Key Principles Every Aspiring IT Operations Engineer Should Follow

Recently, while hiring operations staff for a new company, I encountered many candidates born after 1985. Their youthful energy is evident, but the pressures of modern society also leave marks. As a veteran operations engineer in my late 40s, I want to share some heartfelt advice to help them avoid mistakes and achieve lasting success.

1. Solid Foundations

In interviews I often find young candidates lack a strong base. I ask basic questions—such as the TCP/IP connection establishment process for network engineers or the core of a Windows domain for Windows admins. Many cannot answer, claiming they learned it in sophomore year and have forgotten. Without solid theory, practical guidance is impossible, and long‑term growth in operations is unlikely.

2. Depth Over Breadth

Resumes that list every vendor and technology (Huawei, Cisco, Juniper, Windows, Linux, FreeBSD, etc.) usually reveal shallow knowledge when probed. True experts specialize; breadth alone does not make you a master. Focus on one area, deepen your expertise, and you’ll become valuable over time. Trying to be a jack‑of‑all‑trades often leads to mediocrity.

3. Perseverance

Success comes from sustained effort—staying focused, learning from failures, and persisting even when faced with setbacks. Mastery is achieved by repeatedly practicing a few techniques to perfection rather than constantly jumping between topics.

4. Master English

Computer technology originated in the United States, and most cutting‑edge resources are in English. To stay at the forefront, you must be able to read technical documentation in English.

5. Master Chinese

Professional resumes must be well‑written in Chinese. Errors, typos, and misuse of characters reflect poorly and can eliminate you from consideration. Proper grammar and correct usage of "在" vs. "再", and "的", "地", "得" are essential.

6. Craftsmanship

Efficiency is not just speed; it’s about delivering high‑quality, reliable work. Rushing leads to hidden risks. Plan carefully, execute meticulously, and strive for excellence in every task.