How to Become a Computer Network Architect

You might just be cut out to be a network architect if you possess the following characteristics:

You have an innate love for computers and technology

In this job, you will be dealing with almost all aspects of computers and technology, from hardware to software. Having an intrinsic interest in technology is the most vital foundation you can have in this career. Having a keen interest in computers keeps you passionate about the job and enables you to tackle all of its challenges while still enjoying what you do each day.

You have excellent critical thinking

In this line of duty, you will be using a lot of your brainpower. Having excellent critical thinking skills enables you to power through each task without exhausting too much energy. It is one of those talents that give you the capability to do the job efficiently. 

You have a good command of the English language

As with most other jobs, communication plays a vital role in the career of a computer network architect. You should have good reading comprehension, excellent listening skills, talent in effectively conveying messages, and good command of the English language since it is mostly the medium of communication in the tech field.

You are customer or end-user oriented

The thing about a tech job is that even though you are expected to deal with computers most of the time, you are ultimately doing your job for the sake of other people, their jobs, and their business. Whenever you are in the line of duty, your recommendations should always have the end-goal of making the business run better, make employees’ jobs more efficient, and make customers’ experience a lot more pleasant.

You practice proper attention to detail

Your role in this specific job demands keen attention to detail. You have to acknowledge that every small bit is essential and that each component can potentially have a significant impact on the entire network in general. Paying attention to detail means that you don’t mind sifting through every piece that comprises each project and treating each one with the same importance as you would the larger pieces. It also means checking and double-checking your work, as well as cross-checking your team’s work each step of the project.

You are adaptable and flexible

The world of technology is continually evolving. Every day there are updates that occur and changes that could potentially result in something drastic to what you are currently working on. Having the ability to adapt quickly, and being flexible enough to adjust yourself and your style to fit into the constant change will allow you to succeed almost under any circumstance.

You have a high tolerance to stress

The tech field is quite fast-paced, and the job is demanding. Facing a lot of pressure daily can easily take a toll on you if you do not have a healthy tolerance against it. Stress is a normal part of any job, and IT personnel are not exempted from stress. You can curb some of the stress out of your life and your career by exercising the following activities:

• Exercise. Studies have proven that people who exercise regularly are less likely to be stressed. That is because exercise has the power to reduce stress hormones, improve sleep, and increase bodily confidence.
• Aromatherapy. There are certain aromas that are known to be calming to the mind. Scents like Lavender, Rose, Sandalwood, and Chamomile are renowned for their calming effect.
• Caffeine reduction. People have different reactions to caffeine. If it makes you jittery and restless, you might need to cut back on it. It can also affect your sleep if you take it late in the afternoon, which could increase your stress levels.
• Journaling. Write down the things that stress you out, along with the things that you are grateful for. You will find release in letting the stress out and eliminate it further with gratitude.
• Socializing. Having a sense of belonging fosters feelings of security when you are under stressful times. Spending time with family and friends who give you emotional support is one effective way of dealing with stress.
• Yoga. Yoga combines the art of mindfulness, exercise, and breathing -all of which are powerful weapons against stress.
• Intimate contact. Hugs, kisses, cuddles, and physical intimacy allows your body to release oxytocin, a feel-good hormone. It also decreases cortisol -a stress hormone. It lowers blood pressure and heart rate, which are both physical indicators of stress.
• Music. As long as you choose soothing music, you can use it to help reduce the physical signs of stress as well as your stress hormones. Make a selection among slow-paced instrumental music from classical, Celtic, Native American, and Indian music, which has been shown to be particularly soothing.
• Laughing. It can be hard to be anxious when you’re too busy laughing. Laughing relaxes your muscles and relieves tension and, consequently, stress. Having a good laugh now and then is also shown to improve immune responses and overall health. Going to a comedy show or watching a funny movie can be a good fix.
• Declining. Sometimes, the main source of stress is the thought of piling responsibilities that you have not been able to accomplish. Try to filter out the most important obligations and learn to decline those that will stretch you too thin.
• Pets. If you are too far away from friends and family, interacting with a pet can have a similar effect. On top of that, having a pet gives you a sense of purpose, a feeling of being needed, and companionship.
• Gum. If you feel like you’re in a tight spot and want an instant fix, pop in a piece of gum. Chewing increases blood flow to the brain and produces brain waves that are similar to being relaxed.

You can work independently

Although computer network architects coordinate and cooperate with teams, their focal-point tasks involve a lot of solo work. Thus, you should be able to work independently, make decisions on your own, and manage your work without needing much aid. Being self-reliant allows you to focus on your task and have it done quickly and efficiently.