Now has never been a better time to look into IT jobs Memphis TN! According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, jobs in the IT field are projected to grow by 15% over the next ten years. That translates to almost 700,000 job hitting the market in that time. There is a significant shortage of workers for this industry and many others. Whether you have years of experience or have never had an IT job, IT staffing agencies like Nextaff can help!
We put together a list of seven top tips for landing IT jobs Memphis TN.
Review Your Experience and Utilize Any That Applies
While some experiences you’ve had throughout your career may seem trivial, you never understand the importance employers may place on soft skills. These transferable skills can be anything from customer service, problem-solving techniques, conflict resolution, experience with Microsoft Office, or any other professional methods you may have gained throughout your professional career. Don’t leave anything out.
Create a keyword-specific resume listing these skills and where you acquired them. Make sure your cover letter matches your resume and that you’ve included all relevant experience to find IT jobs Memphis TN.
Earn and List Industry Certifications
Every job listing gives their requirements for industry certifications necessary for the desired IT jobs Memphis TN. Some certifications take weeks others take years to complete. It isn’t always necessary to obtain a college degree to start working in the IT industry; however, certifications are a must and are recognized across the IT industry. Certifications can compensate for lack of industry experience and give you more options for IT jobs Memphis TN.
Here are some of the most common certifications we see:
- CompTIA A+: This certification provides general IT knowledge across a broad spectrum of IT areas. It certifies you have a basic understanding of Networking, hardware, cloud, mobile devices, and troubleshooting. This can help you land your first IT job Memphis TN.
- CompTIA Security+: This certification is mainly highlighting cybersecurity. This vendor-neutral certification proves you know how to implement security measures and best practices in a professional environment. This certification covers critical security areas, including networks, data, host security, threats and vulnerabilities, compliance requirements, access and identity management, and cryptography. This is the next level of the certification and can bump up your knowledge and pay grade.
- CompTIA Network+: This certification is great for beginners and goes over concepts related to networking, troubleshooting issues, infrastructure, operations, and basic security measures.
Being the best qualified for any IT job Memphis TN can make the difference between landing and not landing the job. It also makes you look better at IT staffing agencies.
Degrees in Other Fields Can Be Valuable
If you’re kicking yourself for not spending time in college earning a degree in IT, don’t count your time lost. Often, it doesn’t matter what field your degree is in; any degree can be valuable. It shows you are dedicated to a task, have critical thinking skills, and can apply principles you have learned to the tasks at hand. Any degree can help you stand out in a sea of other qualified IT job candidates. A career in IT requires candidates from diverse backgrounds and a wealth of experience.
Be Open to Entry Level Positions
If you keep your sites set on starting at the top, you may limit your options for “IT jobs near me.” Keeping an open mind and having the willingness to learn, even in an entry-level position, can give you opportunities you might not have otherwise had. Sometimes getting your foot in the door, then proving your value to an employer can mean higher pay and more responsibility in the long run. Don’t be above starting at a customer service desk job; it could quickly work into something more. Once you’ve proven yourself, employers are more willing to pay for continuing education and certifications that may be mutually beneficial.
Remember to Grow Your Network
No, we aren’t talking about an IT network. Often to get a job, it isn’t about what you know but who you know. This is especially true in the IT industry. Word of mouth is swift and effective. Be diligent in your commitment to networking with industry professionals and business owners that may further your career. Utilize your contacts on social media and be committed to building a network of diverse friends and peers.
Keep Learning and Growing
The IT industry is continually evolving and growing. What was breakthrough technology ten years ago is almost obsolete today. Continue refreshing your skills and learning new things. YouTube is an excellent resource for following your interests and learning new things. Use your free time (and the many free resources available) to learn about different technologies and techniques that could add a feather to your cap. You’ll soon be more marketable for IT jobs Memphis TN.
Use Your Experience to Your Benefit
If you have worked in a particular industry for a significant amount of time, that experience may help you get into the IT industry for that specific niche. For example, if you’ve been working as a teacher aid in a school system, the knowledge and network you’ve gained could help you get into an IT job in a school district or college. This can be especially useful if you have professional relationships with those who do the hiring. Use your crossover experience to get IT jobs Memphis TN you want.
Want IT Jobs Memphis TN? Nextaff Is Your Go-To Agency!
Finding and working with IT staffing agencies like Nextaff doesn’t have to be complicated. We employ the top recruiting specialists in the IT industry and foster relationships with the top tech companies in and around Memphis TN. Getting into the right company is well within your grasp. At Nextaff of Jackson, we are dedicated to landing you a job in the IT industry. Whether you’re simply looking to fill a gap in employment or want to find your dream job, we can help! Call today to learn more about the Nextaff difference!
