posted 1st November 2023
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Are you looking to start a career in IT support? With the ever-growing demand for technology, there is a constant need for skilled IT professionals to provide support and assistance. In this guide, we'll explore how to find IT helpdesk jobs near you and jumpstart your career in tech support.
Why IT Support is a Great Career Choice
Before we dive into the specifics of finding IT helpdesk jobs, let's first discuss why IT support is a great career choice.
High Demand for IT Professionals
With the rapid advancement of technology, there is a constant need for IT professionals to provide support and assistance. This demand is expected to continue to grow, making IT support a stable and secure career choice.
Variety of Job Opportunities
IT support is a broad field with a variety of job opportunities. From helpdesk support to network administration, there are many different roles and specialisations within IT support. This allows for career growth and the opportunity to explore different areas of interest.
Competitive Salary
Due to the high demand for IT professionals, the salary for IT support jobs is competitive. According to Glassdoor, the average salary for an IT support specialist in the United Kingdom is £36,000 per year.
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How to Find IT Helpdesk Jobs Near Me
Now that we've established why IT support is a great career choice, let's discuss how to find IT helpdesk jobs near you.
Utilise Job Search Engines
Job search engines, such as Indeed, LinkedIn, and Glassdoor, are great resources for finding IT helpdesk jobs near you. These websites allow you to filter your search by location, job title, and experience level, making it easier to find relevant job opportunities.
Network with IT Professionals
Networking is a valuable tool for finding job opportunities. Attend local tech events, join online communities, and connect with IT professionals on LinkedIn. These connections can provide valuable insights and potentially lead to job opportunities.
Check Company Websites
Many companies post job openings on their websites, so it's worth checking the career pages of companies you are interested in. This is especially useful if you have a specific company in mind that you would like to work for.
Consider Contract or Freelance Work
Contract or freelance work can be a great way to gain experience and build your resume. Many companies hire IT professionals on a contract basis, and this can often lead to full-time employment.
Partner with a Specialist Recruitment Agency
Specialist recruitment agencies, like TSR Select, specialise in connecting job seekers with employers. They have strong relationships with companies looking to hire IT professionals and can help match you with job opportunities that align with your skills and experience.
Essential Skills for IT Helpdesk Jobs
To be successful in IT support, there are certain skills that are essential to have. These include:
Technical Skills
As an IT support professional, you will need to have a strong understanding of computer hardware, software, and networking. You should also be familiar with troubleshooting techniques and have the ability to learn new technologies quickly.
Communication Skills
Effective communication is crucial in IT support. You will need to be able to explain technical concepts to non-technical individuals and provide clear instructions to users experiencing technical issues.
Problem-Solving Skills
IT support professionals are often faced with complex technical issues that require problem-solving skills. You should be able to think critically and creatively to find solutions to these problems.
Customer Service Skills
Providing excellent customer service is a key aspect of IT support. You should be patient, empathetic, and able to remain calm under pressure when dealing with frustrated users.
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Advancing Your Career in IT Support
Once you've landed an IT helpdesk job, there are several ways to advance your career in IT support.
Gain Certifications
Certifications are a great way to demonstrate your knowledge and skills in a specific area of IT support. Some popular certifications for IT support professionals include CompTIA A+, Microsoft Certified Solutions Associate (MCSA), and Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA).
Pursue Higher Education
Pursuing a degree in a related field, such as computer science or information technology, can also help advance your career in IT support. Many employers prefer candidates with a degree, and it can open up opportunities for higher-level positions.
Specialise in a Specific Area
As mentioned earlier, IT support is a broad field with many different roles and specialisations. Consider specialising in a specific area, such as network administration or cybersecurity, to advance your career and increase your earning potential.
Common Misconceptions About IT Support
There are several common misconceptions about IT support that may deter individuals from pursuing a career in this field. Let's debunk some of these misconceptions.
IT Support is Only for Tech Geniuses
While having a strong understanding of technology is important in IT support, you don't need to be a tech genius to be successful. With the right training and experience, anyone can excel in IT support.
IT Support is a Boring Desk Job
IT support is far from a boring desk job. You will have the opportunity to work with a variety of technologies and interact with different people on a daily basis. Plus, with the constant advancements in technology, there is always something new to learn and explore.
IT Support is a Dead End Job
IT support is a constantly evolving field, and there are many opportunities for career growth and advancement. With the right skills and experience, you can move up the ladder and take on more challenging and rewarding roles.
Conclusion
IT support is a great career choice with a high demand for skilled professionals. By utilising job search engines, networking, and partnering with specialist IT recruitment agencies, you can find IT helpdesk jobs near you and jumpstart your career in tech support. With the right skills and experience, you can advance your career and achieve success in the field of IT support.
If you are an experienced professional looking for a new IT support role in Cloud, Cyber, or Managed Services, we can help you.
Please get in touch with us by emailing contact@tsrltd.co.uk or calling 020 3837 9180. We look forward to working with you!