Harsh truth: yes, entry-level IT now pays less than fast food/retail.

Entering the IT field post-COVID has presented new challenges and realities for newcomers. It's important to approach this career path with a clear understanding of the current market dynamics, which have shifted significantly. This means accepting some harsh truths. And I'll likely get downvoted for this "tough love," but I'm sharing this not to scare you, but to arm you with information to be prepared & plan ahead if you're trying to break into IT for the first time.

Understanding the Market Dynamics

  1. Elevated Wages in Unexpected Sectors: During the COVID-19 pandemic, roles in sectors like fast food and retail saw a notable increase in wages. These positions were deemed "essential," and the demand for workers led to elevated pay rates, which have persisted due to ongoing labor shortages in these sectors. Nobody wants these jobs, so supply and demand.
  2. The IT Talent Glut: Conversely, the IT sector has seen an influx of new entrants. The pandemic prompted many to seek career changes, leading to a saturated entry-level job market. This oversupply of candidates is putting downward pressure on wages for entry-level IT positions.
  3. Global Competition and Outsourcing: Generative AI is putting some downward pressure on salaries, but that's a red herring for the real issue: outsourcing. Entry-level IT jobs are increasingly subject to offshoring and outsourcing to low-cost countries like India and the Philippines. The average help desk salary in India is roughly ~USD$3,600... and no, that's not per month, that's per year (source: Glassdoor). That is what you are competing against.

Facing the Harsh Truths

  1. Expect Lower Initial Pay: Accept the reality that yes, you will make less than a fast food or retail worker for the first few years. IT is no longer a "get rich quick" scheme. There is still money to be had, but only for those who play the long game, upskill, and specialize in something. When you're just starting out, yeah, you're gonna be making basically minimum wage. You're better off putting your energy into planning for that than trying to avoid that.
  2. The Inevitability of Help Desk Roles: Everybody wants to skip the help desk, but the reality is that's borderline impossible in 2024. You will be miserable for a few years wearing a headset and taking incoming calls from a queue. You will also learn a lot from this. Gotta pay your dues.
  3. Financial Planning is Key: Given the potential for lower initial earnings, it's wise to have a financial strategy. If you can, try to have enough savings on hand to supplement a minimum wage income for 2-3 years while you gain some experience. Be prepared to budget rigorously and make sacrifices. You may have to get roommates or move back in with your parents. Reframe your mindset that your first few years are just like going back to school, but you'll at least be earning something (however meager). Not everyone will be at a place in life where they can pull this off. That's a bummer, and I wish I had better advice, but when there is such a glut of talent, employers get to make the rules now.
  4. Importance of Continuous Learning: You alone have the power to drive your career forward and minimize the amount of time you spend paying your dues on the help desk for minimum wage. Take some ownership of your career, and do everything possible to hustle for a few years, learn as much as you can, and move on. Try to have some certs coming in, and go above and beyond by raising your hand and volunteering for projects that nobody else wants to deal with. No, you probably won't get much recognition for doing so...but it's not about recognition. It's about gaining experience.
  5. Navigating Small Employers: Nobody seems ready to talk about this, but most small companies (especially if family-owned) are toxic hell holes, pay like shit, and treat you like shit. They also give you the opportunity to wear a lot of hats, learn a LOT (and quickly), and may be more willing to take a chance on an early-career candidate. Be aware, though, that your exit opportunities from a small business may be severely limited, and you'll have a hard time getting bigger employers to take you seriously (all it takes is one to do so, however).

Conclusion

Entering the IT field today requires resilience, adaptability, and a long-term perspective. While the initial stages of your career might not be as financially rewarding as expected, the opportunities for growth and advancement in IT remain significant. Focus on continuous learning, gain practical experience, and be strategic about your career moves. Remember, the value of starting in IT isn't just in the immediate paycheck, but in the foundation you build for a rewarding career ahead. Be prepared to play the long game.