Becoming a Problem Solving Tech
Tactful Tech is the project that helps you learn IT skills. You really should learn about the stuff you use everyday. Save time, make yourself feel awesome, and learn something new by becoming tech savvy. This is especially important if you offer tech support!
Some of What You Need to Know
Laptop and Desktop Repair
Sometimes good tech goes bad. You need to know how to diagnose issues and work with manufacturers and their RMA process.
Malware Removal
This category includes viruses, spyware, adware, and more. Sometimes users accidentally install this garbage. Most of the time it's on purpose because they choose shady applications.
Data Recovery and Backup Plan
You can't always recover deleted data but you can try. Most of the time stuff goes out and data isn't recoverable. Make sure to stress the importance of backups.
Network Support
You'll most likely be supporting wireless connectivity but it also helps to understand how to terminate ends if you have to run cable. Cable management a plus.
Mobile Device Support
Email and wireless will be huge here. There will be general application support but the big issue now is EMM (MDM) usage and support.
Cybersecurity
This category encompasses so many things. You'll run into this with basic support to accounts, antivirus, filters, system availability, VPNs, and more!
There's so Much to be Excited About
You don't have to be a tech for the rest of your life. IT and even cybersecurity are such broad fields.
There are many pivot points and so much stuff to manage!
If you don't have a clear path or even have a tech job yet, volunteer or freelance! I did this as side husles and even in gaps in employement.
Tactful Tech Articles
Top 5 Passwords
Here comes one of my favorite things to look at, the top 5 passwords. It's a good reminder that people aren't as unique as they think they are. It may be a pain to come up with a long, complex password, but the extreme convenience you're using to forgo a secure...
Simple Ways To Mitigate Internet Attacks
We are all potential victims of internet attacks. The tips below are not a definitive guide to completely avoiding attacks but they will at least help mitigate the attacks. You definitely should NOT try to create a scene or provoke any potential attackers. Try to at...
Keep Your Facebook Account Safe
Facebook has nearly a billion active daily users (as of early 2013). As Facebook grows in popularity, so does the attractiveness of attacking the site and its user base. It's beyond time to keep your Facebook account safe. This doesn't mean you shouldn't use Facebook...
How To Avoid Becoming A Victim Of Fraud
If it sounds too good to be true, then it probably is. This old adage teaches a simple truth. You should be skeptical of offers you find on the web. Be wary when you find something like: Constant high pressure to act immediately on a sales page. An insanely high...
Generic Wireless Router Setup
All routers will have similar functions but available features and UI may be different for each one. Consider this a generic wireless router setup guide. Essentially a checklist of settings you should look for before using your shiny new router. When you setup a...
General Internet Information
The internet is a public place. Don't be fooled into thinking you are completely anonymous. Before you install any program or browse any website, harden your system to mitigate internet attacks. Software creators often implement an ability to "phone home." Most of the...
Discover Your Favorite Tasks
Even though techs are deemed generalists, you can still find stuff to specialize in. You'll naturally gravitate to things anyway.
My favorite aspect was working with hardware – desktops, laptops, servers, and network devices. I love tech and could tinker with the hardware all day.
You Still Have Other Obligations
Unfortunately you can't spend all your time doing what you love. You still have to meet the needs of the department and overall business.
Learn to become a people person if you aren't becoming one already. This is the biggest lesson in being a Tactful Tech. Learn to talk to anyone and learn to love people! Don't get too swept up by tech or coding.
Invest in Yourself
Education doesn't stop after college and experience isn't the only thing that matters out there.
Keep up with learning by using learning platforms such as Udemy, Skillshare, LinkedIn Learning, and CBT Nuggets.
You're not done when you get that course certificate though. Prove you're ready to use your new knowledge and put yourself out there.
What Employers Are Looking For
Potential Tactful Tech Topic Sources
It's quite a challenge coming up with everything you'll see in IT. Listed below are some of the things I could think of that I've gone through as a tech. At some point I'll most likely write about these topics.