For those of you already in IT, any advice much appreciated!How do I get into IT

Hi Andrew,
presently i am working in ericsson. i think you have very gud knowledge about networking side. but in present time companies are tring to find people with any live experience. if we try for any job opportunity without experience they consider our CV but they prefer candidate with experience.
if you get any experience whether in small or large organization you can join and get live experience

You certainly have the base qualifications that would be considered attractive to an employer, but yes, the lack of practical experience will be an issue. All I can suggest is that you present yourself well and then rock on up to a number of firms that employ people with the specific skill sets you've been learning and ask for the chance for work experience. It would more than likely end up being an unpaid proposition initially, but impress them enough and you may just land a job! Either way, you'll be able to show on a CV that you've thought outside the box and proactively sought direct experience, plus you'll GET actual experience as well. Alternatively, you could try to position yourself as a freelancer and approach small to medium businesses and offer your services on a consultancy basis. You may have to BS your way into that one a little at first until you get some references on board, but this too will give you experience and the flexibility to work in a manner that best suits you.

Last but not least is to reach out to the people that have been educating you to date on these subjects and to make recruiters aware of your skills and desire to enter the workforce with them. Networking is key! Even if you've been doing this online or remotely, there will be avenues to seek advice and help. Get yourself on LinkedIN.com as well and start trying to connect with like minded companies and inidviduals. Good luck!