A Dynamic and Rewarding Career: IT Consulting!
- Nela Friesen
- Feb 13, 2025
- 7 min read
Table of Contents
About Infomatrix Technology
Infomatrix Technology is an IT consulting business that serves clients in the Taber area in a variety of ways. The focus is on tech consulting, with an emphasis on data and cybersecurity insurance compliance, privacy, and technology integration. They also provide solutions to increase productivity based on the unique needs of each client, along with support in areas like branding, design, and business operations. By staying up to date and continuing to gain knowledge in niche industries, they have been able to serve clients ranging from individuals to small businesses to larger businesses like utility distribution companies.
IT = Information Technology
The study or use of systems (especially computers and telecommunications) for storing, retrieving, and sending information.
What is a job in IT like?
An Average Day
A day at Infomatrix Technology includes a mix of tasks that keep each day exciting. A day is usually started with emails and reviewing support tickets to ensure that urgent issues can be addressed quickly. Average days consist of meeting with clients to understand their needs, planning projects to make sure everything stays on track, troubleshooting and support for clients, and meeting with clients to implement solutions or troubleshoot on-site. The day ends with reviewing the day's progress and evaluating what needs to be done in the future. There has to be a balance between long-term projects and unexpected issues that arise to ensure that all client's needs are being met. Some days may be more relaxed with most of the day spent on routine tasks while others may be more hectic with multiple new issues arising that need to be fixed quickly.
Aside from these tasks, time also needs to be spent on business administration which involves invoices, coordinating with vendors, handling billing, and other aspects of running Infomatrix Technology. Networking and partnership building are also important as they can lead to collaborations that benefit clients, as well as discovering new industry trends and technologies.
The variety of tasks each day keeps the job exciting, as does the need for problem-solving when faced with new challenges. There is learning and growth in each day.
Pay
Income can depend on the demand for work and number of clients when charging per hour. This can lead to a good income but can also create challenges when there aren't as many people in need of your services. A solution to this can be to secure customers through service contracts, which provide monthly recurring revenue. This will help stabilize income. In IT consulting, operational costs can also be reduced by working remotely from home, which can increase profits as well.
Work Conditions
Working as an IT consultant can be stressful, especially when unexpected issues arise. However, this can be overcome using various strategies. Setting boundaries is important to ensure time to relax and recharge. Staying organized can also reduce the chance of feeling overwhelmed by tasks that must be completed. Supportive people like family, friends, and professional contacts are also critical to providing emotional and practical support in hard times. When running your own business, it's also important to avoid taking on too many clients to ensure that you can maintain a healthy work-life balance.
Work hours at Infomatrix Technology fluctuate between an average of 40 and 90 hours per week, depending on the amount of projects and deadlines. Running the business includes providing technical services but also taking care of administration tasks. This means that hours can vary, but it also allows for flexibility to adjust your schedule to meet business and personal commitments.
The work at Infomatrix Technology is mostly independent but collaboration is still needed to understand the client's needs and to work with contractors and vendors to complete large projects.
Qualities Needed
There are various qualities that are needed to succeed in the IT industry. You must be good with technology, as this is what IT is all about. Problem-solving is crucial, and being able to find creative solutions for technical problems will help you succeed. You must also be adaptable and open to learning about new methods and technologies in the IT field. Communication skills will also serve you well when dealing with your clients. Attention to detail is critical, as a small mistake can lead to consequences for your clients. Working on multiple projects will require good time-management skills to ensure all deadlines are met.
Apart from these qualities, soft skills like public speaking, project management, and interpersonal skills are also important as they will help you collaborate effectively with others.
Hardest, Easiest, and Rewarding Parts of the Job
Finding balance can be hard when multiple projects need to be completed. Each project is unique and requires overcoming different challenges, including deadlines, costs, unexpected problems, etc. Planning and organization are key when faced with these challenges.
IT work includes tasks like system maintenance and diagnosing familiar tech issues that get easier over time with experience. This allows for more time and confidence to be put into the more challenging projects.
The most rewarding part of this career is being able to build relationships with clients and businesses and see how the services provided are impacting the business positively. Being able to overcome challenges is also very rewarding and is a big part of this career.
Misconceptions
There are a few misconceptions about the IT industry. The first is that IT work is solely about fixing computers and setting up wifi networks. In reality, it also involves planning, project management, cybersecurity, collaborating with decision-makers, and implementing complex systems to help businesses drive growth and efficiency. Another common misconception is that IT consultants are expensive and charge for small fixes, but in reality, companies invest in IT not only for immediate fixes, but also for the knowledge, experience, and proactive measures to prevent future problems. IT consultants provide solutions that can help save money in the future. The third misconception is that only large businesses need IT consulting. However, all companies, regardless of size, can benefit from IT consulting, which will provide services like improving systems, ensuring data compliance, and integrating new technologies. IT consulting is an essential service for all businesses.
Post-Secondary
Completing a post-secondary program isn't necessary to enter the IT space but it can be very beneficial. There are many options available. Certifications like CompTIA A+, Network+, and Security+ can be completed in less than a year but are still valuable to employers. 2-year diploma programs are focused and are a quicker path to the workforce than 4-year degrees, however, these 4-year degrees will often give a broader education with more career options. Tuition costs can vary but as with any program, there are scholarships and other financial aid options available.
Entering the IT field can be competitive, but education and experience gained through internships and personal projects can enhance your chance of success. Gaining experience is very important to succeed in your career.
What can High School Students do to Prepare?
(Or anyone looking to get into IT work)
Tech-Related Classes
Subjects like computer science, mathematics, and business can be very helpful. Not only are they related to IT, but they also develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills that are needed for a career in IT.
Join Tech Clubs and Groups
Joining tech clubs, coding camps, or robotics teams, whether it's through the school or community, can be a great way to learn more about technology while having fun and working on interesting projects.
Build a Home Lab
You can create your own home lab using recycled servers and networking hardware. This is a great way to get hands-on experience in areas like self-hosting applications, setting up network hardware, and managing operating systems. Some platforms will also let students explore cloud computing at no cost, which is important as the industry becomes more cloud-focused.
Take Advantage of Free Resources
Many free online resources can teach a lot about IT. Platforms like Coursera, edX, and Khan Academy have courses on various IT topics. Many YouTube channels provide valuable information as well. Online forums can also be a great way to connect with professionals and ask questions. These resources can help you build a strong foundation for your IT career.
Seek Job-Shadowing Opportunities
Job shadowing allows a student to experience what a day on the job is like by following an employee as they go about their work. It can also be a way to network and build professional relationships. Seeing the daily challenges and types of projects that IT professionals work on can help decide whether or not IT is right for you.
Your school's IT provider might be willing to allow a student to shadow them for a while to learn more about IT.
Obtain Certifications
If you don't have any IT experience, certifications like CompTIA A+, Network+, and Security+ can be a great start to getting into the industry. Completing these certifications will also look good on a resume as they prove your skills. Certifications are often more affordable and can be completed in less time than longer programs, making them a good choice for high school students and anyone looking to get started in the IT industry.
Be Proactive About Continuous Learning
Technology is constantly changing, making it important to stay on top of current trends and regulations when working in the IT industry. Following resources related to IT careers is important to stay up to date.
Outside of this, continuously looking for opportunities to add new skills and knowledge to your skillset will make you an invaluable employee. Keep looking for opportunities to grow and improve.
By taking these steps, you can work towards building a good foundation for your IT consulting career. Getting an early start through education, experience, and certifications will help you enter the industry.
Thanks so much for reading today's blog post! An extra piece of information here is that the owner of Infomatrix Technology said he would be willing to hire a high school student interested in IT if the student demonstrates enthusiasm, willingness to learn, and has customer service experience! If this is something you are interested in, make sure to check out their website for contact information. Job shadowing and part-time work can be great opportunities to learn more about careers you are interested in!
Check Out Infomatrix Technology!
Instagram: Infomatrix Taber (@infomatrixtechtaber)
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