A highly skilled individual with a solid foundation in computers and software is an IT support specialist. Consider a job in this in-demand industry if you are a problem solver with sophisticated computer abilities. We will take you through how to become one in this article as well as describe what IT support specialists do.
How To Become An IT Support Specialist In Nigeria
Who Is An IT Support Specialist?
An IT support specialist advises users and troubleshoots computer problems. People in this position are in charge of assisting users with any technical issues they may encounter. You need to have excellent communication skills and familiarity with standard computer systems if you want to work in this profession. It’s your responsibility to resolve any IT issues that clients or customers may encounter.
Daily Duties Of IT Support Specialist
The strong demand for IT support specialists is primarily due to the importance of their work to the smooth daily operations of most firms.
The following tasks can be expected of an IT support specialist:
- Assist users in troubleshooting common computer issues or concerns
- Reply to requests for information technology services, repairs, support, inquiries, or complaints
- Refer user messages or calls to the appropriate IT personnel
- Use a computer tracking system to manage new tickets
- Make recommendations to improve computer systems
- Provide documentation for customer support inquiries and resolutions
- Upgrade and manage systems to ensure they are operating effectively and efficiently
- Implement new business and productivity software
- Train staff on new software, systems, and best practices
- Maintain and back up security databases
An IT Support Specialist is required to possess the following skills.
Analytic Skills: You deal with several complex technological issues in your profession. It’s your responsibility to assess a scenario and determine what the best course of action would be. A knowledgeable IT support professional is aware that a system fault could be caused by several moving parts.
Communication Skills: This position will include communicating with clients or internal users a lot. You should probably be at ease and articulate when speaking on the phone. You’ll probably require good communication skills to deliver helpful written instructions and advice when using an email or live chat option.
Creative Thinking: Not every computer problem will immediately occur to you. To solve complex problems, one needs to occasionally use creativity.
Organizational Skills: Many jobs must frequently be managed simultaneously by IT specialists. You can keep track of all of your ticket requests by using organizational skills.
Patience: Users that contact you won’t have the same level of computer system expertise as you do. Maintaining your cool will assist you to clarify what this user has to do to solve their issue.
Problem-solving: A large portion of your job entails troubleshooting. You can do better in this position if you have problem-solving abilities.
Strong Technical Skills: You must have a firm grasp of computer hardware and applications. You can only address the issues that your users have if you have a thorough understanding of how these things operate.
How To Become An IT Support Specialist In Nigeria
To become an IT specialist in Nigeria, follow the following steps:
Obtain A College Degree: Candidates with great computer abilities are in high demand from employers. Although individuals without a college education may be taken into consideration, obtaining an associate’s or bachelor’s degree in computer science or a closely related field of study will help you stand out from the competition. Regardless matter whether you earn a degree, you’ll probably need at least some training to be competent enough to perform successfully in this role.
Develop Your Soft Skills: Make an effort to build the soft skills you’ll need for this profession in addition to your technical skills. To demonstrate that you can comprehend a user’s wants completely and find the best solution for them, engage in active listening. A significant portion of this profession involves chatting on the phone frequently, so be sure you are also proficient in verbal communication.
Apply For Entry-level Or Internship Roles: Although there are many entry-level IT positions available, you can also start your career in this field by doing an internship. Ask meaningful questions and make an effort to network as much as you can throughout your internship. An internship frequently leads to a full-time job.
Earn Relevant Certifications
Employers can see that you have a particular set of talents if you have certificates. Some businesses employ IT support experts to offer help for a single platform or specialty. Below are the following certificates that might be worth pursuing:
Microsoft Technology Professional (MTA): Microsoft has a wide range of certifications available in fields including database basics, security fundamentals, windows operating fundamentals, and other topics that could boost your career. Choose the MTA certification that will help you stand out from other applicants.
CompTIA A+ Certification: Employers can see that you have a strong background in hardware, technical assistance, and troubleshooting thanks to this CompTIA certification. You will also gain knowledge on subjects including security, mobile technology, and operational procedures.
Apple Certified Support Professional (ACSP): You might want to obtain this certification if you intend to work with macOS. It demonstrates that you are an expert at using this system and have all the necessary support resources.
Acquire Experience: You may eventually be promoted to a higher-level job inside your organization after a few years of working in a position where you help internal users or clients. Show that you have the knowledge and abilities to enhance the functionality and design of the company’s computer systems. You might even have greater room for advancement if you work for a hardware or software company. You might eventually progress to positions like software developer or computer systems administrator.
Network And Build Sustainable Relationships: Developing relationships with others in the field can help you progress in your career. Join several IT professional groups to network with other IT support professionals. Bring extra business cards to gatherings where you network so that you can distribute them. Make sure you stay in touch and build a professional connection with everyone you meet.
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