Technical/IT Specialist 

How did you get your current job?
A referral from a friend.

What was the application process?
I submitted a paper resume.

Did you have to interview for your current job? If yes, what did the interview process entail?
I had one individual interview with the firm’s manager. It’s a small firm, so there were no other layers to go through.

If you can remember, what questions were you asked during the interview?
I was asked mainly about my technical skills, but also whether I would be able to work closely with other people in a small setting. There were probably questions about pay, but I can’t remember them exactly.

Do you feel your employer properly prepared you for your job? Explain.
Nope! There was no position at the company analogous to mine before I started working there. No one, including both my manager and me, knew how exactly my position would work.

Was there training for your current position? If yes, what did it entail?
Not a bit! I’m entirely self-taught when it comes to computers.

Do you feel your educational background prepared you for your job? Explain.
Only in the sense that having a good general education prepares you for any job. I’m glad I’m in school, but my field of study and my job are entirely unrelated.

If applicable, do you feel your internship experience helped you prepare for your job?
n/a

If someone wanted to go about getting a job similar to yours, what would you recommend for him or her to do?
Learn all you can about computers. It doesn’t take formal education, but it does take time and effort. Most offices like having someone in-house to solve day-to-day issues without having to pay an outside contractor exorbitant fees–just ask around! Send your resume places and see what happens.

What skills do you think a person should have if they want to pursue a position like yours?
Technical skills are the main thing, but being able to communicate abstract technical concepts to a lay audience is really important too.

Do you feel that you need a certain level of education or training to be successful in your job?
Not necessarily. I’m a senior in college, but my field is totally unrelated to my job and my actual technical skills are self-taught.

What advice would you give to someone who was about to start work in your position/ line of work?
Remember that not everyone knows the same jargon and facts that you do. Sometimes what you think is a simple concept is really weird and intimidating to people who don’t know what you’re talking about. Make it easier for them–use analogies, don’t assume they know, but don’t be condescending or talk down. If you make yourself likable, you’re more likely to enjoy your job.