No one will argue that the current economy is bad. As a consultant, I have noticed a significant decrease in project opportunities over the last 6 months ending 2008. The same has happened in the IT job market. Organizations are looking to cut cost. The question you have to ask yourself is “How can I survive in this environment?”
I believe the best thing any IT professional can do is increase their knowledge. One of the best ways to do that is to pursue a certification. I started my IT career working with Microsoft technology and then progressed into working with Cisco equipment. So I will narrow my comments to networking certifications.
When I first learned about certifications, I was going through a tough time in my career. I was out of work with very few prospects. I started researching different certification programs and was surprised to learn what Microsoft Certified System Engineers (MCSEs) and Cisco Internetwork Experts (CCIEs) were earning. That motivated me to purse first the MCSE and then CCNA, CCDA, CCNP, CCDP, CCSP, CCVP and then finally the CCIE. I can say without a shadow of a doubt, that it has been one of the best investment I have ever made. Each certification I have obtained has provided me with bigger and better career opportunities. It has also helped me differentiate myself from the competition.
Getting certified is not easy. It requires discipline and hard work, but there is a multitude of learning opportunities available today to help you reach your goal. You no longer need to purchase a bunch of lab equipment. You can rent online racks of equipment for a small fee. I personally believe that hands on is the best way to learn a subject. You also do not need to travel to take classes anymore. There are many companies offering online training classes and video-on-demand options.
If you are interested in getting certified, but are not sure which route to go, here are a few recommendations. Unified Communications is a growing field. Voice and video over IP is just getting started and there will continue to be a demand for qualified Engineers. Network Security is another good alternative. As more kinds of devices get connected to the internet, security concerns will continue to grow.
Here are a few of the certifications I recommend:
Unified Communications
• CompTIA Convergence+
• Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA)
• CCNA Voice
• Cisco Certified Voice Professional (CCVP)
• Cisco Certified Internetwork Expert (CCIE) Voice
Network Security
• CompTIA Security+
• CCNA
• CCNA Security
• CCSP
• CCIE Security
I challenge you to investigate which is the right certification for you and to get started now. You will not be sorry you did!
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