If you’re applying for an entry-level IT job, knowing what hiring managers are looking for is key. You want to ensure you have the right balance of skills and experience so you can get to the top of the resume pile. Entry-level IT job qualifications can vary from company to company, but many employers are looking for the same basic skills.
Let’s take a closer look at what you need to impress hiring managers for entry-level tech jobs so that you can get in the door and get to work.
Entry Level IT Job Qualifications
Hiring managers have several qualifications they look for when searching for their next entry-level IT candidate.
Take a look at this list and see how you measure up:
- Technical Skills
If you are going to work in the IT world, your future employer needs to see that you have the skills to succeed. They want to see that you know essential programming languages such as Java or Python. Understanding networking basics and having some knowledge of cybersecurity are also important. These skills are important to most IT roles.
But having these skills is not enough. Hiring managers want to know that you can apply them in the real world. Having a portfolio or area to showcase your projects comes in handy here. Practical experiences can truly set you apart from the pack.
- Certifications
Certifications are also key because they validate your knowledge and skills in specific IT areas. They show that you’ve taken the time to deepen your knowledge and are committed to your career path. This is especially true for entry-level tech jobs. Hiring managers often prioritize candidates with certifications because they demonstrate a higher level of commitment.
Some certifications to consider include CompTIA Security+, Cyber Specialist, and Program Development & Problem Solving.
- Experience
If you are applying for an entry-level IT job, chances are you don’t have a great deal of experience. But that doesn’t mean you don’t have anything to show off. Internships, part-time jobs, and even freelance projects can all show the experience that recruiters are looking for. All of these show your ability to perform in a professional environment. It also shows hiring managers that you have the practical experience they’re looking for and that you’ll likely require less training.
- Soft Skills
While experience and education are all relevant, you can’t forget about the soft skills if you want to know how to get an entry-level IT job. Communication skills are essential in IT roles in situations where you’ll need to explain technical concepts to non-technical clients. Being able to work well as part of a team is another skill employers are looking for. Hiring managers want to hire well-rounded individuals who know the job and can work well with others.
- Positive Attitude
Besides soft skills, hiring managers are looking for someone who fits well within their company’s culture. They need to be enthusiastic about the role, demonstrate a strong work ethic, and have a positive attitude. Prospective employees need to be motivated and ready to contribute positively to the team.
Before applying, research the company’s culture and values. Hiring managers will appreciate that you took the time to learn more about the company and that you have a genuine interest in its driving force.
- Willingness to Learn
When it comes to entry-level tech jobs, having a willingness to learn is key. There is a lot to know, and being open to learning anything and everything will get you far. Hiring managers want to know that you want to learn more and are interested in opportunities when they present themselves.
What Should I Highlight?
As you’re crafting your resume and preparing for your interview, you’ll want to highlight areas such as:
- Any experience setting up firewalls or home networks
- Coding projects
- Website creation
- Internships
- Experience involving customer service or problem-solving
What Should I Avoid?
Just as there are areas you want to highlight, there are also some things you should avoid. This includes overestimating your skills. Always be honest about any skills you may not have at the moment, but are willing to learn in the future.
You also want to avoid being clueless about the company and the specific role. Do more than read the job description. Be sure to research and understand the company’s foundation. This way, you can not only share your knowledge, but also ask any questions that you may have.
Tips on How to Get an Entry-Level IT Job
Now that you have a better understanding of what hiring managers are looking for, here are some tips to help you get hired.:
Build Practical Experience
Since you may not have much professional experience, look to build practical experience. Set up a home lab to practice networking tasks or install operating systems. These skills will help you once you get the job.
Volunteer or Freelance
Build your skills by offering to fix computers or set up networks for local non-profits. Help out family and friends as you hone your skills. These practices can help you build the qualifications for an entry-level IT job.
Document all Projects
Don’t be shy about keeping track of all your projects. This allows you to showcase your skills to employers and creates a good running list of the skills you have to offer.
