How to go about finding tech related jobs at an early age?

[RSI]

I know there are people that get a nice tech related job when they are young (I'm 16, so lets say around my age or maybe a little older).. So how do you guys get it? I know you have to know your stuff, but you can't just get a job like that.. how did you get yours?

 

[Killbat]

Yes, do tell.

 

[DAM]

well, when i was 16 i took a two classes in my communit college about computers and stuff, then the next semester i got asked to help teach it, and got money for it. then i just kept my eyes open on the paper about different jobs available, and gave them a crack, although i was not even college yet some people were happy to give me a try. you just have to be confident about what you "know" and then TRY the worst that can happen is that someone says no, and at the end it will be their loss.


dam()

 

[RSI]

Ok cool, because I've been using computers for many years (even though I'm only 16), and I think I would be good at a computer-related job.. I don't know much programming right now, but I plan to do that as a career.. so maybe something else like tech support of some sort?

 

[helloedchen]

the local college computing center is a great place to start if you're a teen.

 

[geno]

I'm 16 and I work for Tech Support at a local ISP, it really just takes persistance. Look for a local company that uses computers in any fasion, try to reinforce your knowledge of that area, and send in your resume. Present yourself in a mature and clean manner, be as professional as you can be, but act natural. Let them know that you're a hard worker, and be ready to dedicate any amount of time they need you for. It all really comes down to being an asset to the company/business, show them that they need you to some extent.

 

[helloedchen]

well said g

if you look like an asset to a company, they will want you. Simple as that.

 

[LouisXIX]

There are usually quite a few recruitment agencies on the net, so try them. You'll be surprised at the number of short term contract jobs that can complement your school timetable. Generally, at the age of 16-18, its easiest to find tech-support jobs, so look around for these.

 

[Viper Frag]

Can you point us to a few of those agencies please.

 

[0beron]

Try to get hook ups from your parents or your parents' friends.
Taking college level courses aimed towards the job you are trying to land wouldn't hurt.
Enthusiasm is also important. For the jobs I have had (all computer related, mostly software), I found that the company will have to train you to some extent (learning the system, products, etc.). This means interacting with other employees. So it's logical that companies are looking for team players that other employees will enjoy interacting with. This usually mean they are looking for energetic, enthusiastic people.
Hope this helps.

 

[Buddha Bart]

You're Freakin Screwed!

Sorry, I know you didn't wanna hear that. I, and some of my friends tried very hard to find tech support jobs this summer. I finally caved in and started with a temp agency just to get SOME money, but I still comb the job ads online and in the papers. NOTHING. However, I do know several other guys who got tech jobs (even guys who know jack sh*t). They all got it the same way. CONNECTIONS.
Work your dad, work your mom, work your uncles, work your friends dad, sombody should work for a company that "could use another tech".

bart

 

[Ulfwald]

Post some fliers at the local stores that offer a JOBS board. Say something like: Computer services and Tutoring Available. Charge a decent fee, accept only cash, and Uncle Sam never see any of it. You are to young to be paying taxes.

 

[Hyper99]

You must have friends that does this and that know you are as good
and they will recommend you.
You will mostly get the job immediately.
As the saying goes you wouldn't hire a stranger would you
even thought he has the skill.
You want someone friendly, they more then need that then pure skill alone.

 

[RSI]

OK, thanks alot for the input guys, I really appreciate it. I'm working on a resumé right now, oh yeah, I gotta thank GirlFriday for helping me out also (on ICQ).

-RSI

 

[Looney]

Like some have mentioned so far, tech support would probably be easiest to find at that age. To make it easier, get your A+ certification... it's easy as pie, and only costs like $100 or so.

 

[8ball]

Join the Air Force or Navy (not the Army or Marines), get paid to learn about technology, get out in 4 years, get a job that pays more than your parents make when you are 22.

 

[piku]

Yeah and then end up at the bottom of the sea 8ball... hehe

All the places near me you have to be 18, which pisses me off.

Electronics Boutique - 18
Commonwealth Telephone - 18 (both my parents work there with my dad pretty high up, I was a shoe in for an intern job )
all video rental stores - 18

Thats really it though... not too many places near me

(BTW, I'm really into console gaming, hence why I want to work at a video store and EB ;P )

 

[RSI]

Where would I look to get info on taking the A+ certification test or whatever you do... ? And what exactly does this qualify you for? If it really helps and it's only about $100, I think it's a good thing to go for.

-RSI

 

[jonnyGURU]

HAVEN'T YOU PEOPLE BEEN LISTENING??? GET A JOB IN A BIKE SHOP OR GROCERY STORE OR SOMETHING!!!!!

 

[8ball]

Deliver papers, mow lawns, there's always fast food.

 

[DarkManX]

Im 15, and I seen many Schools over mail that will give u training and I think MSCE or A+ certification, training and tools, is it really worth it? How can I take the test without having to waste money on training? I looked at the stuff they teach and I pretty much know everything, how can I get my training?

 

[LouisXIX]

8 ball - Whats wrong with the marines? Theres absolutely no problem getting in, since they like to usually recruit those with low IQ scores. And you get a workout along the way. For futher information watch the following promotional film: Full Metal Jacket

 

[RSI]

Can someone give me a basic clue as to what is on the test for A+ certification? How tough is it?

 

[convex]

Intern at a local isp...I started at 16 and now, two years later, I'm working on ccna and entertaining quite a few nice job offers... If you really know what you're doing and enjoy it, there's all kinds of entry level openings to choose from.

 

[Looney]

Getting an A+ Certification pretty much says your a certified computer technician. It's extremely easy to do, and most ppl do it self-taught. There are LOTS of sites out there that has info on it, but they're bookmarked on my other computer. But if you go to Amazon, look in the A+ section (in computer section) and you'll see lots of books... you only need a couple of good books and you'll be set. Read the reviews of the books, some of those reviews are really insightful at how hard the test will be.