An expert is a person who has made all the mistakes that can be made in a very narrow field. (Bohr)
Certifications can definitely get you a job interview. They can also get you laughed at. BS, MBA and PhD are all certifications. So are CPA, CISSP, MCSE, MCAD, MCST, CNE and CPC.
The most amazing certification chameleon has been MCSE-Microsoft Certified Systems Engineer. At first it was a sure key to a quick job and pay raises. Then schools popped up all over and it became a joke. People with no aptitude nor experience in computers applied for a job as an MCSE. Now, MCSE is regaining a little luster if you have a good solid background.
You should find out which certifications will help you get a raise, a new job, or a promotion. The best way is to ask.
WAIT! Don’t just ask, network. This is a great excuse to network. Ask to talk with your boss and his boss about it. If there is a company you would like to work for, find managers there and ask them to lunch. Make appointments to talk with experts for 10 minutes of career help. Find out what certifications they prize. Call up recruiters and ask them.
So, those 2 ways are….
- Put the certification on your resume.
- Network by asking which certifications would help you the most.
Even if you think you know the answer, call one person a day to ask which certifications would be most useful for you. It is a GREAT question that hiring managers will want to answer for you.
Once you find the certifications that will do you the most good, get one. Then call everyone back you asked about certifications and let them know what you have done.
The right certification will turn those networking leads into gold.
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Something To Do Today
Networking time. Call some managers, recruiters and people you respect. Ask them what certifications would be best in your field. Ask them which certifications will get you the NEXT job you want. Track every single person you talk to so you can get back to them later. Now go find out how you can get those certifications.