How to Begin a Career in IT

Demand for Information Technology (IT) workers has risen by a staggering 35% over the last two years, due to the development of new technologies and the growth of the digital economy. There’s never been a better time to work in IT! Read on to discover how you can join this rapidly growing, dynamic sector.

Used by 21 million employees every single day, information technology involves developing, maintaining and using computer systems to create, process, send and store all kinds of electronic data.

The term IT covers a wide range of careers, from the highly technical to the more business focused. Are you a genius at maths with an excellent eye for detail? Then you’re likely to make an excellent computer programmer. If you’re better with people than with numbers, you’d probably be more suited to a role within sales or project management.

Whether you choose to specialise in computer programming, web design or cloud computing; IT jobs are available at all levels, depending on your qualifications. You’ll need to enjoy learning, as new technologies and software are constantly being developed, but there are plenty of opportunities to work on a freelance or contract basis.

While standard office hours are common within the IT sector, employees often work longer days when deadlines are looming and support roles sometimes involve working shifts. If you opt for a career in technical sales or become an IT consultant, you’ll probably be expected to travel.

Information Technology is one of the highest sectors in the UK for growth. The fastest growing areas include cyber security, big data, web development, software development and mobile development.

New IT workers needed every year

Because information technology plays such an important role in everyday life, you won’t be restricted to working for a software or hardware company once you’ve completed your training. IT professionals work in a wide variety of sectors including retail, finance, communications, manufacturing and the public sector.
Private companies like Apple, Google, IBM and Microsoft also employ many IT workers, as do major telecommunications companies including BT, Sky, Talktalk and Virgin Media.

There are several routes to a career in the IT industry. If you’re keen to start working at 18, why not opt for a higher apprenticeship, as this will enable you to earn while you learn? Apprenticeships last several years and lead to a level four qualification, such as an HNC.

Alternatively, if you have a decent set of A levels including maths, you could do an information technology degree at university before applying for a graduate level job. Degree specialisms include computer game design, digital media, AI and animation.

If you graduate with a degree in a different subject, you can still enter the IT industry, although you stand a better chance of landing a job if you’ve studied a relevant subject like science, engineering or maths.
Whichever pathway you choose, once you start work, most employers will expect you to master job specific skills by working towards relevant industry standard qualifications.

If you’re an IT professional working in a client facing role, you’ll need strong communication skills in order to understand clients’ needs, explain solutions and communicate technical concepts. Being able to communicate clearly is equally important when it comes to working collaboratively with colleagues.
Some careers in IT also require excellent problem solving skills, as they involve defining problems, identifying the causes and finding logical solutions. You’ll need to be able to prioritize your workload and stay optimistic when confronted with challenges!

The annual salary in IT careers varies based on experience, size of the employer and the area of IT specialisation. Business-related careers, such as consulting and analysis are the highest paid IT careers in the UK. This includes IT business analysts and IT consultants.

Ready to get started on your IT career? Gaining the right qualifications is the perfect way to improve your chances of landing a job. Browse IT courses online today!