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How to Get Tech Job With No Experience

By on May 10, 2025

You do not need prior experience to get started in IT.  None.  Zip.  And no, 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 with that being said, let’s walk you through on how to break into IT with no experience.

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 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 ok.  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 – great foundation.
  • 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 & desktop support.  You’ll troubleshoot, maintain systems, & work with other IT staff.

These jobs don’t usually require prior experience, but they do require you to show basic knowledge & a willingness to learn.

Get Familiar with Basic IT Concepts (Free or Cheap)

You don’t need a degree.  However, you do 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 & Linux)
    • Basic networking (IP addresses, DNS, DHCP, etc.)
    • Cybersecurity fundamentals (passwords, firewalls, phishing)
    • File systems, permissions, & user accounts
    • Common troubleshooting techniques
  • Free & Budget-Friendly Learning Resources
    • CompTIA ITF+ or A+ YouTube Channels:  Great intro content
    • TryHackMe:  For cybersecurity curiosity

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:

  • CompTIA ITF+ (or Tech+)
  • CompTIA A+
    • Best For:  Help desk / tech support roles
    • Cost:  ~$239 / exam (2 exams)
  • Google IT Support
    • Best For:  General IT support intro
    • Cost:  Free with trial / ~$49/month
  • Microsoft Certified:  Azure Fundamentals
  • Cisco Certified Support Technician (CCST)
    • Best For:  Networking intro
    • Cost:  ~$125

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 & a resume booster.

Build a Home Lab

A home lab is 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 Can Do in a Home Lab

  • Install & 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 Resume & LinkedIn for IT

Your old resume might say “Retail Associate” or “Warehouse Tech”, and that’s ok.  You just need to translate your experience into tech-friendly language.

Translate Your Skills

  • Old Skill:  Helped customers with return
    • IT Version:  Provided support and troubleshooting
  • Old Skill:  Managed inventory
    • IT Version:  Maintained asset tracking systems
  • Old Skill:  Trained new employees
    • IT Version:  Delivered end-user guidance & support
  • Old Skill:  Solved problems quickly
    • IT Version:  Diagnosed & resolved technical issues

Include These Sections

  • Professional Summary
    • Aspiring IT Support Specialist with hands-on training & 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, the 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 whitelists.  If you meet even 50-60% of the requirements, apply.

Where to Apply

  • Indeed
  • LinkedIn
  • Dice
  • Local government & school job boards
  • Temp agencies with IT contracts (Robert Half, TEKsystems, etc.)
  • Entry-level apprenticeships (Apprenti, Year Up, etc.)

Apply daily.  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 ok. Every job is a stepping stone.  Each one teaches you something.  In just 6 – 12 months, you’ll have enough real-world experience to level up.

Keep Learning & 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
  • CompTIA 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 & 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
  • LinkedIn networking groups
  • Local IT meetups or user groups
  • Online forums

Ask questions.  Share wins.  Stay inspired.

Bonus Tips:  What Not to Do

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, & 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 resume.  And most importantly, start applying.  Because the tech industry is waiting for you.

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