If you’re going through this material it’s probable that you’d like to enter the world of computers and you’ve heard good things about MCSE’s, or you’re currently an IT professional and you’re aware that the next stage is the MCSE accreditation.

We’d recommend you see evidence that the training company you use is definitely teaching with the latest Microsoft level. Many students get frustrated when they find that they’ve been studying for an out-of-date syllabus which now needs updating.

A training provider’s focus should be on doing the absolute best they can for their trainees, and they should care greatly about their results. Studying for a career isn’t just about the certification – the procedure must also be geared towards guiding you on the best action plan for your future.

OK, why should we consider commercial qualifications instead of traditional academic qualifications taught at schools and Further Education colleges?

With an ever-increasing technical demand on resources, industry has had to move to specific, honed-in training that can only be obtained from the actual vendors – namely companies like CISCO, Adobe, Microsoft and CompTIA. Frequently this is at a far reduced cost both money and time wise.

Patently, a certain portion of associated knowledge needs to be covered, but precise specialised knowledge in the particular job function gives a vendor educated student a huge edge.

Imagine if you were an employer – and you wanted someone who could provide a specific set of skills. What should you do: Trawl through a mass of different academic qualifications from several applicants, trying to establish what they know and what commercial skills they have, or pick out specific commercial accreditations that perfectly fit your needs, and make your short-list from that. You can then focus on how someone will fit into the team at interview – instead of long discussions on technical suitability.

Each programme of learning must provide a nationally (or globally) recognised accreditation as an end-goal – not some little ‘in-house’ piece of paper.

If your certification doesn’t come from a major player like Microsoft, CompTIA, Adobe or Cisco, then it’s likely it could have been a waste of time and effort – because it won’t give an employer any directly-useable skills.

You should remember: the training program or an accreditation is not what you’re looking for; the particular job you’re training for is. Many trainers unfortunately completely prioritise the actual accreditation.

Never let yourself become one of the unfortunate masses who set off on a track that on the surface appears interesting – and end up with a plaque on the wall for something they’ll never enjoy.

Be honest with yourself about what you want to earn and the level of your ambition. Sometimes, this affects what particular exams will be required and what industry will expect from you in return.

All students are advised to speak with an experienced industry advisor before they embark on a study program. This is essential to ensure it contains the relevant skills for the chosen career.

The somewhat scary thought of securing your first IT job can be relieved because some trainers offer a Job Placement Assistance programme. Don’t get overly impressed with this service – it’s easy for eager sales people to overplay it. The fact of the matter is, the still growing need for IT personnel in the UK is the reason you’ll find a job.

However, don’t wait till you have passed your final exams before updating your CV. Right at the beginning of your training, mark down what you’re doing and place it on jobsites!

Getting onto the ‘maybe’ pile of CV’s is more than not being regarded at all. Often junior support jobs are offered to trainees (who’ve only just left first base.)

You’ll normally experience quicker service from an independent and specialised local recruitment consultancy than you’ll experience from any training provider’s national service, as they’ll know the area better.

Do ensure you don’t spend hundreds of hours on your training and studies, only to stop and leave it in the hands of the gods to secure your first position. Stand up for yourself and get out there. Channel the same time and energy into securing your new role as it took to pass the exams.

Copyright Scott Edwards 2009. Go to HERE or www.MCSECertification4IT.co.uk.

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