Stereotypes about IT
If you work in the technology sector, you have no doubt heard certain comments, such as: "You're a geek", "try leaving the Batcave once in a while", etc. We've already had a look at translators, and today we're going to check out the stereotypes of IT employees - with our sense of humour intact! Which of them are true, and which are exaggerated? Do these situations sound unreal - or plain surreal - to you?
The most common stereotypes about IT
Some clichés are based in truth while others are far from reality. In our IT department, which is on the larger side, all of our IT professionals are, without exception, great workers, if a little eccentric at times! Let's take a look at some of them!
A pessimistic attitude
IT professionals tend to be difficult, unpleasant and prone to talking about problems and failures.
AT's diagnosis: Our IT team is made of up people who are kind, a little shy at times, and they generally only discuss the issues that really need fixing. And they are usually the ones to offer the solution.
All of them know how to fix your computer (or any other gadget)
"Computer repair" is actually a function of the Systems department, although many of those with a background in IT are able to have a look. This is obviously incorrect, as a developer, for example, has minimal contact with hardware. Popular opinion goes even further, and an IT professional must know how to fix any tech device invented since the dawn of time: televisions, toasters, coffee machines, air conditioners, and more!
AT's diagnosis: Although Systems and Development are two areas within the same department, it is important to have a very clear understanding of who manages what. At AT, there is no doubt! (Although we must confess that one of our IT boys has had to fix the air con once or twice.)
The lone ranger
What a programmer likes most is programming, and doing it in his own way. He is not very likely to accept advice and prefers a solitary existence, wearing his headphones and hiding behind two 27" screens.
AT's diagnosis: We think this is a partial truth. Although they are happy in their own little worlds with their headphones on, they work very well with their team and always accept tips and advice.
Allergic to meetings
Meetings take place outside the Batcave and require attendees to talk, empathise, listen, compromise, etc. This can be difficult at times. Why do you do it face to face when there are several tools and software that can be used to avoid it? Microsoft Teams, Skype, etc.
AT's diagnosis: Our IT department adores meetings and any other interaction that supports the project they are currently working on. However, when no meetings have been called, they tend to communicate using Jira software.
The IT "look"
If you had to define the style of an IT professional, chances are you'd say three-day stubble, geeky T-shirts and trousers with far too many pockets which are used to stash all kinds of random bits and pieces. Incidentally, we don't think these trousers were ever cool.
AT's diagnosis: Slogan T-shirts and wide trousers are quite typical of our beloved IT guys. And, of course, the ever-present 3-day stubble (or sometimes 3 weeks...)
In conclusion, IT professionals have frequently been classified as "nerds," but at AT we love and appreciate them just as they are. IT workers are the professionals we need to provide our solutions and tailor them to each client and their individual needs. They are also the life and soul of the party when it comes to a post-work tipple!
No doubt there are more IT stereotypes out there, but we think we've covered the main ones. Can you think of any more? Do you think some of them are based on truth? We're reading.
