Many countries are experiencing tough job markets at the moment, such as the USA, UK and other European countries. This makes it harder to find a job, as there are more people competing for less positions. The process to find a job in IT, however, shouldn't change. Let's take a look at what this process is.
Before You Start
Before you start looking for a job in IT, it's important to do a few things. You need to work out what kind of job you want, which is based on several things, such as what you're good at and what you're qualified to do. You should also consider what you like doing as well - there's no point getting a job you don't like! It's a good idea to consider these options before you start your job search, when you're learning how to get a job in IT, so you know what to look for and what can be eliminated.
Finding The Job
The next step on how to get a job in IT is actually finding the job. There are many ways to find a job in IT. Some of the more common methods include:
Speaking to former colleagues - they often know of other jobs that are going and can be a helpful way of getting a job you're after.
Job websites - these websites collect job advertisements and allow users to apply for jobs for many companies.
Recruitment agencies - these companies match employees with employers based on skills and desires, which takes a lot of the work out of your job search.
Using a combination of methods, including the methods above and any other methods, is a great way to get exposure to more job ads and increase your chances of getting a job in IT.
Résumés and CVs
Preparing a résumé or CV is a major part of getting a job in the IT industry. Depending on the country you come from, you may need to prepare a résumé, a CV, or the two terms may be used interchangeably. You may already have a résumé, which may be up to date or a little old. You might not have a résumé, especially if you're a new graduate. Either situation is fine. The next step to getting a job is to create or update your résumé to get it to a standard that will get you a job.
The purpose of a résumé is to get you an interview with a company. It includes job history, skills, and contact information, and if the résumé performs its job well, it should get you an interview. There are many things to consider when preparing a résumé, including things you should do and things you shouldn't do:
Have clear contact information
Don't make it any longer than 3 pages
Include your achievements rather than duties under the employment history section
Use a professional email address
Social Media
Social media is a relatively new area of the job searching process. The term defines web sites and technologies that have a social component to them. Some of the major ones are Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. They can all be used to your advantage when working out how to get a job in IT.
Setting up a profile on these sites is usually pretty quick, and each of them have their own benefits. They can provide a way for potential employers to find out more about you. They can also open up more possibilities of job advertisements. However, you need to be aware of the privacy settings. If it's on the internet, there's a good chance it can be found by someone, so you need to be careful what you broadcast.
Getting and Having Job Interviews
Job interviews are a chance for the employer to find out more about a candidate, whether they are suitable for the role and how their communication skills are. It also provides candidates with a way to find out if they like the company, to promote themselves even more, and ask any further questions.
The job interview is a major part of the job hunting process, and if you want to know how to get a job in IT, it helps to learn some of the skills and techniques required. It might seem easy - you just show up, answer some questions, and leave. However, if you want to actually give a good impression and have the best chance of getting a job, it helps to know about the process and learn some tips and techniques for this stage.
Salary and the Job Offer
After you've passed the job interview, you'll receive a job offer from the employer. This will either be a verbal or written offer to start, and will usually then involve an employment contract.
There is often room to negotiate certain areas of the offer, such as salary, hours, bonuses and many other components. Don't be afraid to negotiate a better deal for yourself. This may vary depending on your circumstances, but it's worth trying.
I would recommend doing some research into similar positions before negotiating. It's good to know what similar roles are paying and what they are like, so you can be better informed when going into a negotiation. Try to keep it friendly - you are both interested in the job offer so it shouldn't get messy or personal.
Starting the Job
So you've got the job - awesome! The job search process is over, you've worked out how to get a job in IT, but the next stage of your IT career is just beginning.
Keeping your job involves more than just showing up. You need to be good at it. And, if you want to excel at it, to become a good worker, to eventually get promoted or earn more money, you need to do it well.
The early days of a new job can be quite overwhelming as there are a lot of new people and things to learn, but it does get easier. Remember to take notes, ask questions, do a good job and keep learning!
Article Source: EzineArticles.com/8046430