My real interest is IT, but I ended up working in hospitality because of life circumstances. I've been using Windows and Linux computers since 2018 and have built a homelab, although I don't currently have an IT degree or certifications. I'm hoping to earn a diploma or CompTIA A+ soon.
I recently applied for an IT Executive position at an automobile dealership. My online application was initially rejected because I didn't have formal IT qualifications, but I visited HR in person, answered some questions, and they shortlisted me for an interview. During the interview, they asked about hardware, network discovery, printer and folder sharing, disk imaging, IP classes, and crimping LAN cables.
I struggled with the questions about IP classes and the wiring order for Ethernet cables. I understood the tools and testing process for cable crimping, but I haven't personally done it before. The interviewer said I should study those topics and made the interview sound positive.
I'm feeling nervous and dealing with some imposter syndrome. What should I focus on learning, and what advice would you give someone trying to move from hospitality into IT?
4 Answers
Your path can absolutely develop over time. Many people start in first-line support and move into second-line support, systems administration, development, DevOps, or cloud work by taking on increasingly difficult tasks. Luck and timing matter, but consistent self-study, practical projects, and being willing to take an entry-level opportunity are often more important than having a degree.
Feeling like an imposter is pretty normal, especially when you’re moving into a new field. The important thing is that you recognize what you don’t know and are willing to learn it. Review IP addressing and Ethernet cable standards thoroughly, then think through other questions they might ask. Keep showing genuine interest and a willingness to improve.
A hospitality background doesn’t prevent you from getting into IT. Customer-facing experience is useful because support work requires patience, communication, and the ability to stay calm when someone is frustrated. Keep building your homelab, document projects such as imaging systems or configuring file shares, and look for entry-level support, help desk, school, nonprofit, or small-business opportunities.
That’s where documentation, references, and certifications can help. Keep a simple portfolio describing what you built and the problems you solved, and consider volunteering with a school or nonprofit. Real-world exposure and references can compensate for not having a formal IT background, while a certification such as A+ can help you get past initial screening.
The title may sound more senior than the actual job. Based on the description, they may need one person to handle basic desktop support, networking, hardware troubleshooting, and general errands. That isn’t necessarily bad for a first IT role, but make sure you understand the day-to-day responsibilities, training, equipment, salary, and opportunities to develop your skills.
From what I saw, their systems need a lot of basic maintenance, including missing drivers and unactivated Windows installations. They also mentioned that the role includes collecting stationery from a wholesaler in a company vehicle. The pay is close to what I earned in hospitality, so I’m mainly considering it as a way to get real IT experience.
Even if the job is not especially glamorous, a genuine year of IT support experience could help you qualify for better roles afterward. I’d avoid overstating the position, but having practical experience with users, Windows systems, printers, networking, and troubleshooting can be valuable.
I’ve done some occasional computer repair work and helped a small school upgrade systems from Windows 7 to Windows 10. My concern is that self-taught experience can be difficult to prove without a certificate or degree, since I’ve already been rejected from several positions.