Just Getting Started? Tools for Aspiring IT Pros

If you’re an aspiring IT Pro, there are a number of ways you can enter the IT job market. The most common entry-level position is known as the Consumer Support Technician (CST).

The CST job role (also referred to as Help Desk, Desktop or End User Support) is typically found in a small to medium-sized organization, or in a larger enterprise as tier-1-level support. In the CST role, you will provide assistance to users of a wide range of desktop operating systems, applications, and mobile devices. In doing so, you’ll gain expertise in network, virus, malicious software and hardware support issues. This experience serves as valuable preparation for your next step as an administrator or enterprise-level support technician.

So where do you start? If you are completely new to the IT field, start by obtaining the key skills needed for the CST position. Microsoft offers comprehensive learning plans to help you acquire CST skills on Windows operating systems (Windows 7, Vista and XP).

Once you’ve received training, you can prove your expertise by taking a Microsoft Certification exam, and you’ll have Microsoft’s endorsement to show potential employers. Earning a Microsoft Certified IT Professional: Customer Support Technician credential proves that you have demonstrated proficiency in the on-the-job skills required to succeed in a Windows-based CST position, and differentiates you from the rest of the non-certified pack. In fact, certification is typically a requirement or key hiring criterion for many IT job roles.

But don’t stop there: continue to look for opportunities to obtain real-world experience in configuring and troubleshooting desktop operating systems, applications, hardware and networks. As IT continues to grow into increasingly larger areas of business and everyday life, staying current on security issues will be key – and demand for consumer support will likely grow as a result.

So what are you waiting for?…

Other Key Resources and Links:

· Desktop Support Technician Salary info

· Consumer Support Technician Job Role

· MSL Windows Client Training Portal

· Special Offers page