The Toxic Truth About Help Desk & Entry Level I.T. Roles

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Today let's talk about the Toxic Truth about help desk and entry level information technology jobs and careers.
This one is a doozy!
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[@BruceWayne-rc2lf]

I remember getting hired as entry level help desk for $20/h and worked at that company for 4 years... I did get a raise near the end that bumped me up to $22/h. By the 4th year, they hired a new guy who for some reason was comfortable enough to share his salary and it was $14/h and he had a computer science degree from a Cal State... My heart dropped because not only was it sad and unfair, it was also scary and downright disgusting. I left that job and got another one paying $30/h. Don't settle, always keep searching, you are valuable to someone out there. (guy still works for that company but I'm not sure if he ever got a raise).

[@kimo386]

Are you self taught?

[@gsabella4]

You stayed at the same company for close to 4 years after they did not give you a single raise? wow.

[@Berelore]

@@gsabella4 I don't know what's more troubling if he asked was denied and stayed anyway or if he just never asked...

[@FM-cw8fx]

Never settle down. Keep always learning new things, getting certs.

[@judsonjames33]

One should never be afraid to share salary, it gives you leverage to ask for more money if you have the experience.

[@juliomontezuma23]

I started in the IT field with no degree at 18.50 as a contractor in San Francisco. 2 months later I got another IT contractor role at $25. A year after that I got another IT role at $40 as a full time employee. Experience plus time and not giving up on searching for a better opportunity.

[@Swat32097]

what role is the $40?

[@jakimmixon1461]

@@Swat32097 service desk analyst or technician for a great company

[@masoodjamily]

You are absolutely correct and congratulations on your dedication which is really what counts. I know this video doesn’t represent every IT entry level but it is true. There are companies that will little bowl employees just because they need to save money right now I am working on my A+ certification and if I don’t make at least $55,000 a year I’m not even going to except any offers. I need to make at least what I’m making now otherwise there’s no point.

[@erichaynes7502]

Entry level is fine for a year or two..make yourself marketable, get another cert or two and move up.

[@BatJeff]

This. going to be going back to school in January to get into IT and work my way to InfoSec. I plan on getting certs while I have that entry level job.

[@kermitdafrog8]

That's the name of the game. Don't settle and stay in the role. Use it to move up

[@jaronmartin5758]

Land a better role before getting certs otherwise your Money is down the drain. If companies cared about them they would support you and pay for them, ha not.

[@kermitdafrog8]

They seem to require them even though so many get them and still no nothing of the industry.

[@jamoe4802]

Entry level at what price? Market value is determined by us...THE MARKET! So don't work for $12/hour. Nobody with an A+ and a pulse should be taking a penny less than $15/hour and really it should be worth $18-$20/hour. There are retail stores and warehouses that pay more to people with ZERO skills or education. Do not let these companies low ball people and ask for the moon and the stars. We need work experience, and they need the work done.

[@bryang4659]

2 1/2 years ago I got completely burnt out on Sales and switched to IT. No degree, just a lot of customer service experience and an adequate amount of computer knowledge, supplemented by good Google skills. I did Microsoft 365 support for a company that paid $17/hr never gave raises, and promotions just meant more responsibility no extra pay. Left them for a Managed Services Provider that payed $19/hr and after a year got bumped up to $20/hr. Both jobs didn't pay well but I got experience, and just accepted a new position as a System Administrator for $74,000/YR. Help desk jobs may not pay that well, but you are getting the experience to help you land the good jobs.

[@toneallday5468]

Now this right here is what I want to see. So you git that sys admin job with no certification, just experience?

[@bryang4659]

@@toneallday5468 the only certification was Google IT Support Professional which I got through Coursera in about a month, and I do not think it was a deciding factor other than maybe showing I was willing to keep learning

[@spamin8r]

I tell people all the time, in this industry if you want a raise, quit.

[@stephenrochester6309]

spamin8r Or learn, get sponsored certifications, learn some more, then hop to the next place.

[@JJ-vp3bd]

@@stephenrochester6309 which ones?

[@stephenrochester6309]

R J Depends what you want to do. What do you want to do? When I was working in IT Support the company paid for me to do near enough anything I asked for.

[@JJ-vp3bd]

@@stephenrochester6309 security

[@stephenrochester6309]

R J How about CISM certification?

[@StephanieHua]

All IT newcomers... keep improving yourself. You have to get dirty to improve. I started at a computer repair store, got hired to learn IT help desk, then dispatch, escalations, and currently now implementation of projects such as Network Infrastructure. I am still on the lookout for better wages Keep getting those certs and be sure the companies you work for (at minimum) has a ticket system. If it’s just taking emails and calls with minimal documentation, learn as much as you can and get out. Nothing is worse than working for an "IT MSP" that doesn't document anything. Even more worse if they do not have a "Standard" to follow.

[@i2pjd6hRw5P]

I'm currently in a helpdesk-ish role at a company that doesn't use ticketing. It's very stressful, our team is pretty unorganized and we're never on the same page. Our workload is insane.

[@jakejustchillin]

This really inspired me. I've been working at a computer repair shop for over a year where I'm the only technician on staff besides the owner and have been getting paid $11 an hour till about a month ago I'm now making a dollar more. I pretty much run the store I handle every customer, answer every phone, do every repair while I'm there. This convinced me it's time to start looking and that I'm worth more. Thank you

[@Ramms23]

Yes, you do. go for it. There are plenty of opportunities out there.

[@Needcollegehelp]

Yeah once you gain skills increase your confidence level then time to look for better paying job go on Dice.com but keep learning in particular #cybersecurity. Good luck.

[@xxN3CR0K1TTYxx]

I have no experience and they r starting me off at 19$ at an entry level it job

[@xxN3CR0K1TTYxx]

Rudy Straight Los Angeles

[@justwatchingvideosLA]

Put your resume on LinkedIn. When recruiters start offering you waaaay more money, you’ll get a better idea of the salary you can ask for.

[@CurtisBranum1]

I found a level one help desk position with no IT experience and it’s almost 20 an hour. Just keep looking guys

[@rosswhitlock3025]

Ty

[@frosty9392]

.. you guys hiring? lol

[@MegaThatonegirl]

What was the company?

[@Randomguy-kn3nv]

Yo hook it up

[@thenson1Halo]

But in what State/area?

[@jamesharazda5027]

True story. Companies will call something "entry level" just because they don't want to pay what the job duties are worth elsewhere.

[@joesawyer4150]

I once saw a job ad for a first line role saying you need to configure vlans and networking lol.

[@TheMazinoz]

And when you realise this you don't take the job or start looking for the next one while still employed. Tell new employer what your were doing in your role, not what it was called.

[@Schminner]

Entry-level job title, but an expert-level job description.

[@octaviusthird6726]

I generally took the lower paid jobs if they gave me the skills that I really need to find a much better job in a year.

[@abhisekraj2765]

YES

[@revanknight3202]

You are smart.

[@teetee2640]

Ladies and gentlemen, know your worth!!! Strive to be smarter. Get your certifications.

[@Itcareerquestions]

Always know your worth!

[@markstevens1187]

Not so much certifications I fell having good knowledge and hands experience on will speak better value for you.

[@phpacos12]

@@markstevens1187 better yet is to get a portifólio. If you can show that you created a website or an application and there are people using it, that can be more valuable than a certification or a diploma. So don't get stuck on tutorial purgatory and start working on your own projects.

[@telnet-23]

A reality you also have to accept in IT is it costs money to make money. If you spend a couple hundred on a certification in your field you instantly become more marketable. My advise (and it worked for me) is get that entry level role and treat it like an apprenticeship. By the end of 2-3 years you will have a lot of experience and hopefully a few certs to show for it 😊

[@hikikomori6956]

Not the norm, but If you're lucky, some companies even foot the bill for your certification due to various reasons (need to have their staff be "up to a standard", higher ups wanting to meet some arbitrary certification target, etc).

[@thulyover9000]

Computer techs really ought to unionize.

[@Charrua88]

Why this doesn't has more likes?

[@ActualZombeard]

@@Charrua88 that's what I'm wondering.

[@heswatchnu]

I have been in a union when i workd at helpdesk for the big T, and i now work at a company that is not unionized, same role...i see no benefit of being in the union environment. That's just me... I was also a union steward. honestly, more people were fired in the union environment; it seems people have the idea that the union will "fight" to keep their job regardless of how they perform, etc. Additionally, in the first company, the union was part of opening the call center and establishing the starting pay - which was a joke. they labeled the role mas customer service, instead of technical support. That seems to be the theme for the rate of pay, it is on the same level as customer service reps. I don't like it either, it's just the big corporate wheel - get on or get rolled on...

[@LimewaterMusic]

@@heswatchnu unions today are broken and weak and cannot be expected to pull any weight. The problem is simply not enough people involved, it’s gotta be everyone or it won’t be able to do anything.

[@HisGloryLivinginMe]

Ahh yes, give up more of your pay for a minor increase in environment for an entry level position.

[@MySqueezingArm]

I'm 2 months in on my first help desk gig. Took me 6 months and 1 failed job (psycho owners) to get it. Making $4/hour more than my last gig, great atmosphere, love it. Im a 26 year old college dropout, living proof that hard work and some certs can get your foot in the door. Love this video Zack, more please.

[@FG2Zim]

Hey what certifications did you get to get your foot in the door?

[@AP-jz1bx]

@@FG2Zim A+ is a good start.

[@partyglobe8376]

As an IT Help Desk. I will warn you. This job is not good for your health. Chances of you having mental illness are high due the customers asking stupid questions. And consistent calls with no mercy. Its very stressful. Never overwork yourself because help desk is a dead end(if you plan on moving on) Never stress yourself. Go for system admin instead, its way less stressful.

[@travisnelson9104]

Questions aren't stupid to them though remember that. I think it's more to to do with the pressure. We are the front line essential workers

[@thundercat07]

If you’re getting upset over repetitive questions, you’re in the wrong line of work and aren’t cut out for it. “Stupid repetitive questions” = job security

[@partyglobe8376]

@@thundercat07 well ofc I was in the wrong line of work because I needed it to work my way up. Started as Help desk, System admin, now cyber defense which barely involves speaking with customers.

[@bdlamini9002]

My advice? Take the job for experience....

[@arifali6762]

and move on.

[@lonewolfstrife3637]

Even if you know nothing, and only know how to turn on a computer and do basic stuff??

[@bdlamini9002]

@@lonewolfstrife3637 obviously not, training first and a beginners certifications help.... But I mean if you have training but no actual experience

[@jb6167]

Don't let them rip you off. ALWAYS negotiate for more salary. NEVER take the first offer. You are worth every penny.

[@DisappointedSon0813]

Cannot negotiate if they don’t let you. If they hold firm at a low ball salary then you’re fucked

[@AMAli-ct5df]

Man, No first offers the golden rule of working as an Help desk

[@noname89636]

Say it louder for the people in the back. These companies will give you an entry level title, make you do higher level work, but pay you for the entry level title. Titles matter when it comes to pay and companies are going to be cheap about it. They know that a dual sys/network admin should net 50-60K as a gross average, but will give you the title of Help Desk II or IT Specialist I and pay you 36K. They expect you to be the IT superhero, but will not pay you for it. Continue to preach it brotha.

[@PMPerformance]

I seen a Sys Admin position once posted as a $17K/yr job. I almost died when i saw that

[@markstevens1187]

@@PMPerformance yeah I see listing like that for example they want CCNP level experience and knowledge but want to pay nothing. The IT pay is still too low due to all the foreign workers willing to work for nothing this is what keep all levels of IT positions unacceptably low.

[@PMPerformance]

@@markstevens1187 I agree. Its tough. I have gotten pretty lucky thus far, but I would be frustrated looking for jobs seeing that kind of thing. I am sure places get to a point where they realize they get what they pay for and start wising up.

[@DerrickWeil]

A job like that should be paying north of 75k just for the sys admin side.

[@PMPerformance]

Derrick Weil agreed! I tell this to the unfortunate people that work with me and getting beat up on salary by my employer. I remind them regularly they are worth more and to negotiate more or look for someone that will pay them for all the extra stuff they do. You deff have to stick up for yourself

[@stormchaser419]

Take this from an older person who has worked in the work world in other fields. 1. You MUST NOT WAIT on your future 2. You MUST GET AGRESSIVE and ASSERTIVE with your career. 3. You MUST not get complacent in your job 4. You must market yourself continuously. 5. You must be open to changing jobs often if you want to get ahead in this world 6. You must be open to moving to a different state if possible with family obligations to move yourself ahead salary wise 7. You must go to glassdoor to see what others make 8. You MUST not stay in jobs because of laziness and complacency. 9. You MUST always be looking to get more aggressive and assertive with getting more certs, masters degree and experience and then get aggressive with looking for companies that WILL PAY you substantially more. 10. Welcome to reality.

[@2amProFilms]

This is by far the most important video to watch for any newcomers into the IT field, this guys speaks the absolute truth that is NEVER told to you when going to school. I too got caught in this web of BS pay. Literally had the power to shutdown over 500+ customer locations with a single command in a cisco router, I was entrusted with an insane amount of privileges within this company however they felt I was only entitled to $15/hr as a CONTRACTOR (no benefits at all). I was new fresh out of college didn't know any better so I took this low pay entry level job because they told me I would be evaluated in 6 months for higher pay (that never happened). The silver lining with taking this low pay job was I get a SHIT ton of real world experience, I forced myself to work closely with network engineers and systems engineers to gain as much knowledge as I could within the company that more than paid for itself in the long run!

[@exmerion]

It's honestly good that there are entry level jobs out there that provide high turn over jobs because those jobs can actually be essential to get your foot into the door of IT. The more positions opening up allows more people to get the experience they need to leave and move up to a better position. Just looking on the bright side.

[@ag11b69]

I just graduated with a degree in IT and am currently in the market for my first IT job. You addressed an issue I have been seeing with these job postings. I've routinely come across a "PC technician" job posting only to click on it and find that they're looking for an IT God with every certification under the sun. Oh, and for 15 to 16 bucks and hour. So as a rookie in the field of IT, how does one navigate these toxic employers to find that one job that will actually be worth it?

[@Sunokanse]

After working 5 years at a low level help desk (my fault), and then leaving it, the highest offer for other help desk positions I was getting was $18/hr. Your best bet would be to know a bit of active directory for password resets and unlocks, having an A+ might help, and canvassing the market with your resume. Even if they are looking for a god, they might call you if that god can't be found. Be confident, and always believe that if they don't hire you, it's their loss. You'll eventually land something. Always remember, if you're no longer learning in a position and you've maxed out, it's time to go.

[@addacdd]

I know how you feel but bro anywhere is a good start. Trust me lucky to even get 18 an hr and in my area it shluld be $24-30. Experience is key

[@ag11b69]

@@addacdd I have an offer on the table to be a system admin for a local credit union paying 23 an hour. Unfortunately I live in CA and cant afford to live there even making that much. So I'm gonna move to AZ but most job postings I've seen In Arizona fit what the video is talking about. I'll stick with it though.

[@addacdd]

@@ag11b69 do what you can, the exodus is real sadly. But i grew up in the Bay so i wanna stay out here. But hell if i made $24 starting id be happy. But everyone os differe t. Best of luck

[@ag11b69]

@@addacdd I grew up in socal and hate to leave but it's the sad reality man. Cant afford a $750k house in my neighborhood.

[@bannerboygamez3485]

So true when it comes to IT, I'm a Desktop Support tech for the school district with 6 schools and when I started I was officially hired only to support 2 and compensated for those 2. Now I got 6 and still being compensated the same money as if I still had 2. Use them for enough experience and move on to next company is my advice. After the holidays is over I'm going to bounce

[@Itcareerquestions]

Good luck! That experience is going to help you tremendously!

[@owlfeathers6615]

Did you bounce? How are things going now?

[@altaccount8749]

Did you bring this up in yearly evaluations?

[@zachicusmaximus5551]

Yeah and I bet they utilize your above and beyond knowledge to artificially increase your job responsibilities as well without paying more.

[@ctaylor960]

As a 5 year IT Helpdesk Analyst I have to tell you helpdesk is HELL on earth. Do not get stuck here get out while you can or come in with certs to go where you want to go. Especially if you work for the government it's WORSE!!! RUN!!!

[@leonardo899]

I have a Masters in Education, and I work as Tier 1. I make more in an entry level position in IT than I used to make teaching. IT is not hell, Teaching is hell.

[@Re_Mecs]

Great video. I spent a good 6 years slowly climbing help desk roles and salaries. Was made redundant and now due to that experience now work as an administrator for a larger company with a lot more pay and so much more job satisfaction. There is light at the end of the tunnel

[@howlingfjord106]

Glad you made this video! I just came into an entry level position at 17/hr and the amount of stuff and number of staff they have us supporting is mind-boggling. For the entire first two months I felt like quitting at every step because the workload was so intense and learning-curve was almost vertical. But I kept reminding myself that every time they threw me into a brand new technology and told me to support it, it was going to be one more thing I could add to my resume. Now it's becoming a little more easy and I have a giant boat-load of experience that I feel helps me converse with people as an actual IT professional instead of just a good exam-taker. It can be super tough and intimidating starting your first enterprise IT role but the things you learn will make you instantly more valuable as a potential employee.

[@Itcareerquestions]

Absolutely!! Best way to look at those situations!

[@HestnetIT]

I wasn’t a fan of your videos before as a helpdesk tech, your video has inspired me to keep pushing forward.

[@bluehen32]

If you are giving accurate information you should never apologize. Thank you for the tips, I look forward to getting into the IT field.

[@dandavidson9030]

You said a mouthful. I have been in IT for many years. IT used to be appreciated more. A lot of companies take IT for granted. After you get a little experience. Go to a large company. They will pay much more. Excellent video.

[@ThrownJones]

I never had a computer growing up. I went to trade school when I was 24 same year I got my first computer. Got my cert in 1yr. Had entry level job for 7 total yrs (I was laid off once then hired by the new company). I was NEVER promoted just given more responsibility every time there was changeover (alot). So much so I was training my MANAGERS. Always cited lack of education as to why I could not move up. In that time I LEARNED ALOT. I finally left and now work for a Cyber Security & Management Firm where there is no level 1 , 2, 3 ect. There are ONLY two techs plus the owner handling ANY ticket that comes in with over 200 users and like 20 companies. YOU CAN DO IT!!!!!!!!!!!! Take your time. It will happen.

[@Bierz808]

6 years in and I am now an official network administrator! Keep your head straight, fix shit the way it should be fixed, and never stop learning!! And I mean learn something every single day, if you don't, you are failing. Any new techs reading this, always remember that there is never only 1 way to do something! If anyone tries to tech you that, they are in fact wrong. Do everything that works best for you. And always remember to keep searching for the proper IT job for YOU! That will keep you happy everyday. I still love my job and especially working in IT! He is right about doubling your salary as well! From one week to the next, I jumped almost $21k annually just finding a new job. Just don't sell yourself short, ever! You got this.

[@the5thdim763]

Wow, that’s amazing. Where do you live??

[@bluebladex3]

The low pay rate happened to me. I got contracted by a contract company filling Helpdesk roles for another company and months in I realized I was being paid at most 5 bucks less than the other people there who were working on full time with the main company with benefits and holidays off while us contractors had to work their holidays while being paid 5 bucks less. I was making 10 bucks while everyone was making 15-16. I mean it was an easy job don't get me wrong like 8 calls tops a day but hey man got paid way less and I knew more than most people there. Managed to get a new one because of experience and getting some certs and yes I did double my salary like you said after just 7 months of work at my old job. I'm aiming though to be a some kind of server tech for a big bank or company working night shift. An IT night shift job with not having to fix some idiots shoddy software that is running trash is my dream job. Tired of help desk calls. Rather work alone chilling managing networks or servers. Most important part is night shift. I'd kill for a night shift IT job. Spend most the night alone and only would have to deal with people 2 hours tops in the morning.

[@sakenaabdulhaqq1]

bluebladex3 introverts dream

[@chrisodwyerdosser]

I just want to say thanks for this video this has opened my mind up today to Self Worth. Today I had an interview with a multi national company as a Desktop support engineer where you would be working on a 8hr shift with one other engineer looking after the whole companies IT from remote and desk side support services to end users to Performing coordination of workstation asset recovery. The first offer was 12.50hr the second was 13.22hr. I turned them down I am now going to finish off my Network+ and Security+ instead

[@maxpendley4357]

Entry level roles now: Seniority level: Entry level Education: Bachelors required. Certs preferred Experience: 5+ years supporting technology in enterprise environment Salary range: $35000-45000 deepening on credentials

[@Randomguy-kn3nv]

Max Pendley it’s a fuckin joke dude

[@supersaiyanbuu]

shit man i've got a bachelors and would prefer that over working shit retail

[@user-tg3jl1mt4e]

@@supersaiyanbuu Yeah, like the dude said in the video it's all about increasing your value by learning more and getting experience. Even if the pay is barely more than minimum wage it will help you get a far better job in a year or two, or even less if you really push hard.

[@heswatchnu]

Supply and demand. The more people that seek IT roles the greater the supply; thus companies realize that they can offer a role to a newbie who realllly wants to "get into computers" and is willing to take a lower wage. Multiply the process by several years - more and more people are turning to technology jobs vs. other more physical labor or retail, etc. so companies are offering less and less...until they realize that the demands they make along with the lower pay...the damage a disgruntled employee can cause..hee hee hee. maybe then they will add more value. The company I am with (a big cable internet company) finally realized how much $$ they lose when people leave...they changed a little bit, but not enough...I am seeking a new role. I'm just not in an area where tech is high demand...

[@emilyau8023]

Exactly, how am I supposed to get 3-5 years of experience when I'm applying for experience 🤦‍♀️

[@CAILEL123]

Your topic is spot on! Thank you for clearing this up!

[@amrg211]

Wow brother you nailed this conversation. I have been working in help desk for almost 4 years now and pretty much everything you said was spot on correct. And the company I work for is a tech company no less. But like you said the experience i have gained has been invaluable to me. I'm at the point where I am ready to move on to something bigger and better paying now. I don't look back with regret because I learned a lot but I wish I had avoided the traps you described and got out sooner. Thank you for the upload.

[@Itcareerquestions]

Absolutely! Glad you're moving on now! Good luck to you in your future!

[@gerryo25]

I started a "entry level security analyst" position almost three years ago and took a pay cut because I wanted to get my foot in the first. After a year I negotiated a substantial raise and did the following year. These staffing agencies try to get you in as low as possible. There is no entry level cybersecurity job! You have to have prior IT experience to understand what your doing. I have 15 years of experience and started at 20 being a computer operator through sys admin. Know your worth these companies want you to do the job of three people and pay next to nothing. If I invest in myself and study for my certs out of my pocket I should take a poor salary. Nope!

[@BruceRichwineJr]

This video was spot on. He’s absolutely truthful about doubling your salary overnight. Certifications in certain areas can actually triple your salary if coming from an entry level position. Look into government contracting companies. They seem to pay better than the private sector for entry level also and usually have an opportunity to move up to Tech level 1-4.

[@johnnybravo5962]

My entry level out of college was a SOC Analyst, was also working Incidents to remediation. I got lucky.

[@addacdd]

You hit the head on the nail, this is my 3rd week as a Help Desk and I enjoy it a lot. The only part im getting used to is teouble shooting. Its like an art, im not shot gunning it tho. I do my best to critically think before doing anything and ask for help because I want to learn for myself. I dont expect to be a cyber analyst right away or engineer. I come from the medical field and everything builds on top of each other especially... especially customer service #1. I enjoy your videos man. Keep it up!

[@cu806]

Yep guess I'll have to start off and at help desk too

[@addacdd]

@@cu806 its the onlh place to start man, the sooner the better

[@cu806]

@@ChefRon1 man I work in an aspect of IT mainly dealing with printers,but as far as like a networking or security job I haven't been able to get a job that can compensate my current wage and benefits,BUT I have been enjoying learning about the aspects of IT. I really think it boils down to the company you work for.

[@cu806]

@@ChefRon1 I'm still avoiding the service desk rules for now unless it's at a major company.

[@ionblue2707]

3rd month in first IT role in the medical field as a help desk tech. We run our applications through Citrix, so lots of session resets. Im liking it alot so far. Troubleshooting is tough due to the fact a lot of the issues are phone/faxing/EMR software, which i have little to no experience with at the moment, but getting better at it (session resets/reboots fixes most issues). Already started getting into SQL and running simple queries in our production database and deploy systems. Thankful for the experience and opportunities. The worst thing i've come to realize is that IT is a thankless job.

[@auxiliary]

This video came up on my feed even though i subscribe to you and but i missed this one. You hit it on the head. Currently looking for work and have people callig me for low pay jobs and i tell them i am not interested. For 2018 i have decided to get a bunch of certs this year.

[@balzich14]

Got my first job in IT back in October last year. Although my title is Help Desk Technician (coworker's title is Information Systems Analyst, which is tier 2) I do pretty advanced work for tier 1 support. I'm already working in our SQL production database and performing queries, just started learning about/working on our Avaya IP500 phone server, software deployments via PDQ, AD account creation/termination, UPS maintenance, patching ports, deploy new systems, configure IP addresses, and so on. I got started on $16.39/hour and just got another raise to $17.39/hr after the first 6 months. Not bad at all for entry level. I'm very grateful for the opportunity and it took me a couple years of searching to get a foot in the door.

[@izamalcadosa2951]

You are doing Tier 2 and Tier 3 support, not Tier 1, my friend!

[@twhb01]

Appreciate this, good straight talk, I'm going to keep grinding away and wish the best of luck to everyone doing the same.

[@ShowMeMo]

I used to be in revenue cycle management in healthcare. Applied for another similar position but they offered me a Tier Ii Tech Support for one of their softwares. I have zero tech education or experience (much less a college degree) but they said they'll train me. I started making just under what the position pay range starts out at. But it's so much more than what I was making in revenue cycle management. I took it because of that and the fact they are paying me to teach me tech skills that will eventually pay me even more money. At middle age, it's a challenge but I enjoy it. The hardest part isn't knowing the fix, but getting the answer to the fix. I am only 3.5 months in and it's literally a drop in the bucket. But my coworkers said it's a steep learning curve, up to a year.

[@pugantrips6191]

Fuck! got me in the gut, I've neglected my blooming IT career because of exactly this shit!! now I'm starting out from zero.. and I'm 42. and considering getting back in the field. hope it is not too late.

[@yourstrulyjohnnydollar8775]

Wow, I sure feel lucky for how my first two years in IT have been. I came to IT in my mid thirties after have a miserable time trying to find employment as a librarian. I got an Associates from a community college in two years and they also got me an internship at the company now work for. I was paid $14 an hour as an intern, but was immedietly put to work on small changes to SQL stored procs. Within 9 months I was hired on as a full associate and making $27 an hour. Now I have been there almost two years and I have been told I should expect in the next few months a promotion and a raise that should be around 7 or 8K . And I don't feel like I am even that knowledgable about many of the things work on...

[@zlIWCARIlz]

My story so far is very similar to yours. Did law enforcement in the military for 6 years, got out and started school at a community college. Got hired on as a paid intern with this tech company halfway through my associates degree at $15/hr which is perfectly fine because I need my foot in the door and the experience. Its been a great experience so far but if nothing progresses by the time I graduate, I'll look elsewhere.

[@TheMazinoz]

But do they know that?

[@Lavish1717]

@@zlIWCARIlz What did you earn your associates degree in ?

[@zlIWCARIlz]

@@Lavish1717 cyber security

[@alexycox1347]

Zach nailed this one right on head! Specially about companies not putting value $$$ on their IT departments. Personally, after a long job search, I would suggest to look for an IT entry level job with a company that focuses on technology. I was fortunate to land a well paid entry level job with Red Hat. This is one example of a company that really values their IT department. All of our higher management understands the value of IT support, since the company itself sells customer support for technology.

[@lunchlump]

Thank you very much for taking the time to make this great video!

[@badge2204]

Man! I am working in Shanghai China, I was helpdesk for 3 years and now I am working as virtualization engineer. What u said is true, u make me recall my memories, u put me in tears. Me Not even closed to 9$/H. And I was handling countless cases. That job is toxic, it is absolutely true, but in China it is even more toxic, because helpdesk here has little chance to switch to another higher level job. I made it because I can speak English. Not because I had three years of helpdesk experience.

[@12012channel]

So, that I.T. job posting I saw a few years back that required multiple comptia certs and Bachelor's degree that payed around $10.00 an hour was real? At the time minimum wage was around $9.00.Thought it was a typo.

[@jimmytwotime6875]

They were probably hoping to outsource it to India.

[@TheMazinoz]

@@jimmytwotime6875 Yes, but even they may not want it these days.

[@georgemunroe647]

I'm so happy you made this video. I've heard stories about this.

[@Blackmailizthat1]

This video opened my eyes so wide. I get it now. I was someone that looked to grow from entry level when I should have realized to grow out After getting the necessary experience to move on. Thank you sir. I will no longer be stagnant in IT support. I've been working at me new job and I love it but I stress my self out because of the workload. I appreciate this job giving me an opportunity but I will not stress or try not to stress as much because of this video.💯

[@nf4322]

Currently work for a cyber company who contracted me out to work IT and help desk. Current role is lead apps support specialist..15$ an hour and it’s a lot of work. The only bright side is, I haven’t graduated with my cyber security degree yet so this is some seriously good experience. I definitely think a couple years working here with my degree (bachelors in cyber security concentrated in network forensics) and some certs I can get a top notch cyber security job. That’s the goal at least..

[@amandal.1422]

U definitely can!! Employers look for experience so use that company now to gain experience and when u feel its time to spread ur wings and move up u have ur degree and that VALUED EXPERIENCE that'll help get u to ur goal! Id also like to get into Cybersecurity. Good luck!

[@Berelore]

Yup, your degree will be next to useless, so get as much XP and as many certs as possible.

[@chriswest1043]

I actualy had an interview where the hiring company kinda balked at me for the salary I was looking for as an entry level Sys Admin. They tried to claim that the salary I was looking for was for someone who had been in the role for over 5 years. Didn't get offered the position most likely due to that. Know your worth, and have the skills that correlate with what you are asking. I have not gone through studying for years just to be told I am not good enough.

[@user-zu1ix3yq2w]

I like your perspective.. Thinking all that diligent and earnest studying and graduating at the top of your/my class has worth.

[@user-zu1ix3yq2w]

Also, don't care that this comment is 1 year old. That's like, maybe a ten cent raise.

[@HolyScript.]

Exactly. Years and student loans only to be making pennies.

[@Artivityy]

I really needed this video. Suffering in my current job right now (first job out of college and the pandemic btw) due to low pay, too much work/clients, and a multitude of other issues. I have a bachelor’s in computer science and computer security on top of this as well. I was hoping IT would be a good stepping stone into Cybersecurity or I’ll find something else I like. Now, I’m trying to find another job with the experience I have here under my wing in either IT or something completely different. But once again, really appreciate this video 😭

[@beardedgrandpagaming798]

I love your honesty. It needs to be said.

[@8novaavon871]

Not upset. But totally inspiring. I was an editor for a local news station making 11.50hr. but they wouldn't give me anywhere near 40hrs! After taxes, it added to around 7.50hr. I don't hate the news or my job at the time, but what i hated was dealing with all the politics and bs on a daily basis getting stressed out to my core, and still barely being able to pay my rent! All the pressure and the stress, and when I came to them asking for more hours at the very least, they told me that I should just get a part time job. Sure. Just sleep only 4 hours each day continuously stressed with no real confirmation that this job was going anywhere. But it wasn't just me, everyone was getting underpaid and being told it was okay and that "it's just how it goes." DON'T WORK FOR ANYTHING LESS THAN YOUR WORTH. I wasn't perfect at my job, but I tried on a daily basis. In the end I eventually hated doing what I loved, and it turned me into a toxic person. Keep doing what you love, but prove yourself with the experience that you gain, and go for bigger and better things. I believe in you!

[@88Xlmk]

Understaffed IT department - NEVER. One person is more than enough to cover 2000 people and the server and network infrastructure. This was the case when I was trying at Accenture few years ago. In the end I was not hired, because I wanted too much by their standards - 800$(in my country this is just 100$ more than what you need to live - the poverty line). Also last week I was in an interview for new security department of a pretty big company. The add was for second line job. They would expect a person with Security certification, IP network cert, Splunk, etc. You had to re-build their entire IP network for the office in my country, set up the servers and services for everything, set up Security monitoring infrastructure and be on call almost 24/7. After this I realized they have no idea what they are doing, but decided to see how they will react at the end - I told them my expected salary before bonuses and extras and they tried for more than 2 times lower at 1300$. How the hell do you expect anybody to take the job with what you require him to do. PS - everything is after taxes with is 30%.

[@leroiobi5928]

Very insightful video. I've always thought that abt entry level IT positions and it's nice to hear you say it. We have to raise the standards and shun these lowball offers.

[@bradshepherd1366]

Really like the message of this video, in the early years experience>money and always look for the next challenge. Thanks for another great video.

[@warpdrivefueledbyinsomnia8165]

There's a few possible outcomes for this problem: It could go the way of old factory labor. Overskilled, low-payed employees finally get sick of getting scraps of money for wages and decide to organize unions. That scenario has a whole list of other issues that I'm not going to get into, but I will say that it is one way to get wages up at least in the short term. Secondly, it could go the way of physical security. Persistent low wages in the field leads to a lower quality of employee coming in because promising potential IT employees begin looking to other fields. Eventually, a public perception of "the dumb IT guy" begins to build (like how the movies "Paul Blart" and "Observe and Report" played on the existing security guard stereotype) and low achievers begin to view IT as an industry that they can go in and just exist and breathe air for a paycheck. That begins a vicious downward spiral of IT skilled workers, leading eventually to IT staff being regarded about the same as other low-skill, low-wage jobs. Thirdly, and seemingly least likely, an understanding of the IT field begins to cultivate among top executives. This would require a non-tech oriented company (think like Coca-Cola or Nike shoes) making a conscious investment in their IT departments and realizing some sort of tangible gain from it over their competitors because of it. High level business has a lot of "follow the leader" that occurs, so that could be another way that change takes place. Lastly, this awkward dance could just continue on, where you have artificially deflated wages due to industry leadership not knowing or caring about what they have in their IT departments. Meanwhile, you still have an influx of skilled workers coming in who are inexplicably content with accepting low base wages on the promise that they will find a better, more career oriented position in 2-5 years. I would think that something would eventually give and one of the three above scenarios plays out, but change is scary and perhaps the industry stays comfortable with viewing low-paying entry level IT work as a gatekeeper. Who knows? Humans are weird like that.

[@Sc0rch91]

Unions are no better. TRUST ME.

[@enriquekekay8]

Learn so much from being in help desk and great video !

[@Itcareerquestions]

So very true!

[@jakeblack8190]

Thank you for being real. You are the real MVP!

[@angelbarajas5362]

You’re awesome man! I appreciate you for making this video

[@Sass269]

I work tech support now and I dislike it a lot. I can't wait to move on.

[@pinglocalhost]

Get 1,2 years XP move on don't get stuck in the IT helpdesk loop. Where people call you up for only helpdesk roles. So easy to take them. Keep growing that brain 🧠 💪 and cert up .

[@soulflymosthigh]

I was working 2 jobs from 1998 to 2003. Full time at National TechTeam (got hired by EDS 8 months later) in Michigan and part time on call for a company that did pickups for coroners and funeral homes in Ontario. EDS pulled the helpdesk out of Michigan so I did the pickups full time for a few more years. I got back in to I.T. at Sutherland in Ontario in 2006 which didn't pay a lot. 5 years later, I took a full time position in a funeral home due to still having low pay in I.T. I should have went back to I.T. in Michigan. The job as become too much for me to deal with. I am now doing CompTIA A+ online course from Mike Meyers and purchased the book. I will get certified and look for work and find a job in Michigan again. I WILL. Due to being out so long, this certification will be my only way back in. Then I will work on more certifications and make myself more valuable. I am a very young 46. This video has helped give me that extra push. Thanks.

[@shaikshakeerhussain]

You are absolutely right bro! I am working for a tech company since a year as a helpdesk support engineer and they have never raised my salary. Every time they ask me to support some new technology I only felt that it is like an opportunity to add some new skill in my resume. But now I feel I should move on to development.

[@bradrickrobinson7452]

Great eye opener!!! Thanks for your hard work!!!

[@shlugshining8684]

In my first IT job I worked for absolute minimum wage, for two years. My second job, doing exactly the same same thing, paid about twice as much. A year later, I was making that + $10,000 extra, again doing much the same thing. I probably should've got out of the first job a little quicker, but I learned a hell of a lot. As others have said: get that initial experience on your resume, get some certs, and then get something with respectable pay.

[@braneburne4409]

Hey bro, i recently start watching at your vids, so far i have enjoy them, keep up the good work

[@Itcareerquestions]

Thank you very much! I appreciate that and I'm glad you are enjoying them. What other kind of videos would you be interested in?

[@braneburne4409]

@@Itcareerquestions nothing in my head at this time, will let you know

[@Itcareerquestions]

Sounds good. Thank you for taking the time to leave a comment!

[@joeo0o0o]

probably one of the best vids this guy has posted. Because I’m going through this crucible of low paying IT work. And it sucks!!!

[@Death_Metal_Head]

Your videos are extremely informative. Thanks again!

[@SavageScientist]

When i worked the helpdesk i was on contract with Dell in 2006 getting 8.50/hour in Mississippi. Turn over was high

[@TheYodaman22]

Every industry is the same, entry level rolls are to learn, combine it with studying a formal qualification and once you get it ask for a raise or find a place that’ll pay you.

[@ecsta_chic]

thank You! What you said at the last part of the video is motivational! I am glad I found your channel. 😊

[@dirkdiggler2493]

great video I really appreciate your honesty I have a more open mindset now to just looking at it for the experience right now.. thank you

[@DK-gq7qe]

man, thanks for the informative videos. keep it up.

[@Itcareerquestions]

Absolutely! I'm here to help!

[@yukidejesus1956]

im going in my 6th year IT career. Started as non paid from there, IT Assistant intern, IT lvl 0 (mostly setting up hardware), IT Helpdesk for 3 years. I knew I wasnt going no where with it..i tweaked my resume with name title change. Now im IT Admin. responsible for backend/front end stuff. Get all the experience you can get. Also working for the City, Google 3rd party vendor, Law firm and Tech companies help in your resume for sure. Im with a Hedge Fund now, the pay is much greater and benefits are way better than Google FT Employees. :P I dont miss working for tech companies..after awhile..theyre just a joke now. Good luck to all.

[@Lavish1717]

May I ask what you tweaked the name title change to ?

[@bradturner7678]

@@Lavish1717 probably IT god.

[@dyingbreed5386]

I took a pay cut from washing dishes when I got my first IT job, lol. Within a year I doubled my pay and now I'm a Network Administrator making decent money with plenty of room to grow so it was worth it in my case. The key is don't be afraid to look elsewhere if you feel your company doesn't appreciate you.

[@talkliberia812]

You actually give me hope even though this video is old. I’m in my junior year at college and looking an entry level.

[@dsteiersteier2026]

The problem is that recruiters try to keep you at the same level and around the same pay. Don't keep accepting the same type of job all of the time. get more education, more certifications and more experience and move up. Don't just accept what recruiters offer you.

[@jaemelo2693]

I can relate so much to this video. From the long diverse list of roles/scope creep to the garbage pay which basically reinforces the stereotype of organizations having low value in business units that do not directly generate revenue. I am Location Support for a global company w/ over 60,000 employees doing help desk shenanigans, SCCM OS deployments, Azure AD/Intunes for MDM, Cisco VOIP CCM/UC; however I unintentionally had my pay nearly doubled while still being in a "helpdesk role" from taking a few bible scriptures seriously. In a nutshell I was making $42k a year for a local consulting firm which is peanuts when the place you call home is #2 on the lists of places with the highest cost of living (Bermuda). After 3 years of receiving that salary I mentioned to one of the HR colleagues for the client I was outsourced to that I'll be leaving soon because of the salary was preventing me from getting a place & eventually marrying. Little did I know leaving wasn't an option or at least not without a counter offer. Apparently a few VIP's in the company didn't want me to exit so eventually I was poached from the contracting firm. For a company to risk going to court over poaching a "easily replaceable" Support Specialist says a lot. In return I was offered $70k to do the exact same job with 2-5% yearly salary increase. The trick to this all lied in the words my fiancee told me... "if you love someone you'll put their interest/needs before your own." I went into this job trying to love everyone. I applied this at the job for the 3 years as a contractor and ultimately it resulted in the offer... Coming in early, working late without logging OT, sacrificing lunch breaks to keep people happy, forgiving and forgetting always, while doing it with a smile/humility regardless of how toxic/unthankful the user was. This I think is the reason people liked me so much within the company on top of the proficiency. This is why I think I was given that salary. 1 Corinthians 10:24 "Let no one seek his own good, but the good of his neighbor." Philippians 2:4 "Let each of you look not only to his own interests, but also to the interests of others."

[@getfragged7051]

I was like this and I just got taken advantage of and used by my employer until they forked the business into the dirt

[@jaemelo2693]

@@getfragged7051 crazy that you mentioned this.. I can relate and singing another tune now. The worklife balance has been trash since the start of the pandemic and now that it’s over here somehow those working conditions are still in effect. The employer has bumped my pay to 93k but I’m already looking… this pay sucks when PTO for the past two years has been just over 3weeks 😑

[@countsmarald]

The two common startpoints I've seen is for desktop support and school districts. One other spot that exists that a lot of people overlook is retail support (register systems, inventory systems, and online payment processing systems and the like). If you are looking, dont overlook retail as a starting point.

[@doncarleone334]

Thank you for speaking up on this. Unfortunately employers will still turn a blind eye to things like this until more people decide to not settle for garbage.

[@victorsencion3621]

This is insane! Dunks pays 13 dollars an hour just to make coffee! This is depressing at best smh. Btw, thanks for the video, I'm sure it'll help a lot of people.

[@mikebrar7800]

the coffee makers add revenue!

[@RCShufty]

Yeah this sounds about right, even in Australia.

[@keathonwilliams6673]

Got my first IT job at $16. Glad to have your channel and that I did my research.

[@zmoo3788]

Hey, thats how much I get paid, this is also technically my first IT job (had a short unpaid internship). I do so much for my company and definitely deserve more... Ive fixed things my boss couldnt have. If youre only answering phone calls for simple application support or have barely any responsibilities, leave asap. The more you learn, the better. If youre actually learning things, stay there for 8-14 months Id recommend before looking for a new job that pays better... Any update on the job after 4 weeks?

[@mudslideinmypants5891]

I currently work in the HR field and I’m looking to make the jump to IT. I can confirm how the Pay rates can fluctuate. My former employer wanted to fill an entry level but the job description that was posted was basically for a senior tech.

[@marcellowheeler88]

Some advice from me. Get your certs/experience and move out. Those entry level jobs have a high turnover rate for a reason. The best thing I would do is, is work as a contractor on a base. 9 times outta 10 the starting pay is at least 15+ an hour. I did the help desk job for a few years and moved on. You're working twice as hard as everyone else while they're making a bit more money than you.

[@PMPerformance]

Certs are not as important as actual job experience. I work with guys making 6 figures with no certs, no schooling or anything. They are just good at what they do and milked experience somewhere else. If you are new new new though, certs may help land you something quicker. I can tell you though from experience as working for a Managed Services company, we hire people with nothing and if they have drive and pick it up, they have the opportunity to move up quick

[@jimmywantwingy]

This video hurts. I have had a IT job since my internship at the beginning of 2012. My first job was the best. Amazing people but they cut our salaries. My first boss was there for 20 years and taught me so much, and aided me in finding a new job. One of the sayings that always popped up. "Everything works, why do we pay you?" or...... "Everything is broken why do we pay you?" My best suggestion for people coming out of college or just getting started. It takes time. You probably can / know how to do the advanced stuff, but they aren't going to hand those duties over. In my opinion....i'd stay away from IT firms that service small business etc. Your best bet is to find a business (such as a steel mill, bank, school) that has their own IT department. Finally...my biggest pay raises is from finding a better job. It will all work out but it takes time.

[@steveo9043]

Been waiting on this video to come out. So many good points brought up.

[@Itcareerquestions]

I hope it was worth the wait!

[@steveo9043]

Definitely was, I want to send this to my boss and post it all over social media but think that might have some consequences.

[@peterbaumgartner4878]

I agree with you for sure. I did help desk for 2.years at countless places. Earned my CCNA and security+ and no promotion or talks of training to move up when that company said that they, "love to hire from within". F that always be on the lookout for amazing opportunities

[@QuasarRedshift]

answer for everything : reboot

[@justadude9012]

I have to disagree on there being so many benefits to a SD/HD job. I learned nothing new from any of the entry-level IT jobs I had, it was almost purely about dealing with users who have the attitudes of children towards technology. Meaning if you don't do it for them, eliminate inconvenience, and endeavor to convince them that they're royalty they get abusive. Most of the time these people need to be told no and that if they want the issue resolved to take these following steps..... Time spent studying for certs to skip end-user-facing tier 1 roles is exponentially more valuable than wasting your time for low pay in a tier 1 role. Companies are always hiring Tier 1 SD/HD because the job sucks so much that nobody stays at it unless they have no other option. Now, if your goal is to gain experience dealing with the worst attitudes to train yourself how to stay functional under duress it's still not the place I'd recommend. Go join the army in that case. It is true that not all users are abusive POS people mentally, but it only takes one or 2 interactions like that to ruin the day and there's way more than that EVERY DAY due to how spoiled the general population is during this day and age. More often than not this job transforms otherwise nice people into a misanthropic personality. I honestly thought this was going to be a video sharing the truth and pushing for ppl to stop working these jobs until employers stop allowing users to be abusive and stand behind their team members. Truth is, they don't and most tier 1 leads & managers view tier 1 personnel as disposable as a nitrile glove. My opinion is formed from 15 years in the industry, including 8 as contractor and having worked everything from tier 1 to field tech to compliance consultant and up to CIO and owned my own MSP business at one point. STOP PUTTING UP WITH ABUSIVE USERS FOR SHIT PAY AND "EXPERIENCE"! The idea that you need to have abcxyz whatever to get above tier 1 is bullshit. The reason companies say that is because they want to negotiate your labor for the lowest dollar cost they can. A larger checklist gives more excuses towards that end. The problem is most tier 1 jobs currently need to be paying mid-high $20s per hr, OR those companies need to stop letting users be abusive. If your team is more focused on call metrics, CSAT, churn, handle time and similar bullshit than resolving the root cause or making improvements to prevent an issue from reoccurring, you work in customer service, not IT. You also don't have to start at the bottom and work up. Get college & pursue certs until you land the job you want. A day spent towards degree or certs is worth about a week worth of work in shitty tier 1 SD HD. Lastly, don't buy into the part in the video about you being poisoned and toxic. Seeing the bullshit, saying no, and not tolerating abuse is not a toxic or poisoned perspective. It's a wise perspective. When someone gets mad that you refuse to claim the sky is neon green instead of blue and your mgmt expects you to just agree to make their day easier it's not a good place. The technology doesn't care how the user feels and neither should the people who are supposed to fix the technology, it works when configured right and no hardware issues are present. SD/HD exists to be notified of, document, and resolve technical issues. Somewhere that got corrupted into babysitting grown adults who throw tantrums like they're children and that needs to change. However, these companies need someone to interface with users and nobody wants to be that person. So, now we have a few decades of bullshit marketing strategies glorifying such a role as actual IT work. It's not and it rarely leads to a role working on the technology. Those who went from SD\HD to network admin, or developer did so because they obtained a degree or certification validating their skill to an employer;not because they were so good at or ground away at a tier 1 SD/HD job. So, save yourself the hassle and spend that time pursuing that degree or certification to start getting interviews.

[@pepperjackshack2439]

Ya I started entry at low rates for 5 years. You learn about all the general troubleshooting for various systems and gives you exposure to admin level work letting you determine your track. Went from support desk to engineer doubling salary over night. Emphasize that you will provide value during the interview!

[@jmr18p]

I feel this in my soul man. its 2021 and i left my previous employer and i am onboarding with my new employer right now for double the pay i was making before. hopefully i can rid myself of this toxicity bc i definitely stayed too long at my last position

[@mikes7621]

Keep’n it real is a what you gotta do!

[@Itcareerquestions]

Keep it real 24-7!

[@lagimmediafiles6478]

I Love My IT Assistant Support Staff Job... Thank You Lord.

[@senditall152]

That was great information. Thank you

[@frankyismyink2953]

Thank you bro this makes it easier to handle now I'm new to this job