Comments on: getting the foot in the door http://itknowledgeexchange.techtarget.com/itanswers/getting-the-foot-in-the-door/ Thu, 23 May 2013 01:41:43 +0000 hourly 1 By: pro-cert http://itknowledgeexchange.techtarget.com/itanswers/getting-the-foot-in-the-door/#comment-53405 pro-cert Sat, 24 May 2008 03:32:35 +0000 #comment-53405 In my opinion I would suggest you look for opportunities to network with individuals already in the field. Also utilize the placement services available in your college. Also realize that you will most likely have to start at the bottom and work your way up.

Some individuals volunteer in IT departments to gain experience. Your certifications will definitely enable you to stand out amongst other candidates.

I work with individuals like yourself every day, and the best advice is to network, and keep your acquired skills sharp.

]]> By: cults14 http://itknowledgeexchange.techtarget.com/itanswers/getting-the-foot-in-the-door/#comment-53153 cults14 Mon, 12 May 2008 15:07:06 +0000 #comment-53153 Having spent 9 years in IT recruitment, I agree with Labnuke99 – a bit of social networking is as likely to work for you as replying to ads in the press and on the web.

I would add that you shouldn’t be too fussy in the early stages of your new career in terms of what jobs you go for. If anyone says they’re looking for MCSE quals for a 1st-line support job then I would avoid. Couple of examples …………………………….

I knew a guy who did MCSE (boot camp) – his first IT job was in Computer Ops at the local Council working on an ICL mainframe!! However, he got his foot in the door and from there he was able to move sideways and upwards. Ended up doing a ‘proper’ MCSE-type job and is paid accordingly.

I knew another guy who had been a labourer, taxi driver etc etc. But was interested in PCs in his spare time. He took an evening class in ONE of the modules which lead to HNC (BTech equivalent in England-shire I think), spoke to someone he knew, got a trial, got a contract, got commendations for quality of service, got permanent job, is now something of a Unix guru at his workplace. Same employer all the way through!

Common thread? Attitude.

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