I think people expect too much of someone sporting a MCSE or a CCNA, without the job experience to back it up. These are entry-level certifications and nothing more, and I wish more people would realize this, instead of coming down on the newcomer to the industry who has studied hard and passed the required tests yet hasn’t gotten the years of hands-on experience needed to be considered a guru yet.
My A+ got me a job at a Compaq Repair Center and I learned a lot more on the job in 18 months than I did studying for the two tests, though I had years of computer experience prior to this. It was the A+ that was required in order to maintain their authorization so I wouldn’t have had a chance without it.
While working there I was encouraged to study on my own and on the job and pass the 6 MCSE tests and I learned a heck of a lot that I wouldn’t have otherwise, even though I know I couldn’t jump in and manage a large network yet. The tests are hard but that’s all they are; tests, and if you study hard and try things on your own as much as possible they aren’t that bad.
Once I had finished the MCSE tests and got my certificate framed and proudly hanging on the wall I studied for four months for the CCNA test. Having never touched a router I was able to pass it, and I will say I learned a lot more about IP and basic networking in general than was required for the MS tests, but still, it was just one test for me, a goal to strive for and achieve.
Job experience still counts for more than any of these certifications. They make nice line items on the resume, but be prepared to face the music in an interview. Hands on experience has no substitute.
Joe Buchberger
CCNA, MCSE, MCP+I, A+