How do you become an IT specialist in a world that requires you to be a generalist?

As an IT specialist, you will have to provide the following services:  network design; procurement; managing relations; dealing with the phone companies, Web hosts and Internet access ISPs; deciding what to buy and inspecting it when it comes in; doing configuration, testing, integration, customization, training and trouble-shooting.

You will be doing everything, which qualifies you as a generalist.  But you don’t have to be a generalist for everyone.

Being an IT Specialist Means Being Selective

You should be all things to some of the people by providing a complete solution.  You offer a one-stop shop and take full accountability for everything your clients need.  But you have to limit the scope of the clients you choose.

An Example:  Real Estate

If you specialize in real estate, you will have worked with a lot of commercial real estate firms and be one of the top IT specialists in this niche.  You will have testimonials and references to prove that you work for these companies and will come across as a real specialist.

You Don’t Need a Lot of Experience

To be an IT specialist, you don’t need a lot of experience.  You can simply find one or two clients that you have been working with for a year or two.  And you will probably become familiar with the major business applications over an extended period of time.  That will separate you from everyone else as an IT specialist.   

Being an IT Specialist

The point is, you won’t need a lot of industry experience to be an IT specialist, but it will make a HUGE difference in terms of your marketing efforts.

Added By:  Joshua Feinberg