Last week, we delved into the careers of 2025, many of which are tied to cloud computing. This week let’s explore some valuable certifications in these fields that can help charge your career growth.

Certifications are valuable assets, but they do not substitute for practical experience and hands-on skills. You can’t rely solely on a “paper certification” to get hired; you need to be able to showcase your tech knowledge in interviews and prove your understanding to secure the job. If experience is missing from your resume, you need to be able to “talk the talk.”

Cloud-Based Systems
• AWS Certified Solutions Architect (Associate/Professional): This certification covers designing and deploying scalable and cost-effective AWS architectures.
• CompTIA Cloud+: Focuses on ensuring cloud environments are secure and available, and validates the skills to maintain and optimize cloud infrastructure services.

DevOps
DevOps combines development and operations teams to create efficient processes and project management, focusing on automating systems through collaboration and communication.
• AWS Certified DevOps Engineer – Professional: Validates expertise in deploying, managing, and operating systems on AWS.
• Microsoft Certified: Azure DevOps Engineer Expert: Focuses on designing and implementing DevOps processes on Azure.
• Google Cloud Professional DevOps Engineer: Covers DevOps practices on the Google Cloud Platform.

Data Analysis
Data Analysts are essential for helping businesses determine what data is crucial to collect and making sense of the data to drive sound business decisions.
• Google Data Analytics Professional Certificate: A well-regarded entry-level certification covering fundamental data analysis skills, focusing on building a strong foundation in data analysis fundamentals (SQL, Python, data visualization, statistical concepts) through projects, learning resources, and real-world experience.
• IBM Data Analyst Professional Certificate: Focuses on practical skills using Python, SQL, Excel, and IBM Cognos Analytics.
• Microsoft Certified: Data Analyst Associate: Validates skills in data collection and preparation, data modeling and transformation, and data visualization.

Cybersecurity
Cybersecurity job placement in 2025 is expected to see more mid to high-level hiring.
• Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP): Highly respected and in-demand, this certification requires at least 5 years of professional cybersecurity experience and provides broad, in-depth knowledge across all cybersecurity domains.
• Certified Information Security Manager (CISM): Focuses on the management and oversight of enterprise information security programs, covering governance, risk management, compliance, and assurance.
• Certified Information Systems Auditor (CISA): Emphasizes auditing, control, and security of information systems, focusing on IT governance, risk and control, information systems assurance, and security.

Artificial Intelligence
AI professionals are tasked with creating intelligent systems, automating processes, and solving complex problems. The field requires commitment to continuous learning, as the tools and applications of AI evolve rapidly.
• Google AI Professional Certificate: Provides foundational knowledge of AI, machine learning, and deep learning concepts, suitable for beginners and those looking to build a strong foundation.
• Microsoft Certified: Azure AI Engineer Associate: Focuses on designing and implementing AI solutions on the Microsoft Azure cloud platform, suitable for professionals with some experience in AI and cloud computing.
• AWS Certified AI, Machine Learning – Specialty: This certification focuses on advanced skills in AI and machine learning on the Amazon Web Services (AWS) cloud, suitable for experienced professionals with a deep understanding of AI concepts and AWS services.
No matter which tech skills you already have or aim to acquire next, there’s a place for you in the tech industry! Find your niche and hone your skills.

Talk to you next week!

Don’t forget CompTIA will raise certification exam prices on February 1st.  Buy your voucher now and save money on your 2025 certification.

Certification Exchange: Free live online Security+ Course with current cert

US and International Discount Exam Vouchers: Purchase a CompTIA voucher and save on the cost of your exams.

Interactive simulations: TotalSims for A+, Network+, and Security+, hundreds of online simulated labs. Prepare for CompTIA’s performance based questions.

E-books are available: Check out our e-book titles. Available 24/7 for immediate access on the Training Hub

Are you looking to join IT in 2025, IT is an ever-growing industry. We all know technology and many types of computing are integral parts of our lives. Our homes, our cars, our phones, and even our watches are smart today. How can IT not grow! The best way to get into the industry is to look at the trends in tech, what is booming and emerging, and work on getting those skills on your resume.

The best thing about IT is that if you are dedicated to learning, you can build your skills while you work in entry and mid-level positions. Now I am not saying that a degree is not a great thing to achieve, but there are a lot of jobs that are focusing on skills and certifications in IT.

If you are new to tech, you need to start understanding the trends to understand the job landscape. High demand for skilled tech professionals and the change in IT continues to make IT job salaries competitive, but don’t expect to get there without some work. Build your skills, and you will build your salary.

If you want to succeed in IT, you must love IT. Knowing what is trending now, and understanding the evolution of technology is only gained by those willing to dig in on something they enjoy.

In 2025 we can expect to see a growing demand in cloud computing, even us old timers embrace the ease of cloud computing! Industries utilize cloud storage in their daily operations, cloud computing professionals are needed to implement and manage systems for industry.

Large industry has in-house staff, and small to mid-size businesses often rely on service providers to manage their systems. Adopting cloud-based systems is rapidly increasing, learning cloud-based computing management is a great career option.

Cloud computing also has growth into the DevOps field. DevOps combines development and operations teams to create efficient processes and project management. DevOps focuses on automating systems through collaboration and communication. Understanding and collaboration with the systems and the operations to create more efficient processes.

Data Analytics is another growing area. With virtually unlimited cost-effective storage, companies have ever growing data. Data Analysts are needed to help businesses know what data is important to collect as well as making sense of the data they collect to make solid business decisions.

Not only does this require reliable data storage, but security of that data is key in today’s world. Cybersecurity job placement in 2025 is expected more for mid to high level hiring. That does not mean you should not pursue a career in cybersecurity, this is a growing industry, however you will find it more difficult to get an entry level position. Anticipated positions will need skills and experience on a resume to get that interview.

Finally, we can’t talk about tech without talking about artificial intelligence. AI has been controversial but is also a huge help across many industries. Professionals skilled in AI and machine learning are in demand to help industry harness this tool.

AI professionals are tasked with creating intelligent systems, automating processes, and solving complex problems. The field requires commitment to continuous learning, as the tools and applications of AI evolve rapidly. If you’re ready to dive into this cutting-edge field, explore the possibilities with our guide to unleash the potential of artificial intelligence.

No matter which tech skills you already have, or which ones you’re aiming to pick up next, there’s a place for you in the tech industry! You just have to find it. Next week we will talk about certifications in these areas that can help you in a career.

Talk to you next week!

Don’t forget CompTIA will raise certification exam prices on February 1st.  Buy your voucher now and save money on your 2025 certification.

Certification Exchange: Free live online Security+ Course with current cert

US and International Discount Exam Vouchers: Purchase a CompTIA voucher and save on the cost of your exams.

Interactive simulations: TotalSims for A+, Network+, and Security+, hundreds of online simulated labs. Prepare for CompTIA’s performance based questions.

E-books are available: Check out our e-book titles. Available 24/7 for immediate access on the Training Hub

A lot of people ask me: “Mike, should I get CompTIA certifications?”

My answer isn’t just yes, it’s YES and here’s WHY these are steppingstones for you. Becoming a great IT Tech is about learning the fundamentals and adding to your skills one building block of knowledge at a time. Any successful career is about starting with a firm foundation.

In 2025 CompTIA will be releasing some new certifications. The CompTIA “little a+” certifications represent a new approach to IT certification that is more flexible, targeted, and accessible. This new series is designed to help more people enter the IT field and develop the skills they need to succeed. Not all the details regarding their content is available yet, but if you are are new to tech and working toward certifications, keep an eye on these certifications.  The intent is for them to be bite sized approach to tech careers. This new series aims to broaden access to tech careers by offering a more flexible and targeted way to gain IT skills, we will keep watching for more details.

Whether you are looking at taking the bite sized approach or just jumping in to a certification, getting your A+ and Network+ certifications makes the Security+ journey easier and more rewarding as you invest in bettering yourself. This breadth of knowledge will open doors of opportunity. Having these foundational certifications gives you a better understanding of a growing body of knowledge and builds your confidence. Knowing the terminology helps you master each next step.

Increased Job Prospects: In a competitive job market, certifications make your resume more noticeable. They demonstrate a commitment to professional development and a proven skillset.
Meet Employer Requirements: Having the right certifications can make you a more attractive candidate and increase your chances of getting an interview.
Higher Earning Potential: Certified IT professionals often command higher salaries and receive faster promotions.
Specialization: Certifications allow you to specialize in a particular area of IT, such as cybersecurity, cloud computing, or data analysis. This specialization can open doors to higher-paying and more in-demand roles.
Industry Recognition: Certifications from reputable organizations (like CompTIA, Cisco, ISC2) are highly regarded in the IT industry.
Employer Confidence: Certifications build trust with potential employers. They demonstrate that you have the necessary skills and expertise to perform the job effectively.

Recruiters use automated scanners to scan for credentials. These CompTIA Certifications helps your resume get to the top of their list. Having certifications makes it A LOT easier to get an interview, and tells interviewers that you love tech much that you were willing to put in the time and effort to learn the basics and build your skills. In other words, the certifications provide tangible proof of your commitment; talking the talk in an interview lets potential employers feel confident in your skills

Then they ask: “How do I get prepared for the certifications?”

Everyone learns differently, and you have to be honest with your study skills. Self-study is ideal for basic IT skills both for building certifications on your resume. As you build your skills and advance your career there comes a point where you need hands-on training to learn the material properly.

Research and select certifications that align with your career goals and the specific IT roles you’re interested in obtaining, don’t just load certifications.
Thoroughly prepare for certification exams to increase your chances of success. Certifications are expensive, so know spend your time and money wisely.
The IT field is constantly evolving. Consider pursuing additional certifications to stay current and maintain your competitive edge.

When do you need to move from self-study to hands-on? As you advance, the skills become harder but from a learning standpoint it depends on how hard you want to work with self-study and your own learning ability, it is different for everyone. You will know when you need the extra help that hands-on provides when you find it hard to fully understand the skills through only self-study.

DON’T FORGET! CompTIA will be increasing their exam prices February 1st. If you are taking CompTIA exam in 2025, purchase an exam voucher now and pay 2024 prices for your certification exam in 2025! Vouchers are valid for eleven to twelve months, so it can be a good motivation to keep you on your study track!

In the IT industry more certifications is key to not only getting in to a career, but also advancing in your career.  We are almost to the New Year, start working on your certifications now and get where you want to be in your career in 2025. While not a guarantee of employment, IT certifications are a valuable asset in your job search. They can significantly improve your employ-ability, boost your earning potential, and accelerate your career growth in the dynamic IT industry.

Talk to you next week!

Certification Exchange: Free live online Security+ Course with current cert

US and International Discount Exam Vouchers: Purchase a CompTIA voucher and save on the cost of your exams.

Interactive simulations: TotalSims for A+, Network+, and Security+, hundreds of online simulated labs. Prepare for CompTIA’s performance based questions.

Bureau of Labor and Statistic anticipates the IT job market in 2025 to remain strong, though with some shifts. The overall growth in the tech industry is projected to continue growing, creating demand for skilled IT professionals.

Areas of anticipated growth are changing, the quickest growth are in mid-level areas. That may sound concerning to entry level techs, but there are still jobs and you have to start somewhere to grow in the business.

Now is the time to start thinking about where you want to go in your career, and January should be your study to start . Some of the upcoming grown areas are below.

Roles like Cloud Architect, Cloud Engineer, and Cloud Security Specialist will be highly sought after as companies increasingly rely on cloud services. Sought certifications:
CompTIA Cloud+ Certification
AWS Certified Solutions Architect – Professional
Microsoft Certified: Azure Solutions Architect Expert
Certified Cloud Security Professional (CCSP)
AWS Certified Cloud Practitioner

With the growing threat of cyberattacks, demand for cybersecurity professionals (e.g., Security Analysts, Security Analysts, and Ethical Hackers) will remain high. Here are some certifications that are desirable for employers.
CompTIA Security+
Certified Information Systems Security Professional
Certified Information Security Manager
Certified Ethical Hacker
Offensive Security Certified Professional
GIAC Penetration Tester

DevOps engineers play a crucial role in streamlining software development and deployment processes, making them highly sought after in today’s agile environments.
AWS Certified DevOps Engineer – Professional
Microsoft Certified: DevOps Engineer Expert
Google Professional DevOps Engineer

How do you advance your career? Technical and Soft Skills (like I talked about last week) are the keys to advancing your career. Strong technical skills in relevant technologies are the core of a tech. Communication, problem-solving, teamwork, and critical thinking are increasingly valued.

The IT field evolves rapidly, and employers understand that continuous learning and upskilling are crucial for career advancement. You can’t win in this field if you are not willing to continue to learn.

While the overall outlook is positive, the IT job market can be dynamic. Factors like economic conditions, technological advancements, and geopolitical events can influence demand.

I hope this gives you a good overview of the IT job outlook for 2025. Now get focused and find your area to study.

Talk to you next week.

Certification Exchange: Free live online Security+ Course with current cert

US and International Discount Exam Vouchers: Purchase a CompTIA voucher and save on the cost of your exams.

Interactive simulations: TotalSims for A+, Network+, and Security+, hundreds of online simulated labs. Prepare for CompTIA’s performan

Save $15 on CompTIA vouchers with Promo code CYBERDEAL

Save 30% on Training Materials Bundles (not valid on voucher bundles) with Promo code BLACKOUT

In the fast-evolving world of Information Technology (IT), it’s easy to get caught up in mastering technical skills. However, the true differentiators in the industry often come down to soft skills – those interpersonal attributes that elevate a tech professional from proficient to exceptional. In this post, I’ll explore the critical role soft skills play in IT careers and why they’re essential for long-term success.

1. Communication: The Bridge Between Tech and People

Effective communication is the cornerstone of success in IT. Whether you’re explaining a complex technical problem to a non-technical client, collaborating with colleagues, or providing support to users, the ability to convey ideas clearly is crucial. The best IT professionals don’t just speak in jargon; they understand their audience and tailor their communication accordingly. Active listening is just as important – it helps you understand the underlying needs and concerns of your team or users, fostering better solutions and stronger relationships.

2. Problem-Solving: Critical Thinking Meets Creativity

IT professionals are often seen as problem solvers, but problem-solving in IT goes beyond fixing bugs or troubleshooting systems. It involves analytical thinking, creativity, and the ability to approach challenges with a solutions-driven mindset. The most valuable IT professionals not only fix problems as they arise but also anticipate future issues and implement proactive solutions. Their ability to dig deep into root causes ensures that they address the bigger picture, not just the immediate symptoms.

3. Teamwork: Collaboration Is Key

In the collaborative environment of IT, teamwork is much more than a buzzword – it’s essential. Whether you’re working on a development team, managing a cross-functional project, or supporting a client-facing initiative, your ability to collaborate, resolve conflicts, and contribute positively to the team’s dynamics is what sets you apart. Building strong, cohesive teams is essential to project success, and your teamwork skills play a vital role in achieving that.

4. Adaptability: Navigating Change with Ease

Change is constant in the IT industry. Whether it’s a new technology, an evolving market trend, or shifting project requirements, the ability to adapt is critical. IT professionals who embrace new tools and methodologies with an open mind are the ones who thrive in this environment. Flexibility isn’t just about adjusting to change – it’s about proactively learning and evolving to stay ahead of the curve, ensuring that you’re always prepared for what’s next.

5. Customer Service Excellence: The IT Touch

Many IT professionals interact with clients or end-users on a regular basis, and providing exceptional customer service is an often-overlooked aspect of technical work. Having a customer-focused mindset goes beyond just solving technical issues; it’s about ensuring a smooth and positive experience for the people you’re serving. The best IT professionals excel at understanding users’ pain points and ensuring that they feel supported, no matter how complex the problem.

6. Time Management: Delivering on Deadlines and Priorities

IT professionals are often juggling multiple projects, deadlines, and demands from various stakeholders. Time management, organization, and prioritization are therefore indispensable skills. Successful IT professionals know how to assess tasks, allocate time wisely, and meet deadlines without sacrificing quality. Being able to balance competing priorities ensures that critical tasks are completed efficiently and on time, leading to higher project success rates and greater client satisfaction.

7. Leadership: Influencing Positive Change

Leadership isn’t confined to managerial roles in IT – it’s a quality that can be exhibited by everyone, regardless of position. Leadership in IT means taking initiative, inspiring others, driving innovation, and being accountable for your work. Whether you’re managing a team or simply contributing as an individual, demonstrating leadership qualities can help foster a culture of collaboration and empowerment. Strong leaders in IT lead by example, guiding their teams through challenges and ensuring that objectives are met.

In today’s ever-changing IT landscape, soft skills are the essential glue that holds technical expertise together. As you progress in your career, remember that the ability to communicate, collaborate, problem-solve, adapt, and provide excellent service is just as important as your technical abilities. By continuously investing in and sharpening these skills, you’ll not only stand out from the crowd, but you’ll also propel your career to new heights. After all, in the fast-paced world of IT, it’s not just about writing code; it’s about the people who make technology work seamlessly.

Talk to you next week,

Certification Exchange: Free live online Security+ Course with current cert

US and International Discount Exam Vouchers: Purchase a CompTIA voucher and save on the cost of your exams.

Interactive simulations: TotalSims for A+, Network+, and Security+, hundreds of online simulated labs. Prepare for CompTIA’s performan

Save $15 on CompTIA vouchers with Promo code CYBERDEAL

Save 30% on Training Materials Bundles (not valid on voucher bundles) with Promo code BLACKOUT

The tech industry is a dynamic beast, constantly evolving and demanding new skills. In this fast-paced environment, IT certifications can be a powerful tool to elevate your career. But are they truly worth the investment of time and money?

What can certifications do for your career
Skill Validation: Certifications serve as tangible proof of your knowledge and abilities, especially for those new to the field.
Career Advancement: They can help you stand out in a competitive job market and accelerate your career progression.
Salary Boost: Studies have shown that certified IT professionals often command higher salaries.
Professional Development: The process of preparing for certifications fosters continuous learning and skill enhancement.

How to Choose the Right Certifications
Align with Career Goals: Identify your desired career path and select certifications that directly correlate with the skills required for that role.
Research Job Market Trends: Analyze job postings to understand the most in-demand certifications in your target area.
Leverage Networking: Connect with experienced IT professionals to gain insights into relevant certifications and industry trends.
Prioritize Reputable Certification Bodies: Opt for certifications from well-recognized organizations like CompTIA, (ISC)², Microsoft, Amazon Web Services (AWS), and Cisco.

For Entry-Level Professionals:
CompTIA A+: Foundation-level certification for IT support technicians.
CompTIA Network+: Validates networking fundamentals.

For Intermediate-Level Professionals:
CompTIA Security+: Covers cybersecurity concepts and best practices.
Microsoft Certified: Azure Fundamentals: Provides a basic understanding of Microsoft Azure cloud services.
AWS Certified Cloud Practitioner: Validates knowledge of AWS cloud services.

For Advanced-Level Professionals:
Cisco Certified Network Professional (CCNP): Advanced-level networking certification.
Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP): Gold standard for cybersecurity professionals.
Amazon Web Services Certified Solutions Architect – Associate: Confirms expertise in designing and deploying scalable AWS solutions.

Continuous Learning: The IT industry is ever-evolving. Stay updated with the latest trends and technologies.
Hands-On Experience: Complement certifications with practical experience to solidify your skills.
Strategic Approach: Choose certifications that align with your long-term career goals and industry demands.

By strategically investing in IT certifications, you can unlock new opportunities, boost your earning potential, and thrive in the dynamic world of technology.

Talk to you next week!

If you are looking for what questions to ask yourself about your career and what certifications are needed for specific careers, don’t miss my blog on CompTIA’s Certification IT Roadmap.

Cyber Monday Sales!!!

Save $15 on CompTIA vouchers with Promo code CYBERDEAL

Save 30% on Training Materials Bundles (not valid on voucher bundles) with Promo code BLACKOUT

Certification Exchange: Free live online Security+ Course with current cert

US and International Discount Exam Vouchers: Purchase a CompTIA voucher and save on the cost of your exams.

Interactive simulations: TotalSims for A+, Network+, and Security+, hundreds of online simulated labs. Prepare for CompTIA’s performance-based questions and learn technical concepts covered on the exams.

E-books are available: Check out our e-book titles. Available 24/7 for immediate access on the Training Hub

It is time to start thinking about your 2025 resolution. You’ve set your sights on an IT certification, a fantastic goal to kickstart your 2025! These credentials can open doors to exciting career opportunities and validate your skills.

Certification exams can be intimidating and expensive. To maximize your study efficiency, create a dedicated study space, free from distractions. Break down your study material into manageable chunks and set realistic goals. Active learning techniques like creating flashcards, quizzes, and mind maps can solidify your understanding.

Practice regularly with past exams or practice tests to familiarize yourself with the format and time constraints. Practice exams are essential tools to enhance your study routine and boost your chances of success. By integrating them into your study plan, you can:

Identify Knowledge Gaps: Pinpoint areas where you need to focus your studies.
Simulate the Real Exam Experience: Acclimate yourself to the exam format, timing, and pressure.
Strengthen Memory Retention: Actively recall information and solidify your understanding.
Boost Confidence: Gain confidence by successfully answering practice questions.

Tips for Effective Practice Exam Utilization:
Strategic Scheduling: Incorporate practice exams throughout your study plan, not just at the end.
Quality Over Quantity: Invest in reputable practice exams that align closely with the official certification objectives.
Deep Learning: Focus on understanding the underlying concepts, not just memorizing answers.
Active Review: Analyze incorrect answers to identify knowledge gaps and learn from your mistakes.
Seek Clarification: Don’t hesitate to ask questions on forums or consult your study materials.

Remember, practice exams are a valuable tool, not a magic wand. They work best when combined with a solid understanding of the subject matter. By using them strategically, you can increase your chances of passing your certification exam and achieving your career goals.

Don’t forget to take regular breaks to rest your mind and avoid burnout. Most importantly, believe in yourself and stay positive throughout your preparation.

Talk to you next week!

If you are looking for what questions to ask yourself about your career and what certifications are needed for specific careers, don’t miss my blog on CompTIA’s Certification IT Roadmap.

Black Friday Sales!!!

Save $15 on CompTIA vouchers with Promo code CYBERDEAL

Save 30% on Training Materials Bundles (not valid on voucher bundles) with Promo code BLACKOUT

Certification Exchange: Free live online Security+ Course with current cert

US and International Discount Exam Vouchers: Purchase a CompTIA voucher and save on the cost of your exams.

Interactive simulations: TotalSims for A+, Network+, and Security+, hundreds of online simulated labs. Prepare for CompTIA’s performance-based questions and learn technical concepts covered on the exams.

E-books are available: Check out our e-book titles. Available 24/7 for immediate access on the Training Hub

An IT career is a dynamic and ever-evolving field that offers a wide range of opportunit ies for those passionate about technology. Whether you’re drawn to the intricacies of software of the security of networks or the cloud’s vast potential, the IT industry has something to offer everyone.

The first step towards a successful IT career is identifying your interests and strengths. Consider the following popular IT career paths:

IT tech: If you’re excited about troubleshooting and problem-solving,diagnosing and resolving hardware and software issues, software malfunctions, and printer errors.

Network Engineering: If you’re fascinated by how networks function and connect devices, network engineering is a great option.

Cybersecurity: If you’re passionate about protecting sensitive information, cybersecurity is a critical field to explore.

Cloud Computing: If you’re interested in leveraging cloud technology to deliver scalable and reliable solutions, cloud computing is a growing field.

Once you’ve chosen your career path, the next step is to acquire the necessary certifications to validate your skills and enhance your career prospects. Here are some of the most sought-after IT certifications:

CompTIA:                                      A+, Network+, Security+, Cloud+, PenTest+
Cisco:                                           CCNA, CCNP, CCIE
Cybersecurity Certifications:         Certified Ethical Hacker, Certified Information Systems Security Professional
Amazon Web Services (AWS):         Certified Cloud Practitioner, Certified Developer Assoc, Certified Solutions Architect Assoc

The IT industry is constantly evolving, so it’s crucial to stay up-to-date with the latest technologies and trends. Continuous learning and skill development are essential to remain competitive in the job market.

Strategies to stay ahead:
Online Courses and Certifications
Professional Development Workshops and Conferences
Work on personal projects or contribute to open-source projects to gain hands-on experience.
Seek guidance from experienced IT professionals who can offer advice and support.

By carefully choosing your IT career path, acquiring the right certifications, and committing to continuous learning, you can build a successful and rewarding career in the dynamic world of technology. Remember, the journey to IT success is a lifelong learning process, so embrace the challenges and opportunities that come your way.

Talk to you next week!

If you are looking for what questions to ask yourself about your career and what certifications are needed for specific careers, don’t miss my blog on CompTIA’s Certification IT Roadmap.

Black Friday Sales!!!

Save $15 on CompTIA vouchers with Promo code THANKFUL

Save 30% on Training Materials Bundles (not valid on voucher bundles) with Promo code GIVETHANKS

Certification Exchange: Free live online Security+ Course with current cert

US and International Discount Exam Vouchers: Purchase a CompTIA voucher and save on the cost of your exams.

Interactive simulations: TotalSims for A+, Network+, and Security+, hundreds of online simulated labs. Prepare for CompTIA’s performance-based questions and learn technical concepts covered on the exams.

E-books are available: Check out our e-book titles. Available 24/7 for immediate access on the Total Seminars Training Hub

In today’s rapidly evolving tech industry, IT certifications remain a powerful tool for career advancement, offering dual benefits: the practical knowledge gained through study and a verified credential that demonstrates your expertise to employers. The process of certification preparation itself builds valuable skills that is essential in technology.

The tech field continues to evolve at an unprecedented pace, with new technologies emerging regularly in cloud computing, cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, and DevOps. Staying competitive requires a commitment to ongoing education, and certifications provide a structured path for this journey. They serve as concrete evidence of your dedication to professional growth and current technical competency.

Recent salary data consistently shows that IT professionals with multiple certifications command higher salaries. According to the 2024 Global Knowledge IT Skills and Salary Report, the correlation between certifications and earning potential remains strong:
• Entry-level certification alone (like CompTIA A+): $55,000 – $65,000/year
• A+ with 1-2 additional certifications: $95,000 – $105,000/year
• Professional with 3-4 certifications: $110,000 – $125,000/year
• Advanced practitioners (5+ certifications): $130,000+ /year

CompTIA’s A+ certification remains a valuable foundation, today’s IT professionals have diverse certification paths available. The key to maximizing the value of certifications is strategic planning. Rather than collecting certificates randomly, focus on building a coherent skill set that aligns with your career goals:
1. Start with foundational certifications in your area of interest
2. Progress to intermediate certifications that build on your base knowledge
3. Specialize with advanced certifications in your chosen field
4. Keep certifications current through renewal and continuing education

The investment in IT certifications goes beyond just monetary returns. Benefits include:
• Increased job security
• Greater workplace mobility
• Access to more challenging projects
• Broader professional network
• Higher confidence in technical abilities

The value proposition of IT certifications has evolved but remains strong in 2024. As technology continues to advance, the need for verified skills becomes increasingly important. Whether you’re starting with A+ or adding advanced specializations to your portfolio, each certification represents a step forward in your career journey. The data consistently shows that professionals who continue to learn and certify their knowledge earn significantly more than those who don’t invest in ongoing education.

Talk to you next week,
Mike

Remember: In technology, standing still means falling behind. Certifications provide a clear path forward for continuous growth and career advancement.

Certification Exchange Program

Free live online Security+ Course with current certification

US and International Discount Exam Vouchers: Purchase a CompTIA voucher and save on the cost of your exams. Save $15 with Promo code THANKFUL

Interactive simulations: TotalSims for A+, Network+, and Security+, hundreds of online simulated labs. Prepare for CompTIA’s performance-based questions and learn technical concepts covered on the exams.

E-books are available: Check out our e-book titles. Available 24/7 for immediate access on the Total Seminars Training Hub

Now I know I have said this before, but it is true.  Studying for certification exams requires a systematic approach to cover the exam objectives to gain a solid understanding of the concepts and skills tested.  Don’t study practice test questions, study the concepts.

Prepare to pass your certification exams with good study materials.  If you understand the concepts in the objectives, you can answer any question on an exam. Everyone has a different way of learning, it is hard to say what the is the best product for an individual to learn, you have assess that for yourself.  Determine what you need to seat the concepts in your mind!

For those who learn well by reading, look to exam guides. You can find a complete understanding  to prepare for a certification, like in my All in One books, that will cover your from the basics to passing the exam.  If you are an existing tech, looking to pass the exam, I like to call you “swiss cheese” knowledge techs.  You know what you work with well, but need to fill in the “holes” to pass your exams, and are looking for the exam facts.  Review the objectives and focus your studies on the topics you don’t know well.

Get your hands dirty, practice, practice, practice.  Whether it is working with setting up the hardware or configuring the software, get some time working on your skills.  Use online interactive simulations to help you apply technical concepts and practice answering CompTIA’s performance-based questions. Hands on labs help you apply the concepts and give you confidence in your knowledge.

Certification exams are expensive, prepare to pass the first time by using practice exams. Practice exams are a great way for you to know when you are ready to take the actual exams.  You can use them at the end of your studies to see if you are ready to take the exams.  If you are using it as a final check, don’t just trust that one pass is good enough, be certain to take several exams and ensure your scores are consistent.  If you choose to use practice questions as an integral part of their study, be certain to use a larger pool of questions.  More questions help ensure that you are learning the concepts, and not just memorizing the answers to the questions in the database.

For students who learn better in more of a classroom based learning with an instructor explaining topics, utilize computer based learning video series.  With videos, the instructor explains the concepts.  This makes it easier for some to learn with an instructor explaining the objectives and how they are applied in the certification.

For us older techs, don’t be afraid to admit you don’t remember how to study! These are big decisions especially because so much is riding on you passing the exam.  If you are in an IT career, want to go further but find it hard to study, you may need to step up to instructor led training. Instructor led can cost more than self study, but it also motivates to get it done. Getting the certification will get you into the position faster, and for some the instructor led cost is worth it.

No matter how you study, when you are ready don’t pay full price.  Save on the cost of certification exams with Discount Exam Vouchers.

Mike

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