With IT a booming business, those with IT degrees, or who are already in this particular field, are doing everything possible to be more marketable than their peers. This field is immensely competitive, so whatever edge one can obtain certainly makes one’s resume more impressive.
One of the most sought-after and highly-specialized feathers in one’s IT cap is being a CCNA (Cisco Certified Network Associate). There are no prerequisites to the initial certification; however, the candidate must pass rigorous training programs and an examination. Recertification is required after three years, and to be recertified, one has to undergo two more training programs and two examinations. This may seem daunting at first, but it’s all worth all the effort.
This is a small price to pay, considering that being a CCNA is a ticket to better job opportunities all over the world.
It should be noted though, that when you decide to take the certification program, you should do so fully prepared. This means that you should have the necessary backup you need. A guide of sorts may be needed; some people buy books and literature related to CCNA, while others rely on technology and the Web. Books are great, but one drawback is that during the course of your certification, you may encounter situations that cannot be found in books. You need answers fast, real-time. The logical route would be online help or tutorials. There are a few things you might want to consider, though. First is the reliability of the support system of such online tutorials. You have to make sure that their staff is well-equipped and highly-qualified to give such support. You also need to consider the means of support. Is it through phone? If it is, consider the amount of time you might be spending talking to an IVR. That time might be better spent doing something more important. Do they offer chat support? This may be your best bet, since you get answers real-time.
You might also want to tap your own network – a social network, that is. In this age of Facebook and Twitter, it’s easier to touch base with old friends and classmates who are already CCNAs. They can give you invaluable insight into this highly-competitive field. They can point you in the right direction, and serve as your mentors as you go through the process of certification. Social networks can also help you meet more people in yur chosen field. Join IT-related forums. These forums can give you the plain, unvarnished truth about the Cisco certification process, including the salary range of CCNAs.
The possibilities in IT-related fields are endless. It’s just a matter of focusing on what field you want to specialize in and utilizing everything that can help you stand out from the rest and achieve what you set out to do.
