Microsoft Qualifications...

RoachycaL

RoachycaL

RoachycaL

Soldato
Joined
2 Jan 2006
Posts
3,152
Location
Newcastle Upon Tyne
Hey guys,

I have a degree in Computer and Network Technology (BSc) from Northumbria. Graduated last year with a 2:1 and I also have chapters 1-4 of Cisco's CCNA done.

I've been unemployed most of the time since then (apart from a few retail jobs) trying to find a job in IT and I was wondering if going for a couple of Microsoft Qualifications would help me in trying to get a job in this rather difficult sector. I thought I may as well do some further learning whilst I'm on benefits and looking for a job. I'm trying to do some freelance repair work in my spare time too and figured those qualifications would help to encourage potential customers.

I was thinking something that would give me a further understanding of Server 03-08 as we were only taught that very briefly. I also thought something regarding Windows 7 would help. There are lots of different qualifications that Microsoft provide - and they seem rather confusing.

I don't have the cash to go on any kind of course - so I would be buying the books and then taking the test when I feel confident enough.

Thanks for any advice.
 
Personally if I needed to fill a position I would bin a CV that only had Computer and Network Technology (BSc) on it... get some MS qualifications or cisco..

its a shame Uni's dont run courses with a view to getting people jobs....

buy yourself a few slim dell 745's from the bay and a cheap hub...

get a copy of windows 7 make a network...

get a copy of windows server and play about with it...

as well as the above look at getting some industry qualifications!
 
To be honest, a lot of the MS Certs are devalued now (imho) with the use of past paper sites and such. (see VCE Pass Sure, etc).

Having said that, there are a great deal of books/materials that can be acquired which are self study/learning. You'd only have to pay for the test (£88 each iirc) if you can get the materials free.

Look at doing the MCITP:E - it's 5 exams which covers Server 2008 and most aspects. With that, people would be confident that you know what you are talking about.
 
edscdk said:
Personally if I needed to fill a position I would bin a CV that only had Computer and Network Technology (BSc) on it... get some MS qualifications or cisco..

its a shame Uni's dont run courses with a view to getting people jobs....

buy yourself a few slim dell 745's from the bay and a cheap hub...

get a copy of windows 7 make a network...

get a copy of windows server and play about with it...

as well as the above look at getting some industry qualifications!
Click to expand...

Get VMware and build yourself a virtual network. Or several connected together.
 
It's nice to have that ammo in your back-pocket in an interview and will go in your favour - companies can raise their Microsoft Certified level by having x amount of ms certified employees afaik.

You won't get your cv thrown in the bin without some certs, but if you're freelancing and have got the spare time then you might as well use it constructively to improve your knowledge/prospects.
 
Thanks for the advice guys.

Think I'll invest in a book or two from Mark Minsai as schumi said. I already have the CCNA qualifications. Have the certificates and everything.

I would love to get some experience, as some of you have said - it's the most vital but nobody wants to employ me! I don't need to mess around with any spare pc's or with VMware because we did all of that at Uni.

I think I really just need some experience of actually working for a company in the field. May as well get a few more qualifications under by belt whilst I'm trying to do that.
 
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