How to Choose the Best IT Training Certifications

Without a doubt an industry recognised certification can provide you with a competitive edge in recruitment, whether you’re looking for a new position or trying to advance within your current firm. However, the biggest challenge when it comes to earning a professional certification is often determining which one or ones to pursue.

So how do you pick?  The general advice out there is simple.  You first have to do what do you enjoy and then consider what job you ultimately see yourself in that matches your skill set.  This will help you in the long term to achieve your end goals – a job that you want, a job that challenges you and you a job you enjoy doing!

The problem with this is getting there and often our final career goal will only be reached by getting the right certifications and experience.  To make best use of the time and money you spend getting the certifications you need, they should be part of a defined personal development plan for yourself that will result in you building your skills and experience to land your “dream job”.

The best way to build your personal development plan is to look at job adverts for your dream role and what the job requirements are.  Then identify the gaps between what they require and the skills you already have and create a list of actions to fill the gaps.

If you are already in employment, you may have your eyes on a senior role that you want to be able to progress in to as you climb the career ladder. Having relevant certifications will also help you to get ahead with this process as it shows dedication to the role and a willingness to develop yourself. HR departments often take the view that promotion is 70% your responsibility and 30% your manager’s responsibility.

Studying for specific certifications within your current job role will demonstrate willingness to take responsibility for your own progression within your company and will show your employer that you are serious about promotion. Often, companies are willing to invest heavily in their staff’s development so you  may even find that they will fund the course for you.

IT training certifications are important whatever your situation and identifying an employer’s needs, whether current or prospective, is crucial when choosing the right certifications for you. Visualise your end goal and take responsibility for your own development and progression and you will quickly be able to identify where to take your studies.