The start of a new year is a great time to start a new job. This may include changing your career to IT.
Starting your IT career search can be challenging. You may be unsure of which path to take or how to enter the field.
Developing a plan to start your IT career search helps you map the steps to reach your goals. Working with a staffing agency that specializes in IT also can be beneficial.
Follow these guidelines to start your IT career search today.
1. Determine Your Career Goals
Understand the type of IT career you want before you begin looking for roles.
- Focus on your dream job.
- Include the type, size, and culture of the company you want to work for.
- Think about the salary, benefits, and perks you desire.
- Determine the types of jobs that can lead to your dream role.
- Focus your search on jobs that align with your career path.
2. Update Your LinkedIn Profile
Show you have the qualifications needed for the IT position you desire.
- Ensure your contact information, profile statement, and profile summary are current.
- Include your relevant education, skills, work history, and certification.
- Request endorsements from previous supervisors, managers, colleagues, and coworkers.
3. Create a Digital Portfolio
Use your digital portfolio to display examples of your work.
- Showcase how your projects benefitted an employer.
- Include quantitative results from your work.
- Demonstrate how your skills can add value for your next employer.
- Include a link to your digital portfolio in your resume and LinkedIn profile.
4. Network
Set up informational interviews with technologists in roles similar to the one you desire.
- Connect with relevant IT professionals through LinkedIn.
- Ask if you can talk for 30 minutes about their job, company, and career path.
- Develop three to five questions that can guide your IT career search.
- Determine whether a position may be right for you.
- Find out whether the technologist knows of any job openings or can introduce you to a hiring manager.
5. Apply for Jobs
Customize your resume to the role you desire.
- Include your relevant education, skills, experience, and certifications.
- Share your relevant achievements, quantifiable results, and awards.
- Use keywords from the job posting throughout your resume.
- Show you are well-qualified for the position.
6. Customize Your Cover Letter
Your cover letter provides information not included in your resume.
- Discuss whether you are beginning or changing your career.
- Explain any gaps in your work experience.
- Show how your qualifications make you stand out from other applicants.
- Clarify why you are the best candidate for the position.
7. Practice Interviewing
Engage in mock interviews.
- Research the company you want to work for.
- Practice answering interview questions.
- Prepare questions for the interviewer.
- Monitor your body language.
Partner with an IT Staffing Agency
Partner with a recruiter from RightStone for guidance throughout your IT career search. Visit our job board today.