I'm currently a manager at a local company where I handle a variety of tasks, including managing Linux servers, Windows systems, VMware, WordPress designs, email marketing platforms, automations with N8N and AppScript, and managing Google Workspace accounts. We work with many clients, and I feel spread thin without a specific area of expertise. I don't have any formal qualifications or certifications, and I'm concerned that if I leave this job, I won't be able to find another since I don't consider myself an expert in anything specific—just someone who solves problems across various fronts. I'm looking for recommendations on how to approach this situation and whether or not my concerns are valid. Sorry if my English isn't perfect; I'm from Latin America!
3 Answers
Consider working on personal projects related to your interests, maybe build some fictional networks using GNS3. Also, if you feel the need for formal education, community college could be a great option. It could provide a structured way to gain expertise in a specific area that's valuable to your career.
It might be beneficial to pick one area that really interests you and dive deeper into it. Based on your experience, Google Workspace seems like a solid choice. However, I’d love to know more about your role. Are you a hands-on leader, or do you mostly focus on management tasks like reports and meetings? If you're aiming for something like an IT Director position, you don't necessarily need to be a subject matter expert but having good depth in a specific tech could help. And remember, many people struggle with imposter syndrome. It's common in our field, but don't undervalue your contributions—trust me, you're probably doing better than you think.
Exactly, and it's great that you recognize your value within your team. Just committing to one technology and building your knowledge around it can help alleviate some of those worries. You’re making important decisions without a degree, which in itself is a strong indicator of your capabilities.
What kind of experience do you have in the IT field beyond your current job?
I’ve mostly repaired computers and worked in customer service roles.
Absolutely! Imposter syndrome can be tough, especially when you see others with seemingly more knowledge or expertise. Focus on your strengths, like your soft skills and ability to connect with clients. Sometimes it's not just about fixing the problem faster but also making the process enjoyable for clients.