TB_TB_TB_TB_TB_TB wrote:
Should I brush up on my network knowledge or focus on what I already know?
I would focus on what you enjoy. If computers are your special interest, I would stick with them. Though, it’s possible that networking could become a new special interest.
One thing to remember is that the industry is constantly evolving. So, you need to be prepared to continually improve your skills (by taking classes, reading, etc). Again, tt makes it somewhat easier if it is your special interest.
TB_TB_TB_TB_TB_TB wrote:
How do I sell my "work" when it comes to computer troubleshooting and repair rather than selling my personality?
Hmmm...Probably, what I would do is keep a journal of all the work you have performed. Almost like documenting what the problem is, all the things you had to do to solve the problem, issues you ran into, how long it took, etc.. And then, categorize the problems - by types of problems, by skills used to solve the problem, etc.. And then, develop stories around the problems and how you addressed them. So, when you are talking to someone about the craft you perform, you can say, "Oh that reminds me of the time when I worked on this problem and I did this". By doing this, you are selling your experiences. And, if you have enough stories/examples, you can demonstrate a breadth of expertise. You probably want to make certain that the stories you tell have broad applicability to the type of issues faced by your client.
So, I am not an expert (at all - LOL) in selling myself. As I am much too honest. And there are many, many people who will stretch the truth (i.e. lie) in order to get ahead. I won't do that. However, I have found when I can give good examples of what I have done (either as a Project Manager or Business Analyst), people get a good idea of what my capabilities are. Good Luck.
02 Jun 2013, 8:34 am
