There are four specialised areas of training in the full CompTIA A+ syllabus, of which you need to pass two for competency in A+. Be aware though that only learning about 2 of the study sections is likely to leave your knowledge base somewhat light. Look for training that covers all the specialist areas – this will give you the edge in the working environment.
CompTIA A+ without additional courses will mean that you’re able to fix and maintain stand-alone PC’s and MAC’s; ones which are usually not part of a network – essentially the domestic or small business sector.
If your ambition is looking after computer networks, you’ll need to add Network+ to your A+ course. Taking this course as well will mean you can apply for more interesting jobs. You may also want to consider the Microsoft networking qualifications (MCP, MCSA and MCSE).
If an advisor doesn’t question you thoroughly – the likelihood is they’re actually nothing more than a salesman. If they wade straight in with a specific product before learning about your history and whether you have any commercial experience, then it’s definitely the case.
If you’ve got any work-based experience or base qualifications, you could discover that your appropriate starting-point is now at a different level to a new student.
It’s wise to consider some basic Microsoft package and Windows skills first. Starting there can make the learning curve a much easier going.
Can job security honestly exist anywhere now? In the UK for instance, where business constantly changes its mind at alarming speeds, there doesn’t seem much chance.
Now, we only experience security through a rapidly escalating marketplace, driven forward by work-skills shortages. This shortage creates the appropriate environment for a higher level of market-security – a much more desirable situation.
The most recent British e-Skills study highlighted that twenty six percent of IT jobs are unfilled because of an appallingly low number of trained staff. That means for every 4 jobs that are available across IT, we have only 3 certified professionals to do them.
Accomplishing in-depth commercial computer exams is thus a quick route to a continuing and pleasing occupation.
We can’t imagine if a better time or market circumstances will exist for acquiring training in this hugely expanding and budding sector.
One feature offered by some training providers is a programme of Job Placement assistance. The service is put in place to help you get your first commercial position. Often, too much is made of this feature, as it’s really not that difficult for any motivated and trained individual to land work in the IT industry – as there is such a shortage of skilled employees.
Whatever you do, avoid waiting until you have passed your final exams before getting your CV updated. As soon as your training commences, list what you’re working on and get it out there!
It’s not uncommon to find that junior support jobs are offered to people who are still studying and haven’t even passed a single exam yet. This will at least get you on your way.
Normally you’ll get better performance from a specialist independent regional employment service than you will through a training company’s centralised service, because they’ll know the local area and commercial needs better.
Not inconsiderable numbers of people, so it seems, spend evenings and weekends on their training and studies (for years sometimes), and just give up when it comes to looking for a job. Promote yourself… Work hard to get yourself known. A job isn’t just going to bump into you.
Each programme of learning really needs to work up to a properly recognised qualification as an end-goal – definitely not some ‘in-house’ diploma – fit only for filing away and forgetting.
All the major commercial players like Microsoft, CompTIA, Adobe or Cisco all have globally approved proficiency programs. These heavyweights will give some sparkle to your CV.
Copyright 2009 Scott Edwards. Check out Click HERE or A+ Certification.
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