We live in a world that relies predominantly on programming and digital technologies.
- There is an app for most things.
- We can order or schedule anything online.
- Even the bank and medical healthcare have moved to the online sphere.
In other words, it makes sense to boost up your IT skills. Still unconvinced you need to know IT? Here are 5 reasons that will change your mind.
#1. They protect you from fraud
First of all, you have an increasingly huge volume of confidential data online. While online businesses and official entities are responsible for protecting your stored data from theft and corruption, such as your medical records or bank details, it doesn’t mean you are exempt from all responsibility. More often than not, people accidentally share private data by falling for online scams. Boosting your IT skills can help you rapidly spot scammers, fake websites, and suspicious messages!
#2. You are more confident with devices
Nowadays, you can’t afford to feel nervous about technology. Even an entry job requires you to know how to set up a video call, upgrade your laptop, and safely connect to the network. Unfortunately, if you are not confident in your computer skills, you can rapidly fall behind for professional promotions. Basic IT skills are becoming mandatory.
#3. They encourage you to build the future
Science and industry never stop innovating and discovering. While innovation relies on tech engineering and specialist scientific experimentation, progress doesn’t happen without IT. Indeed, industrial innovators, such as Volvo Penta produce an extensive volume of data, which requires IT experts for programming, analysis, cybersecurity, and management. There is no progress without digitalization; therefore, your IT skills can contribute to building the future.
#4. You are never out of work
While unemployment figures can fluctuate, IT skills are always in demand. The top skills for 2022 include many IT skills, ranging from data science to quantum computing.
It is fair to say that keeping your skills up-to-date is essential to remain relevant on the market. But, the increasing demand for IT expertise also affects wages. IT engineers can expect generous pay. The midpoint salary for big data management, for example, is $141,500. Cybersecurity experts can expect to earn on average $157,250. For comparison, a registered nurse in the US makes around $77,460, despite the current pandemic crisis. In other words, IT pays, and it pays well.
#5. They give you more work-life balance
Unlike many other professions, an IT career can support your work-life balance. IT professionals are more likely to be able to maintain remote working arrangements due to the nature of their jobs. They can work from home and spend quality time with their family during the day. They also have the upper hand to negotiate higher rates for out-of-hours emergencies, which is not negligible when your time is precious.
Additionally, even if you don’t make IT your career, IT skills can be crucial to set up and run a home business. Whether you want to become a blogger or to start an online shop, IT can make your online presence secure without impacting your home life.
Are you willing to brush up on your IT knowledge? Thankfully, there are plenty of online courses available for all levels, whether you are a beginner or a pro.