In today's high speed society, support workers who have the ability to mend PC's and networks, and offer ongoing solutions to users, are essential in all sections of industry. Because we are getting more and more beholden to our PC's, we simultaneously find ourselves more dependent on the technically knowledgeable networking professionals, who maintain those systems.
If an advisor doesn't ask you a lot of questions - the likelihood is they're just a salesperson. If they're pushing towards a particular product before getting to know your background and experience, then it's definitely the case. With a strong background, or even a touch of real-world experience (some industry qualifications maybe?) then it's more than likely the level you'll need to start at will be different from someone with no background whatsoever. Working through a user skills course first will sometimes be the most effective way to commence your IT studies, but really depends on your level of familiarity with computers.
Consider only learning programs which will grow into industry accepted accreditations. There's a plethora of minor schools promoting 'in-house' certificates which aren't worth the paper they're printed on when you start your job-search. The top IT companies such as Microsoft, CompTIA, Cisco or Adobe each have globally recognised skills programs. These big-hitters can make sure you stand out at interview.
A top of the range package of training will undoubtedly also include who'lly authorised exam preparation packages. Make sure that the mock exams aren't just asking you the right questions on the correct subjects, but additionally ask them in the exact format that the real exams will pose them. It throws trainees if the phraseology and format is completely different. Ensure that you have some simulated exam questions in order to verify your comprehension along the way. Practice exams add to your knowledge bank - so the actual exam is much easier.
At the top of your shopping list for a training program should be full 24x7 support via expert mentors and instructors. Too many companies only provide office hours (or extended office hours) support. Always avoid study programmes that only provide support to students through a message system outside of normal office hours. Training schools will defend this with all kinds of excuses. Essentially - you want support at the appropriate time - not when it suits them.
As long as you look hard, you will find professional companies who give students online direct access support all the time - including evenings, nights and weekends. Never make do with anything less. Support round-the-clock is the only viable option when it comes to computer-based study. Perhaps you don't intend to study during the evenings; often though, we're working during the provided support period.
The way in which your courseware is broken down for you is usually ignored by most students. How many stages do they break the program into? What is the order and at what speed is it delivered? Many think it logical (with most training taking 1-3 years to gain full certified status,) for a training company to release the courseware in stages, as you pass each element. But: What could you expect if you didn't actually complete every module within the time limits imposed? And maybe you'll find their order of completion doesn't work as well as some other structure would for you.
To be straight, the perfect answer is to get an idea of what they recommend as an ideal study order, but get all the study materials at the start. Meaning you've got it all in the event you don't complete everything as fast as they'd like.
(C) Jason Kendall. Browse LearningLolly.com for superb career advice on Comptia A+ Training Course and A+ Training Course
Categories
