Let’s get something straight right out of the gate: you do not need prior experience to get started in IT. You don’t need to be a “tech genius” who’s been building computers since they were six. What you do need is curiosity, consistency, and a smart plan.
Whether you’re coming from retail, fast food, warehouse work, or a completely unrelated field, there’s a place for you in tech. In fact, some of the most successful IT professionals started exactly where you are right now…at square one.
So let’s talk about how you can get started in the IT industry.
Understand What IT Actually Is
A lot of people say they want to work in “IT,” but here’s the truth: IT is a massive field.
Do you want to fix computers? Manage networks? Work in cybersecurity? Write scripts? Help users with tech problems? Set up cloud systems?
IT (Information Technology) is the backbone of almost every modern business, and it includes roles like:
- Help Desk Support
- Network Administrator
- Systems Analyst
- Cybersecurity Analyst
- Cloud Engineer
- IT Project Manager
- Database Administrator
- IT Auditor
- Penetration Tester
- Web Administrator
Don’t let that overwhelm you. Just know that your first job likely won’t be your last and your path can evolve as you learn more. But before you take another step, you need to identify which direction feels most exciting. Not sure yet? That’s okay. Let’s start with the easiest entry point…
Aim for an Entry-Level IT Role
If you have no experience, your first goal should be getting your foot in the door. The most accessible jobs in IT include:
- IT Help Desk / Technical Support
- You’ll answer calls or tickets from users who need help with their devices or software. This job teaches you how systems work in real life.
- Desktop Support Technician
- More hands-on. You’ll fix computers, install software, and maybe support printers, monitors, and networking cables.
- IT Support Specialist
- This might combine both help desk and desktop support. You’ll troubleshoot, maintain systems, and work with other IT staff.
- These jobs don’t usually require prior experience, but they do require you to show basic knowledge and a willingness to learn.
Get Familiar With Basic IT Concepts (Free or Cheap)
You don’t need a degree. You need skills. Here’s what you should learn first (for free or on a budget):
Core IT Skills to Learn
- How computers work (hardware vs. software)
- Operating systems (especially Windows and Linux)
- Basic networking (IP addresses, DNS, DHCP, etc.)
- Cybersecurity fundamentals (passwords, firewalls, phishing)
- File systems, permissions, and user accounts
- Common troubleshooting techniques
Free & Budget-Friendly Learning Resources
- CompTIA Tech+ or A+ YouTube channels: Great intro content
- freeCodeCamp.org: Solid content for tech beginners
- Tech Gee (YouTube): Amazing A+ and Network+ prep
- Coursera / edX / Udemy: Look for beginner IT courses
- TryHackMe: For cybersecurity curiosity
- LinkedIn Learning: Often free via public libraries
Make a goal to study 1 hour per day. That’s it. Over time, it adds up.
Earn a Beginner-Friendly Certification
Here’s the truth: certs are your golden ticket when you don’t have experience. They tell employers, “Hey, I’ve got the knowledge. Just give me the chance.”
You don’t need to spend thousands. Pick one of these:
Top Entry-Level IT Certifications
Tip: Many of these can be self-studied, and some offer discounts for students or bundles. Start with just one. Passing it is a confidence boost and a résumé booster.
Build a Home Lab
“Wait…what’s a lab?”
In simple terms: it’s a way to practice hands-on IT skills from your home using free tools or virtual machines. You don’t need expensive equipment. Just use your computer.
What You Can Do in a Home Lab
- Install and break (then fix) Windows and Linux VMs
- Set up a virtual network using VirtualBox or Hyper-V
- Use PFsense to learn firewall basics
- Practice commands with PowerShell or Bash
- Set up your own web server
- Play with tools like Nmap, Wireshark, or Active Directory
There’s no better way to gain confidence than breaking stuff on purpose and fixing it.
Update Your Résumé and LinkedIn for IT
Your old résumé might say “Retail Associate” or “Warehouse Tech,” and that’s okay. You just need to translate your experience into tech-friendly language.
Translate Your Skills
Include These Sections
- Professional Summary: Aspiring IT Support Specialist with hands-on training and a passion for technology. Completed CompTIA A+ certification and home lab projects.
- Certifications: List any passed or in-progress certs
- Projects: Home lab experiences (yes, they count!)
- Soft Skills: Communication, problem-solving, teamwork
And don’t forget LinkedIn. Update your title (e.g., “Aspiring IT Support Technician | CompTIA A+ Certified”) and start connecting with IT professionals in your area.
Apply Smart, Even If You Don’t Meet Every Requirement
Listen closely: you don’t need to meet every bullet point in a job description.
Most job ads are wishlists. If you meet even 50-60% of the requirements, apply.
Where to Apply
- Indeed
- Dice
- Local government and school job boards
- Temp agencies with IT contracts (Robert Half, TEKsystems, etc.)
- Entry-level apprenticeships (Apprenti, Year Up, etc.)
Apply daily and make it a habit. And when you land interviews, don’t lie. Just be honest about your journey, show what you’ve learned, and bring that passion. Employers notice effort.
Start Small If You Have To
Your first job may not be glamorous. You might start as a Tier 1 Help Desk rep, or work contract gigs, or even volunteer at a nonprofit setting up their computers. That’s okay.
Every job is a stepping stone and each one teaches you something. In just 6–12 months, you’ll have enough real-world experience to level up.
Keep Learning and Leveling Up
IT changes fast. To stay competitive, you’ve got to keep learning. After your first job, you might explore:
- CompTIA Network+ → If you like networking
- CompTIA Security+ → If you want cybersecurity
- Linux+ → If you enjoy Linux systems
- Cloud certs (AWS, Azure) → If you’re curious about the cloud
And you can even pivot into more specialized roles like:
- Cybersecurity Analyst
- Cloud Support Engineer
- System Administrator
- Network Technician
- IT Auditor
- DevOps Support
- SOC Analyst
The more you learn and prove, the more doors open.
Build a Support System
You’re not in this alone. Surround yourself with people who are on the same journey or ahead of you.
Where to Find Your IT Tribe
- Tech Discord communities
- Reddit: r/ITCareerQuestions
- LinkedIn networking groups
- Local IT meetups or user groups
- Online forums like TechExams.net
Ask questions, share wins, & stay inspired.
Bonus Tips: What NOT to Do
Let’s wrap this up with some real talk. Here’s what not to do on your journey.
- Don’t Get Stuck in Tutorial Hell
- Learning is great, but execution is better. Don’t just binge videos. Apply the skills.
- Don’t Wait for Perfect
- Don’t wait until you “feel ready” to apply…apply anyway. Confidence grows after action.
- Don’t Ignore Soft Skills
- You need to talk to people in IT. Communication, patience, and teamwork go a long way, especially on the help desk.
- Don’t Give Up After One Rejection
- You might get 50 rejections. So what? The 51st might be your ticket in.
Final Thoughts
Breaking into IT with no experience is 100% possible. People do it every day, from former truck drivers and baristas to teachers and stay-at-home parents. The key is starting right where you are, staying consistent, and building your confidence through learning, practicing, and applying.
So don’t wait until you feel ready. Get that first cert, build that home lab, rewrite that résumé, and most importantly, start applying. Because the tech industry is waiting for you.
