IT Support Specialist Jobs in the United Kingdom

IT Support Jobs Overview

We use computers every day, but we're not all experts in fixing a failed login or setting up a new monitor. This is where tech-savvy IT specialists come in. In IT support jobs you oversee computer systems for businesses and provide help and advice to users, both remotely and in person.

As an IT support specialist, you mostly work alone in an office or remote setting, although you do report to your manager. You'll work together with coworkers to resolve bigger tech issues. Your most important tasks include:

• providing support and assistance to computer users
• listening closely to your customers
• diagnosing and resolving problems
• keeping software up to date
• analysing cost-analysis data when hardware needs upgrading
• backing up and maintaining databases

Technology is constantly improving and updating. Therefore, IT specialists will continue to be in demand.

How to Find IT Support Jobs That Fit You

When looking for an Technical support job that fits you, it's best to start by defining your career goals and your own personal strengths and weaknesses. Determine whether you want a full-time or part-time job. Do you prefer to work at an office, remotely, or is a hybrid setting best for you?

How to Review a Job Description

Once you're looking at technical support jobs, read them thoroughly to see if your skills match the requirements. Since the world of technology is constantly updating, you might notice opportunities for additional training to improve your qualifications. Don't forget to look for any red flags in the job opening such as unrealistic expectations.

Do additional research into the company to learn more about its values, mission, and company culture. To be happy in your job, your values must line up with those of your employer. When you feel comfortable in your work environment, you are more productive and have a better work-life balance.

Remember those career goals you defined earlier? Explore the opportunities for growth with the organisations you're interested in applying to. Check, for example, if you will be able to grow from an IT Support Specialist to another job in IT infrastructure such as a network support technician.

How to Apply to IT Support Jobs

See your ideal job with your dream company? Then it is time to apply. Make sure to double-check specific application instructions such as providing certain documents or answering questions on a certain platform.

Review the job description and write down the required IT skills and experience. Make sure to show all the technical skills that you possess in your application, such as:

• great customer service skills
• listening skills
• excellent communication techniques
• problem-solving skills

Update Your CV

You'll want to review and update your CV before applying for IT and technical support jobs. Most recruiters have a large database filled with CVs. By using keywords, you increase the chances of the recruiter finding yours. Not sure which keywords to use? Read the job description one more time and see what terms stand out. Example keywords for IT support jobs are IT support specialist, technology support specialist, and IT troubleshooting.

Need a little help to put your amazing IT skillset on paper? Remember to start with your most recent work experience. Create an overview using bold letters, bullet points, and white spaces. Using a skill matrix is a great way to showcase your technical abilities.

Write a Cover Letter

Even if the job opening doesn't require a cover letter, it is a great addition to your CV and helps you stand out among other IT specialists. Use your cover letter to show how your technical skills and experience will add value to the company. Mention your strengths and show numbers or statistics to make your accomplishments measurable.

Express your enthusiasm for the new job and any additional information about previous jobs that didn't fit on your CV.

Submit Your Application

Did you double-check your contact information and correct any spelling mistakes? Then you're ready to apply. Create a free profile on Monster and upload your CV. Once your profile is up and running, you can apply for any IT job with a simple click of a button. Additionally, recruiters and top employers can find you for jobs they haven't posted online. Who knows, your next job might find you!

How to Follow up With an Employer

Following up after applying for IT support jobs demonstrates your enthusiasm for the position and can help you stand out. Give your hopefully new employer about a week to process and review your application unless the job posting has a specific deadline. Reach out professionally by phone or email.

Writing an email gives you time to choose your words and ensures you come across the way you mean to. Keep your email concise and polite. Express your interest in the IT job and remind them of your application. Double-check the spelling and don't be too pushy.

Not sure who to reach out to? Start by checking the job posting for contact information. Next, try checking the Career page on the company's website. Still no luck? Call the company's HR department and ask who the appropriate person is to send your email to.

Interview Tips for IT Support Jobs

Do you feel nervous right before an interview? You're not alone. Most of us want to impress a potential new boss while being honest, which can lead to feeling pressure and anxiety. But practice helps build confidence.

Look at these sample questions you can expect at your interview are:

• Tell us about your technical background and experience.
• How do you provide technical assistance and support to customers?
• What types of IT software are you most proficient at?

The Interview Process

Your job interview might be in person or, since you're a tech-savvy individual, through video chat. You may first have an interview with a recruiter who wants to check if you have the right qualifications. Then, you'll likely have a job interview with your hopefully future manager or leadership team. They will ask you more IT-related questions and some questions about your personality to see if you are a good fit for their team.

A few tips for your IT support job interview:

• show your technical knowledge
• show off your soft skills
• dress professional
• answer questions using the STAR-method
• always be honest

Following Up After an Interview

Feel like you aced your interview? It won't hurt to send a quick thank you email. It's not only professional but also shows your future employer you're a good communicator and are still interested in the position.

Has it been a while since your interview, and you still haven't heard anything? Feel free to reach out to the interviewer or your contact person. If they chose to hire someone else, use your follow-up email to ask why you were turned down. Their answer is a great learning opportunity and will make your next job interview that much easier.

What to Do When You Get an Offer

Congratulations! Getting a job offer is something to celebrate. But before you sign on, it is best to review your offer, especially your new job duties as an IT support specialist, your salary, and extra benefits.

Do you agree with the salary and benefits they're offering? Keep in mind that many employers leave room for negotiations. Research the average salary for your job in your area and show up prepared. Focus on what you can offer, not how much you used to make in your previous job. Draw up multiple arguments in your favour but don't use them all up front; you'll want to save some for later in case the employer has valid counterarguments.

IT Support Jobsand Career Paths

The technical world is constantly evolving, changing, and updating. Therefore there are many opportunities to advance your career. Taking part in a course or certified training will help you improve your skills and climb up the career ladder.

Extra Monster tip: stay in touch with your professional network. Your current and former coworkers and managers can advise you on what steps to take to advance your IT career. And who knows, they might have a future job lined up for you.

Similar Occupations

Want to browse more jobs related to IT support specialists? Take a look at these options:

• computer jobs
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• network technician jobs