How do I capitalise on a wide IT
experience?
I am a
mainframe analyst and programmer with 20 years' experience. I
have coded in Cobol, used Dataquery, TSO, MVS JCL, Selcopy and
Syncsort. I have trained in HTML,
Javascript and Java and have a Sun certification in
Java programming. I also have an Iseb foundation certificate in
software testing. I have held many positions over the years, but
have not yet found a role that seems well suited to my skills.
Consider moving into a non-technical role
With 20 years' experience in the IT sector, you have a wide
range of skills across a number of markets. What you need is a firm
idea of where you want to be - and some solid career advice.
It looks like you have not found a position you are happy with
so far. But your experience will be seen as a huge plus by
employers - as long as you can explain why you wanted to change
your focus so frequently.
There is no reason why you would not be able to secure a job in
support or development, where you would be able to further your
skills and build up your experience.
Working in IT does not necessarily mean undertaking a
specifically technical role. Having two decades of experience in
the sector means that you will have a great many transferable
skills. These could be translated, for example, into project
management or IT service delivery.
An IT recruitment specialist should also be able to help you
match your skills with positions, as many jobs in IT are not
advertised.
If you do go it alone, it is important to tailor your skills and
experiences for each position, demonstrating not just your
strengths, but your ability to adapt to a range of different
roles.
l Solution by Robert Chapman, chief executive at Firebrand
Training
The panel: Computer People, Hudson, No Limits Coaching,
Firebrand Training, Wreay Group
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