How to become a Technical Support Advisor

How to become a Technical Support Advisor Looking for a quick fix? You should become a Technical Support Advisor… Technical Support Advisors work to maintain, update, and repair computer systems, networks, and other types of technology.Whether it’s by assisting customers with a product or service, or helping with the implementation of new systems within their organisation â€" their role could be based around providing everyday technical support to clients, their colleagues, or to both groups.Technical Support Advisors may also be in charge of writing reports that help to monitor and track faults.Specific tasks may vary, but general duties for a Technical Support Advisor could include:Installing and configuring new softwareDiagnosing and solving technical issuesProviding customers with useful advice and feedbackRunning maintenance checks and testing productsResponding to call-outsAnalysing fault records to spot trendsCreating and updating self-help documentsIs it right for me?An in depth knowledge of IT systems, as well a s an ability to communicate with people of all knowledge levels, is essential to become a Technical Support Advisor. If your only advice to those struggling with technology is to turn it off and on again, you probably won’t last long in this role.Excellent analytical skills and an ability to problem solve are equally vital â€" and you’ll need to be determined enough to troubleshoot all kinds of issues â€" no matter how much research it takes to find a solution.And, because technology can often be uncooperative â€" frustration may be common amongst customers. This means an ability to deal with and diffuse difficult situations is key.A Technical Support Advisor will also need to be:A logical thinkerGood at diagnosing faultsAble to prioritise tasksAttentive to detailA good listenerAble to work well in a teamCareer Progression Junior Technical Support AdvisorUp to £18,000 Technical Support AdvisorUp to £25,000 Senior Technical Support AdvisorUp to £40,000What's it really like? My job generally involves keeping an eye on our internal networks, updating software where necessary, fixing any faults, and responding to employees who are experiencing technical issues â€" whether it’s with their computer, their phone, or anything else tech-related. First I chat to them and ask a few questions, then I troubleshoot what the problem could be and report back with advice on how to fix it. It can be tough when solutions aren’t straight forward, but in that case it’s all about using your initiative to see whether it needs a more hands-on approach from your end. And since I’ve given myself the ambitious slogan ‘there’s never a problem I can’t fix’ â€" you could say I’m pretty determined (and/or stupid). Get qualifiedThere aren’t any set qualifications needed to become a Technical Support Advisor, but an excellent knowledge of IT systems, software, and hardware is essential. Larger employers may look for candidates with relevant qualifications, and a s upport-specific course could definitely help set you apart.