This article will guide you through everything you need to know about hiring Computer Support Specialists. There are several other titles for Computer Support Specialists, including: Technical Support Specialist, Help Desk Technician, Customer Service Representative, IT Support Technician, Systems Administrator.
The key responsibilities of Computer Support Specialists
Responsibilities of computer support specialists include providing technical assistance to computer users, installing and configuring computer systems and software, and maintaining networks. They also train users on how to use new hardware and software. Specialists typically work in an office environment during regular business hours, although some may be required to work evenings or weekends to meet deadlines or resolve emergencies.
Essential tasks of a Computer Support Specialist
These are some essential tasks that Computer Support Specialists often tackle in their day-to-day work:
- Providing support for computer systems and assisting users with technical problems.
- Identifying technical problems and resolving them in a timely manner.
- Setting up new computer systems and user accounts.
- Installing software and configuring hardware.
- Maintaining and troubleshooting computer networks.
Expert advice on hiring Computer Support Specialists
These signals will help you decide whether a candidate is suitable for the job:
- A lifelong passion for learning: The best computer support specialist is ready for any new technology and always learning. They keep their skills current so they can always provide the best possible support.
- Professional and courteous customer service: The best computer support specialist works as hard at solving problems as they do getting along with others. They understand the needs of the customer, and always communicate clearly.
- Strong attention to detail: The best computer support specialist finds problems quickly and solves them. They keep detailed logs of all their changes so they can fix problems.
- Strong analytical and problem-solving skills: The best computer support specialist anticipates problems and intellectualizes them. They troubleshoot problems and come up with innovative solutions.
- Effective written and verbal communication: The best computer support specialist communicates clearly with clients and coworkers. They will always be professional and get their point across.
Interview questions for Computer Support Specialists
These questions will help you find the right candidate for this position:
- What is your experience in the field of computer support? Lesser experienced applicants may not be the right fit for your organisation. It's important to gauge whether or not the applicant has substantial experience with the type of work required for the job.
- What do you think are the most important skills for a computer support specialist? This question may provide insight into what the applicant regards as the skills that are most important in their role as talent. The answer will provide insight into if they are innately able to recognise what they are good at as well as if they're lacking in certain areas.
- What are some of the most challenging problems you have faced in your role as a computer support specialist? This question is a jumping point for you and your applicant to discuss issues neither of you may have considered. Discussing how to potentially overcome those problems or overcome them may be helpful for you and the applicant to determine whether or not the position is the right fit for them.
- How do you keep up with the latest changes in technology?
- What do you think sets you apart from other computer support specialists?
Are you hiring Computer Support Specialists? Use HiPeople today to hire the best talent in 50% of the time.
For more information on hiring Computer Support Specialists, take a look at our expert-crafted job description.