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? Recent tech degree or certification earners might find their job search daunting, while career switchers might need to face an adjustment period, but there's no need to fret. Breaking into an entry-level IT role just means trying new approaches, applying some outside-the-box thinking, and practicing a little determination.

This blog discusses several tips on how to enter the IT job market during a time of exciting growth and change. 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 internships.

 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. Exhibiting proficiency with AI is especially handy since many employers now look for AI literacy in potential hires.

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.

Explore In-Demand Entry-Level IT Positions

 Jobs with high demand are inherently easier to pursue than those without. 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.

 These positions and more serve as useful stepping stones to more advanced IT opportunities and are valuable in their own right. A number of IT degree programs—including WGU’s bachelor’s programs in computer science, software engineering, and data analytics—are designed to prepare individuals for these kinds of jobs and for continued success throughout their careers.

Target High-Demand Markets for Entry-Level IT Roles

 In addition to evaluating high-demand jobs, it’s important to focus a job search on high-need areas. A 2021 study by WGU and LinkedIn on the cybersecurity field found that there was a shortage of qualified information systems workers in several U.S. regions. According to the study, there were more than 19,000 cybersecurity job postings in Washington, D.C., and only half that amount of cybersecurity professionals in the area to fill them. There were also more than twice the job openings than professionals in major hubs like New York City, Baltimore, Chicago, Boston, Atlanta, Philadelphia, and Los Angeles. Entry-level tech jobs—such as data center technician, systems administrator, and software developer—have also been steadily growing in cities like Denver and New York City.

 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, including the chance to learn details on job postings or set up informational interviews.

 LinkedIn is also a great place to look for IT jobs and follow IT professionals. This resource makes it simple to forge connections with hiring managers 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 IT job in the cybersecurity field in Baltimore. You think about ways to supplement your credentials and stand out to employers. You might decide to write a weekly blog sharing content centered around IT issues in the area. Or you figure it’s a good idea to join the conversation about local IT topics on LinkedIn, Facebook, or other social media platforms. Finally, you opt to showcase your technical projects and learning achievements on a website or in a digital portfolio. Doing these things instills in you an extra measure of confidence while applying and interviewing for your next IT role.

Getting involved in the scene in their desired region can help IT hopefuls learn more about the industry and make valuable connections while broadcasting their interests and skills.

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 governing 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 Better Yet, Join One

 Local 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.