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Today I am talking about cloud computing, a technology that has seamlessly integrated into almost every part of our daily lives. From the way we store and access our personal data to how businesses operate and manage their services, cloud computing is everywhere. Whether you are an IT professional looking to acquire more certifications or simply someone who wants to stay updated with the latest advancements in technology, CompTIA Cloud+ is an excellent certification to consider.

CompTIA Cloud+ is not as widely known as some of the other CompTIA certifications, so why do I suggest it? Cloud adoption is on the rise, and businesses are actively seeking professionals with demonstrable cloud expertise, so techs need to have the skills in their tech toolbox. Knowing cloud administration, cloud security, and cloud architecture can open doors to career opportunities.

This certification is designed to keep you up to date on current technological trends and developments. It provides comprehensive training in cloud infrastructure and services, equipping you with the necessary skills to thrive in a cloud-centric marketplace. With the rapid adoption of cloud solutions across various industries, having a cloud computing knowledge can significantly enhance your career prospects and ensure you remain competitive in the ever-evolving tech landscape.

CompTIA has announced it will update the Cloud+ certification program in 2024 to keep up with the changes. The new Cloud+ exam, launching in September 2024 (CV0-004), will likely be a comprehensive refresh to reflect the latest trends and technologies in cloud computing. CompTIA hasn’t released the specific exam objectives yet, but here are some changes we can expect based on today’s tech.

Cloud Management: Expect a strong emphasis on managing and optimizing cloud deployments, including cost optimization and resource allocation strategies.

Cloud Security: Now a days everything is about more security. We anticipate CompTIA to delve deeper into securing cloud environments, including identity and access management (IAM) best practices.

Emerging Cloud Technologies: We expect to see new cloud technologies like containers, serverless computing, and infrastructure as code (IaC).

For those studying for the certification, don’t panic, continue your study path. CompTIA allows for some overlap where candidates can choose which objectives to test.

Studying the Cloud+ knowledge areas will be an asset for IT professionals looking to solidify their cloud expertise. By staying updated with the latest trends and technologies equips you with the skills to navigate the ever-evolving cloud landscape and thrive in your IT career.

Talk to you next week,
Mike

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

Studying for the CompTIA exams requires a systematic approach to cover the exam objectives and gain a solid understanding of the concepts and skills tested. Certifications can help you get where you want to be in your career. This summer commit to taking the time to study for certifications that can make a difference in your life by helping you get where you want to be in your career.

Steve Nicholson, my A+ video co-trainer and has a wealth of knowledge and experience in the IT field. Like me, Steve has a deep understanding of the CompTIA certification process and a passion for helping others succeed. Check out Steve Nicholson’s study tips in the video below and follow our eleven-step study plan for any certification success.

Understand the exam objectives:
Visit the official CompTIA certification website to review the exam objectives. Familiarize yourself with the topics and skills in the objectives.

Gather study resources:
Obtain study materials such as textbooks, online courses, practice exams, and video tutorials. Everyone learns different, understand what media is best for your learning  style. Total Seminars has videos and we also have eBook, practice tests, online lab simulations and even discount exam vouchers.

Create a study plan:
Break down the exam objectives into manageable study sessions. Allocate time for each topic based on its importance and your proficiency level. Set specific goals and deadlines to stay organized and motivated.

Start with the basics:
Begin your studies by focusing on fundamental concepts.  For A+, focus first on topics like computer hardware, operating systems, networking, and troubleshooting. Establish a strong foundation before delving into more complex topics. I have always felt materials should follow a building block approach starting with the basics.

Study each exam objective:
Dive deeper into each objective, one at a time. Read the relevant chapters in your study materials, watch instructional videos, and take notes to reinforce your understanding. Make use of diagrams, flowcharts, and mnemonic devices to aid memorization.

Hands-on practice:
CompTIA exams test practical skills, so it’s crucial to gain hands-on experience. Set up a lab environment with a computer or use virtual machines to simulate real-world scenarios. Practice tasks like assembling/disassembling hardware, configuring operating systems, troubleshooting issues, and managing network settings.

Take practice exams:
Use practice exams to assess your knowledge and familiarize yourself with the exam format. They can help identify areas where you need more focus and build confidence by simulating the test environment. Review the explanations for incorrect answers to build a comprehensive understanding of the concepts.

Join study groups or forums:
Engage with others who are studying for the same exam. Participate in online communities, forums, or study groups to ask questions, share insights, and learn from their experiences. Collaboration can enhance your understanding and could unlock a wealth of additional resources for you. The Total Seminars Discord Server is a great place to start. Visit our Discord Server any time.

Review and reinforce:
Regularly review the topics you’ve covered to reinforce your knowledge. Use flashcards, mind maps, or summary sheets to consolidate key points. Focus on areas of weakness to ensure a balanced understanding of all exam objectives. Create a summary of your notes from step 5. Summarizing your notes will help you remember key points. The process of taking and rewriting a summary of your notes makes the concepts stick in your mind.

Exam readiness:
When you feel confident in your knowledge and have completed your study plan, it’s time to assess your readiness. Take a few more practice tests to gauge your knowledge and identify any remaining knowledge gaps. Review the exam objectives once more to ensure you haven’t missed any crucial topics.

Exam day preparation:
Prioritize a good night’s sleep before the exam. On the exam day, arrive early at the test center, bring the necessary identification documents, and maintain a calm and focused mindset. Read each question carefully, manage your time effectively, and review your answers before submitting. To help you in your time management, skip the Performance Based Questions (PBQs) and do the multiple-choice questions first. Come back to the PBQs last. This will avoid getting “stuck” on the PBQs and running out of time to finish the multiple-choice questions.

Remember to consult the CompTIA certification website and official documentation for the most up-to-date information regarding the exams, registration process, and any changes to the exam objectives or policies. And remember, never pay full price for CompTIA exam,  discount vouchers are available.

Good luck with your studies and the CompTIA exams!

Talk to you next week,
Mike

Steve Nicholson’s study tips in the video below and follow our eleven-step study plan for certification success.

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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

The cloud’s evolving landscape continues to change our personal and business world. Cloud computing is intertwined in our digital lifestyle in all aspects of our day. At home, your phone, tablet, banking, and now a days, even your doorbell is connected via the cloud. Beyond our personal lives, cloud has revolutionized the business world. Cloud is leveraged in both large and small business to streamline operations and make collaboration over the miles almost seamless. AI, machine learning, and big data in the cloud allow companies to gain strategic insight.

With the ever-increasing sophistication of cyberattacks, security in the cloud has become a key industry for careers. cloud providers like AWS offer security services. Amazon GuardDuty leverage machine learning to continuously monitor your accounts for suspicious activity. In addition to these services, you can develop custom Python scripts to analyze security logs, identify anomalies, and automate incident response – all before a breach occurs.

IaC tools use AWS CloudFormation use JSON or YAML to define your infrastructure with ensures consistency in your platform. Utilizing Python scripts can dynamically create IaC templates, enforcing security best practices from the very beginning. This ensures your cloud infrastructure is built with security in mind, eliminating configuration drift and potential vulnerabilities.

Leveraging the Python library allows you to extend the capabilities of CSPM tools like AWS Security Hub. Python scripts automate security checks, gather data from various services, and generate comprehensive security reports. This allows you to proactively identify and remediate vulnerabilities before they become a security issue.

Cloud platforms offer a comprehensive suite of security services like AWS WAF and Amazon Inspector that provide a layered defense against cyber threats. Python excels at automating repetitive tasks. You can write Python scripts to automate security audits, vulnerability scans, and incident response procedures. Thus, making the skills sets a great asset for your resume.

The cloud security landscape is constantly evolving, but keeping up with advancements in AI, automation, and Python’s dominance in security scripting, you have the power to stay ahead of the curve.

Mike

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

CompTIA is making an update to its IT Fundamentals program. The CompTIA IT Fundamentals (ITF+) FC0-U61 exam is being replaced by the CompTIA Tech+ FC0-U71 exam, launching in August 2024. They are rebranding the exam to Tech+.

Tech+ is a foundational certification that emphasizes areas like computing, device management, security, and is now also including some emerging technologies. While ITF+ covered foundational knowledge, Tech+ has upped its game, with a focus on practical tech knowledge for aspiring professionals.

CompTIA is even reflecting the growing importance of security. Let’s face it, security starts by having more knowledgeable users. Tech+ places a stronger focus on protecting digital assets which aligns with the rising demand for security skills across various IT professions.

As usual the update to Tech+ content will look to update the latest IT standards and industry trends. This ensures that certified individuals possess knowledge relevant to the current technological landscape.

If you’re considering a career in IT, the Tech+ certification offers a more practical and up-to-date foundation compared to the ITF+. It equips you with the essential skills to navigate the modern IT environment and potentially positions you stronger for entry-level IT roles.

Remember the current ITF+ certification remains valid. However, those seeking a current and practical IT credential may find the Tech+ exam a more strategic choice. Keep watching my blog, I will have more details on the changes!

Mike

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

CompTIA Network+ certification is a cornerstone for IT professionals looking to validate their networking knowledge. With release of the N10-009 exam last week, you might be wondering: should you take the N10-008 or the N10-009? Either exam is essential for obtaining the CompTIA Network+ certification which validates your ability to manage, troubleshoot, and configure network infrastructures. Here’s a guide to help you make an informed choice.

First, remember regardless of which exam you take, you will be certified. Both exams assess your competency in the core networking areas, and the certification is valid for three years.

Network concepts (fundamentals, topologies, protocols)
Network implementation (devices, cabling, configuration)
Network operations (monitoring, troubleshooting, security)

The testing experience remains the same: 90 minutes, up to 90 questions (multiple-choice and performance-based), and a passing score of 720 on a scale of 100-900.

If you did not read my blog last week, the N10-009 introduces several updates:

N10-009 emphasizes emerging network trends and real-world applications compared to the N10-008’s focus on basic architectures. As with most updates, there is a significant overlap (70%), things change fast, but the core remains.

N10-009 has fewer objectives (less emphasis on troubleshooting) and delves deeper into specific areas like security concepts and disaster recovery.

So, which one should you take? Here is what you need to ask yourself:

Will you be ready before December 2024?
If not, you might be limited to the N10-008. We anticipate that N10-008 will retire at the end of the year. If you cannot be ready, then study for the N10-009. No one wants to be ill-prepared to take an expensive exam!

Do you love to learn the latest networking knowledge?
If you do, the N10-009 may be a better fit. Why take the time to learn the new tech and not be certified to the new objectives? Reset your pace and study for the new exam, unless you have a deadline for the certification.

What is your current level of knowledge?
If you have a fair amount of studying to do and want the N10-009, you may want to give a little time for new materials to be on the market. Some materials come out early, but you should review all the materials on the market to ensure that they are suited for your learning style.

What are your career goals?
If you are looking to advance, there are employers who will ask you if you are certified to the N10-008 and N10-009. Having the N10-009 could show some employers that you are on top of the latest technology.

Both N10-008 and N10-009 pave the way for a successful networking career, only you can make the decision as to which cert is best for your career. Align your career objectives, your tech skills, and your study ability. By understanding the differences and aligning your decision with your goals and timeline, you’ll be well-equipped to conquer the Network+ exam.

Talk to you next week,

Mike

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

Living in the Cloud: Latest Advancements

The cloud isn’t going anywhere, and neither is its innovation. From security to cutting-edge AI integration, cloud technology keeps pushing the boundaries of what’s possible. Let’s take a dive into some of the advancements and how they connect to the ever-reliable AWS platform, and how Python makes you the ultimate cloud captain.

Cloud security is a top concern, advancements are making it smarter. Artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) are being leveraged to detect anomalies and fight cyber threats in real-time. AWS offers services like Amazon GuardDuty that use machine learning to continuously monitor your accounts for suspicious activity. But here’s where Python comes in: many of these services have robust SDKs written in Python, like the Boto3 library for AWS. This allows you to write Python scripts to automate security tasks, such as user access control or vulnerability scanning, freeing you for more strategic initiatives.

Serverless computing is hot in the cloud, allowing you to deploy code without managing servers. This is a perfect fit for Python’s lightweight and scalable nature. Frameworks like AWS Chalice and frameworks like Zappa leverage Python’s strengths to simplify serverless development. With Python, you can build cloud functions that react to events, process data, or trigger workflows – all without worrying about server infrastructure.

Infrastructure as code (IaC) is the practice of managing infrastructure through code. This allows for automation, version control, and consistency in your cloud deployments. Tools like AWS CloudFormation use a JSON or YAML syntax, but Python can be used to write scripts that dynamically generate IaC templates based on specific needs. This ensures your cloud infrastructure is built securely and consistently, following best practices encoded in Python code.

Python’s readability, vast ecosystem of libraries, and focus on developer experience make it a perfect language for building and deploying cloud applications. AWS offers comprehensive SDKs written in Python, giving you programmatic access to a wide range of cloud services. This allows you to write Python scripts to automate complex tasks and manage your cloud infrastructure efficiently.

The cloud landscape is ever-changing, but with advancements in security, AI integration, and Python’s dominance in cloud development, it’s an exciting time to be a cloud developer. By choosing AWS as your cloud platform and Python as your weapon of choice, you can leverage these advancements and propel your business forward with confidence.

Mike

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

The IT landscape is constantly evolving, and CompTIA updates certifications to reflect today’s network world. The Network+ N10-009 exam launches this week, and it will reflects some great changes. Don’t panic, if you are studying now you have until December 19, 2024 to get the N10-008 certification.

Breaking it down by Domain, Key Changes

Networking Fundamentals is now Networking Concepts. Although the change in the weighting of the domain only dropped from 24% to 23%, this domain is where the largest changes have occurred. As in today’s networking world, there is an added emphasis on cloud concepts and connectivity.

Network Implementations simply becomes Network Implementation and the domain weighting raised for 19% to 20%. CompTIA has finally removed some of the older technologies, as well as they have changed its focus toward network architecture. The focus is more on characteristics of the different technologies and implementation across different environments.

Network Operations weighting has jumped from 16% to 19%, and this domain now also incorporates remote access methods and their security implications that previously was covered in Network Security. In addition, some of the network services and architecture previously covered in Networking Fundamentals has been moved to this domain.

The Network Security domain has dropped in weighting from 19% to 14%. This domain now has a focus on connection methods. Its focus is more than just identifying features of security, but also on implementing defense techniques and solutions.

Network Troubleshooting and Tools has expanded its weighting on the exam from 22% to 24%. It still has a focus on the troubleshooting methodology. The new exam has coverage on additional hardware tools and physical troubleshooting. It has increased troubleshooting to include physical interface issues.

Overall Network+ Exam Changes

CompTIA acknowledges the importance of soft skills in today’s IT world. Organizational processes and procedures are important to demonstrating understanding of a structured network environment. Understanding network concepts is being emphasized in the troubleshooting areas.

A bit overdue, CompTIA has removed a good amount of antiquated networking topics. You no longer need to worry about cable specification, cable management, and memorizing the Ethernet standards. Replacing the old topics, the focus is now on cloud concepts and connectivity.

IT industry certifications are undergoing significant transformation, reflecting the rapid evolution of technology and the increasing demand for specialized skills. Certification bodies are adapting their exams to include contemporary topics such as cloud computing, cybersecurity, and artificial intelligence, ensuring that IT professionals are equipped with the knowledge necessary to tackle modern challenges.

As technology continues to advance at a breakneck pace, ongoing education and certification updates will be crucial for maintaining relevance and competence in the field. IT professionals need to stay informed about the evolving certification requirements and embrace a mindset of lifelong learning. Only by doing so, can you ensure that skills remain sharp and aligned with industry standards,  enhancing career prospects and contributing to the ever-evolving tech landscape.

Talk to ya next week,

Mike

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

You set your sights on an IT certification – fantastic! These credentials can open doors to exciting careers and validate your knowledge on a resume. But let’s be honest, these exams can be daunting and expensive. That’s where practice exams come in – a study tool that can make all the difference in paying for an exam once or twice. But are they a surefire path to success?

Let’s break down the pros and cons to help you craft a winning study strategy.

Used in conjunction with study, practice exams expose areas needing extra focus. They can help you identify specific concepts, so you are able to double down on studying those sections in course materials.

Practice exams can mimic the real deal, familiarizing you with question formats, time constraints, and the overall testing experience. This builds confidence and reduces test anxiety on exam day.

Actively recalling information through practice exams strengthens memory and knowledge retention of the topics, it’s like a workout for your IT expertise!

Beware of “exam dumps” that simply provide answers without explanations. These won’t teach you the material and could get you in trouble with certification bodies. Practice exams are a tool, not a crutch. Don’t rely solely on memorizing answers, it only helps you if you have the exam question on a certification exam. Strive for a deep understanding of the concepts being tested, that is what an employer needs.

Getting good grades on practice exams can give a false sense of security. Remember, these are simulations, and the real exam may have different phrasings or unexpected questions. Not to repeat myself but know your concepts and read the questions. If you know the concepts, you will know the correct answer.

Integrate them throughout your study schedule strategically, not just at the end. Start with general exams and progress to more specific ones as you learn. Make certain you are striving for quality, not quantity. Invest in reputable practice exams, they will cover certification topics like the actual exams.

Remember, don’t just memorize answers. It’s great that you remember the answer to this question is “A”; that means you have a good memory. Now use that strength to remember concepts, it is the only way you will get certified. Review explanations to grasp the underlying concepts. If something is unclear, review your study materials, get online, and ask questions.

Practice exams are a valuable weapon in your IT certification arsenal but use them wisely. When combined with a solid understanding of the material, they’ll help you successfully pass those exams, achieve your certifications, and advance your tech career!

Talk to you next week,

Mike

 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 more about technical concepts covered on the exams.

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

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

Are you thinking about diving into the world of IT or cybersecurity? Getting your Security+ certification is a fantastic move. It’s a credential that’s recognized around the globe and can really set you apart in the IT field. But let’s be real, it takes some effort and dedication to get there. Here’s why you should stay motivated and some tips to keep you going on your journey to becoming Security+ certified.

The Security+ certification is a golden ticket for your career. It’s a must-have for many cybersecurity roles, especially in government and big companies. Certification shows employers that you’ve got the skills and the dedication to back them up. It covers network security, compliance, operational security, threats, vulnerabilities, and more.

Mastering these topics not only helps you pass the test but also gives you a solid foundation for any cybersecurity job. There are millions of unfilled jobs worldwide, and companies are willing to pay well for certified professionals. The Security+ certification can give your salary a nice boost and help you land a stable job with lots of room for growth.

Passing the Security+ exam is a big achievement. It’s proof of your hard work and technical knowledge, so keep your motivation.

Start by setting some clear goals. Break them down into smaller, manageable tasks. Celebrate the little wins along the way to keep yourself motivated.

Consistency is key. Create a study schedule that works for you and stick to it. Make sure to balance your study time with breaks to avoid burning out. Studying with others can be a game-changer. Join a study group or an online forum where you can share resources, discuss tough topics, and keep each other motivated.

Hands-on experience is crucial for your comfort with your skills. Use virtual labs and simulation tools to put what you’ve learned into practice. This not only helps you remember the material but also boosts your problem-solving skills.

There will be tough times, but don’t forget why you started. Persistence is key—keep pushing even when things get hard.

Getting your Security+ certification is no walk in the park, but it’s worth it. Every bit of effort brings you closer to your goal. Stay motivated, use the resources available to you, and believe in yourself. The skills and knowledge you gain will not only help you pass the exam but also set you up for success in the exciting field of cybersecurity.

Talk to you next week,

Mike

My friends at CyberNow Labs are doing a great job helping people fill the knowledge gap.  They are awarding scholarships for their Certified Defensive Security Analyst courses to fill the gap in cybersecurity jobs, and the first part starts with CompTIA Security+ certification.  Hear about their program to see if you qualify.

Live CompTIA Security+ training for only $500! 

Join me for a live webinar hosted by CyberNow Labs 

Talk to someone who made the change to cybersecurity from an IT career. Meet with my friend Patrick, tell him Mike sent ya!

Call 703-740-2909

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

Practice Tests: TotalTester practice tests have hundreds of questions in a pool that allows you to create custom exams by exam domain or by chapter. Take tests in Practice mode with assistance (hints and explanations) or in Final mode (simulate the real exams). Includes complete explanations for each question.

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

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

If you are nerd like me and enjoy computers and technology, you should seriously consider a career in IT. I have always loved playing around with technology and because I understood it, I was able to make a career teaching others.

Getting into IT does not have to be difficult.  There are a lot of opportunities in IT that do not require you dedicate years to schooling.  IT professionals are able to start in IT support and help desk positions that can be long term careers or a way to get you started in the industry.

Job outlook for IT support roles is very good, and US employers are posting open positions.  Support specialists are also good paying positions.  US Bureau of Labor Statistics has the median annual salary for IT support specialists at $50,000.

IT support specialists offer tech support troubleshooting software and hardware on systems for internal company employees as well as in companies that specialize in supporting users. They need to have tech skills and problem-solving skills.  In addition, good support specialists have solid soft skills.  Let’s face it if you work with people, you must provide good customer service.

You need solid knowledge of hardware and peripheral components, common software packages and their installation.  Now a days you also need network skills, both on a home and business level.

So how do I get there?

Breaking into the industry requires certification or experience.  CompTIA’s A+ Certification is the top industry certification for support specialists, and it is the best place to start for entry level positions.

Just like having gaming groups, you need to get into some professional group, networking!  Most jobs are filled by networking.  Get on networking platforms like LinkedIn, join the tech groups and be active.

Use your current skill set in addition to your tech skills.  If you have a background in customer service, look to start in help desk, you can use your existing skills to show experience. Get your resume looking good and searchable.  You need to have your objectives, skill, experience, and any certifications or award. Even your experience at previous positions is important to match with an IT employers skill requirements.

Get your resume out everywhere.  Don’t expect to hear back from sending out five or six resumes, search out good employers and send resumes to open positions that are relevant to your skillset.

When you get the interview, be prepared!  Know the company position requirements, be ready to talk about how you meet those requirements.  Don’t walk into an interview blind, take the time to know a little bit about the company and the position that is open.

Also focus on your ability to work well with other and develop teamwork.  Employers often will ask questions to assess how you will react to technical issues as well as issues with others. Think about some difficult scenarios ahead of the interview and how you would deal with them on the job. Don’t be shy, practice interviewing with someone, it is the best way to get used to it.

The most important thing is to get active now and stay active.  Keep knocking on the door of opportunity, one will open.

Talk to you next week,

Mike

My friends at CyberNow Labs are doing a great job helping people fill the knowledge gap.  They are awarding scholarships for their Certified Defensive Security Analyst courses to fill the gap in cybersecurity jobs, and the first part starts with CompTIA Security+ certification.  Hear about their program to see if you qualify.

Live CompTIA Security+ training for only $500! 

Join me for a live webinar hosted by CyberNow Labs 

Talk to someone who made the change to cybersecurity from an IT career. Meet with my friend Patrick, tell him Mike sent ya!

Call 703-740-2909

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

Practice Tests: TotalTester practice tests have hundreds of questions in a pool that allows you to create custom exams by exam domain or by chapter. Take tests in Practice mode with assistance (hints and explanations) or in Final mode (simulate the real exams). Includes complete explanations for each question.

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

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