IT Sales Trainer

IT trainers teach people how to use information and communications technology. This includes the use of equipment such as PCs or interactive whiteboards, computer applications using industry-standard software packages, specialised networking systems, or tailor-made programmes for companies.
They spend part of their week planning courses or training sessions for learners, who may range from first-time users to the more experienced.
During training sessions, trainers talk through the topic and demonstrate software or hardware. In a group situation they usually have a data projector and laptop to present information on a large screen. Training might also be done online or through distance learning.
Trainers usually work normal office hours, but there might be some evening or weekend courses. Flexible working and part-time hours are quite common. Trainers tend to work indoors in classroom environments or in offices.
Salaries may range from around £20,000 to over £30,000.
IT trainers need:
a thorough knowledge of the hardware or software they are teaching
to be able to adapt their approach to suit the learners
good verbal and written communication skills
to be interested in new skills and developments in IT.
There are opportunities for IT trainers throughout the UK, especially in the South East. Trainers may work in-house for an organisation, training its staff, or they may work for an IT training company or software provider. Some trainers are self-employed.
There are no set qualifications to work in this field, and IT trainers may either have teaching skills or a good knowledge of IT and software. There is a wide range of courses that give a good grounding in IT. These include GCSEs/S grades, A levels/H grades, NVQs/SVQs, BTEC national diplomas, HNCs/HNDs and degrees.
There is no set age limit for entry, and maturity and experience can be an advantage.
IT trainers have to keep their knowledge of computers and systems up to date. Some organisations offer professional development and may give trainers a chance to go on internal and external courses. NVQs/SVQs may be available in some companies.The Institute of IT Training sets standards for all aspects of IT training, development and delivery, and has an accreditation scheme for training providers.
An IT trainer can progress to senior trainer, develop management skills and move into management, or work on a freelance basis. It is also possible to move into different types of IT work or develop training skills to include other business-related subjects.