How do you get a job in IT?

[jack10525]

I've only been playing with computers since 98. Before that I was a bartender and into the club scene. Back in 98 I started taking classes at a community college for computer programming. After I earned and AS I decided I would rather work on the other end and repair computers and networks. I enrolled in another school for Networking and repair. I passed the A+ in mar 02 and earned an AS in networking and repair. That is where I currently am in reguard to formal training. I know that I have a lot to learn but it doesn't seem like any companay will give you a chance. I have a decent job with the military where I am a civilian. I was hoping I could just switch positions with them. I hate my current job. It has nothing to do with computers. We have an internal job board and there are always "Computer Specialist" positions available. From the job description I should be qualified with my schooling but the military doesn't recognize it. They want you to have the military training in that career field. I've tried talking to several people on base but still can't get in. I am currently over in Iraq. When I get back to the states I will be looking for a new job in IT. I am going to be looking at civilian employment opportunities over here. There are a lot of civilians here. Hopefully I can get a job for a year, get some experience and find a job in the states. So does anybody have any tips on how to get a foot in the door. I wouldn't mind just a part time job to get a little more knowledge.

PS: I tried best buy, Circuit city etc....

Thanks....

[thefultonhow]

You may want to consider two things. First, you could try "working for free" for a company or organization as a part-time assistant to the tech staff. People generally don't like paying people money when they don't have a lot of experience, but they're a lot less likely to turn down some free help. After a while working with them, you may have an "in" on an actual job there.

The second possibility is for you to start up your own business. That's what I did and it worked pretty well. Remember that word of mouth is your best advertisement in that situation.

The third one is that once people are discharged from the military (I'm assuming you're in the US Military), they aren't subject to the same stringent hiring requirements for federal jobs. You could take advantage of that to get a federal computer job.

[jack10525]

Originally Posted by thefultonhow The third one is that once people are discharged from the military (I'm assuming you're in the US Military), they aren't subject to the same stringent hiring requirements for federal jobs. You could take advantage of that to get a federal computer job.

You are correct with me being in the military but I am just a reservist. I am over in Iraq for a few months. I am also a civil service employee with the air force in the same job I do as a reservist. I took the job a couple of years ago because I couldn't find a computer job that paid anything. I also thought I could do a lateral transfer but I guess I was wrong. When I get back to the states I will definately start looking for employment in Iraq in the IT field. I guess that is my best option as far as experience and money go. Thanks for the suggestions.....