I got my first IT job because I was accidentally hired. The hiring manager sent an offer letter to the wrong person with a similar name, i accepted, and then (manager) was demoted. Upper management didn't want me but I heard through the grape vine they had trouble finding people they deemed "qualified". I was horrendously unqualified. No IT experience outside of building computers at home. I gave that position (networking) everything I had. Trial by fire. I had the belief i could be fired at any moment.... 2.5 years later I have a security+ cert. My current weekly salary is the equivalent of what my monthly salary was working as a manager in fast food. DONT GIVE UP!
I actually just landed my first IT job with little to no experience. On paper, I had no prior IT resume history, and only a four month technical college cert for IT obtained last year. I was so fearful about this exact topic, but the hiring manager told me that whereas ten years ago, he would have hired someone with years of job experience, that he now looks for soft skills first and he loved my personality and willingness to learn. So, I start in August. Nervous yet excited!
I got an IT job without experience. All I had was Sec+ and a Clearance. Five years later, I am making $165,000 and a contractor overseas. You have to start somewhere. Entry-level and work hard.
Im 55 years ,just got hired August 18th 2021...no experience in IT but they're training me.. It's definitely a career change for me..but I really like my job...
@@pit1513 how can i get this kind of entry level jobs where i will be trained...please note that i have no prior experience however, i am opened to continuous learning and development. My interest is in Cybersecurity. I will be very glad if you can guide me
I had no experience in IT before I studied through your videos and others towards my A+ cert. My backround was retail and labouring. I got offered a job after my first (And only) interview. Got offered a 3 month contract initially to help on an Avaya project, then it was extended due to Covid-19 and I got moved to the service desk to help with the increase in demand from people working from home. I found out yesterday that I'm being given a permanent position, now. And there are opportunities for secondments in other fields, such as security. I definitely believe that attitude and willingness to learn is more important than experience. We're a team of 9 and constantly learning from one another. Even as the least experienced person on the team, the guys will ask me for help if they know my knowledge on a particular thing is good.
Same here, background only in retail and I’ve been in construction for 7 years... hoping to change careers to IT Were you able to get the job with solely an A+?
Jobs are a weird thing. Some people stumble their way into their dream job which they might not have even know existed before they got it, and other people do everything perfectly and never get hired for the job thy want.
@@mikeoxlong567 i wouldnt say its rolling the dice as much. it's more seeing changing trends, being resourceful and being able to adapt. Most people go through the school pipeline, get the degree and expect their dream job to be handed to them on a silver platter but many see this method is becoming outdated in the current job market.
I started out working at grocery stores and customer service, then worked my way up to help desk/technical support then used my skills there and the software tools i was exposed to to tweak my resume and move my way into entry/junior level IT work. The hardest part is studying the field youre getting into so you can ace the interview and getting the certifications. Everything else you'll pretty much learn on the job.
I wish i knew about IT jobs, in wasted 4yrs in college for graphic design and never got a job. I work in hospital making 16hr in maryland. I'm still regretting why I chose that as a career. I hate everything about graphics now....now at 35 with kids, I have to work 2 jobs and studying for cloud certification.
I got my first IT job with no experience. The way that worked for me was to study and put my self in every position possible to get the experience I wanted. I read the Comptia A+, Network+ and Security + to help answer the technical questions in interviews. I watched every Professor Messer video I could, I applied for apprenticeships at 30 years old. I also started the application process to join the British Army to gain experience in IT and Communications as this would have given me a free path to qualifications and experience. I applied for everything, and it was a random company found my cv and gave me the chance. 3 years in and I have gained 4 certifications and moved into a 2nd line position whilst working on moving into the Security field. If you want it dont give up. Also make sure you watch all of Professor Messers videos. I owe him alot.
This is awesome thank you for posting this! I'm trying to get a career in IT at 28 with no practical experience in the field, it can definitely be tough to stay optimistic but reading this really helps.
One tip is to use the jobs you have worked to demonstrate meta or soft skills related to the IT job you're applying for. For example if you've worked at a fast food restaurant or in retail during Black Friday then you have experience in customer service and working in a fast paced environment that can change at a moments notice.
Just passed my Sec + exam with 809 with your help! No previous experience besides doing things at home and now I’m job hunting. I pray I can find a good job soon.
Just got hired with little to no experience and honestly I feel very unqualified. But I guess they saw something in me and I impressed them enough in the interviews. I start soon to hopefully everything works out
@Thuan Nguyen well I’m still employed so that’s a good sign😂 but it is a huge learning curve but everyday I feel like I am getting better. At times it is overwhelming but the department I’m in has a great team who is very helpful
Life is funny. I landed a job in IT without any experience in the area. I never imagined I would work in IT. Last year, an IT multinational found my resume in a website and offered me a help desk position. Why did they offer it to me? Language skills (I speak English and German, both are not my native language). They needed someone fluent in both these languages to attend to end users, and only very elementary knowledge operating Windows was necessary, they offered training on necessary skills in the help desk tool during the first weeks. I learned a lot about ITSM, Active Directory, and more. After some months, the help desk operation I worked in was terminated, but I was offered training and certification to work as an ITSM project developer. It’s being a lot of fun, and because the company offers vouchers for some great IT certifications, I’m paving my way into a nice career.
I'm 52 and getting into IT because of Covid... the Bootcamp people were misleading and didn't mention anything about networking or other skills you might need prior to Security +
I landed my first IT job without any IT experience, nor computer science background. In fact I studied agricultural economics, I was in a totally different field to say the least. Being from Nigeria and living in Nigeria even makes it worse as we have very few It companies here. However, I managed to get into IT and landed a job in a Cybersecurity firm and it’s been an exciting journey. I will share most of my job soon on my RUclips channel. I really want to say a big thank you to Professor Messer. He truly helped my journey from A+ days. If you go through my RUclips you’d find videos that aren’t IT related, well I used those creativity as my escape from everyday Cybersecurity (not that I don’t like it) I just enjoy to cook and share my experience.
@Thuan Nguyen thanks. You can take at different times and it don't matter which order. For exams itself it was actually easier than I thought. All questions are solving solution type questions. So pretty much you're the technician going in and figuring out the problems.
I was making bagels as my side job during college and got IT support right away after completing my course which pays 60k/year. Life can flip your life anytime for better or worse. So always work hard and be positive.
I got my first IT job and I used your a+ videos to prepare for my interview tech questions as well. I am 30 yrs old and have a sales background. I applied for over 45 jobs and only 1 person called me and I got the job.
@@MHb789 I got a job as a field tech/helpdesk for a small MSP company. I don't have a degree, just high school and A+cert (Thanks to Prof Messer's videos + study groups. I also bought the practice exams). My typical day at this job would be going around setting up PC's or network equipment for the new clients while my boss do the more technical work remotely after I provide them remote access.I would install voip phones, provision new clients and if not out on the field, I would be at the desk providing support for basic pc issues (some very stupid issues) and voip issues for our clients.I would. also set up cabling from MDF to IDF, using cable toners to trace cables and crimping new cables on the go. it was a low paying job and my interview had very basic technical questions like: what is ping, how do you check ip's and how do you assign an IP to a host. I learnt more stuff at the job as I progressed. I Worked with VoIP, virtualization and some active directory. I stayed at that job for 4 months, I felt like I was not learning new stuff and found myself repeating tasks.I started looking for new jobs on the side and found a remote job in a NOC as a tier 1 (its nice when you can add some relevant work exp on the resume), my interview was all about OSI model. In this job I monitor customer's network circuits for up and provide support for VoIP, TDM & POTS phone services.I am currently 10 months into this job & I have learned a lot here. I have been preparing for CCNA for 5 months now & soon will be taking the exam. I hope to move forward in networking. I am also learning Front end development on the side (it interests my creative mind), so I am juggling both at the moment... Do not worry about being a beginner and do not settle in a low paying role. Keep learning and moving forward. I read somewhere recently : Certs are a good way to get your foot in the door but the real learning starts at the job. Hope this helps🙂
I landed an IT job with only 2/4 elements about 3 years ago - And the hardest part is "getting your foot in the door." I only had a little practical experience and knew someone who personally used to work for the company that had given me a recommendation. I truly believe one of the STRONGEST things to stress on your CV and within the interview, is your willingness to learn and grow within the industry. Even if you don't have any certifications, put something like: "Actively studying for Network+ certification", etc. I believe this can even carry more weight than a formal degree in a certain regard because IT is a NEVER ENDING journey of learning. And truly showing passion for that position speaks volumes to your commitment within the industry and your character.
Thanks a lot for this video Professor. All your training material is gold. It gives me confidence about making the jump and pushing my way through. I am 36yrs old and I have never completed any training or study. I was never motivated to. Since being made redundant in April due to Covid I said to myself, this is it time to move away from the print industry and make the move to get A+ certified. It took me about 7 weeks study and I passed on my first attempt. My first certificate! I have my core 2 exam in about 5 weeks time. I feel a bit of pressure at the moment as my wife and I bought our first house a few months ago and we have a second child coming in January. There are days where I doubt myself but these videos pick me up again and make me feel like I can do it. Thank you.
@@Brucelee89896 I'll be using the professors videos, unofficial practice tests and other online materials to study. If I find something really helpful I'll pass it on to you.
@@Brucelee89896 focus on the exam objectives, know how to explain each one and the pros and cons and the uses of each etc Read the title of each exam objective section use it as a checklist for study
Samuel Dolinski Samuel Dolinski nice. Thank you for your service. I was prior navy and have been out for 10 years now. Army cyber operations specialist training seems pretty comprehensive (45 weeks). Good luck to you too brother!
i was lucky enough to find a kind soul to hire me into an environment i have never experienced. never worked in a call center, no IT work experience. all i had was a degree in IT and he took a risk. only 2 weeks here but time passes so quickly in an environment like this
I was lucky enough to have a friend that is a manager for the IT dept at a smaller architecture firm. I have no college degree, I have yet to get a certification(though it's in the works) and just a few days ago, I received an offer for salaried employment with the company. I work my ass off, I don't shy away from doing anything that was asked of me, I am reliable, and I fit it well with the IT team and the culture of the firm and probably most important, I don't act like I know things that I don't. Don't be afraid to ask questions, be personable. A couple of things I believe helped me get the job over others that may be more qualified, are ability to speak to others(you'd be surprised how just being able to talk to someone on the other end of the phone, or in the office, will help. Culture fit is another big thing, me and the others on the IT team have such a strong respect for each other and we are all working towards the common goal of fixing end users problems and streamlining our processes.
I was fortunate. I spent almost 18 years in telecom. A lot of hardware and physical "networking", running miles of cabling. I got burned out being in Field Service and took a low paying job at a hospital doing "pc hardware tech". Then IT Support. 5 years later I was promoted to Network Administrator for the hospital. I absolutely love IT and Networking! It's a fun career imo. Read, watch these videos and learn as much as possible. The experience and knowledge pays off.
As someone who has been out of work since January 15th, 2021 (7/15/21 now) I've been contemplating joining the field of IT. I followed my heart because I was passionate in the human services/social services field and, after realizing how toxic the environment is I don't think I can ever return. The pay (NYC) for my level of experience is pretty much almost entry-level pay for IT. I'll be turning 29 in September and having to start all over in a new field has been my biggest fear. I realize it's time to make the jump and I'll be looking forward without looking behind. With the flexibility, the pay, the massive amount of jobs available, it's a no-brainer. I love hearing stories about people without any experience at an older age making an impact in this new field because it gives people like myself hope. Thank you Professor Messer for changing so many lives and assisting us in this process of major change.
Hi! Would like to hear how your journey has been so far. I’ve been out of work for quite some time myself and looking into IT positions I can do from home due to not being able to travel far from home & extremely few opportunities available locally. I just turned 28 a few weeks ago myself.
A lot of companies have software that will filter key words based on your resume wording...it’s very important to understand that you may never get an interview unless you get your resume professionally done by a accredited resume company because most resumes may not even make it through the filter. It’s a big deal and can help you out tremendously Just got my first job yesterday...start Monday. Stay close to Christ and exercise sound judgement, He is the one that ultimately opens the doors 👊✊
Studying for the A+ is taking longer than I'd like, so I can't wait to watch this video in case I run out of time. Thank you for your videos, I already binged them all but am going through them a second time, this time making a flash card for every topic. I already feel like I'm retaining much more by studying these every day, and it's insane how I've forgotten most of the information from my first binge watch. Your videos have taught me that the internet gives you all the tools necessary for success, but it's up to me to study and apply that information. Edit: Finally got around to watching it and it's even better than I thought. I took a college class that went into job hunting and they didn't talk about stuff like making your own experience by setting up a lab and never eating alone. This channel is a goldmine as always, thank you so much!
I worked in a recruitment firm for 2 months as an IT Recruiter to get my first Job into the Cyber Security domain. Today, I do have around 2 yrs of experience in this role. I believe that everyone should keep trying, don't think to quit. Eventually, you will get it.
Thanks! I really appreciate your books guess what I’ve gotten a position with the DOD. Because of you thanks smh most of the material you cover is college level IT. Again I appreciate you for taking your time out of your day to give people of the unknowing a rundown of how this works.
This is great! I don't know why so many others benfiting Prof. Messer's helpt, would do the same. In IT careers, this is lunch money. I can't wait to dive in Professor Messer's vids.
I was sent this video link from the instructor of the Linux course that I'm currently taking, and I have to say that this video gave me so much relief, clarity and peace of mind. I have no formal IT training or experience whatsoever but I have always had an infinity for the behind the scenes or interworking of computers. Thank you so much Professor Messer!!!
This video is perfect timing for me! I'm currently working on Security+ and already have NET+ but I don't have lot of opportunity to get hands on "IT". I'm working on building my own network and do just what you mentioned and be able to have some relevant stories to share about my IT experience. Great tips thank you!
This is fantastic and exactly what I needed, I have my A+ and have recently received my Security + I have no experience and am working on my Associates in Information Technology. I really appreciate this video.
This is incredibly helpful. Thank you Professor Messer, I'm currently studying for my A+ exam using your course content and ITProTV, it really helps a lot, the simplicity with which you explain each and everything in your videos. God bless you.
I'm 43 bus driver. I always loved IT. Recently I passed CCNA. I have A+, Network+, and Basic Cloud+ courses done. Now I am aiming for Security+ exam in August/September. I have no IT experience in my CV at all.
If you don't have a job yet I wouldn't focus on getting anymore certs. The CCNA should be enough to get you into a help desk position or jr network position.
I got into IT by first working at an ISP's call center. After working there for 5 years and working up the ranks, I developed intermediate networking skills, in addition to extremely strong soft skills. This experience got me a network administrator position at another company. There's a lot to be said about taking an entry level job at a company you want to work at. With effort and skill, it's relatively easy to move up.
I got in touch with one of many Temp Agencies that recruited for entry level IT and the rest was history. No IT experience required, just customer service experience and the intentionality for IT work was enough.
I went to school for I.T got my cert landed a job as computer tech haven't been on that for a year now; tomorrow I have an interview for a job at Medical I.T company fingers crossed
I have a an Associate Degree in Graphic Design just got a programming certificate from my local community college and applying for jobs. Background has mostly been in warehouse where I’ve crossed trained from assembly line to fork life to welding. I’m applying the same willings to learn in the tech field! Thank you for this information been getting discouraged looking for jobs during this time but things will work out!
after 10 years of the army, 25Q. i was able to get a lower mid (imo) job through connections and having Sec+. whole interview process was 4 days. go out and talk to ppl, ppl. make friends and get ya certs. it will pay off!
luckily thanks to God. I was able to get an IT job at my old school while in college as in part time. I really didn't have the hands on experience. But I have decent knowledge about computers. Im telling you now, I am learning more at the job than I am in college !
My first job in IT I landed in 2003 while studying A+ at DeKalb Technical College. Mind you I have a bachelors (Computer Information Systems). But at the time IBM outsourced their help desk support through a 3rd party. Needless to say the requirements sent down from IBM was cert over degree. I never even finished my A+ but got the job based on my studies. Yes they skipped right past my degree and saw that i was enrolled in tech college. But don’t get it twisted - after 3yrs I went into another help desk role at another company (Philips) and that job did require a bachelors degree (in anything!) By 2010 I was an IT PM. In 2018, I left corporate America all together.
Thanks a lot. I've been limiting myself and rejecting myself after reading the requirements, etc for jobs I initially wanted to apply for. Well, thanks to your very informative and awesome video, I will no longer reject or limit myself. I'm going to put my degree to use. Thanks so much 😎🙂
I think that’s my problem...I see the requirements and am like well that’s not gonna happen for me so I don’t apply. I’m gonna start applying regardless now.
@@danisweetlove I applied for an entry level IT position, and received an email saying "although your skills are certainly impressive, we've decided to go with another candidate" well, at first I was disappointed, but I decided to keep pushing 🙂
M J yeah that’s horrible to receive that news. 2 weeks ago I wrote a comment here hopeful that I was actually getting my foot in the door at a job. Well I thought the interview went well but haven’t received any offers. So I guess it’s back to the grind.
@@danisweetlove oh wow, sorry to hear that. Have you contacted them to about the interview? You should give them a call. Yeah, those types of emails like the one I received is disappointed. Hopefully I get something soon though. Good luck to you 😎
M J my brother works there and talked to the recruiter and he said I did well in my interview but apparently not well enough. Yeah I’m gonna keep trying and good luck to you as well.
I have just been offered two separate IT positions after 6 months of looking and am currently in the negotiation process. I used a combination of all of the suggestions listed. I have a few associate level degrees but I’m Aviation Technology, not in computers. I am going into the last semester of a bachelors degree in IT management which both places did care about. Both jobs had a really hard interview process but I leaned heavily on mostly self taught skills, such as self study, labs, and free online workshops. My work experience contains technical related work but not IT directly. But I tuned my resume with all the technical and customer service related skills I have gain. It took awhile to get my foot in the door but use everything at your disposal and you’ll get it.
Professor. Just wanted to give a shout out and a thanks as your videos helped me get my a+ and net+ certs a few years ago and then i spent 3 years working for an MSP and just got a new job at a local hospital. THANK YOU SIR!!! keep up the good work
Short term contracts are an easy first step to experience. Often they need more than one applicant so the chances of getting a placement is good, the interviews are pretty short (one for the hiring agency, one for the company you work for) and they usually need people pretty quick so there isnt much messing around. Downsides that I've found: the pay isnt great, you get no benefits (no pto etc), the project can end whenever, the training is usually pretty bad since they want you there for a specific purpose and only that purpose, the chances of being hired on are not great since companies use staffing agencies so they dont have to hire people. But if you want something on your resume, it can be a quick way to get going
Prior to taking the test , did you take the CertMaster learn for A+ ? I just finished the Google IT Support Certification and feel like it need more training. What would you recommend ? If anyone can please help
I got hired with no IT job experience but years of in-home work done on my personal computer and troubleshooting it, my friends' computers, and their routers/modems. My boss/employer liked the questions I asked him when I was interviewing. Most importantly, what his/his company's plans were for expanding.
Brittany Washington “What are your plans for expanding the company?” “What software/hardware solutions do you use?” “Why that specific software?” (So I could research it for interview 2, if I got an interview 2) “How many years have you worked in IT?” And boy, I did I not even do enough research but I scratched the surface and he liked that I did some research. I also did some research into the company before the first interview and asked about the owners and why the company was only a year or two old.
@@ImTheMrFoxman Oh wow. Excellent questions. Thank you for responding. I have my test for Security + in a few weeks and I don't have IT experience, but I want to transition into the IT department within my company. This is really helpful for me. I appreciate it.
I have taken your advice as I did with training for sec + and net + and have sent out 85 resumes so far and have modified my resume to include “personal project” experience through coursework
I received my bachelors degree in information systems in 2019 and have not been able to get a job in the IT field. I have struggled to find really any job. I have done countless job applications and some tell me come back when you have more experience. How can I get experience if no one will hire me? It’s been very depressing and the pandemic has made it even harder. I will look into these certifications to see if that will help me land a job.
Sorry to hear that, maybe try to find a entry level position. I got my job thanks to connections, after graduating highschool I worked at the food depeartment and hated it. My sister knew this guy who owned a computer repair shop so she told the guy that I would do great, the guy interview me and I had zero experience and still took me in, he is been training me and im also in college getting my AS in Network Engineer for now.
Same here. I graduated in IT in 2019 and still havent got any job offers eventhough I applied to like 500 places already. Im currently in F1 visa which will expire in December and if I dont get a job I wont be able to stay here in US. Im really struggling.
B Beverley as an international student I spent $24000 on tuiton fees per semester for 4 years plus theres the living cost in nyc and now I have to look for certification? I agree its needed but doesnt mean I cant get into an entry level job with my bachelors degree.
Are you serious?! That’s what I’m majoring in right now! I was recently looking into certifications like A+ Net+ Sec+.... I was afraid of something like this happening to me
IEEE1394 Gaming you may have a better experience than me. I live in the worst place in the United States with the #1 unemployment. I contacted ppl I know who work for IT for the county I live in and they all said no to me because of the pandemic and working from home I would be a liability 🤷🏻♀️
I don't have a highschool diploma or GED, I don't have a driver's license, I have 0 certifications... And I worked for DELL based upon my experience alone.
Just browsing around to get some information for my unmotivated brother. Another YTber recommended this channel so I subbed and will be forwarding to him. Great information and tips 👍🏼
For me, my mentor as a freshman in college just happened to be a computer analyst. Once he found out my interests, he told me about the job opening for student computer technician in his department, I got interviewed, and hired. I wanted to be a computer technician since I was like 9 or so, so that worked out perfectly. I had just a little experience of tinkering around with computers and no degree of formal training, but a high interest in learning more.
I didn't pursue a job in computers bc the push was so hard toward college when I was in HS, I was no good at upper level math, so thought since I couldn't do computer science, that was it for that field. I got a bs BS I never used. In my 30s I went for a trade job in a field I ended up hating, and now at 42 I'm getting to where I can't handle the physical side of it bc of medical issues. At this point I don't care if I have to do the most menial, lowest paying IT job there is until I get enough experience to move up.
Thank you so much for sharing this valuable information. I'm currently getting my associate's degree in December and working on getting my CompTIA A+ Certification by the end of the year.
Thanks Professor, your videos helped me with the A+ which got me into IT years ago! -------------------------------------- "Your new job is just around the corner. Don't stop, keep pushing. You can do this! 😎" - Mahad The Motivator
I have an interview next Thursday for a tech position at a public school system. I’ve applied and interviewed twice before with no luck. My brother works there and told me they aren’t looking for people to meet the qualifications this time, they just need help and are willing to train people. I’m hoping that will finally be my foot in the door.
@@Reason_over_Dogma thanks for the well wishes, but I didn’t get it. I am still at my current job which is not in the tech field but I feel like something good is on the horizon for me and I’m not giving up hope.
Just awarded the last of three Professional Certifications. I hold CompTIA Security+, EC-Council Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH), and Splunk Core Certified User. Having these has bolstered my confidence! Again, Thank You for your video's because they helped!
Hi Professor I just passed my A+ certification and I couldn't do it with out your help! Thanks so much for all you do. I used your training videos, study groups, and Instagram pop questions. You're doing a great thing. I'm stoked!
I started loading trucks at a talent agency 4 years ago. We rented out gear to support our talent and much of that gear included wireless audio mixers. They were controlled on an iPad and the communication occurred via WiFi. So I learned how to use the gear in my free time at the warehouse. I began working outside of the warehouse on gigs to set up and operate the equipment. A year later I had 1 year of iPad and Networking experience. Boom. I was in. I got hired at a low voltage company building data networks. Still manual labor, but a step in the right direction. A year later I had 2 years of experience in Technology. I got a phone call offering a job at an actual helpdesk with a huge bump in pay. I said yes of course. Now, once you're in....you're in. I have recruiters calling me nonstop every week. I have 4 years of experience now, but I am still learning and still getting offers! Apply yourself in the direction of technology at WHATEVER company you currently are working at and there's your foot in the door experience.
I'm very confident about my skills, technical as well as otherwise, and think I'll land my first tech job within weeks of ending my current temp gig. But I'm trying to figure out, as my first job and stepping stone to a tech career, whether I should aim for a big company with lots of different types of work or a smaller company where any given employee makes up a larger portion of what they do. My conclusion so far is that it depends on the specific company. The one thing I'm wary of is winding up in a job where I'm not able to prove what I know. So I'll think twice before accepting a position in very basic customer services.
WOW, how ironic! Just 2 days ago I applied for an “IT Specialist, GS-2210” (Government position) because I HATE my job as a GS-1102. I hope this is good sign!🤞🏽🙏🏽🥺
Currently have my A+ and Net+ certs, but no real-world experience. This video comes at an interesting time. I'm going to try creating my own home lab to learn new things.
First, I want to thanks RUclips Algorithm for recommending me this video. I have basically no experience in IT, and I have 2 basic Certifications (Mikrotik and Cisco), But I don't know where to start finding a job. It doesn't matter if the pay is low as long I got the experience. but...I really don't know where to start :(
Soft skills matter! Be hungry to learn and position yourself around the right people, Currently have some college and no Certs, and working as an IT consultant and moonlighting as an IT Security Analyst for the Feds.
I found this video at the perfect time in my life. 4year degree and no work experience., now I have an actual sense of direction. Thank you for making this video.
The point the professor makes about networking is so, so true! As a software developer turned SAHM, recently divorced, I had to get employment fast so I got my A++ certification ( and I can't express just how much Prof Messer HUGELY helped with my passing both exams 1st attempt, except to say, it was HUGE!!!) and then got my first contractor job, not ideal but it was experience, and that lead to another contractor position where I met some really great guys, two of which left that job before me but over a year or so later, they recruited me for an employed position at the #1 engineering firm in my city. It was by far the EASIEST two interviews I've ever had in my life because I personally knew two of the interviewers and since we had shared experience, I could draw on instances we all experienced at that previous job and it made all the difference in the world. Now I'm actual an employee, not a contractor, with PTO, benefits with 401k and profit sharing after a year of employment. That NEVER would have happened if I hadn't made those connections because I was told that they had interviewed someone with lengthy sys admin experience, yet I got the job. The recruiter for the engineering firm I now work for also told me that internal referrals always go to the top of the resume pile.
2003 No experience aside from hobbyist. No certs.. Got hired as a contractor for $17.50/hr... Out of IT (but highly technical work) since 2009. This past winter got A+, Sec+ and Net+ (thx Professor) got hired in Feb 2020 at $27/hr for a large win10 migration. Contract ends in Dec. Job hunting now. Perm Job offers are barely $20/hr.. its a weird market
Reminds me of the time I struggled to get a job in Human Resources with no experience. That was the worse feeling but I managed to get an entry level recruiting role. Now I’m interested in IT😄
I have a 4-year business management degree and have built multiple computers (for business and gaming). I have decided to get into the tech field because these are where my talents lie. I have started studying for the Comptia A+ 1101 and I'm almost ready for the test. 😀
I feel ya, its like even "Entry Level" you need experience, guess I should make use of my free time by doing some virtual labs and fluff the "experience" on it to find a job at this point.
In my experience, I had to essentially "pay my dues". Got A+ certified in high school, started interning summers doing level 1 helpdesk role doing grunt work. Impressed my employers, and was offered a job the day after graduating. If I would give any advice, it would be to take anything you can, and work yourself to the bone. People recognize hard work, and it has brought my from imaging computers in the back to working alongside the network administration and security teams on projects.
I'm currently pursuing a bachelor's in IT from University of Phoenix (online school works better for my situation). I am in year 2 but have no IT experience, no certs (I plan to take them soon), and no experience in IT. I'm trying to get my foot in the door early while I get through school because I'm tired of working jobs that aren't what I want to do as a career. Thanks for this, it helps. I guess I'll just have to keep pushing to finish school and hopefully I'll get my foot in here in Northern California.
Thank you so much! This is very helpful advice. I am taking my first certification course (CompTIA Fundamentals+ - I am calling it my IT kindergarten, lol ) and only have some college - I was too busy working to support myself to afford school (I don't like being in debt!), with 34 Years of Experience as an Admin/Clerical, so a windows MS Office user all my work life, so looking to level up. My company was bought out at my last job, and my departments eliminated, laid off with a good severance package, which allows me time and money to take a class or two while job hunting. I felt this field would be a natural extension of my skills and abilities, as I designed trained and implemented the digitization of our paper medical records. This had me working closely with our IT Support to administer the user groups that would access the records after they were digitized. My background is more linguistic, so I feel it should not be too difficult to learn a few computer languages. I took 3 languages in High school, which was unusual at the time, so not intimidated. Also all my friends are geeks - met through my hobbies of living history, cosplay, and gaming. It was one of my smartest tech friends who is mentoring me through this now.
I do have experience in IT field, not much but some and I dont understand why nobody would hire me. In my last interview I thought i did good, until one of my friends who works for that company in the IT field told me I didn't get hired for the fact that the last IT manager who interviewed me thought he will prefer to hire guys and not a girl!!!
First than all, THANKS!! your explanation is solid gold in the hands of IT knowledge hunger people like me. I currently work in the Help desk area and your advice are truthfully appreciated. Keep doing this brilliant work
I needed this - I'm switching careers and looking for opportunities. When I tried last year, everywhere I saw wanted experience and certs, neither of which I have. I start school in the fall for IT and am studying up on Sec+ and re-working some assignments from a Java class. Creating your own lab via a VM and looking for other opportunities helps.
I appreciate what you do for us in these lessons. After listening to your presentation I will go through with my plans for a future in IT. I appreciate your wisdom and realness about the field. Your reputation precedes itself, Professor. Thank you sir.
Setting up a lab with a VM is what people need to do without experience Because that is the point,if you set up windows 10 and join it to a domain,use active directory and RDP,that is showing you understand what you are doing You can say to the interviewer I do have experience,I’ve set up labs and it also shows initiative which is what helped me land a job in travel years ago It’s like IT,really hard to get into. So I went to college for a year,but I also went round every travel agents with my CV and even said i would volunteer It was tough,but one lady said how impressed she was for taking initiative and gave me a chance Two days voluntary and five nights working in a kitchen In nine months I went from voluntary to full time You have to go the extra mile and put the effort in Stand out from the competition and push yourself even if you think it’s not working I can promise you this,if you have any years of customer service,it will greatly benefit you It’s actually a little worrying how many people can’t even talk to another person either sociably or at work I’ve even seen people complaining about skipping help desk,because they don’t want to speak to people!! Don’t give up on your search or yourself Do the labs,get your CV done and redone if you need to I’m currently studying for the 1002 and it’s not easy,but nothing worth having is ever easy Cliche I know,but it’s true
I would love to know how some of the people commenting here managed to obtain an IT job so easily without any prior experience. I've been in employment for over 15 years and I wanted a change of career as I've always had an interest in computers. I achieved my CompTIA A+ in April 2019 (and Professor Messer's study group videos proved very helpful), and then I followed that up with an MCSA three months later. Despite this, there was very little interest from employers, even when I applied for entry-level IT jobs, and I only managed 4 interviews over a period of 10 months applying for dozens of jobs. I feel like my certifications have been a waste of time and money. Maybe it's because I don't live in the USA and the A+ just isn't considered relevant or important to employers where I'm based. Maybe it's because employers didn't understand when I applied that I was prepared to take a reduction in my salary to get my foot in the door. Who knows? Anyway, at the time of writing (September 2020), the gloomy economic outlook due to the coronavirus pandemic has meant that I have put my attempts to move into IT on hold indefinitely. It's safer to stay where I am right now.
I'm just recently doing research for the switch, and the thing that keeps coming up is building a homelab. I don't even understand the concept, and the reddit feels like reading Greek, but that's what I'm seeing. After watching this video, I'm gonna watch some vids on building one. It's been frustrating, and I'm doubting myself, but comments like these show me I'm not alone. Remember the prof said these certs may not get you the job, but you've got more knowledge than me already by completing your certs. I wish you luck.
I got my first IT job because I was accidentally hired. The hiring manager sent an offer letter to the wrong person with a similar name, i accepted, and then (manager) was demoted. Upper management didn't want me but I heard through the grape vine they had trouble finding people they deemed "qualified". I was horrendously unqualified. No IT experience outside of building computers at home. I gave that position (networking) everything I had. Trial by fire. I had the belief i could be fired at any moment.... 2.5 years later I have a security+ cert. My current weekly salary is the equivalent of what my monthly salary was working as a manager in fast food. DONT GIVE UP!
Thank you for sharing with us .
Oh wow.. interesting but you survived.
Damn dude that's a hell of a story. Glad it worked out and they kept ya
Sounds like hell, and shouldnt have to be this way but it is..
You were blessed!! Great testimony
I actually just landed my first IT job with little to no experience. On paper, I had no prior IT resume history, and only a four month technical college cert for IT obtained last year. I was so fearful about this exact topic, but the hiring manager told me that whereas ten years ago, he would have hired someone with years of job experience, that he now looks for soft skills first and he loved my personality and willingness to learn. So, I start in August. Nervous yet excited!
Congrats
Congrats man
congrats i'm in the same boat but now working for a comptia cert. hopefully everything goes as planned
Good job man! Congrats!
Congrats!
I got an IT job without experience. All I had was Sec+ and a Clearance. Five years later, I am making $165,000 and a contractor overseas. You have to start somewhere. Entry-level and work hard.
Hi may I ask what is clearance ?
Which entry level position you worked at ???
What jobs are you doing now where you make 165k?
What entry job did you do? DoD? How'd you get your foot in the door?
Hey did you do that A+ aswell or just security plus ?
Im 55 years ,just got hired August 18th 2021...no experience in IT but they're training me.. It's definitely a career change for me..but I really like my job...
Where? And congrats!
@@pit1513 how can i get this kind of entry level jobs where i will be trained...please note that i have no prior experience however, i am opened to continuous learning and development. My interest is in Cybersecurity. I will be very glad if you can guide me
Bless
Bless
how's it going now?
I had no experience in IT before I studied through your videos and others towards my A+ cert. My backround was retail and labouring. I got offered a job after my first (And only) interview. Got offered a 3 month contract initially to help on an Avaya project, then it was extended due to Covid-19 and I got moved to the service desk to help with the increase in demand from people working from home. I found out yesterday that I'm being given a permanent position, now. And there are opportunities for secondments in other fields, such as security.
I definitely believe that attitude and willingness to learn is more important than experience. We're a team of 9 and constantly learning from one another. Even as the least experienced person on the team, the guys will ask me for help if they know my knowledge on a particular thing is good.
Same here, background only in retail and I’ve been in construction for 7 years... hoping to change careers to IT
Were you able to get the job with solely an A+?
thnaks man this gives me hope
@Kingdom Cre8tive this was my only interview in 50 or 60 applications tbh. Took a while but got it in the end
Thanks for this
Let me know if hiring!
Jobs are a weird thing. Some people stumble their way into their dream job which they might not have even know existed before they got it, and other people do everything perfectly and never get hired for the job thy want.
Yeah its really like just rolling dice and getting lucky.
@@mikeoxlong567 i wouldnt say its rolling the dice as much. it's more seeing changing trends, being resourceful and being able to adapt. Most people go through the school pipeline, get the degree and expect their dream job to be handed to them on a silver platter but many see this method is becoming outdated in the current job market.
I started out working at grocery stores and customer service, then worked my way up to help desk/technical support then used my skills there and the software tools i was exposed to to tweak my resume and move my way into entry/junior level IT work. The hardest part is studying the field youre getting into so you can ace the interview and getting the certifications. Everything else you'll pretty much learn on the job.
I wish i knew about IT jobs, in wasted 4yrs in college for graphic design and never got a job. I work in hospital making 16hr in maryland. I'm still regretting why I chose that as a career. I hate everything about graphics now....now at 35 with kids, I have to work 2 jobs and studying for cloud certification.
@@The-Heart-Will-Testify so you didn't give up. That's great man. At least you found out now and not in 20 years again
I got my first IT job with no experience. The way that worked for me was to study and put my self in every position possible to get the experience I wanted. I read the Comptia A+, Network+ and Security + to help answer the technical questions in interviews. I watched every Professor Messer video I could, I applied for apprenticeships at 30 years old. I also started the application process to join the British Army to gain experience in IT and Communications as this would have given me a free path to qualifications and experience. I applied for everything, and it was a random company found my cv and gave me the chance. 3 years in and I have gained 4 certifications and moved into a 2nd line position whilst working on moving into the Security field. If you want it dont give up. Also make sure you watch all of Professor Messers videos. I owe him alot.
This is awesome thank you for posting this! I'm trying to get a career in IT at 28 with no practical experience in the field, it can definitely be tough to stay optimistic but reading this really helps.
One tip is to use the jobs you have worked to demonstrate meta or soft skills related to the IT job you're applying for. For example if you've worked at a fast food restaurant or in retail during Black Friday then you have experience in customer service and working in a fast paced environment that can change at a moments notice.
Just passed my Sec + exam with 809 with your help! No previous experience besides doing things at home and now I’m job hunting. I pray I can find a good job soon.
found 1?
I hope you are employed now sir?
How’s it going?
How has the job search gone?
I don't think he's gonna answer fellas....
Just got hired with little to no experience and honestly I feel very unqualified. But I guess they saw something in me and I impressed them enough in the interviews. I start soon to hopefully everything works out
It'll work out. Believe in yourself!
@Thuan Nguyen well I’m still employed so that’s a good sign😂 but it is a huge learning curve but everyday I feel like I am getting better. At times it is overwhelming but the department I’m in has a great team who is very helpful
@@CoreyJ23 what was your experience before you applied?
@@battleforit college classes that’s it. Got the job 6 months after graduating college
@@CoreyJ23 Thanks fir you quick response. Still going well?
Life is funny. I landed a job in IT without any experience in the area. I never imagined I would work in IT. Last year, an IT multinational found my resume in a website and offered me a help desk position. Why did they offer it to me? Language skills (I speak English and German, both are not my native language). They needed someone fluent in both these languages to attend to end users, and only very elementary knowledge operating Windows was necessary, they offered training on necessary skills in the help desk tool during the first weeks. I learned a lot about ITSM, Active Directory, and more. After some months, the help desk operation I worked in was terminated, but I was offered training and certification to work as an ITSM project developer. It’s being a lot of fun, and because the company offers vouchers for some great IT certifications, I’m paving my way into a nice career.
Im 49 and getting into IT since the Covid. Great video. Thanks.
I’m on the same boat 49 years old and about to start all this good luck 👍
I'm 52 and getting into IT because of Covid... the Bootcamp people were misleading and didn't mention anything about networking or other skills you might need prior to Security +
im 48 and have experience but no certs I m going for my A+ then net +
😅n this moment working in vendor supermarket and hate this 😢
I landed my first IT job without any IT experience, nor computer science background. In fact I studied agricultural economics, I was in a totally different field to say the least. Being from Nigeria and living in Nigeria even makes it worse as we have very few It companies here. However, I managed to get into IT and landed a job in a Cybersecurity firm and it’s been an exciting journey. I will share most of my job soon on my RUclips channel. I really want to say a big thank you to Professor Messer. He truly helped my journey from A+ days. If you go through my RUclips you’d find videos that aren’t IT related, well I used those creativity as my escape from everyday Cybersecurity (not that I don’t like it) I just enjoy to cook and share my experience.
I just passed my A+ thank you professor Messer. Now I'm trying to learn how to find a job
Pppp
@Thuan Nguyen thanks. You can take at different times and it don't matter which order. For exams itself it was actually easier than I thought. All questions are solving solution type questions. So pretty much you're the technician going in and figuring out the problems.
I was making bagels as my side job during college and got IT support right away after completing my course which pays 60k/year. Life can flip your life anytime for better or worse. So always work hard and be positive.
What skills are required as a beginner to enter into IT support or helpdesk?
@@MHb789u just need network+ or A+ to get a job like that
I got my first IT job and I used your a+ videos to prepare for my interview tech questions as well. I am 30 yrs old and have a sales background. I applied for over 45 jobs and only 1 person called me and I got the job.
What was the job you got into?May I know what were the questions asked in the interview?What skills they expect as a beginner?
@@MHb789 I got a job as a field tech/helpdesk for a small MSP company. I don't have a degree, just high school and A+cert (Thanks to Prof Messer's videos + study groups. I also bought the practice exams). My typical day at this job would be going around setting up PC's or network equipment for the new clients while my boss do the more technical work remotely after I provide them remote access.I would install voip phones, provision new clients and if not out on the field, I would be at the desk providing support for basic pc issues (some very stupid issues) and voip issues for our clients.I would. also set up cabling from MDF to IDF, using cable toners to trace cables and crimping new cables on the go. it was a low paying job and my interview had very basic technical questions like: what is ping, how do you check ip's and how do you assign an IP to a host. I learnt more stuff at the job as I progressed. I Worked with VoIP, virtualization and some active directory. I stayed at that job for 4 months, I felt like I was not learning new stuff and found myself repeating tasks.I started looking for new jobs on the side and found a remote job in a NOC as a tier 1 (its nice when you can add some relevant work exp on the resume), my interview was all about OSI model. In this job I monitor customer's network circuits for up and provide support for VoIP, TDM & POTS phone services.I am currently 10 months into this job & I have learned a lot here. I have been preparing for CCNA for 5 months now & soon will be taking the exam. I hope to move forward in networking. I am also learning Front end development on the side (it interests my creative mind), so I am juggling both at the moment... Do not worry about being a beginner and do not settle in a low paying role. Keep learning and moving forward. I read somewhere recently : Certs are a good way to get your foot in the door but the real learning starts at the job. Hope this helps🙂
I landed an IT job with only 2/4 elements about 3 years ago - And the hardest part is "getting your foot in the door." I only had a little practical experience and knew someone who personally used to work for the company that had given me a recommendation. I truly believe one of the STRONGEST things to stress on your CV and within the interview, is your willingness to learn and grow within the industry. Even if you don't have any certifications, put something like: "Actively studying for Network+ certification", etc. I believe this can even carry more weight than a formal degree in a certain regard because IT is a NEVER ENDING journey of learning. And truly showing passion for that position speaks volumes to your commitment within the industry and your character.
Thanks a lot for this video Professor. All your training material is gold. It gives me confidence about making the jump and pushing my way through.
I am 36yrs old and I have never completed any training or study. I was never motivated to.
Since being made redundant in April due to Covid I said to myself, this is it time to move away from the print industry and make the move to get A+ certified. It took me about 7 weeks study and I passed on my first attempt. My first certificate! I have my core 2 exam in about 5 weeks time.
I feel a bit of pressure at the moment as my wife and I bought our first house a few months ago and we have a second child coming in January.
There are days where I doubt myself but these videos pick me up again and make me feel like I can do it.
Thank you.
I took the a plus 2 times and keep failing, i want to give up, what did you study? so you have any tips?
@@Brucelee89896 were the questions hard to understand? I plan to get that cert soon I just didn't think it was that difficult
@@ruthadiscipleofjesuschrist1788 well i guess i didn't study hard enough maybe
@@Brucelee89896 I'll be using the professors videos, unofficial practice tests and other online materials to study. If I find something really helpful I'll pass it on to you.
@@Brucelee89896 focus on the exam objectives, know how to explain each one and the pros and cons and the uses of each etc
Read the title of each exam objective section
use it as a checklist for study
No experience here. Interview in about an hour for helpdesk. Good timing lol. Cross your fingers.
If I don’t land it my plan is to let the military train and give me experience in the reserves and hopefully be a little more marketable then.
Good luck! 😎
M J thank you much! Crazy times these days. Hopefully I’ll look back at these layoffs one day and be thankful it happened.
Ray goff I’m doing that now. Prior service, 5 years as a Doc with the Marines and now I’m in the Reserves trying to get an IT job. Good luck!
Samuel Dolinski Samuel Dolinski nice. Thank you for your service. I was prior navy and have been out for 10 years now. Army cyber operations specialist training seems pretty comprehensive (45 weeks). Good luck to you too brother!
i was lucky enough to find a kind soul to hire me into an environment i have never experienced. never worked in a call center, no IT work experience. all i had was a degree in IT and he took a risk. only 2 weeks here but time passes so quickly in an environment like this
Update?
I was lucky enough to have a friend that is a manager for the IT dept at a smaller architecture firm. I have no college degree, I have yet to get a certification(though it's in the works) and just a few days ago, I received an offer for salaried employment with the company. I work my ass off, I don't shy away from doing anything that was asked of me, I am reliable, and I fit it well with the IT team and the culture of the firm and probably most important, I don't act like I know things that I don't. Don't be afraid to ask questions, be personable. A couple of things I believe helped me get the job over others that may be more qualified, are ability to speak to others(you'd be surprised how just being able to talk to someone on the other end of the phone, or in the office, will help. Culture fit is another big thing, me and the others on the IT team have such a strong respect for each other and we are all working towards the common goal of fixing end users problems and streamlining our processes.
I was fortunate. I spent almost 18 years in telecom. A lot of hardware and physical "networking", running miles of cabling. I got burned out being in Field Service and took a low paying job at a hospital doing "pc hardware tech". Then IT Support. 5 years later I was promoted to Network Administrator for the hospital. I absolutely love IT and Networking! It's a fun career imo. Read, watch these videos and learn as much as possible. The experience and knowledge pays off.
I wanna start an internship or work volunteer as entry level
Best Advice: Make Friends in that field, let them put the word out about you.
As someone who has been out of work since January 15th, 2021 (7/15/21 now) I've been contemplating joining the field of IT. I followed my heart because I was passionate in the human services/social services field and, after realizing how toxic the environment is I don't think I can ever return. The pay (NYC) for my level of experience is pretty much almost entry-level pay for IT. I'll be turning 29 in September and having to start all over in a new field has been my biggest fear. I realize it's time to make the jump and I'll be looking forward without looking behind. With the flexibility, the pay, the massive amount of jobs available, it's a no-brainer. I love hearing stories about people without any experience at an older age making an impact in this new field because it gives people like myself hope. Thank you Professor Messer for changing so many lives and assisting us in this process of major change.
Hi! Would like to hear how your journey has been so far. I’ve been out of work for quite some time myself and looking into IT positions I can do from home due to not being able to travel far from home & extremely few opportunities available locally. I just turned 28 a few weeks ago myself.
This is my first comment on RUclips. I just want to say thank you so much Professor Messer. This video rebuild my confidence! Thank you!
A lot of companies have software that will filter key words based on your resume wording...it’s very important to understand that you may never get an interview unless you get your resume professionally done by a accredited resume company because most resumes may not even make it through the filter. It’s a big deal and can help you out tremendously
Just got my first job yesterday...start Monday. Stay close to Christ and exercise sound judgement, He is the one that ultimately opens the doors 👊✊
It’s called ATS.
I believe in jesus but I'm not Christian but big respect and congratulations.
What was the name of your accredited resume company @clay s?
Am 40...just passed the CCNA and have set a timeline to obtain my CCNP already for June next year....keep moving.
Congrats 👏 how did you study for the test? Any short cuts
Studying for the A+ is taking longer than I'd like, so I can't wait to watch this video in case I run out of time. Thank you for your videos, I already binged them all but am going through them a second time, this time making a flash card for every topic. I already feel like I'm retaining much more by studying these every day, and it's insane how I've forgotten most of the information from my first binge watch. Your videos have taught me that the internet gives you all the tools necessary for success, but it's up to me to study and apply that information.
Edit: Finally got around to watching it and it's even better than I thought. I took a college class that went into job hunting and they didn't talk about stuff like making your own experience by setting up a lab and never eating alone. This channel is a goldmine as always, thank you so much!
Yeah I've been reading chapter after chapter and the road hasnt been easy. 😊
any updates?
I worked in a recruitment firm for 2 months as an IT Recruiter to get my first Job into the Cyber Security domain. Today, I do have around 2 yrs of experience in this role. I believe that everyone should keep trying, don't think to quit. Eventually, you will get it.
What are the skills required to get into the domain as a beginner?
Thanks! I really appreciate your books guess what I’ve gotten a position with the DOD. Because of you thanks smh most of the material you cover is college level IT. Again I appreciate you for taking your time out of your day to give people of the unknowing a rundown of how this works.
Thanks very much for your support!
This is great! I don't know why so many others benfiting Prof. Messer's helpt, would do the same. In IT careers, this is lunch money. I can't wait to dive in Professor Messer's vids.
Thank you prof for all that you do! Passed my A+ and now studying for Net+ and also doing internship
I was sent this video link from the instructor of the Linux course that I'm currently taking, and I have to say that this video gave me so much relief, clarity and peace of mind. I have no formal IT training or experience whatsoever but I have always had an infinity for the behind the scenes or interworking of computers. Thank you so much Professor Messer!!!
This video is perfect timing for me! I'm currently working on Security+ and already have NET+ but I don't have lot of opportunity to get hands on "IT". I'm working on building my own network and do just what you mentioned and be able to have some relevant stories to share about my IT experience. Great tips thank you!
Keep hustling Brother, success will come.
This is fantastic and exactly what I needed, I have my A+ and have recently received my Security + I have no experience and am working on my Associates in Information Technology. I really appreciate this video.
How many hours a day you studied and for how many months do you study for both exam.
Did you find a job?
I would recommend getting your IT degree from WGU. Its only $8,000 for a full year and is an accredited university.
This is incredibly helpful. Thank you Professor Messer, I'm currently studying for my A+ exam using your course content and ITProTV, it really helps a lot, the simplicity with which you explain each and everything in your videos. God bless you.
I'm 43 bus driver. I always loved IT. Recently I passed CCNA. I have A+, Network+, and Basic Cloud+ courses done. Now I am aiming for Security+ exam in August/September. I have no IT experience in my CV at all.
If you don't have a job yet I wouldn't focus on getting anymore certs. The CCNA should be enough to get you into a help desk position or jr network position.
@@ciscomel3443 no luck yet mate.
@@DEDEPLDEDE how bout now?
Kool..can you you share us how you pass all those certification
@@ciscomel3443 gotta somewhere right..I think ccna its more advanced stuff especially if a person is new in the IT field
I got into IT by first working at an ISP's call center. After working there for 5 years and working up the ranks, I developed intermediate networking skills, in addition to extremely strong soft skills. This experience got me a network administrator position at another company. There's a lot to be said about taking an entry level job at a company you want to work at. With effort and skill, it's relatively easy to move up.
I got in touch with one of many Temp Agencies that recruited for entry level IT and the rest was history. No IT experience required, just customer service experience and the intentionality for IT work was enough.
Is that agency in Cali? I’m in studying for my A+
I didn't even think of this!! Thanks, ima try this tomorrow!!
Where can I find this agency?
@@atomp153 whats your general location? I'll find one near you
@@progamermoves3957 mine is in oregon, u in socal or nocal?
Just got my A+, you all can get it that and most companies will grab you regardless of past experiences. Study hard kings/queens!
I went to school for I.T got my cert landed a job as computer tech haven't been on that for a year now; tomorrow I have an interview for a job at Medical I.T company fingers crossed
How did it go??
I have a an Associate Degree in Graphic Design just got a programming certificate from my local community college and applying for jobs. Background has mostly been in warehouse where I’ve crossed trained from assembly line to fork life to welding. I’m applying the same willings to learn in the tech field! Thank you for this information been getting discouraged looking for jobs during this time but things will work out!
after 10 years of the army, 25Q. i was able to get a lower mid (imo) job through connections and having Sec+. whole interview process was 4 days. go out and talk to ppl, ppl. make friends and get ya certs. it will pay off!
luckily thanks to God. I was able to get an IT job at my old school while in college as in part time. I really didn't have the hands on experience. But I have decent knowledge about computers. Im telling you now, I am learning more at the job than I am in college !
My first job in IT I landed in 2003 while studying A+ at DeKalb Technical College. Mind you I have a bachelors (Computer Information Systems). But at the time IBM outsourced their help desk support through a 3rd party. Needless to say the requirements sent down from IBM was cert over degree. I never even finished my A+ but got the job based on my studies. Yes they skipped right past my degree and saw that i was enrolled in tech college.
But don’t get it twisted - after 3yrs I went into another help desk role at another company (Philips) and that job did require a bachelors degree (in anything!) By 2010 I was an IT PM. In 2018, I left corporate America all together.
Thanks a lot. I've been limiting myself and rejecting myself after reading the requirements, etc for jobs I initially wanted to apply for. Well, thanks to your very informative and awesome video, I will no longer reject or limit myself. I'm going to put my degree to use. Thanks so much 😎🙂
I think that’s my problem...I see the requirements and am like well that’s not gonna happen for me so I don’t apply. I’m gonna start applying regardless now.
@@danisweetlove I applied for an entry level IT position, and received an email saying "although your skills are certainly impressive, we've decided to go with another candidate" well, at first I was disappointed, but I decided to keep pushing 🙂
M J yeah that’s horrible to receive that news. 2 weeks ago I wrote a comment here hopeful that I was actually getting my foot in the door at a job. Well I thought the interview went well but haven’t received any offers. So I guess it’s back to the grind.
@@danisweetlove oh wow, sorry to hear that. Have you contacted them to about the interview? You should give them a call. Yeah, those types of emails like the one I received is disappointed. Hopefully I get something soon though. Good luck to you 😎
M J my brother works there and talked to the recruiter and he said I did well in my interview but apparently not well enough. Yeah I’m gonna keep trying and good luck to you as well.
I have just been offered two separate IT positions after 6 months of looking and am currently in the negotiation process. I used a combination of all of the suggestions listed. I have a few associate level degrees but I’m Aviation Technology, not in computers. I am going into the last semester of a bachelors degree in IT management which both places did care about. Both jobs had a really hard interview process but I leaned heavily on mostly self taught skills, such as self study, labs, and free online workshops. My work experience contains technical related work but not IT directly. But I tuned my resume with all the technical and customer service related skills I have gain. It took awhile to get my foot in the door but use everything at your disposal and you’ll get it.
Right
Professor. Just wanted to give a shout out and a thanks as your videos helped me get my a+ and net+ certs a few years ago and then i spent 3 years working for an MSP and just got a new job at a local hospital. THANK YOU SIR!!! keep up the good work
Short term contracts are an easy first step to experience. Often they need more than one applicant so the chances of getting a placement is good, the interviews are pretty short (one for the hiring agency, one for the company you work for) and they usually need people pretty quick so there isnt much messing around. Downsides that I've found: the pay isnt great, you get no benefits (no pto etc), the project can end whenever, the training is usually pretty bad since they want you there for a specific purpose and only that purpose, the chances of being hired on are not great since companies use staffing agencies so they dont have to hire people. But if you want something on your resume, it can be a quick way to get going
Thank You Sir! I'm transitioning from Music Teacher to IT pro. Love your videos!
I passed my A+. Thank you sir
Prior to taking the test , did you take the CertMaster learn for A+ ? I just finished the Google IT Support Certification and feel like it need more training. What would you recommend ? If anyone can please help
I got hired with no IT job experience but years of in-home work done on my personal computer and troubleshooting it, my friends' computers, and their routers/modems. My boss/employer liked the questions I asked him when I was interviewing. Most importantly, what his/his company's plans were for expanding.
Would you mind sharing the questions you asked?
Brittany Washington “What are your plans for expanding the company?” “What software/hardware solutions do you use?” “Why that specific software?” (So I could research it for interview 2, if I got an interview 2) “How many years have you worked in IT?” And boy, I did I not even do enough research but I scratched the surface and he liked that I did some research. I also did some research into the company before the first interview and asked about the owners and why the company was only a year or two old.
@@ImTheMrFoxman Oh wow. Excellent questions. Thank you for responding. I have my test for Security + in a few weeks and I don't have IT experience, but I want to transition into the IT department within my company. This is really helpful for me. I appreciate it.
Talk about a well timed video. This is exactly what I needed. Thank you so much for the information, and keep up the great content!
Currently working as an IT analyst, I’m a recent college graduate with a degree in IT. I am looking to transition to security within the next year.
I have taken your advice as I did with training for sec + and net + and have sent out 85 resumes so far and have modified my resume to include “personal project” experience through coursework
Professor Messer only posts HEAT. True quality. Real Professional. Thank you.
I received my bachelors degree in information systems in 2019 and have not been able to get a job in the IT field. I have struggled to find really any job. I have done countless job applications and some tell me come back when you have more experience. How can I get experience if no one will hire me? It’s been very depressing and the pandemic has made it even harder. I will look into these certifications to see if that will help me land a job.
Sorry to hear that, maybe try to find a entry level position. I got my job thanks to connections, after graduating highschool I worked at the food depeartment and hated it. My sister knew this guy who owned a computer repair shop so she told the guy that I would do great, the guy interview me and I had zero experience and still took me in, he is been training me and im also in college getting my AS in Network Engineer for now.
Same here. I graduated in IT in 2019 and still havent got any job offers eventhough I applied to like 500 places already. Im currently in F1 visa which will expire in December and if I dont get a job I wont be able to stay here in US. Im really struggling.
B Beverley as an international student I spent $24000 on tuiton fees per semester for 4 years plus theres the living cost in nyc and now I have to look for certification? I agree its needed but doesnt mean I cant get into an entry level job with my bachelors degree.
Are you serious?! That’s what I’m majoring in right now! I was recently looking into certifications like A+ Net+ Sec+.... I was afraid of something like this happening to me
IEEE1394 Gaming you may have a better experience than me. I live in the worst place in the United States with the #1 unemployment. I contacted ppl I know who work for IT for the county I live in and they all said no to me because of the pandemic and working from home I would be a liability 🤷🏻♀️
I don't have a highschool diploma or GED, I don't have a driver's license, I have 0 certifications... And I worked for DELL based upon my experience alone.
Just browsing around to get some information for my unmotivated brother. Another YTber recommended this channel so I subbed and will be forwarding to him. Great information and tips 👍🏼
For me, my mentor as a freshman in college just happened to be a computer analyst. Once he found out my interests, he told me about the job opening for student computer technician in his department, I got interviewed, and hired. I wanted to be a computer technician since I was like 9 or so, so that worked out perfectly. I had just a little experience of tinkering around with computers and no degree of formal training, but a high interest in learning more.
I didn't pursue a job in computers bc the push was so hard toward college when I was in HS, I was no good at upper level math, so thought since I couldn't do computer science, that was it for that field. I got a bs BS I never used. In my 30s I went for a trade job in a field I ended up hating, and now at 42 I'm getting to where I can't handle the physical side of it bc of medical issues. At this point I don't care if I have to do the most menial, lowest paying IT job there is until I get enough experience to move up.
Thank you so much for sharing this valuable information. I'm currently getting my associate's degree in December and working on getting my CompTIA A+ Certification by the end of the year.
I’m a computer operator now 2nd year! Studying for my security cert!
Thanks Professor, your videos helped me with the A+ which got me into IT years ago!
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"Your new job is just around the corner. Don't stop, keep pushing. You can do this! 😎" - Mahad The Motivator
I have an interview next Thursday for a tech position at a public school system. I’ve applied and interviewed twice before with no luck. My brother works there and told me they aren’t looking for people to meet the qualifications this time, they just need help and are willing to train people. I’m hoping that will finally be my foot in the door.
I hope you ended up with that job.
@@Reason_over_Dogma thanks for the well wishes, but I didn’t get it. I am still at my current job which is not in the tech field but I feel like something good is on the horizon for me and I’m not giving up hope.
Just awarded the last of three Professional Certifications. I hold CompTIA Security+, EC-Council Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH), and Splunk Core Certified User. Having these has bolstered my confidence! Again, Thank You for your video's because they helped!
Thank you ! I hope to get an IT job soon !!
You will
With enough tenacity, you will. Don’t give up.
wow, I rarely see woman in IT 😍😍😍, good luck
Thanks all
BruceLee'sLegacy thank you!
Hi Professor I just passed my A+ certification and I couldn't do it with out your help! Thanks so much for all you do. I used your training videos, study groups, and Instagram pop questions. You're doing a great thing. I'm stoked!
Congratulations, were you able to find a job ?
I started loading trucks at a talent agency 4 years ago. We rented out gear to support our talent and much of that gear included wireless audio mixers. They were controlled on an iPad and the communication occurred via WiFi. So I learned how to use the gear in my free time at the warehouse. I began working outside of the warehouse on gigs to set up and operate the equipment. A year later I had 1 year of iPad and Networking experience. Boom. I was in. I got hired at a low voltage company building data networks. Still manual labor, but a step in the right direction. A year later I had 2 years of experience in Technology. I got a phone call offering a job at an actual helpdesk with a huge bump in pay. I said yes of course. Now, once you're in....you're in. I have recruiters calling me nonstop every week. I have 4 years of experience now, but I am still learning and still getting offers! Apply yourself in the direction of technology at WHATEVER company you currently are working at and there's your foot in the door experience.
I'm very confident about my skills, technical as well as otherwise, and think I'll land my first tech job within weeks of ending my current temp gig. But I'm trying to figure out, as my first job and stepping stone to a tech career, whether I should aim for a big company with lots of different types of work or a smaller company where any given employee makes up a larger portion of what they do. My conclusion so far is that it depends on the specific company. The one thing I'm wary of is winding up in a job where I'm not able to prove what I know. So I'll think twice before accepting a position in very basic customer services.
I just got my first job in IT as a system administrator!
Is that a entry level position with CompTIA certification?
WOW, how ironic! Just 2 days ago I applied for an “IT Specialist, GS-2210” (Government position) because I HATE my job as a GS-1102. I hope this is good sign!🤞🏽🙏🏽🥺
I hope you got it
Yamkela Jojo THANK YOU! I just received an e-mail yesterday for a second interview!😃 Crossing my fingers.🤞🏽🤞🏽
@@lianalonge1984 HI.Did you get the job ?
Currently have my A+ and Net+ certs, but no real-world experience. This video comes at an interesting time. I'm going to try creating my own home lab to learn new things.
First, I want to thanks RUclips Algorithm for recommending me this video.
I have basically no experience in IT, and I have 2 basic Certifications (Mikrotik and Cisco), But I don't know where to start finding a job. It doesn't matter if the pay is low as long I got the experience. but...I really don't know where to start :(
Soft skills matter! Be hungry to learn and position yourself around the right people, Currently have some college and no Certs, and working as an IT consultant and moonlighting as an IT Security Analyst for the Feds.
I found this video at the perfect time in my life. 4year degree and no work experience., now I have an actual sense of direction. Thank you for making this video.
I wonder if there's any advice for older IT workers that were laid off permanently due to Covid, and are finding the market very tight.
Thank you for posting this. I am studying for the A+ cert and going for an AAS in Network Engineering.
I've heard others say that what they list on job post is more of a wish list and not a required list.
Patience is key. The hardest IT job to get is your very first one. Just keep swinging the bat.
The point the professor makes about networking is so, so true! As a software developer turned SAHM, recently divorced, I had to get employment fast so I got my A++ certification ( and I can't express just how much Prof Messer HUGELY helped with my passing both exams 1st attempt, except to say, it was HUGE!!!) and then got my first contractor job, not ideal but it was experience, and that lead to another contractor position where I met some really great guys, two of which left that job before me but over a year or so later, they recruited me for an employed position at the #1 engineering firm in my city. It was by far the EASIEST two interviews I've ever had in my life because I personally knew two of the interviewers and since we had shared experience, I could draw on instances we all experienced at that previous job and it made all the difference in the world. Now I'm actual an employee, not a contractor, with PTO, benefits with 401k and profit sharing after a year of employment. That NEVER would have happened if I hadn't made those connections because I was told that they had interviewed someone with lengthy sys admin experience, yet I got the job. The recruiter for the engineering firm I now work for also told me that internal referrals always go to the top of the resume pile.
2003 No experience aside from hobbyist. No certs.. Got hired as a contractor for $17.50/hr... Out of IT (but highly technical work) since 2009. This past winter got A+, Sec+ and Net+ (thx Professor)
got hired in Feb 2020 at $27/hr for a large win10 migration. Contract ends in Dec.
Job hunting now. Perm Job offers are barely $20/hr.. its a weird market
It sure is. It seems like government contracts are the most lucrative.
Reminds me of the time I struggled to get a job in Human Resources with no experience. That was the worse feeling but I managed to get an entry level recruiting role. Now I’m interested in IT😄
Me too! How is going I wanna transition out of recruiting now
I have a 4-year business management degree and have built multiple computers (for business and gaming). I have decided to get into the tech field because these are where my talents lie. I have started studying for the Comptia A+ 1101 and I'm almost ready for the test. 😀
I have a 4 year degree, and just got my Network+ and Security+. However, I'm having a hard time finding an entry-level IT job.
I feel ya, its like even "Entry Level" you need experience, guess I should make use of my free time by doing some virtual labs and fluff the "experience" on it to find a job at this point.
Thx Professor Messer for sharing nice arrangement video regarding how to get an IT Job without experience
all you said is on point sir... the last 3 slides really spoke to me. thank you very much for doing this.
I am a veteran in I.T. Everything that you said i had done and it's pretty helpful to share with all of us....:-)
In my experience, I had to essentially "pay my dues". Got A+ certified in high school, started interning summers doing level 1 helpdesk role doing grunt work. Impressed my employers, and was offered a job the day after graduating. If I would give any advice, it would be to take anything you can, and work yourself to the bone. People recognize hard work, and it has brought my from imaging computers in the back to working alongside the network administration and security teams on projects.
I'm currently pursuing a bachelor's in IT from University of Phoenix (online school works better for my situation). I am in year 2 but have no IT experience, no certs (I plan to take them soon), and no experience in IT. I'm trying to get my foot in the door early while I get through school because I'm tired of working jobs that aren't what I want to do as a career.
Thanks for this, it helps. I guess I'll just have to keep pushing to finish school and hopefully I'll get my foot in here in Northern California.
Thank you so much! This is very helpful advice. I am taking my first certification course (CompTIA Fundamentals+ - I am calling it my IT kindergarten, lol ) and only have some college - I was too busy working to support myself to afford school (I don't like being in debt!), with 34 Years of Experience as an Admin/Clerical, so a windows MS Office user all my work life, so looking to level up.
My company was bought out at my last job, and my departments eliminated, laid off with a good severance package, which allows me time and money to take a class or two while job hunting.
I felt this field would be a natural extension of my skills and abilities, as I designed trained and implemented the digitization of our paper medical records. This had me working closely with our IT Support to administer the user groups that would access the records after they were digitized. My background is more linguistic, so I feel it should not be too difficult to learn a few computer languages. I took 3 languages in High school, which was unusual at the time, so not intimidated.
Also all my friends are geeks - met through my hobbies of living history, cosplay, and gaming. It was one of my smartest tech friends who is mentoring me through this now.
I do have experience in IT field, not much but some and I dont understand why nobody would hire me. In my last interview I thought i did good, until one of my friends who works for that company in the IT field told me I didn't get hired for the fact that the last IT manager who interviewed me thought he will prefer to hire guys and not a girl!!!
New video from the 🐐. Automatic thumbs up! Currently studying for Security +.
First than all, THANKS!! your explanation is solid gold in the hands of IT knowledge hunger people like me. I currently work in the Help desk area and your advice are truthfully appreciated. Keep doing this brilliant work
I have been following this man for years. Legend!
I needed this - I'm switching careers and looking for opportunities. When I tried last year, everywhere I saw wanted experience and certs, neither of which I have. I start school in the fall for IT and am studying up on Sec+ and re-working some assignments from a Java class. Creating your own lab via a VM and looking for other opportunities helps.
I appreciate what you do for us in these lessons. After listening to your presentation I will go through with my plans for a future in IT. I appreciate your wisdom and realness about the field. Your reputation precedes itself, Professor. Thank you sir.
I'm graduating with my Masters in March and in May I'm going back to Community College for a AS in Cyber Security.
Thank you sir. I received my Security+ but no experience. I believe this information will help me.
Setting up a lab with a VM is what people need to do without experience
Because that is the point,if you set up windows 10 and join it to a domain,use active directory and RDP,that is showing you understand what you are doing
You can say to the interviewer I do have experience,I’ve set up labs and it also shows initiative which is what helped me land a job in travel years ago
It’s like IT,really hard to get into.
So I went to college for a year,but I also went round every travel agents with my CV and even said i would volunteer
It was tough,but one lady said how impressed she was for taking initiative and gave me a chance
Two days voluntary and five nights working in a kitchen
In nine months I went from voluntary to full time
You have to go the extra mile and put the effort in
Stand out from the competition and push yourself even if you think it’s not working
I can promise you this,if you have any years of customer service,it will greatly benefit you
It’s actually a little worrying how many people can’t even talk to another person either sociably or at work
I’ve even seen people complaining about skipping help desk,because they don’t want to speak to people!!
Don’t give up on your search or yourself
Do the labs,get your CV done and redone if you need to
I’m currently studying for the 1002 and it’s not easy,but nothing worth having is ever easy
Cliche I know,but it’s true
I would love to know how some of the people commenting here managed to obtain an IT job so easily without any prior experience. I've been in employment for over 15 years and I wanted a change of career as I've always had an interest in computers. I achieved my CompTIA A+ in April 2019 (and Professor Messer's study group videos proved very helpful), and then I followed that up with an MCSA three months later. Despite this, there was very little interest from employers, even when I applied for entry-level IT jobs, and I only managed 4 interviews over a period of 10 months applying for dozens of jobs.
I feel like my certifications have been a waste of time and money. Maybe it's because I don't live in the USA and the A+ just isn't considered relevant or important to employers where I'm based. Maybe it's because employers didn't understand when I applied that I was prepared to take a reduction in my salary to get my foot in the door. Who knows?
Anyway, at the time of writing (September 2020), the gloomy economic outlook due to the coronavirus pandemic has meant that I have put my attempts to move into IT on hold indefinitely. It's safer to stay where I am right now.
I'm just recently doing research for the switch, and the thing that keeps coming up is building a homelab. I don't even understand the concept, and the reddit feels like reading Greek, but that's what I'm seeing. After watching this video, I'm gonna watch some vids on building one. It's been frustrating, and I'm doubting myself, but comments like these show me I'm not alone.
Remember the prof said these certs may not get you the job, but you've got more knowledge than me already by completing your certs. I wish you luck.