IT management resourcesIf you are one of millions considering a career in information technology, you may be pleasantly surprised to hear that this is a great time to dive in! According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics), the outlook through 2024 for growth in the field of IT management is a faster than average expectation of 15%. Knowing this, and that the median annual salary is $127,640 , it is safe to say that pursuing a career in IT management could be a promising prospect.

Why is there such promise in this career? Across the globe, businesses and organizations rely heavily on innovative technology and IT managers trained to possess analytical, business, communication, decision-making, leadership, and organizational skills. Part of what keeps the industry a fresh and exciting area to work is the ongoing growth occurring within the technology and the way it can be used. Knowing where to find resources to keep you updated and current is just as essential as knowing that you want to be a part of the field itself. Here are examples of ways to stay fresh in the ever-growing field of IT management.

1. Soak it in at Inspirational Seminars

A quick glance through your local newspaper will usually yield a seminar or two designed to impart wisdom to anyone in the management field. If choosing to attend a seminar, be certain the presenter is someone knowledgeable and experienced in the field. Consider questions you can ask, if given the opportunity, and be honest; if the information fits your needs, don't be afraid to assess how you can grow and move forward accordingly.

2. Books are an Asset: Read More, Learn More

A tried and true resource for any successful manager is to utilize books that have proven successful among those with strong managerial skills. One example is the best-selling book "The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People" by Steven Covey; proving itself impactful for the past 25 years, the secrets in this book have motivated leaders at all levels to change their way of thinking to better enable a change in their way of doing. 

3. Don't Let Pride Get in the Way of Growth--Ask for Help

There is arguably no better resource for improving your managerial skills than to ask someone else in the field who you respect and admire to mentor you. A mentoring relationship requires a willingness from both parties to have complete honesty, for you to be open to constructive feedback, and for your mentor to be willing to observe and provide clear direction. The potential pitfall in this resource, however, is becoming offended. Those who succeed in the mentoring relationship are those who choose to be “unoffendable” and strive for excellence over mediocrity every time.

4. Set Yourself up for Success: Join a Professional Organization

Joining a professional organization could be a smart move for a budding IT manager. With a steady stream of helpful information, the comradery of fellow professionals, and possible links to training information as well as careers, becoming a part of a larger group definitely has its merit. One such group is the Association of Information Technology Professionals, which has been around since 1951 and has as its mission "to provide its members with the opportunities and resources necessary to develop and advance their IT careers.”

5. Encyclopedias for Today: The Internet

It almost seems too simple to say this, but with all of the information that is contained within the limitless Internet, it would only be logical for someone in IT management to use it as a regular resource. The pro side of this is, it's available at a moment's need; the con side though is that you will need to utilize a lot of discernment when culling information from the World Wide Web. Not everything you read on the Internet is 100% accurate.

6. Don't Stop Learning: Know the Value of Continued Education

Whatever career you choose, it is always important to stay current with the most up-to-date information available. For a great resource to help you further your knowledge of management, consider taking ongoing college courses. Whether you are in a traditional classroom, learning from a professor alongside others who are like-minded and equally interested in the subject matter, or at home taking online classes, you will no doubt find the experience rewarding and beneficial to your career.

Are You Ready to Take on the IT World?

With these resources to lean on, it is encouraging to know that the prospects are bright for a future in management. If making information technology your career sounds like something you would be interested in pursuing, contact ECPI University TODAY for information. In just 2.5 years, you could potentially earn your Bachelor of Science degree in Business Administration with a concentration in IT Management. It could be the Best Decision You Ever Make!

Learn more about ECPI's College of Technology TODAY!

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