Computer support specialists provide technical assistance to computer users. A secondary education is expected, and a degree in IT or computer science is desired. Certificates and internships can also help. Strong troubleshooting skills, communication skills, and customer service orientation are important. Highlighting computer experience and language skills on a resume can increase job opportunities.
Computer support specialists provide technical assistance to people and organizations that use computers. To become a computer support specialist, you must have extensive computer knowledge and experience. At least a secondary education is usually expected, and an associate’s or bachelor’s degree is often desired by employers. College fields of study that will help you prepare for this career include information technology, computer science, or even non-computer subjects if you have the necessary computer experience. If you don’t have a college degree, completing a certificate program in computer support, computer programming, or a similar field through a vocational school or community college can help you find work as a computer support specialist.
If you’re still in high school, there are several things you can do to reach your goal of becoming a computer support specialist. To gain computer experience, take advantage of all the courses your school offers. Enroll in computer camps during the summer and other school holidays. Take advanced math courses to help you develop problem-solving skills. Language arts courses will help develop reading and writing skills, which are also important if you want to become a computer support specialist.
If you pursue an undergraduate program, look for one that offers internships, which will provide real-world experience and potential contacts for further employment. Regardless of whether you’re a college graduate, passing a certification test that demonstrates your computer skills, such as the one offered by the Computer Technology Industry Association (CompTIA), for example, can greatly increase your credibility with employers. You can also look for software, hardware, networking, and other certificates offered by computer vendors that demonstrate their expertise in their specific products.
Important skills for working as a computer support specialist include strong troubleshooting and troubleshooting skills. The ability to explain technical concepts to sometimes non-technical computer users and make yourself understood is important. Patience and a strong customer service orientation is key in this job, because you’ll need to help people who may be frustrated or upset because of computer problems. Good in-person and telephone communication skills will help you as you become a computer support specialist. The ability to write to communicate effectively via e-mail, as well as to prepare user guides, manuals, and other computer documentation, is also useful if you want to become an expert in computer support.
When looking for employment as a computer support specialist, highlight your computer experience and any areas of expertise on your resume. List your degree, if you have one, as well as any certificates you’ve earned. If you know another language, be sure to highlight it on your resume, because knowing another language can open many doors in an increasingly global business world.
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