What Do You Do in an IT Helpdesk Job

The helpdesk position is a very common entry-level role in the Information Technology (IT) field. Today we’ll look at the duties involved, possible career paths that a helpdesk position can lead to, and how you can start your career in the world of IT.

What Is an Entry-Level IT Job?

When we say that a job is “entry-level,” what we mean is that it’s a job typically filled by people starting a new career in an industry without prior professional experience.

These jobs allow you to learn new skills and bolster your resume. Ideally, an entry-level job is a starting point for a long and rewarding career in a field you’re passionate about. In IT, helpdesk technician is one example of a common entry-level job.

What Do You Do in IT Helpdesk Jobs?

An IT helpdesk job involves providing technical support to staff or clients experiencing issues using their devices and applications. The helpdesk technician is often the first point of contact for a user with a problem. Communicating in person, by phone, or via email or chat, users explain their issues and the helpdesk technician diagnoses the problem and explains how to resolve it.

Helpdesk technicians might also be called upon to assist in the creation of technical training manuals, analyze records of previous user interactions and technical issues, and attend conferences and training sessions to expand their skills and learn about the latest devices and software.  

Career Paths IT Helpdesk Jobs Can Lead To

Landing an entry-level position at an IT helpdesk job can be the launchpad for a fulfilling career in several different areas of the IT industry.  

1. Cybersecurity

Cybersecurity involves analyzing vulnerabilities and threats within a company. As an IT helpdesk technician, you’ll gain experience identifying common cybersecurity threats from your interactions with users being targeted and learn how to educate users about the best practices for keeping their devices and information secure.

2. Software Development

An IT helpdesk job can open a pathway to software development. In the helpdesk role, you’ll doubtless start to identify the major “pain points” that cause frustration for users in popular applications. You can apply this experience as you advance in your career to design software that’s more intuitive to use.

3. Data

Many modern companies depend on the reliable operation of data centers to keep their business running. Former helpdesk technicians can put their troubleshooting abilities to good use in data centers, ensuring that servers run consistently and preventing costly unplanned downtime.

4. Infrastructure

IT helpdesk jobs provide an understanding of how IT systems work. This equips you with the skills to analyze business operations and identify client needs. You can use your helpdesk experience to help you land job roles in areas like systems administration and network support. 

Becoming an IT Helpdesk Technician

To become an IT helpdesk technician, you’ll typically need at least a high school diploma or GED. While a degree in network administration, computer science, or computer programming can give you a competitive edge, they’re not a requirement for entering the world of IT through the helpdesk role.

An IT training program like the one offered by Interactive College of Technology (ICT) can help you quickly develop the knowledge and skills you need to be considered for entry-level IT jobs. Students in the program learn how to service and maintain industry and consumer computer products and get prepared to take the exams for the CompTIA A+ Core 1 and 2, vendor-neutral certifications recognized throughout the IT industry.

Contact ICT today to learn more about how you can start a new career in IT!

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