IT is one of those sectors where you never know what’s round the corner. Every day brings new tech and increasingly complex software.
Of course, this means there’s an ever-increasing need for innovative programmers and can-do technicians to build, operate and maintain our modern world.
If you’re looking to join this merry band, there are ten things you really should know.
1. You’re going to be popular
Yes, when you work in IT, everyone from Granny Ina to long-lost Cousin Karl is going to be getting in touch.
“Can you just help me set up…?” are the words you’re going to hear at the start of most conversations.
2. It’s not all about the tech
Forget going by the books. In IT you must be creative – to engineer and develop your own ideas – or to make the ideas of others a reality.
3. This sector never stands still
IT is now inter-relating with many different fields. This includes sectors you wouldn’t have thought needed IT professionals like yourself, from agriculture to aquaculture.
4. You gain great experience
Because IT is continually growing, people are always developing new and more desirable skills in different areas of expertise.
5. There are loads of opportunities
Since the sector is ever increasing, exciting opportunities are always coming up, especially on s1jobs. You’re unlikely to find yourself struggling for choice.
6. IT is in everything
The desktop, tablet or phone you’re reading this on, the building you’re sitting in, the clothes you’re wearing . . . all have been influenced by IT at some stage in their creation.
7. Precision is perfection
In IT there is always a right answer. A single inaccuracy can result in a completely different outcome to the goal you wanted.
8. Communication is key
You have to be able to move from geek speak with colleagues to civvy street conversations with non-IT types. Good communication means being as precise as possible.
9. You never stop learning
Think of IT as an ever-expanding universe. Right now you may be at the centre of it, but to progress your career you need to ensure you’re out there, boldly going where no IT guru has gone before.
10. You have transferrable skills
Should you ever desire change, it won’t be difficult to find a brand new role in another sector. One look at the IT listings on s1jobs could open up a whole new world.