Passionate about technology and computer systems? Then a career as an IT consultant may be just the thing for you.
Career Overview
An IT consultant provides technical services to computer system users. You will provide assistance concerning software, hardware, printing, installations, word processing, email and operating systems. In this profession, you are highly regarded and depended on according to your expertise in Information Technology (IT).
Required School Subjects
You will need to have taken the following subjects at high school:
- Pure Maths (matric level)
- Physical Science (matric level)
Recommended subjects:
- IT
Institution and APS
The following institutions are highly recommended for studies in the arts:
- Stellenbosch University – APS of 35+
- University of Cape Town (UCT) – APS of 38
- University of Witwatersrand (Wits) – APS of 44+
Required Qualification/s
In order to qualify as an IT consultant, you will need to have a formal qualification:
Required Skills
You will need to have the following skills to succeed as an IT consultant:
- problem-solving skills
- active listening
- attention to detail
- the ability to work under pressure
- an aptitude for maths and science
- ability to think critically
- an interest in software design and development
Where you can work
There is a range of environments that you could find yourself in as IT consultants are demanded in a variety of industries. Some of these places of work include:
- big private companies that supply computers
- government departments – universities and universities of technology
- provincial administrations
- computer bureaus such as Spoornet, Telkom or Denel
- medium or small businesses using computer systems and networks
- software houses
- self-employed: consultant
Working Hours
Your working hours will depend on the environment you work in and the problem you have to solve. Some technical issues will naturally take longer to resolve than others so this could govern the amount of time you spend at work.
Expected Salary
The average IT Consultant earns roughly R261,503 per year or R21,791 per month. If you’re just starting out as an IT Consultant, you can expect to earn +-R122,678 a year, whereas more experienced IT Consultants can earn up to R422,682 a year.
What to expect
Here are a few things you can expect from a career as an IT consultant:
- Diverse clientele: As an IT consultant, you will work with various clients from different industries. This requires an understanding of the unique needs and challenges of each sector.
- Problem solving: One of the primary roles of an IT consultant is to diagnose and solve IT-related problems. This requires a keen analytical mind and a proactive approach to identifying and addressing issues.
- Continuous learning: The tech industry is ever-evolving. As an IT consultant, you must stay updated with the latest technologies, methodologies and best practices.
- Project management: Often, you will manage or be involved in multiple projects simultaneously. Time management, organisational skills and effective communication are crucial.
- Client communication: You will be the bridge between the technical team and the client. It’s essential to communicate technical information in a way that’s accessible to non-tech-savvy clients.
- Sales and business development: Depending on your role, you might be involved in pitching services, identifying potential business opportunities or expanding client relationships.
- Flexibility: The nature of consultancy can be unpredictable. You might need to travel frequently, work long hours or adapt to changing project requirements.
- Ethical considerations: Maintaining confidentiality and ensuring that you provide honest, unbiased advice is paramount.
- Risk management: You’ll be responsible for recommending and implementing solutions. It’s crucial to evaluate the potential risks associated with each recommendation and to develop strategies to mitigate those risks.
- Financial acumen: Especially if you’re freelancing or running your own consultancy firm, understanding budgets, pricing your services appropriately, and managing expenses will be vital.
- Networking: Building and maintaining professional relationships within the industry can open doors to new opportunities and collaborations.
- Career growth and specialisation: Over time, you may choose to specialise in specific areas of IT, such as cybersecurity, cloud computing or data analytics, depending on market demand and your interests.
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