A topic that comes up on a regular basis is
the struggle of getting and finding work. This seems to be especially
challenging for those getting started. A common challenge is trying to find a
job without experience. That leads to the challenge of getting experience
without a job. Many seem to blindly turn to certifications with the expectation
that it will fully resolve this issue. This article is an attempt to provide
perspective on certification as it relates to that first technical job.
First and foremost, anyone seeking work in a given field should make
sure that type of work is available where they are willing and able to work.
Certification or no certification, businesses hire to fill a need. If a need
does not exist, no amount of certification, education, knowledge or experience
will produce need. This need for skills could be down due to too many job
seekers or low demand. In any case the desired openings should exist or the job
search will be challenging.
Quality experience is typically an important indicator to an employer.
While certification is important, it doesn't overcome the lack of experience.
The job seeker must understand is what his or her greatest challenges are and
which ones they can reasonably address. Those struggling to land that first
technical job should as themselves some questions.
Questions Job Seekers Should Ask
- Are the types of jobs I am targeting available in my area?
- Why am I not getting interviews?
- When I interview, why am I not getting the job?
If the answers to these question is not the lack of a particular
certification, why would a certification immediately land them a job? Although
my point sounds logical, it seems that many are quite frustrated when they
obtain a certification and work still isn't readily available. My
recommendation is to understand the job marked prior to, during and even after
obtaining a certification. How well individuals do this will directly correlate
to their ability to position themselves to meet the market need.
Why Certify?
Certification is primarily just that, certification. The certificate
means that a candidate demonstrated to a vendor that they have sufficient
skills in some predetermined categories. These certifications are only
important to employers for two reasons. As I
mentioned, they demonstrate a level of knowledge. Employers expect this
knowledge to help them meet their internal needs or the needs of their
customers. Certified individuals are also a typical partner requirement for
resellers.
For some, I fear that I am writing a bleak message. For those reading
this in angst, I would say that it is best to understand what they are trying
to achieve by the certification they are pursuing. This pursuit is certainly a
way to structure some personal education on important concepts. The knowledge
gained can certainly be valuable. However, it is
important not to allow introverted tendencies or other fears, uncertainties or
doubts to prevent them from looking for work.
Sales people realize that rejection is part of the process. Technical
Job Seekers need to do the same. With each
conversation, unsuccessful interview and day of frustration, there will also be
new perspectives gained on what employers are and aren't looking for. For
those not getting hired, it is important to ask and understand "why".
Addressing this “why” may lead to new obstacles appearing. However, this
process is one of peeling back the layers and eventually becoming employable.
Conclusion
However it is very important not to make blind
assumptions. Certification are certainly important and are a piece in the
employment puzzle. However, candidates must realize that it is not the only
piece. Realizing this and understanding the big picture will lead to a much
more productive job prep and search process. Job seekers need to do what is
often difficult. They need to get out, talk to people and understand the gaps
that exist in their career tool belt. By filling those deficiencies, they will
be better positioning themselves for the next opportunity.
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