What is IT helpdesk like for someone with AS?

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wblastyn
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24 Jan 2017, 12:28 pm

I'm trying to get into IT and have applied for a job, which will involve working on the helpdesk. I'm wondering what that would be like for someone with Aspergers.

I'm currently working in retail, which I've been doing for 12 years. It's mostly ok but I get tired of dealing with the public. But I know the helpdesk involves dealing with people in a different way.



BTDT
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24 Jan 2017, 12:34 pm

It may be a great job if you get to help people by talking about one of your special interests all day long.



Last edited by BTDT on 24 Jan 2017, 5:33 pm, edited 1 time in total.

liveandrew
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24 Jan 2017, 4:59 pm

I did it for three years (shift-work including pager and remote support, sometimes 7 days a week, 24 hours a day) and whilst it was ok'ish it was also extremely stressful at times. Also, it didn't help that I don't like talking on telephones as I have trouble gauging subtext and nuance without seeing a face. After three years I was burnt out and ever since I have refused to take a job that involves telephone support.

I'd say, give it a go as it may lead to better opportunities. You can always quit if it's not for you. If you do get the job and if you don't already know how to, I recommend learning how to program in your spare time as that suits me much better. It's quiet, far less stressful and utilises my skills much better than asking people to "turn it off and on again" :)

Oh, and I once did have someone seriously ask "which one's the 'any' key?" :)


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Exuvian
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25 Jan 2017, 9:56 pm

liveandrew wrote:
Oh, and I once did have someone seriously ask "which one's the 'any' key?" :)

Image



BeggingTurtle
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26 Jan 2017, 1:35 am

I felt like I was more competent with technology than most people at the IT desk at my school. The school's server at the beginning of the year forbad my IP address from accessing the school sites and the guy at the desk was literally looking up solutions online as I told him it would be futile, and told him in detail what I had tested. I finally went to network systems people and they told me to flush my DNS (of course).
I would assume it is easy because you fix people's petty computer concerns.


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