How to Break into Entry-Level IT Roles

Have you ever wanted to make a mark in the IT industry but don’t know where to start? What about beginning—or transitioning to—an IT career without loads of experience?  Whether you’re a recent graduate or transitioning from another field, the journey into IT can feel overwhelming—but it’s within reach. Breaking into an entry-level IT role just means trying new approaches, applying some outside-the-box thinking, and practicing a little determination.

With the following strategies, you can crack the code and confidently secure your first job in the tech industry.

Escape the “No-Experience” Cycle

Building out a résumé when just starting in IT is often easier said than done. It may seem intimidating to prepare a compelling résumé or curriculum vitae without years of industry experience or a specialized education. But escaping from the "you-can't-get-a-job-unless-you-have-experience" cycle is possible with some creativity. It might just mean redefining the term “experience.”

Thankfully, work experience isn't limited to gainful employment. Students may not need to look any further than their own college community to find experiences that can boost their résumé, enhance their skill set, and expand their circle of contacts in the field. Examples could include:

• Participating in campus coding groups.

• Volunteering to provide tech support for classes or clubs.

• Earning certificates from tech organizations.

• Applying for both paid and unpaid internships or short-term jobs.

 Working on personal projects that demonstrate skilled ability is also worthy of consideration. Such projects might involve compiling code, building a web page, or contributing to open-source software. Another recommendation is taking a course in AI or earning an AI-related certification to prove you know how to use this valuable tool.

While a sense of initiative and a willingness to engage with like-minded individuals are needed to create these experiences, the potential rewards typically outweigh any inconveniences of time and effort.

Understand Artificial Intelligence in IT Roles 

AI is rapidly transforming the tech landscape, making it a crucial component of both advanced and entry-level IT roles. Having a foundational knowledge of AI and how it’s used can give early-career tech professionals a strong advantage.

Examples of how AI is incorporated into entry-level roles include:

• AI chatbots for tech support and help desks.

• Automated systems, monitoring, and dashboards.

• AI-powered cybersecurity tools.

• Large data set categorization and cleaning.

• AI-assisted software testing.

• Predictive analytics for DevOps.

Explore In-Demand Entry-Level IT Positions 

Jobs with high demand are inherently easier to pursue. Luckily, The IT (and wider tech) industry offers many in-demand positions, including roles for professionals just beginning their careers. Some of the most sought-after entry-level tech jobs include:

• IT support and help desk technician. Individuals in this role help solve basic tech problems for users and provide in-person or remote troubleshooting assistance.

• Junior systems administrator. Junior admins assist in managing an organization’s software and hardware systems, including operating systems and servers.

• Quality assurance analyst. QA analysts check for bugs and other inconsistencies in software or hardware to improve user experience.

• Junior data analyst. Most entry-level data analysts help interpret large sets of data to identify meaningful patterns and actionable insights.

• Junior web developer. These professionals work under the guidance of experienced software developers to build websites and web applications.

• Junior cybersecurity analyst. Junior cybersecurity analysts monitor network traffic and security systems alerts, perform audits, and assist in investigating security issues.

 These positions and more serve as useful stepping stones to more advanced IT opportunities and are valuable in their own right.

Target High-Demand Markets for Entry-Level IT Roles 

 To find positions in strong-need locations, job seekers might try a combination of traditional and modern outreach methods. For example, searching sites like Kompass.com or DexKnows.com for IT-friendly businesses in a target region can yield useful results. Following up with websites or visiting regional companies to learn more about their services might lead to details on job postings or networking opportunities.

 LinkedIn is also a great place to look for IT jobs and follow IT professionals. Documenting your personal projects in a digital portfolio or LinkedIn profile can boost visibility, making it easier to forge connections with hiring managers, recruiters, and other gatekeepers in target cities. Networking online is a convenient way to connect to people in the industry who may help influence career trajectories. Additionally, students can leverage their university resources—career counselors, resource groups, career guides, and more—to aid in navigating the job market.

Accelerate the IT Career Journey 

 Many online universities offer accelerated degree programs in addition to standard bachelor’s or master’s programs. Accelerated programs—like WGU’s Accelerated Information Technology Bachelor’s and Master’s Degree program—typically combine bachelor’s and master’s studies to give students a well-rounded knowledge base and a competitive edge in the entry-level IT job market. Completing this kind of program can also position individuals for faster career advancement and more networking opportunities.

Consider Self-Promotion as a Means of Career Promotion 

Imagine the following scenario: You’re hoping to land an entry-level cybersecurity job in Baltimore. To supplement your credentials and stand out to employers, you start a weekly blog about local IT topics. You also engage in conversations on LinkedIn, Facebook, and other social platforms. Lastly, you showcase your technical projects and achievements through a personal website or digital portfolio. Doing these things not only begins to build your credibility but also shows your initiative—an essential trait in tech—giving you extra confidence when applying and interviewing for your next IT role.

Engaging with the local professional IT community can offer valuable exposure and insights into real-world industry practices. This involvement might also provide valuable connections and networking opportunities for broadcasting skills and interests.

It's also worthwhile to become an active, contributing member of popular IT forums and groups. For instance, LinkedIn offers many professional discussion groups, as do leading professional IT organizations like the Association of Independent Information Professionals, the IEEE Computer Society, the Technology Services Industry Association, the Association of Computer Engineers and Technicians, and the Computing Technology Industry Association. Becoming a member of a professional organization in the IT field may signal personal investment and commitment to potential employers. Attending industry conferences is another way to get immersed in the current IT conversation and network with future colleagues.

Start the Next Chapter—Or Join One 

ocal IT-focused certification chapters can provide prime opportunities to meet like-minded people and discover essential IT career resources. Among the most respected and well-known organizations in this space is ISC2, a professional cybersecurity association with more than 40,000 members in chapters across the globe.

Membership benefits are manifold, including access to professional development resources, online training courses, discounts, and more. Whether it involves exchanging tips of the trade at chapter meetings, assisting with industry events, or aiding in community outreach projects, joining and participating in a local chapter could be the first step in vital network- and skills-building as professionals work toward their future.

Take Action and Launch Your IT Career 

 Now that you've learned how to break into entry-level IT roles, it's time to put these ideas into action. As you prepare to start your IT career, remember that the most successful job candidates are proactive networkers and opportunity seekers. With the right attitude and plenty of persistence, these strategies might just help you secure that first IT job faster than you ever imagined.

 Learn more today about how WGU can make the difference on your road to an entry-level tech career.