So, you’re someone who uses computers, be it professionally or personally. Say you, like most, are taking advantage of your computer skills to pursue a career in the lucrative field of Information Technology, or maybe you just need to know how to set up a website or internal network for your small company. No matter which category you fall under, you’re on the front lines of the tech world. There’s a lot of information out there about a magnitude of different things, from database design to cloud networking, and that information is constantly updating and shifting as new technology is being introduced and implemented.
It can be difficult to know where to go, what to learn, and how to learn it. The revolving door of technology can make a university education obsolete in the time it takes you to earn one. Even if you know what you need to know, a lot of companies want to see some kind of proof that you’re up to date with the tech. So, what can you do?
The obvious answer is that you should be pursuing certifications. Always! Here are the 4 top reasons why you should be doing IT Training, along with some information about where to start.
1. Certification courses are a great way to connect with other IT professionals
Microsoft or Cisco online training courses are also an excellent way to make contacts in the field with other forward-thinking professionals who might provide access to jobs, insights, or relationships you wouldn’t otherwise make. Both providers have forums to go along with their courses, with ample opportunities to form mentorships or friendships along the road to becoming certified.
2. Certifications are valuable to companies
Certified positions pay well, there’s no doubt about that. Global Knowledge posted in 2018 their IT Skills and Salary Report, which included the top 15 paying certifications along with their average associated salaries. They were all over $99k a year. In addition, many companies say that employees getting certifications often lead to raises as big as 8–16%.
3. Certifications give you credibility
A certification is an undeniable testament to your proficiency in a specific topic. Some certifications, like the prestigious CISSP (Certified Information Systems Security Professional) for security analysts, can be considered to be more important than a degree. Other entry level certifications, such as CompTIA A+ Technician or Network, could help you get into an entry level IT position without any relevant job experience.
4. Certification courses offer specific, up to date information
The most obvious reason a Cisco certification or IT Training of some kind would be helpful is because the courses teach you everything you need to know to be considered competent in the field of the certification. Because certifications don’t take years to complete, you can be up to date with the current trends in technology, and you can rest easy knowing you’re learning something relevant and fresh.
In conclusion, taking Cisco online training courses and getting certified is a quick, cheap, and effective way of making sure you keep the “Professional” part of your IT Professional title.