Professionals of every age and background are in the market for entry-level IT jobs, and getting noticed in a sea of qualified candidates can seem impossible. With COVID-19 moving hiring processes into the digital realm, applicants can easily  become a name and a number. However, a few tips exist that IT professionals can use to give themselves an edge in the competition for entry-level IT jobs.

Apply for the Right IT Jobs

Applying for the wrong jobs can be a waste of time, and constant rejection can be incredibly discouraging.  The market boasts many IT job listings and descriptions,  and knowing the standard terms and language used in these descriptions can help candidates apply for the positions that would be the best fit. Terms like “developer,” “analyst,” and “technician” can be paired with the same words, yet mean entirely different things when it comes to responsibilities and requirements. Applicants for IT jobs should be sure to familiarize themselves with the nuances of all of these terms to identify the positions that they fit best.

Consider Connections and Networking

One of the best ways to get a foot in the door for an entry-level IT position is to leverage one’s connections. Job applicants should scour their professional network for valuable contacts. Reaching out to old colleagues, professors, and peers can be an excellent way to get one’s application onto a hiring team’s shortlist. Applicants should also consider making new connections whenever possible. While in-person conventions and seminars are on hold for now, things like forums and online workshops can be an incredibly useful networking tool.

Try to Work With a Recruiter

Finally, IT professionals should think about working with an industry recruiter. Hiring professionals who specialize in IT can be a valuable resource for those trying to get noticed. Consulting a recruiter for advice and assistance can change the game when pursuing entry-level positions. Applicants should look into working with a recruiter to gain insight into the strength of their resume, the types of roles they should pursue, and ways to improve their odds of landing an entry-level IT position. These professionals are intimately familiar with what decision-makers look for, and their advice can make the difference between getting an interview and being ignored.

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Lewis-Price is an SBA 8(a) certified staffing company committed to providing solutions to its clients and teaming partners. We staff diverse, engaged leaders in IT, cybersecurity, program management, training, administration and other high-demand areas. We value integrity and intention. We provide engaged professionals ready to join your team. To learn more about our staffing solutions, please contact us at (703) 727-9182. Follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and LinkedIn.