careers

Starting a new career in tech can sometimes be daunting. Information Technology (IT) is one of the utmost complex fields worldwide. Trends in tech are constantly evolving, and there is a constant demand for technology and innovation. Still, this industry provides a diverse range of opportunities for professionals. So, if you want to start a career in IT field but are unsure where to begin, this article is for you. We will tackle valuable tips from Flexisource IT experts and how you can get started on a path to success. What is the job outlook in the IT industry? Before starting your journey, it is essential to ask yourself – is a career in IT worth it? Well, here’s your answer. The future of the IT industry is not slowing down. So are the market and employment. The job outlook in the IT industry is generally positive and shows no signs of slowing down. With the increasing demand for technology in various sectors, there is a growing need for skilled professionals to develop, maintain, and manage these technologies. Moreover, the COVID-19 pandemic has also accelerated the shift toward digitalization, further fueling the demand for IT professionals. According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), employment in computer and information technology occupations is anticipated to grow 15% from 2021 to 2031. Likewise, in Australia, the job outlook for this industry remains positive, with increasing demand. According to the Australian Government Department of Education, Skills, and Employment, employment in the IT industry is projected to grow by 11.5% from 2020 to 2025, adding an estimated 37,400 new jobs. This growth is attributed to the increasing need for cybersecurity, cloud computing, and extensive data management. Furthermore, many IT jobs offer above-average salaries and opportunities for career advancement. According to data from SEEK, the average salary for an IT professional in Australia is over AUD 100,000 per year, with wages varying depending on the specific role and level of experience. Overall, the job outlook in the IT industry is positive, and it is an excellent time for individuals to pursue a career in this field. With the right skills, education, and experience, aspiring IT professionals can take advantage of the many job opportunities available and build a successful career in this exciting and rapidly evolving industry. A step-by-step guide to starting a career in IT Starting a career in IT is no walk in the park. It might take you months, even years, to prepare for it. However, it is not impossible. Here is a step-by-step guide that may help you start your career in IT.  Assess your interests and skills First and foremost, you need to assess your skills and interests. Knowing if you are interested and skilled enough to pull through the whole journey is essential when choosing a career. After all, this is the job that you might be working for years. In addition, it is crucial to take the time to assess your skills and strengths to make an informed decision about which IT career path is best for you. So before building your IT career, ask yourself, “Is a career in IT right for me?” To answer this question, start by identifying your interest in IT. Do you enjoy programming, data analysis, etc.? Make a list of areas in tech you are most interested in and determine what kind of IT-related tasks you enjoy doing and which ones you are good at. Try doing the following: Take an inventory of the tasks that make up your day-to-day job Look for patterns in the types of activities that interest you Ask yourself what kind of technology excites you Research different fields within the tech industry Talk to people in the field who can provide insight into their experiences. Gain relevant education and training Next, education. As mentioned earlier, a career in IT is competitive. A formal education, training, and certification can help you stay ahead of the competition. The educational requirements for a career in IT can vary depending on the specific field or job position. However, a minimum of a bachelor’s degree in a relevant field such as information technology, computer science, computer engineering, or a related field is generally required. Some positions may also need a master’s or other advanced degrees, particularly for higher-level management or research positions. In addition to formal education, IT professionals often pursue certifications in specific technologies or software to demonstrate their expertise and stay current with the latest advancements in the field. These certifications can be obtained through various industry organizations, often requiring passing an exam or completing a specific training program. It’s also worth noting that while formal education and certifications are essential, practical experience and demonstrated skills in programming and other IT specialties are highly valued in the industry. Therefore, hands-on experience and a strong portfolio of projects or contributions to open-source software can help you stand out and advance your IT career. Build a network Building a solid network is an essential part of a new career in IT. A strong network will provide you with the resources and connections you need to find new opportunities, get advice and support, and stay on top of industry trends. In addition, it also increases your chances of finding a job or promotion and gaining access to exclusive events, conferences, and workshops. It can also allow you to stay connected with industry professionals who can help guide your career path and open new growth opportunities. Here are some tips to help you build your network in the IT industry: Attend Industry Events. Try to attend conferences, trade shows, and meetups to meet other professionals in your field. These events provide an excellent opportunity to network with peers and learn about new technologies and industry trends. Join Professional Associations. Another way to build a network is by joining professional associations. These groups can help you connect with other professionals in your field and gain access to valuable resources, training, and certifications. Utilize