Information technology specialists throughout the United Kingdom have a lot on their plate on a daily basis. IT specialists start out their day meeting with other members of an IT department or specialist team to go over their assignments and job tasks for that particular day. From there, IT specialists perform tasks ranging from simple diagnostic tests on computing equipment to setting up several computers in an office on the same network. As well, IT specialists are often on call at certain points during the week in case of an emergency after their office closes.

Overall, IT specialists are expected to do quite a bit in their average day. Graduates interested in IT specialist positions need to understand the various job responsibilities and expectations that come with these jobs. IT specialists, after all, are not confined to one specific department or area of the company they work for. IT firms often contract out their IT specialists to help set up software or computing equipment offered by the contracting company. As well, IT firms need their specialists to be able to use their specialties (i.e.

network security, programming) in as many departments as possible to maximize their investment. The major job expectation of an IT specialist in the UK is to be responsive and flexible in dealing with IT issues. Some graduates enter the IT specialist field assuming that they will be working in one well-defined area of the company without having to worry about problems or issues in other parts of the IT department.

However, IT specialists are expected to offer their assistance when they have slow periods or have a particular expertise that can expedite problem solving. As well, a graduate who wants to show their commitment to the company should want to provide this extra level of service. There are a number of other job expectations of IT specialists. Specialists need to remain conversant in information technology issues, including the latest equipment and software on the market. IT specialists also need to understand the corporate structure of their employer, as they will invariably have to deal with every department in setting up integrated computing systems. Companies look for a desire for advancement in IT specialists, as it shows a drive to succeed and provide the company with leadership well into the future.

Graduates who understand these expectations and aim to exceed them can have a great career as an IT specialist.

Mark Doherty is a Director of Alexander Chapel Associates. A specialist sales recruitment company with a focus in IT sales jobs, logistics jobs and supply chain recruitment.