The CCNA certification is where it all starts for Cisco training. This allows you to operate on maintaining and installing switches and routers. Fundamentally, the internet is based upon huge numbers of routers, and large companies that have various regional departments use them to connect their computer networks.

It’s vital that you already know a good deal about the operation and function of computer networks, as networks are connected to routers. Otherwise, you’ll probably struggle. Better to find a course teaching basic networking skills (for example Network+, perhaps with A+) before getting going with CCNA. Some companies will design a bespoke package for you.

The CCNA qualification is all you need at this stage – don’t be cajoled into attempting your CCNP for now. Once you’ve worked for a few years you will have a feel for if this next level is for you. If so, you’ll have a much better chance of succeeding – as your working knowledge will put everything into perspective.

Your training program should always include the most up to date Microsoft (or any other key organisation’s) authorised exam preparation packages.

Steer clear of depending on non-accredited preparation materials for exams. The way they’re phrased can be completely unlike authorised versions – and often this creates real issues when it comes to taking the real exam.

Practice exams are invaluable for confidence building – so much so, that at the real thing, you don’t get phased.

Many people don’t comprehend what information technology is all about. It’s stimulating, innovative, and means you’re a part of the huge progress of technology affecting everyones lives in the 21st century.

We’re only just starting to comprehend how this will truly impact our way of life. How we correlate with the world as a whole will be inordinately affected by computers and the internet.

And keep in mind that income in IT over Britain as a whole is much better than the national average salary, therefore you will be in a good position to gain considerably more once qualified in IT, than you’d get in most other industries.

With the IT marketplace emerging year on year, it’s looking good that the search for certified IT specialists will remain buoyant for the significant future.

Many trainers will provide a useful Job Placement Assistance facility, designed to steer you into your first job. At the end of the day it isn’t so complicated as you might think to secure the right work – assuming you’re well trained and qualified; the growing UK skills shortage sees to that.

Work on polishing up your CV right away however – you should get plenty of help from your training provider on this. Don’t procrastinate and leave it till the exams have actually been passed.

Various junior support jobs have been bagged by people who are still studying and haven’t got any qualifications yet. At least this will get your CV into the ‘possible’ pile and not the ‘no’ pile.

Generally, a specialist independent regional recruitment consultant or service (who will get paid by the employer when they’ve placed you) is going to give you a better service than a sector of a centralised training facility. Also of course they should know the local industry and employment needs.

A good number of trainees, so it seems, invest a great deal of time on their training course (for years sometimes), and then just stop instead of trying to get a job. Introduce yourself… Make an effort to let employers know about you. Don’t think a job’s just going to jump out in front of you.

You’ll come across courses which guarantee examination passes – inevitably that means paying for the exams before you’ve even made a start on the course. Before you get carried away with guaranteed exams, look at the following:

Of course it isn’t free – you’re still being charged for it – it’s just been wrapped up in the price of the package.

Qualifying on the first ‘go’ is what everyone wants to do. Going for exams one by one and paying as you go has a marked effect on pass-rates – you take it seriously and are mindful of the investment you’ve made.

Isn’t it outrageous to have to pay the training company at the start of the course for examinations? Hold on to your money and pay for the exam at the time, instead of paying any mark-up – and take it closer to home – rather than in some remote place.

Big margins are made by a number of companies that get money upfront for exam fees. A number of students don’t take them for various reasons but the company keeps the money. Believe it or not, there are companies around that rely on that fact – as that’s how they make a lot of their profit.

Additionally, you should consider what an ‘exam guarantee’ really means. Many training companies won’t be prepared to pay for re-takes until you can prove to them you’re ready to pass.

Due to typical VUE and Prometric examinations costing in the region of 112 pounds in this country, it makes sense to pay as you go. Not to fork out thousands extra in up-front costs. Consistent and systematic learning, coupled with quality exam simulation software is what will really see you through.

(C) 2009 – S. Edwards. Check out Advanced Web Design or AdultCareerTraining.co.uk/ract.html.