In the information technology field, you are only as relevant as your training makes you. By earning and maintaining certifications, you can demonstrate that you are competent to handle whatever challenges may come up in the workplace. Whether you are a project manager, security specialist or a server administrator, earning and maintaining an industry-specific credential puts you that much ahead of competitors in a tight job market.
There is no question that earning IT certifications requires a significant commitment of time and effort. However, companies such as Microsoft, Countrywide Training, CompTIA and the Project Management Institute allow you to obtain the training you need in the most efficient manner possible. The following certifications are among the most respected and well-compensated in the IT arena. Attending IT Certification Training programme’s can help you to quickly prepare yourself for taking up the certification exams. The investment you make will more than pay for itself in allowing you to advance in your IT career.
Project Management Professional (PMP)
The Project Management Professional certification, offered by the Project Management Institute, is a globally-recognized credential for project managers who want to be taken serious. The requirements for the PMP credential are demanding – there are experience and exams in five primary areas: Initiating, Planning, Executing, Controlling and Closing. The rigorous nature of the PMP certificate demonstrates that you have the knowledge and experience to lead mission critical projects. As a result, listing PMP certification on your resume nearly guarantees that you will be in high demand, whether your goal is to work for an international corporation or a hot startup.
Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA)
Many network professionals chase after the Cisco Certified Internetwork Expert (CCIE) accreditation. However, the Cisco Certified Network Associate credential represents a well-regarded, yet more easily attainable alternative. You may even be regarded as more employable (read, affordable) by small and mid-sized companies seeking IT professionals who can manage remote access technologies and Cisco equipment in addition to overseeing Microsoft and Linux operating systems. Especially in the earlier stages of your career, gaining and executing basic proficiency with Cisco systems can only enhance your credentials. As you progress in your career, you can build on CCNA certification to obtain CCIE certification or other related advanced Cisco IT credentials.
Cisco Certified Network Professional (CCNP)
As you progress though your IT networking career, enhancing your Cisco credentials by earning certification as a Cisco Certified Network Professional is a natural next step. Obtaining CCNP certification demonstrates to employers and clients that you are able to handle every aspect of administering and troubleshooting wide-area enterprise networks as well as local networks. The CCNP certification also indicates that you are able to collaborate with other Cisco specialists in areas such as security and wireless operations.
Microsoft Certified IT Professional (MCITP)
Microsoft continues to be a major player in the IT field, and the Microsoft Certified IT Professional credential (MCITP) is poised to become a coveted credential for IT professionals. This versatile certification is suitable for IT pros in a wide range of fields, including database developers and administrators, server administrators and enterprise messaging administrators. The rigorous requirements of the certification, including several tough Microsoft examinations, allows IT pros holding the MCITP credential to demonstrate to potential employers that they know their stuff.
Security+
In an era of BYOD (bring your own device) as well as far-flung workforces – many companies view security as a mission-critical area. Especially with companies that handle confidential or sensitive personal data, a security breach represents an open invitation to expensive lawsuits – not to mention loss of client confidence. The Security+ certification offered by CompTIA is widely respected and applicable for equipment offered by a variety of vendors. The rigorous requirements, including a minimum of two years of experience, allows IT professionals holding this credential to demonstrate to nervous administrators that they are knowledgeable about security fundamentals.
Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP)
The Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP), accredited by the American National Standards Institute (ANSI) as well as by the International Organization for Standardization (ISO) Standard 17024:2003 represents the first IT security certification. For security managers working with information security, this is an invaluable credential. In fact, among many IT sectors, CISSP certification is considered the premier credential for professionals in information security. If you want an IT security job with the government, military operations or even in high-level civilian security, you would do well to pursue CISSP certification.
This is a guest post by Travis Adams. Travis is an experienced IT professional. He enjoys blogging about the ins and outs of training and career advancement.