Careers
in the technical side of information technology span the gamut from writing
computer programs and installing hardware to determining users’ needs. Already
the demand for information technology specialists is substantial throughout the
world, and it is growing rapidly. In many countries, there is a severe storage
of IT professionals. In the United Kingdom, for example, the storage of people
with IT skills may force British companies to relocate in countries where such
specialties are available. As one business manager said in a conversation with
the author, “Companies can now base themselves wherever in the world the
relevant IT skills are and use international networks to transmit data from
there.”
As in other fields, good “people skills” and the ability to
communicate ideas effectively are critical ingredients for success in the field
of information technology.
Information
Technology as an Aid to Your Career
Information
technology can help you in whatever career you pursue. Knowing how IT is used in
organizations, acquiring demonstrable IT skills and being able to list your IT
accomplishment on your resume will give you a solid advantage when you are
competing for a job. So be sure to learn how to use a PC, do word processing,
solve problems on a PC and communicate electronically. In business as well as in
the arts, the sciences, education, medicine, law, and government, information
technology –– computers, communications networks, and know-how –– is an
essential tool.
You do not have to wait until you start your career to begin using
information technology. You can start right now.