There are a lot of opportunities in computer consulting for those that consider themselves “techies.”  But how do techies get contract work within the IT industry, and what are the perceptions of computer consulting professionals within the small business community?

The perception small businesses have of “techies” and other contracted computer consulting professionals will depend upon the position required and any biases of the hiring manager.  And if it is your intention to work for a computer consulting company there will be other factors involved.

The IT Industry, Computer Consulting Companies and Techies

In computer consulting companies that deal with small businesses, most integrators and resellers are hiring for desktop support, help desk, systems engineers, network administrators, project managers and trainers.  So techies looking for these types of contract opportunities will find a lot of opportunities. 

People skills are incredibly important in these positions.  A lot of integrators and resellers are fine with non-technical degrees (even bachelors’ degrees in economics, social work or English Literature), so the fact that you’re a “techie” will be secondary to your ability to communicate and understand important business concepts.   

The IT Industry, Small Businesses and Techies

Those looking to work directly with small businesses will have an advantage if they are quite technical, but those without can also do well even without a technology-related degree.

Certifications and Field Experience

Regardless of whether you are a techie or just someone interested in computer consulting, you can get by with two things – certifications (MCSE, CCIE, etc.) and field experience.  

In a Fortune 1000 IT environment, there are “people” people and technical people, which means that hiring managers will tend to be a lot more specific about college credentials.

However, in smaller companies and computer consulting businesses where everyone is on the line with clients, there will be two questions that those hiring will ask:

1.  Can the person do the job (does he/she have certifications, field experience, etc.)?

2. Will clients like this person (what is his/her bedside manner)?

The Bottom Line about Techies and Computer Consulting

In computer consulting, particularly with small businesses your certifications and technical skills mean a lot less than your business skills and ability to work with people.

Blogged By:  Joshua Feinberg