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How to Become an IT Support Specialist
IT Support Specialists know it all and do it all when it comes to roles in the IT world. Curious about the role they play within a company? We share everything you’ll need know about becoming and being an IT support specialist.
IT Support Specialist Job Description
IT support specialists do a little bit of everything in the technology world. They come with a vast background of knowledge that touches on hardware, software, computer systems, and other technical topics. These roles are responsible for making sure the tech side of an organization runs smoothly which means they are often working to support and maintain the company’s system.
You’ll find that an IT support specialist is skilled at installing and configuring computer systems and devices, monitoring networks and systems, testing new technologies, and making repairs and providing technical support where needed.
IT Support Training
A formal degree is not always necessary to enter this IT role although those that do tend to major in topics related to computer science, information technology, or computer engineering. It is possible to make your way into this role by taking IT training courses and getting certified.
Centriq offers accelerated programs with comprehensive training courses that help you prepare for certifications such as the COMPTIA A+ certifications in as little as four months. Curriculums like ours have high job placement rates and are convenient and flexible ways to develop skills without the need to put your life on pause for a four-year degree.
Learn about our tech training program here.
IT Support Specialist Salary
A starting salary for an IT support specialist averages around $50k annually. This all varies depending on the location, the company, and the scope of the actual role. Experience also plays a factor into this with those in the early years of their career making less and those with more experience earning more.
Like all roles, you can continue to build skills and knowledge to bolster your salary. For example, getting CompTIA certifications, gaining cyber security skills and credentials, or being well versed in mobile device management can all work towards boosting salary. Just a few of the many CompTIA certifications you can look into as an IT support specialist include the CompTIA ITF+, CompTIA A+, CompTIA Security+, and the CompTIA Linux+.
IT Support Interview Questions
Interviews are meant to assess the technical skills of a candidate as well as their ability to field questions, solve problems, adapt to situations, and explain complex issues to non-technical people. You may be asked about your troubleshooting process and how you tackle problems or be put through a series of basic tests to gauge your technical skills.
Examples of common questions include:
- What are your qualifications for this role?
- What steps do you take when solving a computer problem?
- How do you keep up with the latest advancements in technology?
- What does good customer service look like to you?
We also recommend doing specific company-based research to learn more about who the company is and who their customers are.
IT Support Jobs
IT support specialist roles can look a little different depending on where you go and who you work for. All companies have their own workflow process as well as their own systems and programs. You may be working with internal or external teams on any given day as well as a variety of projects and problems across the company.
While roles may differ depending on where you’re at, generally you can expect to find yourself in situations where you’ll need to provide efficient and logical solutions to technical issues. Ready to start the journey to your next career? Check out the IT training program we offer at Centriq and you’ll be ready for your new role as an IT support specialist in a matter of months!