Whether you’re just breaking
into the world of information technology or you’re a seasoned
professional looking to expand your credentials, the number
of technology training programs available
today can seem overwhelming. Deciphering where to begin, which
courses to take and which program is right for you requires a lot
of research
and an honest assessment of your needs, your skills and even your
limitations.
Here are some things to remember when considering
technology training:
Aim High
If you’re seeking a high-paying IT career, think about
going for certifications that will propel you past entry-level
jobs. For example, MCSE (Microsoft Certified
Systems Engineer), Cisco and Oracle certifications tend to lead to higher
paying jobs. The truth is, the more complex the subject matter
is, the greater the pay-off.
Your best bet is to know yourself, your skill level and the amount of effort
you’re willing to put into the training.
Make it Personal
The diversity of IT jobs means you want to make sure the training
you receive is in line with your goals. Don’t add certifications
at random. Make sure they are consistent with where you want
to be in the future.
Do Some Investigating
When you’ve found a program that interests you, ask admissions
representatives for a list of alumni who would be willing to
talk to prospective students. Ask
yourself, “Is this person a success?” and “How much
of their success is due to this program?” You can also attend
a class and chat with students afterward or talk to instructors about
where their students go
after
completing the program.
Consider Your Schedule
Do you have the ability to plan things far in advance or does
your schedule change frequently? Most working professionals
benefit from
the flexibility
of courses
which begin weekly and allow you to start when the time is right
for you.
Consider Your Workload
Can you count on your workload remaining fairly consistent
or do you often have “emergencies” that
require immediate attention and late-night solutions? If so, consider a flexible,
online learning format which allows you to work at your own pace and is forgiving
of weeks when you have less time to devote to studying.
Ask for Assistance
Course completion means nothing unless you pass the certification
test. Success is not only important to you, but also to the company
which
may be paying your
fees. To ensure a passing grade, look for schools which offer test
assistance and allow you to re-take a failed test.
Ask About Career
Assistance
Probably one of the most important questions for newcomers to
the field is “Does
this school offer career planning assistance?”
Finally,
with everything that is out there, it’s important not
to get overwhelmed. Consider attending an information session
to get all the facts.
Content taken in part from Monster.com |
