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.

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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

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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

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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

Don’t miss study tips in my study blog.

US and International Discount Exam Vouchers: Use promo code THANKFUL

Receive $15 off your voucher purchase.

Live 8-week CompTIA Security+ training for only $500! Instructor-led training, part-time, and from the comfort of your home to become Security+ certified? Part-time weekly: Mondays – Thursdays from 7 – 9:30 Eastern

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

Its Cybersecurity Awareness Month, so let’s talk about being an incident response analyst and how you can move into a great cybersecurity career.

Incident response is a professional career where you react to a cyber attack or a breach in a company’s security. Incident response analysts are professionals who stop the attack, assess, and remediate damage to the company systems. According to the Bureau of Labor it will grow at a rate of 35% between 2021 to 2031.  That growth is not hard to believe when you hear daily about breaches in security.

An incident response analyst not only needs to have the technical knowledge to determine what occurred, but also deal with what occurred in the attack. Much like “first responders” incident response analysts need to keep a cool head and be able to guide a team of responders to minimize any effect of an attack or breach of company’s network or data.

An incident response analyst works to identify and monitor security threats in corporate cyber systems. Responsibilities include:

• Prevent escalation of severe security threats
• Provide reports to corporate security teams
• Utilize tools to minimize the effects of a security breach on corporate networks
• Perform analysis to ensure a corporate computer network is clear of threats.
• Implement and optimize security tools to prevent the same security issues from reoccurring (create security procedures)

An incident response analyst role in categorized under cybersecurity analyst. While a cybersecurity analyst is responsible for detecting cyber threats and then implementing changes to protect an organization, an incident response analyst is focused on specific security events. Success in the industry requires that you are able assess and react quickly. Incident response analysts must provide direction for a team of responders. Analysts must use their knowledge of cybersecurity and industry tools.

How do I get there?

You need to spend two to three years gaining knowledge as a cyber security analyst, gaining valuable experience. Cyber security analysts work in a security operations center managing an organization’s security.  In this position you will  monitoring, incident response, collecting, and analyzing threats through an organizations procedures and policies.

IT certifications are a recognized pathway to these types of tech jobs. CompTIA has focused the Security+ SY0-701 certification to cover the skills for cybersecurity roles. CompTIA Cybersecurity Analyst (CySA+) covers incident detection, prevention, and response through continuous security monitoring, and can help you get to the next level.

Incident responder analysts start at $62k in the US and overall cybersecurity analysts roles have an average salary of $103k in the US. Start today to build your path to a successful career in cybersecurity. Don’t delay, get studying.

Talk to you next week,
Mike

Don’t miss Richard Chapman’s daily Cybersecurity Awareness Tips during the month of October!

Live 8-week CompTIA Security+ training for only $500!

Instructor-led training, part-time, and from the comfort of your home to become Security+ certified? Part-time weekly: Mondays – Thursdays from 7 – 9:30 Eastern

 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 the dynamic world of Information Technology (IT) it’s easy to focus solely on technical skills. However, the often-overlooked success of gaining an IT job are the soft skills – those interpersonal qualities that elevate a tech professional from being good to being exceptional. I want to talk about the vital role of soft skills in IT jobs and why they are crucial for career success.

1. Communication: Effective communication is the success in IT. Whether you’re explaining complex technical concepts to a non-technical stakeholder, collaborating with team members, or providing support to end-users, the ability to communicate clearly and concisely is how to set yourself apart from other techs. Soft skills like active listening and adapting your communication style to your audience can bridge the gap between technical jargon and understandable information.

2. Problem-Solving: IT professionals need to be the unsung heroes in problem-solving. Beyond coding and technical troubleshooting, the soft skill of problem-solving involves analytical thinking and the ability to approach challenges with creativity. The best IT professionals don’t just fix issues; they identify root causes, anticipate future problems, and implement solutions that prevent recurrence.

3. Teamwork: In the collaborative landscape of IT projects, teamwork is not just a buzzword; it’s a necessity. Soft skills related to teamwork include effective collaboration, conflict resolution, and the ability to contribute positively to a team. Whether you’re part of an development team or leading a project, your ability to work harmoniously with others is a key determinant of success.

4. Adaptability: IT is synonymous with change, and adaptability is the sail that helps professionals navigate through it. Adaptability and flexibility enable IT professionals to embrace new technologies, methodologies, and evolving project requirements. Those who can pivot with ease are better positioned to thrive in the ever-changing IT landscape.

5. Customer Service Excellence: Many IT professionals interact directly or indirectly with end-users or clients. A customer-focused mindset, and effective communication contribute to superior customer service. Understanding the end-user’s perspective is not just about fixing technical issues but also about ensuring a positive experience with IT services.

6. Time Management: Juggling multiple tasks and deadlines is the norm in IT. Time management, prioritization, and organization are essential. Being able to efficiently manage your time ensures that critical tasks are completed promptly, contributing to project success and client satisfaction.

7. Leadership in Every Role: Leadership skills extend beyond formal managerial roles. Even as a team member, you can exhibit leadership qualities such as initiative, influencing positive change, and taking ownership of projects. Soft skills in leadership contribute to a proactive and empowered IT culture.

In the ever-evolving landscape of IT jobs, soft skills are the glue that holds together technical expertise, creating a well-rounded and effective professional. As you navigate your IT career, remember that your ability to communicate, collaborate, problem-solve, adapt, and provide exceptional service is just as crucial as your technical prowess. Investing in and honing your soft skills will not only set you apart but will also propel your IT career to new heights. After all, in the fast-paced world of IT, it’s not just about the code; it’s about the people who make technology work seamlessly.

Don’t miss Richard Chapman’s daily Cybersecurity Awareness Tips during the month of October!

Live 8-week CompTIA Security+ training for only $500!

 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

We are continuing with Cybersecurity Awareness month, don’t miss our daily Cybersecurity Tips.  Last week we talked about the different cybersecurity certifications that can take you into a cybersecurity career, today we are talking about getting those certifications.  Studying to pass any certification exam is scary thing no matter what time of year! In times like these you need sage advice.

So here it is: Like we’ve said for literally decades, you need three things to maximize your certification preparation:

(1) Training, (2) Reference, and (3) Practice.

Training: You need a way to systematically be introduced to new concepts and understand how they relate to each other.
Reference: Nobody can hold all this information down this long, so a good book is a great reference of knowledge as you build your knowledge; and
Practice: All humans learn by doing, and for exams, practice (tests/questions) makes perfect

For those of you considering cutting corners on this, let me tell you, some do pass the exam without having all three learning resources. But I’ve known many aspiring techs that don’t pass blame it on their lack of resources or preparation.

The truth is, most people need all three: (1) Training, (2) Reference, and (3) Practice resources for success.

How you go about getting training resources is up to you, but for those of you who are serious about passing certifications exams, here’s some advice. Know yourself, your abilities, and be honest with yourself.

First, ask yourself if you are ready to commit your time and resources?

If you are ready to commit, choosing Online Instructor-Led vs Self-Study Training for resources is your next question. Again, being honest with yourself is important!

Second, can you create your own structure, and follow it?

If you can, self-study is a great path. If you need the structure set for you to follow, consider instructor lead resources.

A wise man once said, best time to start was yesterday; the second-best is today.

If you really want to be a “new you” in the new year, you can be, start now!

Don’t miss Richard Chapman’s daily Cybersecurity Awareness Tips during the month of October!

Live 8-week CompTIA Security+ training for only $500!

 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