How to Become a Technical Support Specialist
- 1). Learn as much about computers and computer technology as you can on your own. While formal training and certification are important, a good part of the actual job of technical support specialist requires real hands-on knowledge and skill. Things like building your own computers and repairing broken PCs can provide valuable experience you can bring with you to the job.
- 2). Take computer courses if you are attending college. A college degree is not a requirement of many entry-level technical support specialist positions, but a bachelor's degree can be a plus. Focusing on computer-related courses will give you additional skills and training you can apply to your career goals.
- 3). Obtain certifications from major computer industry players like Cisco and Microsoft. There are a number of paths to these certifications, from crash courses and week-long seminars to college courses and self-study packages. Taking a certification track at a community college is a good way to get the certifications you need at an affordable cost.
- 4). Prepare your resume and use it to highlight your new skills. Create a skills section on the document and list all of the software applications, operating systems and types of hardware you have worked with. Also use that skills section to list any certifications you hold, while also including those certifications in the education section of the resume.
- 5). Set up profiles on social media sites that cater to the business community. Use your profile to highlight the certifications you have obtained and the training you have completed. Participate in the site often, and network with those in the business community that may have tech support jobs to offer. If you completed formal certification or a college degree, work with the career counselors to find a suitable entry-level position.
- 6). Search job boards, want ads and other job postings for technical support positions. Review the qualifications of each one and tailor your resume to answer those qualifications. Highlight the relevant experience you have in your cover letter as well, since that is the first document the hiring manager will see.
- 7). Practice your interviewing skills, especially if it has been some time since you applied for a job. Be prepared to answer the questions posed by the interviewer, and use each interview question as a jumping off point to discuss your qualifications, training and relevant tech support experience.
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