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What skills can I add to stay ahead of the curve?
I've received my A+ certification recently and have started setting up a home lab and familiarize myself with active directory. I am applying to entry level positions but unfortunately have not received an offer yet. My question is, what do I need to add to my skill set that would be allow me to be considered as an ideal candidate? There is a lot of information on the internet, but with so much being available, it's hard to know in which general direction to go towards. Thank you for taking the time to help!
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7 answers
Updated
Angel’s Answer
Hi! Congrats on your A+ certification! To stay ahead, focus on practical skills like networking (get Network+), basic cybersecurity (Security+), and scripting with Python or PowerShell. Explore virtualization tools (e.g., VMware or Hyper-V) and cloud platforms (AWS or Azure fundamentals). Hands-on projects in your home lab will make your resume stand out!
Updated
James Patterson’s Answer
Data Science and AI - hands down. It's not an easy lift, and you must have a mind for math to master and enjoy it, but you will never have a boring day at work.
Updated
Chinyere’s Answer
Hello Estefan,
First off, congratulations on earning your A+ certification and taking the initiative to set up a home lab—those are big steps in the right direction! It’s completely normal to feel a bit overwhelmed with all the information out there, but the fact that you’re already taking proactive steps shows you’re on the right track.
Here are some focused skills and areas that can help you stand out as an entry-level candidate in IT:
1. Deepen Your Networking Knowledge
- Consider certifications like "Network+" or "CCNA (Cisco Certified Network Associate)". These will help you solidify your understanding of networking concepts, which are highly valued in many IT roles.
- In your home lab, try setting up a virtual network using tools like VMware or VirtualBox and experiment with subnetting, VPNs, and basic firewall setups.
2. Active Directory and Windows Server
- Keep building your knowledge in Active Directory. Learn how to manage users, groups, and policies, and explore Group Policy Management.
- If you can, install Windows Server in your home lab and play around with creating and managing domains.
3. Cybersecurity Basics
- Employers are increasingly looking for candidates with at least some cybersecurity awareness.
- Learn tools like Wireshark for network traffic analysis or familiarize yourself with basic security practices like vulnerability scanning (e.g., using Nessus).
- Consider starting with a foundational cybersecurity cert like CompTIA Security+.
4. Scripting and Automation
- Learn scripting languages like "PowerShell" (critical for automating tasks in Windows environments) or "Python" (widely used in IT and security).
- Automating repetitive tasks is a huge time-saver and a skill that many employers value.
5. Cloud Fundamentals
- Cloud computing is a big deal, even at the entry level. Start exploring Azure, AWS, or Google Cloud Platform. Many providers offer free tiers to get hands-on practice.
- A beginner cert like "AWS Certified Cloud Practitioner" or "Microsoft Azure Fundamentals" can be a great way to stand out.
6. Soft Skills and Documentation
- Employers often value communication skills as much as technical know-how. Practice explaining technical concepts in simple terms, as you’ll likely need to assist non-technical staff.
- Get comfortable writing clear documentation—whether it’s for a ticketing system or user guides.
7. Volunteer or Personal Projects
- If you’re not getting offers yet, consider volunteering to support local nonprofits or small businesses with their IT needs. It’s a great way to gain real-world experience and build your resume.
- Highlight any personal projects from your home lab on your resume or LinkedIn (e.g., “Set up and configured a home Active Directory domain with user permissions and group policies”).
8. Tailored Applications
- Make sure your resume and cover letter are tailored to each job you apply for. Use keywords from the job description to align your skills with the employer’s needs.
- Networking can also help—reach out to people on LinkedIn in roles or companies you’re interested in to ask for advice.
You’re doing all the right things! The IT field is competitive, but persistence pays off. Keep building your skills, showcasing your projects, and refining your job search strategy. The right opportunity will come along, and when it does, you’ll be more than ready!
Best wishes!
First off, congratulations on earning your A+ certification and taking the initiative to set up a home lab—those are big steps in the right direction! It’s completely normal to feel a bit overwhelmed with all the information out there, but the fact that you’re already taking proactive steps shows you’re on the right track.
Here are some focused skills and areas that can help you stand out as an entry-level candidate in IT:
1. Deepen Your Networking Knowledge
- Consider certifications like "Network+" or "CCNA (Cisco Certified Network Associate)". These will help you solidify your understanding of networking concepts, which are highly valued in many IT roles.
- In your home lab, try setting up a virtual network using tools like VMware or VirtualBox and experiment with subnetting, VPNs, and basic firewall setups.
2. Active Directory and Windows Server
- Keep building your knowledge in Active Directory. Learn how to manage users, groups, and policies, and explore Group Policy Management.
- If you can, install Windows Server in your home lab and play around with creating and managing domains.
3. Cybersecurity Basics
- Employers are increasingly looking for candidates with at least some cybersecurity awareness.
- Learn tools like Wireshark for network traffic analysis or familiarize yourself with basic security practices like vulnerability scanning (e.g., using Nessus).
- Consider starting with a foundational cybersecurity cert like CompTIA Security+.
4. Scripting and Automation
- Learn scripting languages like "PowerShell" (critical for automating tasks in Windows environments) or "Python" (widely used in IT and security).
- Automating repetitive tasks is a huge time-saver and a skill that many employers value.
5. Cloud Fundamentals
- Cloud computing is a big deal, even at the entry level. Start exploring Azure, AWS, or Google Cloud Platform. Many providers offer free tiers to get hands-on practice.
- A beginner cert like "AWS Certified Cloud Practitioner" or "Microsoft Azure Fundamentals" can be a great way to stand out.
6. Soft Skills and Documentation
- Employers often value communication skills as much as technical know-how. Practice explaining technical concepts in simple terms, as you’ll likely need to assist non-technical staff.
- Get comfortable writing clear documentation—whether it’s for a ticketing system or user guides.
7. Volunteer or Personal Projects
- If you’re not getting offers yet, consider volunteering to support local nonprofits or small businesses with their IT needs. It’s a great way to gain real-world experience and build your resume.
- Highlight any personal projects from your home lab on your resume or LinkedIn (e.g., “Set up and configured a home Active Directory domain with user permissions and group policies”).
8. Tailored Applications
- Make sure your resume and cover letter are tailored to each job you apply for. Use keywords from the job description to align your skills with the employer’s needs.
- Networking can also help—reach out to people on LinkedIn in roles or companies you’re interested in to ask for advice.
You’re doing all the right things! The IT field is competitive, but persistence pays off. Keep building your skills, showcasing your projects, and refining your job search strategy. The right opportunity will come along, and when it does, you’ll be more than ready!
Best wishes!
Updated
Anthony’s Answer
If you have not already, I recommend certifications on Coursera, specifically Data Analytics or advanced Data Analytics.
James Constantine Frangos
Consultant Dietitian-Nutritionist & Software Developer since 1972 🡆 Optimization Of Human Performance
7217
Answers
Updated
James Constantine’s Answer
Good Day Estefan!
Skills to Add for Career Advancement in IT
1. Networking Fundamentals Understanding networking is crucial for IT professionals. Familiarize yourself with concepts such as TCP/IP, DNS, DHCP, and subnetting. Consider obtaining certifications like CompTIA Network+ to validate your knowledge.
2. Cybersecurity Awareness With the increasing importance of cybersecurity, having a foundational understanding of security principles is essential. Learn about firewalls, intrusion detection systems, and basic security protocols. Certifications such as CompTIA Security+ can enhance your profile.
3. Cloud Computing Skills Cloud technologies are becoming integral in IT environments. Gain experience with platforms like AWS, Azure, or Google Cloud Platform. Understanding cloud architecture and services can make you a more attractive candidate.
4. Scripting and Automation Learning scripting languages such as PowerShell or Python can significantly improve your efficiency in managing systems and automating tasks. This skill is highly valued in IT roles where automation can save time and reduce errors.
5. Virtualization Technologies Familiarize yourself with virtualization tools like VMware or Hyper-V. Understanding how to create and manage virtual machines is beneficial for roles involving server management and infrastructure support.
6. Soft Skills Development Technical skills are important, but soft skills such as communication, teamwork, problem-solving, and adaptability are equally critical in the workplace. Employers often look for candidates who can effectively collaborate with others and communicate technical information clearly.
7. Continuous Learning Mindset The IT field is constantly evolving; therefore, adopting a mindset of continuous learning will keep you ahead of the curve. Engage in online courses (e.g., Coursera, Udemy), webinars, or local meetups to stay updated on industry trends.
8. Hands-on Experience Continue building your home lab to gain practical experience with different technologies and scenarios you may encounter in real-world environments. Participate in open-source projects or volunteer opportunities that allow you to apply your skills practically.
By focusing on these areas, you will enhance your skill set significantly and increase your chances of being considered an ideal candidate for entry-level positions in IT.
Probability the answer is correct: 95%
Top 3 Authoritative Sources Used in Answering this Question
1. CompTIA CompTIA provides industry-recognized certifications that validate skills across various IT domains including networking, security, and cloud computing.
2. Cisco Networking Academy Cisco offers resources for learning networking fundamentals and cybersecurity principles through their comprehensive training programs.
3. LinkedIn Learning LinkedIn Learning offers a wide range of courses on technical skills (like scripting) as well as soft skills development tailored for professionals seeking career advancement in IT fields.
✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯
|=========================God Bless You, Richly!===========================|
|=========================James Constantine=============================|
|=================THE AUSTRALIAN OUTBACK DIETITIAN====================|
|=================Programming For Your Nutrition Education===================|
|==========================~ Since 1972!================================|
✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯
Skills to Add for Career Advancement in IT
1. Networking Fundamentals Understanding networking is crucial for IT professionals. Familiarize yourself with concepts such as TCP/IP, DNS, DHCP, and subnetting. Consider obtaining certifications like CompTIA Network+ to validate your knowledge.
2. Cybersecurity Awareness With the increasing importance of cybersecurity, having a foundational understanding of security principles is essential. Learn about firewalls, intrusion detection systems, and basic security protocols. Certifications such as CompTIA Security+ can enhance your profile.
3. Cloud Computing Skills Cloud technologies are becoming integral in IT environments. Gain experience with platforms like AWS, Azure, or Google Cloud Platform. Understanding cloud architecture and services can make you a more attractive candidate.
4. Scripting and Automation Learning scripting languages such as PowerShell or Python can significantly improve your efficiency in managing systems and automating tasks. This skill is highly valued in IT roles where automation can save time and reduce errors.
5. Virtualization Technologies Familiarize yourself with virtualization tools like VMware or Hyper-V. Understanding how to create and manage virtual machines is beneficial for roles involving server management and infrastructure support.
6. Soft Skills Development Technical skills are important, but soft skills such as communication, teamwork, problem-solving, and adaptability are equally critical in the workplace. Employers often look for candidates who can effectively collaborate with others and communicate technical information clearly.
7. Continuous Learning Mindset The IT field is constantly evolving; therefore, adopting a mindset of continuous learning will keep you ahead of the curve. Engage in online courses (e.g., Coursera, Udemy), webinars, or local meetups to stay updated on industry trends.
8. Hands-on Experience Continue building your home lab to gain practical experience with different technologies and scenarios you may encounter in real-world environments. Participate in open-source projects or volunteer opportunities that allow you to apply your skills practically.
By focusing on these areas, you will enhance your skill set significantly and increase your chances of being considered an ideal candidate for entry-level positions in IT.
Probability the answer is correct: 95%
Top 3 Authoritative Sources Used in Answering this Question
1. CompTIA CompTIA provides industry-recognized certifications that validate skills across various IT domains including networking, security, and cloud computing.
2. Cisco Networking Academy Cisco offers resources for learning networking fundamentals and cybersecurity principles through their comprehensive training programs.
3. LinkedIn Learning LinkedIn Learning offers a wide range of courses on technical skills (like scripting) as well as soft skills development tailored for professionals seeking career advancement in IT fields.
✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯
|=========================God Bless You, Richly!===========================|
|=========================James Constantine=============================|
|=================THE AUSTRALIAN OUTBACK DIETITIAN====================|
|=================Programming For Your Nutrition Education===================|
|==========================~ Since 1972!================================|
✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯
Updated
Jerry’s Answer
Estefan,
First, there are many fine answers here for you to review and I hope to not offer repetitive advice.
We're living in rapidly changing times. Our weather, technology and our ability to work globally are in flux and evolving. E.g., who knows where artificial intelligence is headed and how will it affect your future work opportunities? One thing will remain consistent and valuable. Your ability to communicate effectively. And what can assist you in communicating more easily and therefore become even more employable? Language. Make an effort to learn to speak, write and read a second language. Or two. Your worth will increase dramatically. Get a college degree or higher in courses to which your interests gravitate. Determine how well you perform activities about which you are passionate. Because if you are not good to great at something, why should someone hire you to perform that function?
Conduct this Google search: what professions will be in demand in ten years
Then substitute another/related job title or profession to see if that provides a different or expanded list. The results, because of our changing world, may or may not be entirely on target but you'll get an idea. AND you may find out that a certain country may be where that opportunity is most likely to be...hence, my advice about learning multiple languages.
Be sure to go to LinkedIn and search by job title for individuals who now or previously held the job title in which you’re interested. Their profiles should contain valuable information about their duties, work history, career progression, associations/organizations of value to research and more.
Good fortune to you.
First, there are many fine answers here for you to review and I hope to not offer repetitive advice.
We're living in rapidly changing times. Our weather, technology and our ability to work globally are in flux and evolving. E.g., who knows where artificial intelligence is headed and how will it affect your future work opportunities? One thing will remain consistent and valuable. Your ability to communicate effectively. And what can assist you in communicating more easily and therefore become even more employable? Language. Make an effort to learn to speak, write and read a second language. Or two. Your worth will increase dramatically. Get a college degree or higher in courses to which your interests gravitate. Determine how well you perform activities about which you are passionate. Because if you are not good to great at something, why should someone hire you to perform that function?
Conduct this Google search: what professions will be in demand in ten years
Then substitute another/related job title or profession to see if that provides a different or expanded list. The results, because of our changing world, may or may not be entirely on target but you'll get an idea. AND you may find out that a certain country may be where that opportunity is most likely to be...hence, my advice about learning multiple languages.
Be sure to go to LinkedIn and search by job title for individuals who now or previously held the job title in which you’re interested. Their profiles should contain valuable information about their duties, work history, career progression, associations/organizations of value to research and more.
Good fortune to you.
Updated
Michelle’s Answer
Hello, Estefan !
You seem to be doing all the best things for a career in Help Desk Support and I commend you for already setting up a work space at home. That's fabulous and a perfect start !
Since you have your CompTIA A+ Certification already, you have taken a good step forward. You may want to consider adding more certifications if you can to add to the skills you already have. The certifications you can consider are a Google IT Support Certificate, AppleCare Mac Technician Certification, HDI Customer Service Representative Certification, ITIL Foundation Certification, and the Google IT Automation with Python Professional Certificate. You can find information online about how to take these certifications which will not only boost your skills but add to your qualifications.
As for sending out your resume for employment with a company, don't give up. Continue to send your resume and cover letters out to all prospective employment opportunities for both on site and remote online work. Give yourself a goal to send out a certain number of resumes per week and keep a list of all the places you send to.
In the meantime, think about going for a Bachelors Degree at a nearby college. Although some computer people don't go for the college degree, most do have at least a Bachelors Degree which employers may see as stronger credibility, so college may be something that could give you a huge boost in the competitive business world.
Another thing that you can do to start obtaining work and add to your work experience is to start your own service. Draw up a business plan for your service and create a website for it. You would then have to do a great deal of networking and promote your business at trade shows, conventions, schools or wherever your target clientele are. You'll have to exert a lot of active initiative but it's worth it if you want work.
You are fortunate to be in Los Angeles because you can easily attend Techspo Los Angeles 2025. It would be a good place to network and learn more about the business. Many events to attend and it may be instrumental in making some contacts. I left a link to their website for you below.
I hope this helps and I wish you all the very best !
TECHSPO LOS ANGELES 2025 https://techspola.com/los-angeles-computer-technology-events/
You seem to be doing all the best things for a career in Help Desk Support and I commend you for already setting up a work space at home. That's fabulous and a perfect start !
Since you have your CompTIA A+ Certification already, you have taken a good step forward. You may want to consider adding more certifications if you can to add to the skills you already have. The certifications you can consider are a Google IT Support Certificate, AppleCare Mac Technician Certification, HDI Customer Service Representative Certification, ITIL Foundation Certification, and the Google IT Automation with Python Professional Certificate. You can find information online about how to take these certifications which will not only boost your skills but add to your qualifications.
As for sending out your resume for employment with a company, don't give up. Continue to send your resume and cover letters out to all prospective employment opportunities for both on site and remote online work. Give yourself a goal to send out a certain number of resumes per week and keep a list of all the places you send to.
In the meantime, think about going for a Bachelors Degree at a nearby college. Although some computer people don't go for the college degree, most do have at least a Bachelors Degree which employers may see as stronger credibility, so college may be something that could give you a huge boost in the competitive business world.
Another thing that you can do to start obtaining work and add to your work experience is to start your own service. Draw up a business plan for your service and create a website for it. You would then have to do a great deal of networking and promote your business at trade shows, conventions, schools or wherever your target clientele are. You'll have to exert a lot of active initiative but it's worth it if you want work.
You are fortunate to be in Los Angeles because you can easily attend Techspo Los Angeles 2025. It would be a good place to network and learn more about the business. Many events to attend and it may be instrumental in making some contacts. I left a link to their website for you below.
I hope this helps and I wish you all the very best !
Michelle recommends the following next steps: