show strong customer service + problem-solving, you can still land it. Worst case, start with phone/email support and move up.
Apply everywhere, don’t overthink the “perfect” fit, and look at MSPs they love hiring juniors. Persistence is key.
Nate
James Greene
Customer Success
6
Answers
Atlanta, Georgia
Updated
James’s Answer
Congratulation on getting your A+ certification! Do they still ask about the charge of a corona wire in a laser printer? :)
When I started out I was in a similar situation. I focused on small to medium sized businesses that had internal tier 1 help desk roles. This allowed me to get exposed to all manner of requests, as well as work on meeting and building relationships with people. Over the years I find that I run across the same people I used to help with paper jams on success calls, now!
As others have mentioned, I would also join and attend local IT professional events. This allows you to network and really get your name out there and learn about new opportunities.
AND IT is always changing, so never stop reading news and learning new things!
When I started out I was in a similar situation. I focused on small to medium sized businesses that had internal tier 1 help desk roles. This allowed me to get exposed to all manner of requests, as well as work on meeting and building relationships with people. Over the years I find that I run across the same people I used to help with paper jams on success calls, now!
As others have mentioned, I would also join and attend local IT professional events. This allows you to network and really get your name out there and learn about new opportunities.
AND IT is always changing, so never stop reading news and learning new things!
wassim hamade
6
Answers
Dallas, Texas
Updated
wassim’s Answer
learn on the side, and get certificates that are in high demand in the market then apply for a job
good luck
good luck
Wayne Archibald
Cybersecurity Associate Director here to share knowledge!
241
Answers
Annapolis Junction, Maryland
Updated
Wayne’s Answer
Hi Isaiah,
Earning your first IT certification, like the CompTIA A+, is a fantastic milestone. To make the most of it, try to get some hands-on experience, even if it's not a full-time job. Here are some ideas:
- Volunteer: Offer your tech skills to a non-profit, library, or community center. It's a great way to help out and gain experience.
- Capture the Flag (CTF) Events: If you've joined any CTF events, be ready to discuss them. Share what you did, the challenges you overcame, and the outcomes. This can really boost your resume and help in interviews.
- Networking: Connect with people in the IT field you're interested in. Ask for their advice and see if they can mentor you.
Starting with entry-level roles like chat support is a smart move. Apply to as many jobs as possible. Make sure your resume is sharp and professional—don't be shy to ask for help with it. Also, practice your interview skills so you're prepared when opportunities come your way.
You've got this!
Earning your first IT certification, like the CompTIA A+, is a fantastic milestone. To make the most of it, try to get some hands-on experience, even if it's not a full-time job. Here are some ideas:
- Volunteer: Offer your tech skills to a non-profit, library, or community center. It's a great way to help out and gain experience.
- Capture the Flag (CTF) Events: If you've joined any CTF events, be ready to discuss them. Share what you did, the challenges you overcame, and the outcomes. This can really boost your resume and help in interviews.
- Networking: Connect with people in the IT field you're interested in. Ask for their advice and see if they can mentor you.
Starting with entry-level roles like chat support is a smart move. Apply to as many jobs as possible. Make sure your resume is sharp and professional—don't be shy to ask for help with it. Also, practice your interview skills so you're prepared when opportunities come your way.
You've got this!
Handy Tran
Software Engineer
3
Answers
Redmond, Washington
Updated
Handy’s Answer
Hi `Isaiah,
You’re definitely on the right track! Having certifications and bootcamp experience gives you a strong advantage over many candidates. These credentials show commitment and technical capability, which employers value highly.
As a next step, I recommend exploring helpdesk or IT support roles. These positions are typically entry-level, making them a great way to get your foot in the door and start building professional experience. They also provide exposure to real-world troubleshooting, customer interaction, and system administration; skills that can open doors to more advanced roles in networking, cloud, or cybersecurity.
You’re definitely on the right track! Having certifications and bootcamp experience gives you a strong advantage over many candidates. These credentials show commitment and technical capability, which employers value highly.
As a next step, I recommend exploring helpdesk or IT support roles. These positions are typically entry-level, making them a great way to get your foot in the door and start building professional experience. They also provide exposure to real-world troubleshooting, customer interaction, and system administration; skills that can open doors to more advanced roles in networking, cloud, or cybersecurity.
Mario Ramirez
Leader, Customer Delivery
43
Answers
Mexico City, Mexico
Updated
Mario’s Answer
Hi Isaiah,
Congrats on earning the CompTIA A+ cert! Now it's time to get hands-on.
Giving back is a great way to gain entry-level experience, which is crucial in the early stages for developing strong customer handling skills. Try connecting with NGOs that would appreciate your experience and align with their business needs.
Make sure to focus on remote support if applicable; this will help you build valuable skills related to customer experience, such as a willingness to serve, understanding the real problems to solve, and emotional intelligence.
Absolutely! Starting remote support involves not just texting but also phone calls, which will definitely open up more opportunities for you to keep learning.
I wish you all the best on this amazing journey in IT!
Congrats on earning the CompTIA A+ cert! Now it's time to get hands-on.
Giving back is a great way to gain entry-level experience, which is crucial in the early stages for developing strong customer handling skills. Try connecting with NGOs that would appreciate your experience and align with their business needs.
Make sure to focus on remote support if applicable; this will help you build valuable skills related to customer experience, such as a willingness to serve, understanding the real problems to solve, and emotional intelligence.
Absolutely! Starting remote support involves not just texting but also phone calls, which will definitely open up more opportunities for you to keep learning.
I wish you all the best on this amazing journey in IT!
Thank ya thank ya. I appreciate the advice.
`Isaiah