posted 30th April 2024
Are you looking for a career in the IT industry? Managed service providers (MSPs) are becoming increasingly popular as businesses outsource their IT services. This means there are plenty of job opportunities for those with the right skills and qualifications.
In this article, we'll discuss what a managed service provider job entails, why it's a lucrative career choice, and how you can land a job in this growing field.
What is a Managed Service Provider?
A managed service provider is a company that remotely manages a client's IT infrastructure and end-user systems. This includes everything from network monitoring and security to data backup and disaster recovery.
MSPs offer a range of IT services to businesses, allowing them to focus on their core operations while leaving the technical aspects to the experts. This is especially beneficial for small and medium-sized businesses that may not have the resources to maintain an in-house IT team.
Why is a Managed Service Provider Job Lucrative?
High Demand for IT Services
The demand for IT services is constantly increasing as businesses rely more and more on technology to operate. This means that there is a high demand for skilled professionals in the IT industry, including managed service providers.
According to projections by Tech Nation, the demand for IT and digital occupations may grow as much as 13% by 2030. That is faster than the average for all other occupations. This means that there will be plenty of job opportunities for those with the right skills and qualifications.
Competitive Salary
Due to the high demand for IT services, managed service providers are able to offer competitive salaries to their employees. According to Glassdoor, the average salary for a managed service provider is £47,386 per year, with some earning up to £80,000 or more.
Additionally, many MSPs offer bonuses and other incentives to their employees, making it a lucrative career choice for those looking to enter the IT industry.
Opportunities for Growth and Advancement
Working for a managed service provider also offers opportunities for growth and advancement. As technology continues to evolve, there will be a constant need for professionals who can keep up with the latest trends and advancements.
This means that there will be opportunities for employees to learn new skills and take on more responsibilities, leading to career advancement and higher salaries.
How to Land a Managed Service Provider Job
Now that you know why a managed service provider job is a lucrative career choice, let's discuss how you can land a job in this field.
Get the Right Education and Certifications
The first step to landing a managed service provider job is to get the right education and certifications. Some MSPs may require their employees to have a degree in computer science, information technology, or a related field, while others may place more emphasis on specific certifications.
Certifications in certain areas of IT, such as networking or cybersecurity, can make you stand out from other applicants and increase your chances of getting hired.
Some popular IT certifications for managed service providers include:
CompTIA A+
CompTIA Network+
CompTIA Security+
Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA)
Microsoft Certified Solutions Associate (MCSA)
Gain Experience
While education and certifications are important, having hands-on experience is also crucial for landing a managed service provider job. Many MSPs look for candidates with at least 1-2 years of experience in the IT industry.
If you're just starting out in your career, consider internships or entry-level positions to gain experience and build your skills. You can also volunteer for IT projects or offer your services to small businesses to gain practical experience.
Highlight Your Soft Skills
In addition to technical skills, managed service providers also look for candidates with strong soft skills. These include communication, problem-solving, and time management skills.
Be sure to highlight these skills on your CV and during interviews including examples of how you have used these soft skills in previous roles or projects.
Network and Attend Industry Events
Networking is an important aspect of landing any job, and the IT industry is no exception. Attend industry events, such as conferences and job fairs, to meet professionals in the field and learn about job opportunities.
You can also join online communities and forums for IT professionals to network and stay updated on industry news and job openings.
Tailor Your CV and Cover Letter
When applying for a managed service provider job, it's important to tailor your CV and cover letter to the specific job and company you're applying to. Highlight your relevant skills and experience, and explain why you're a good fit for the role.
Be sure to research the company and its services beforehand to show your interest and knowledge during the application process.
Prepare for Technical Interviews
Managed service providers often conduct technical interviews to assess a candidate's skills and knowledge. Be prepared to answer technical questions and demonstrate your problem-solving abilities.
You can also prepare by practicing common technical interview questions and brushing up on your technical skills.
Conclusion
A managed service provider job is a lucrative career choice for those looking to enter the IT industry. With the right education, certifications, and experience, you can land your dream job at a leading MSP and enjoy a competitive salary, opportunities for growth, and a fulfilling career in the ever-evolving world of technology.
If you are interested in learning more about how TSR Select can help with finding a new role with an MSP or you have hiring requirements for your MSP, please get in touch.
Please reach out to us by emailing contact@tsrltd.co.uk or calling 020 3837 9180. We look forward to working with you!