How to Get a Job as an IT Support Specialist in 2020

Do your parents have you on speed-dial to help them figure out their computer problems? Are you the first line of defense when your little sister accidentally downloads a virus? If you’re able to stay calm while walking your grandma through the ins and outs of updating her software, consider a job in information technology as a support specialist! The best in IT support have excellent math skills and high attention to detail.  Download JobFlare today and prove to employers that you’ve got the skills it takes to succeed!

IT support specialists are the heroes of the modern age. Whether they’re slaying the dragon of dragging internet speeds, shielding us from dangerous viruses, or strengthening the firewalls of our digital citadel, IT specialists are always saving the day. Other than a scant few outliers, modern business is conducted online and on computers, and when something goes wrong, we depend on our IT guys and gals to be there for us.

Our reliance on technology makes us dependent on those who understand it and can fix it for us when things go haywire. Most, if not all, companies need computers to keep their businesses running, regardless of size. Working as an IT support specialist can also build the foundation for many careers, like help desk analysts, systems analysts, database administrators, and network administrators.

IT Support Specialist

US Median Salary
$52,160/year or $25.08/hour

Education Requirements
High School Diploma or GED
Technical certifications from accredited providers
An Associate’s or Bachelor’s Degree in a computer related field may be necessary, depending on the size of the company and the complexity of the products and software that they use.

Robot Risk Rating
Automation Risk Robot
65%

MODERATE AUTOMATION RISK

(Source: Will Robots Take My Job)

You'd be great for this position if...

– You love technology
– You enjoy figuring out how things work
– You like helping others
– You’re naturally curious
– You’re patient
– You’re a problem solver

Robot Risk Rating
Automation Risk Robot
65%

MODERATE AUTOMATION RISK

(Source: Will Robots Take My Job)

You'd be great for this position if...

– You love technology
– You enjoy figuring out how things work
– You like helping others
– You’re naturally curious
– You’re patient
– You’re a problem solver

Resume Tips for IT Support Specialists

To have a successful career as a computer support specialist, there are certain skills that hiring managers know to look for. Take inventory of these important qualities and emphasize them in your resume:

  • High attention to detail
  • Ability to learn and retain new information
  • Problem solving skills
  • Expert troubleshooter
  • Self-motivated
  • Active listening skills
  • Excellent math and analytical skills
  • Goal-oriented

If you don’t have much on-the-job experience, include things like…

  • Experience working in customer service
  • Volunteer work
  • Technical certificates
  • Computer skills with particular software
  • Familiarity with multiple operating systems, programming languages, and troubleshooting techniques.

If you’re still feeling stuck on what skills to list in your resume, check the job description! Hiring managers list the key qualities they’re looking for, so you can score serious points for including them.

Interview Pointers for IT Support Specialists

Prior to your interview, be sure to think of examples of personal experience applicable to the role:

  • Explain how you came to a creative answer for a technical problem. What inspired your solution?
  • Talk about a time when you turned an obstacle into a learning opportunity. What did you learn? Has this impromptu education helped you in the long run?
  • Describe a recent project you’ve been working on. What were your major responsibilities? How did you handle the challenges?
  • Talk about a time when you had to help someone who couldn’t follow directions. What did you do to resolve their issues anyways?
  • Discuss the ways you stay up-to-date on the newest innovations in the tech industry. What upcoming innovations are you most excited about?

Be prepared to answer questions like:

  • What programming languages are you familiar with?
  • Do you have any technical certifications?
  • What is the biggest challenge you’ve faced as an IT professional? How did you overcome it?
  • How do you handle frustrated or angry people?

Trouble finding IT Support jobs to apply for? Try searching for these jobs as well!

Computer Repair • Computer Support Specialist • Assistant Network Administrator
Computer Technician • Customer Service Representatives

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