How to Land Your First IT Job Out of College
Starting a career in tech? The ongoing digital transformation and the prevalence of remote work ensure bountiful future opportunities for you. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, computer and information technology employment is expected to grow 13% in the next decade, faster than the average for all occupations.
Before you fire your resume to every tech company with an intriguing job post, consider researching which entry-level IT jobs are a good match for your skills, experience, and interest. Use these tips to help you transition from the classroom to the modern workplace.
Entry-level IT Jobs to Apply For
Your first job out of college builds the foundation for your IT success. Many companies are eager to hire recent graduates with an associate or bachelor’s degree in computer science or computer programming, especially those with internship experience or specific project experience. Choose a role that will allow you to continue building skills, such as:
Systems Analyst
A systems analyst guides the development of an organization’s computer networks and systems. Their duties include:
- Collecting data
- Monitoring system activity for possible improvement
- Communicating with company leaders
- Implementing new systems and procedures.
IT Business Analyst
An IT business analyst needs to have knowledge of technology and business administration. Their duties include:
- Improving the quality of IT products and services
- Analyzing data to make key business decisions
- Using technology to create solutions for business needs
- Acting as a bridge between the IT department and other departments
Application Developer
An application developer designs, implements, and updates programs for a device, the web, or an operating system. They often specialize in one area of development, and their duties typically include:
- Understanding client requirements to create specifications for development
- Creating prototypes
- Writing code
- Testing, troubleshooting, debugging, and updating applications
Network Security
A network security engineer is responsible for obtaining, setting up, and maintaining hardware and software systems that are intended to keep networks safe from cyber attacks. Their duties include:
- Collaborating with the IT team
- Staying up to date with new technical developments
- Monitor networks for security breaches
- Develop security standards and best practices
- Help computer users install and maintain security measures on their company devices
Looking for your first technical job? The IT job recruiters at PEAK Technical Staffing can help you find entry-level IT jobs with competitive pay, great benefits, and exceptional development opportunities. Contact an expert at PEAK to get started today.
Getting Started with the Tech Job Search
Whether you accelerate your job hunt by using the services of expert IT job recruiters at a tech staffing agency like PEAK or not, it’s important to make sure you get your search off on the right foot. Here’s what you should do first:
Update Resume/LinkedIn
According to experts, recruiters spend less than 8 seconds skimming a resume before moving on to the next. Make sure yours is eye-catching and contains the essential information in an easy-to-read format. Take these steps to resume success:
- Use a clear font.
- Choose a simple layout.
- Use bold font for job titles.
- Use bullets for lists of accomplishments.
- Keep your resume to two pages or less.
Many tech recruiters and hiring managers use social networks to find top tech talent. To further your chances of finding a great first job in IT, make sure your LinkedIn profile setting shows that you are open to receiving job queries. If necessary, change your profile picture, bio, and education sections to showcase your professionalism and display to viewers that you are a recent or soon-to-be graduate interested in starting a career in tech. Then do the same with all your other social profiles. You never know when a potential employer might decide to check you out!
Network
Networking can help you get your first job—and every subsequent position in your career. Reach out to other students, professors, friends, family, and industry connections to let them know you are on the hunt for a tech job. Attend job fairs (online or in-person), explore industry groups on social media, and visit the career center at your college. Another great source of connections is your local tech staffing agency. IT recruiters often have access to unadvertised entry-level opportunities and are familiar with the leading employers in your area.
Prep for Tech Job Interviews
Even though IT jobs are plentiful, the competition for the best ones can be fierce. When you score an interview, make sure you do your homework. Take the time to learn about the company and the role you desire. Familiarize yourself with common interview questions and prepare answers in advance. Consider practicing in front of a mirror or with a trusted friend to make sure your skills, experience, and personality are coming across in a professional manner.
What Skills Should be Included on an Information Technology Resume
Technology evolves quickly, and you need to keep your skills up to date—and showcase them on your resume—to be considered for the best job opportunities. If you are adept in the following skills, consider listing them on your resume.
Cloud Computing
Top companies seek professionals who have cloud-based knowledge because of the rapidly growing number of cloud services and cloud types in use today. Consider sharpening your cloud skills to attract attention from the best employers.
Cybersecurity
The rapid move to remote work during the Covid-19 pandemic necessitated tighter security measures for many companies. As businesses continue to embrace remote and hybrid work models, there are many opportunities for graduates starting a career in tech to gain experience in cybersecurity.
Critical Thinking
Many jobs in IT require critical thinking skills. Identifying a need, developing a solution, testing prototypes, and debugging programs and applications require you to be able to assess data and analyze how best to approach a problem.
Time Management
Most IT professionals work under deadlines. Time management skills allow you to meet production goals and produce better quality work. Since many IT projects have multiple steps, managing time effectively enables you to meet goals.
Technical Writing
Possessing technical writing skills is helpful in an IT career because you may have to explain complex processes to clients in an email or create manuals to share information about programs or apps you’ve developed.
Work with a Specialized Technical Recruiter
Working with a specialized recruiter can be beneficial when starting a career in tech.
Gain Access to Top Employers in Information Technology
Tech recruiters often have existing connections and information about unadvertised industry opportunities. They can get your resume in front of hiring managers with top companies looking for talent like you.
Receive IT Interview & Resume Prep
Many IT staffing agencies offer to help you build a stand-out resume. In many cases, they will coach you through the interview process. Since they have deep tech industry knowledge, they can match your skills with companies and roles that will help you build your career.
Your Tech Recruiter Will Advocate for You
When you work with an IT staffing agency, they understand what employers desire in top candidates and can position you for success. They will advocate for you within their network, find great opportunities, and coach you through the interview process.
Accelerate IT Job Search
Job hunting is a time-consuming process. Speed up your search by partnering with a tech recruiter who will schedule interviews, follow up with employers, offer valuable feedback, and negotiate the best salary for you.
Let PEAK’s Premier IT Staffing Services Help You Land a Tech Job Today
Are you thinking about starting a career in tech? PEAK can connect you with employers nationwide who are hiring for entry-level IT jobs. Whether you’re looking for flexibility, competitive pay, or the chance to grow your skills, we can help you leverage your degree to launch your IT career. Contact PEAK today to get started!
