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[–] elysianreaper 0 points 4 points (+4|-0) ago 

Some rambling thoughts from a sysadmin that dropped out of college. There's the two main steps to getting hired, being selected for an interview and passing the interview. The first is really the biggest hurdle, as you're really limited without paper to prove you know IT. Trying to get a certification or two wouldn't hurt here. Doing some volunteer computer work for a church or non profit might be another way to show experience.

For the interview, I can tell you that paper credentials means next to nothing to me. If it does matter to the person on the far side of the table, it may be a warning sign that you may not want to work their, or at least not for very long.

I tend to look for three things when interviewing. Is the person going to fit in with the existing group? Can the person be counted on to show up on time everyday? Does the person live and breathe tech? The best people I've worked with are people who build their own PCs, are into PC gaming, experiment with media PCs, and tinker all the time. Jobs in IT change overtime and it's important to have someone who can grow and develop as their job changes.

If you have any specific questions I'd be happy to help.

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[–] Firevine 0 points 1 point (+1|-0) ago 

You wouldn't happen to be in Georgia would you? I don't have that paper, but I've got all that other stuff down pat. I got into tech thanks to EverQuest. When I first started playing, it was on a rinky dink HP back in 2002 that was low spec even then. I learned my way around by trying to squeeze every bit of power out of that system that I could. I've since built my own PC's, tooled around with Linux, got into media PC's what my budget has allowed, done everything I could think of with Android devices, including a physical repair here and there. LOTS of rooting, trying new roms, fixing boot problems for other people.

The bug bit me, I just don't have any certifications. Working on A+ now though. I passed practice exams right off, though networking is my weakness. I've been throwing myself out there in the meantime though. All it takes is someone like you to give me a shot.

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[–] elysianreaper ago 

Sorry, but I'm about 40 miles north of Seattle...

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[–] Ncdale 0 points 2 points (+2|-0) ago 

I am a DBA Manager (previously worked as sysadmin, then DBA), and we look for similar qualities honestly. When I started this industry 20 years ago almost no one had a college degree in it. Getting through the door now is the hardest part. You need something that separates you from the hundreds of other applicants. A degree and/or certs gets you through the first filter.

"Guys I am really good at IT" doesn't cut it anymore. Go get a degree (2yr is perfectly fine for entry level), or go take a few certification tests in your chosen area. Anything to get through the first pass.