From Beginner to Pro: Essential IT Skills for Aspiring Techies

What is information technology or IT?

 

Information technology, commonly known as IT, is a big part of how our world functions today.  It influences almost all aspects of our lives, from communication to business operations. 

 

It’s a blend of computers, networks, and software designed to make life easier and more connected. As technology grows, understanding IT becomes even more essential for anyone looking to thrive in today’s tech-driven world.

 

If you’ve ever sent an email, played a game on your phone or computer, or used Google or iCloud storage, you’ve interacted with IT!

 

IT is the backbone of businesses and personal technology in the modern world. Without it, we can’t communicate or manage data, and our devices can’t be protected from threats like viruses or cyber-attacks. 

 

As for the workplace, IT is even more critical for businesses since it helps improve efficiency and productivity. Here are some ways it shows up in our everyday jobs: 

 

• Remote work: Thanks to IT, people can work from almost anywhere. This flexibility means more work-life balance.

 

• Customer interaction: Businesses use IT tools to understand customers’ wants better and keep them happy.

 

• Problem-solving: Whether troubleshooting a tech issue or creating a new product, IT provides the tools necessary for innovative solutions.

 

The essential skills you need to work in IT

 

If you’re dreaming about a career in IT, it’s not just about being good with computers. It’s a blend of both technical and soft skills that make you stand out. 

 

The right combination can open doors in the ever-growing tech industry. Have you considered the skills you’ll need to become an IT professional? Let’s look at the key technical and soft skills to get you off to a flying start in your IT journey.

 

Technical skills 

Technical skills refer to skills that need to be learned through studies. Here are some of the main technical skills you’ll need: 

 

• Technical writing: A form of communication used by many industrial and scientific organisations to convey complicated information in an easy-to-understand way. 

 

• Social media management: Managing social media platforms and websites, including producing content, copywriting, and more. 

 

• Coding and programming: Creating code in different languages like Java, C++, and Python is an excellent skill to have, as full-stack development is one of the highest-paying IT jobs in South Africa. 

 

• Network configuration: Setting up a community of computers that can talk to each other. This is especially useful for companies where different departments and team members must communicate. 

 

• Hardware deployment: Installing new computers and upgrading outdated networks and software so companies can maintain competitiveness. 

 

• Operating system knowledge: Understanding different computer systems, such as macOS and Windows, can help you solve technical issues when they arise. 

 

• Database management: Collecting, managing, and summarising data effectively so decision-makers can use it to make decisions for the company. Skills in SQL and database systems will help you maintain accurate and readily available information. 

 

• Cybersecurity awareness: Think of it as being a digital bodyguard. Protecting networks and data from breaches is vital in today’s tech-savvy environment.

 

• Project management: To see a project through from start to finish, you must plan, execute, and review processes effectively. Tools like Agile can aid your approach.

 

As you can see, all of these skills need to be learned. Now, let’s look at some soft skills you need as an IT professional. 

 

Soft skills 

Technical skills are just one piece of the puzzle. IT professionals must also hone soft skills (or people skills) to succeed in teams and handle the unpredictable nature of tech challenges. Here’s what you need:

 

• Problem-solving abilities: Every day in IT is like a puzzle waiting to be solved. Can you think outside the box when things go wrong? Your ability to find solutions will be your best ally.

 

• Communication skills: As an IT professional, you’ll work with people from different departments and will have to resolve issues. This means you need to be able to communicate effectively — both verbally and in writing. 

 

• Teamwork: As mentioned, you’ll be required to work with other people, whether other IT professionals or employees from different departments. Therefore, you must be a team player and work well with others. 

 

Being an IT professional isn’t just about knowing how the inside of a computer works. It’s about using your skills to build, fix, and understand technology while working smoothly with others. 

 

These skills will help you land a job and thrive in your chosen career. How well are you sharpening your IT toolkit?

 

Top IT courses to help you reach your career goals

Talking about sharpening your toolkit, picking a suitable technology course could be your ticket to success. 

 

Here are some of the best IT courses to help you learn essential skills and open doors to exciting job opportunities. Whether you’re just starting or looking to grow your technical career, these courses will be an excellent investment in your future.

 

• Higher Certificate in Information Technology
• Bachelor of Commerce in Information Technology
• Bachelor of Commerce in Digital Marketing
• Advanced Diploma in Business Analysis
• Higher Certificate in Social Media Communication
• and more

 

The course you choose depends on your career goals and what technical area you enjoy most. IT may be for you if you like programming and working with different software. 

 

Conversely, if you enjoy creating campaigns to market and sell to people, digital marketing is a great choice. 

 

Register for MANCOSA’s information technology online courses 

Are you ready to dive into IT and boost your career prospects? Look at all the online IT courses available with MANCOSA’s School of Information and Digital Technology. 

 

With a wide range of technical courses, you can find a programme that suits your interests and goals. Not sure what course to choose? Contact us, and one of our consultants will help you.