What a Project Management Certification Can Do For Your Career

Archive for IT Certifications – Page 7

What a Project Management Certification Can Do For Your Career

A Project Management Certification is one of the many credentials that you can accumulate to qualify for a management. The Project Management Certification online program is sought out by many American businesses and even global companies. The reason for this is that a Project Management Professional (PMP) certification validates the education, skills and professional experience of a candidate.

Check Out These Benefits of Getting Your Project Management Certification Online

Some of the benefits that a PMP certification can do for you include the following.

 Pushes You to the Next Level

This a great next step if you’ve already grown, in terms of technical skills, in programming languages, system administration infrastructure and so on – which all have their certification process. You can get a certification to formalize all the experience you’ve accumulated through managing different IT projects.

Whether you’re doing this prove your skills to a new a company or you’re targeting a promotion, getting a Project Management Professional certification can easily bulk up your resume. Once a company sees that you are certified, they can objectively say that you’re added value to them.

 Makes you Better Qualified for Promotions

For IT professionals who have been with the same company for a while and are eyeing a promotion, having a PMP certification could be the push that your bosses need to finally give you that job. Not only does it show them you’re committed enough to undergo a formal process of certifying your skills, you’re also showing them a way to objectively delineate you against the other option for the promotion. If it’s a toss up between two high-performing employees, your superiors will naturally opt for someone with a PMP certification over someone without it.

 Allows You to Apply for the Jobs You Want

Having a certification is a great way to differentiate yourself. A lot of applicants and people who are in the promotion pool claim to be great at managing IT projects on their resume. What sets you apart from that group is having a PMP certification to back your claim. It’s hard to question a standard process that is made to test the skills of a would-be project manager.

Certified professionals are expected to have both the skills to run a project seamlessly and the technical knowledge to complete challenging tasks. Although people without a certification may also be able to do that, being a PMP reminds any hiring officer that you have those skills for sure. They can’t say the same for those without that certification.

Sources:

https://www.glassdoor.com/Salaries/project-manager-salary-SRCH_KO0,15.htm

 

A Brief Overview of ITIL Certification Training

Every company requires IT systems, such as corporate websites or a centralized corporate email to help it run. None of those functions – which are all integral for the company to deliver what customers expect – will work properly without proper IT services, like server and network administration. ITIL (which is an acronym for Information Technology Infrastructure Library) is responsible for suggesting processes that the best fit throughout the formulation, development, implementation and support of any IT service in a company.

With an ITIL framework, a business is able to deliver their services in accordance with well-defined consistent processes. They constantly develop best practices, so the company is able to deliver a standard level of services. This doesn’t just enhance your inventory system and supply chain. It also improves the customer experience as a whole. With so many benefits, most companies use ITIL and expect any professional they hire to manage it to be by ITIL certified.

ITIL Certification Training

ITIL certification comes in 5 levels, namely: Foundation Certification, Practitioner, Intermediate, Expert, and Master. Each level requires a different training since newbies who take the foundation certification test only requires understanding the different life cycle stages and their relationship to each other, while masters have to be more comprehensive and considerate of many real life problems and limits.

For each level, you can access syllabi and study guides. You can even try online courses and training. At TechSherpas , we offer online training or if you prefer training that is more interactive and involves an instructor that can personally answer questions that may be asked during the certification process, you can enroll in instructor-led distance learning.

There is also training and courses that are taught in classrooms. If you’re a traditional learner and prefer the personal interaction with your instructor and other people in the class, you can try preparing for ITIL certification test in a classroom set-up at one of TechSherpas many locations. There is a variety of training approaches that you can choose from to make sure that you are prepared to take your certification exam.

One thing you do have to check is whether your training is an accredited ITIL training method or group. For more information, contact TechSherpas today and get your questions answered!

Sources:

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/ITIL

The Value of IT Certification

Information Technology has integrated itself over time into every aspect of business.  Those with IT certifications are more sought out than ever before, and companies are hiring free agencies as well as in-house employees.

Before proceeding, it’s best to clarify first what an IT based certification is. This has been a long practice employed by different companies to test specific professionals on the use of their system – like Citrix, one of the biggest software developers in the world, constantly improves their testing process. As much as degrees are important for most employers, your specific knowledge of programs is often the edge you need.

Advantages of IT Certification

  • Improves your Technical Knowledge

Most of these certifications come with different training modules that you have to study and apply.  This allows you to better master a specific program not just theoretically, but how they are used by the companies that have them. This is the perfect opportunity to hone your skills or zone in on a specific career or specialization in IT that you want to pursue. Some of the things you could study include the following: Information Technology Infrastructure Library (ITIL), Lean Six Sigma, Cisco and even Microsoft.

  • Increases Your Professional Credibility

If you’re on the job hunt, this is a great way to differentiate yourself. A lot of people claim to be proficient with different software on their resume; a certification can easily back up that claim.  It’s a standard test that everyone takes and has to pass in order to successfully prove that they are indeed proficient with a program. When a company sees that you are certified, they will instantly know that you’re added value to them because you have the technical knowledge that’s both complete and comprehensive in order to perform tasks in the company. This is your seal of versatility, convincing them that you have skills to handle a variety of projects.  In fact, according to a study by IDC, new hires with IT certification advance faster, learn the job more quickly, and have a deeper understanding of efficiencies that make the job more productive overall.

  • Builds You Up for That Big Promotion

If you have been working for a company for a while, and you finally want to get that promotion, having an IT certification could be the push that your company needs. According to Microsoft, certified individuals make an average 15% higher salary and have 39% faster job fluency. Certain certifications could help firms decide who the best assets are for the company.

How to Learn

At TechSherpas , we offer a number of programs to tailor your training to your lifestyle.  Our On-Demand Bundles allow you to work on your certification at your leisure, from the comfort of your home.  This online training is the ultimate in convenience.  If you are more of an on-site learner, our Certification Bundles allow you to group your training into a more price-friendly package, allowing you to advance to a higher level for a reasonable price.  Finally, our Certification Boot Camps are ideal for the individual who wants to advance quickly in their career or get that great job they’ve got their eye on.  This condensed training gives you the opportunity to become certified in a high-intensive, faster-paced environment.

What Your Citrix Certification Can Do For You

Being Citrix Certified is a goal for any person working in the information technology field, be they an administrator or engineer. Citrix, on its own, is an innovator in the field of IT, known for its early contribution to Microsoft in the 90s. The company has continued to grow and become one of the biggest and most respected companies in the software industry.

 Find Out What A Citrix Certification Can Do for You

It comes as no surprise that when they offered a means for any IT track professional to measure their abilities when it comes to reliable Citrix solutions, they jumped at the opportunity. A Citrix certification is classified into three levels, associate, professional or expert. Being certified for each assures companies that you haven’t just studied theories, but you have real-world skills and experience to implement them.

To help you better understand just how useful have a Citrix certification can be, here are some of its benefits.

  • Builds up Your Professional Credibility

If you’re on the job hunt, this is a great way to differentiate yourself. A lot of people claim to be proficient with Citrix solutions on their resume, a certification can easily back up that claim. When a company sees that you are Citrix certified, they will instantly know that you provide added value to them because the certification marks a professional who is effective and competitive.

  • Helping You Get to That Next Level

If you have been working for a company for a while, and you finally want to get that promotion, having a Citrix certification could be the push that your company needs. This certification is one of the credentials that help firms decide who the best assets are for the company. If they have two equally great employees vying for the same promotion, they will most likely choose someone with a certification like this versus the one without it.

The logic behind that decision is that certified professionals are expected to have the technical knowledge that’s both complete and comprehensive in order to perform tasks in the company. This is your seal of versatility, convincing them that you have skills to handle a variety of projects.

  • Introducing you to More Opportunities

The opportunities come in two forms: your pick of a job anywhere in the world and a better pay scale. Because Citrix is used by companies all over the world, it serves as an assurance to any company that you are a credible professional. It doesn’t matter if the job you want is Japan or in Australia. Companies recognize this certification and will think favorably of you because of this.

Generally, Citrix certified professionals have a high average pay in the IT industry. This can be because they get the job that other IT professionals don’t, thanks to the push the Citrix certification gave, or because companies don’t have any problem giving them more pay and benefits because they’re more at ease knowing that a trained and competent individual is working for them.

What would you do with your Citrix certification?  Let us know in the comments below!

Sources:

https://www.citrix.com/

 

Using Technology to Apply for a Job

Standing out in the job market is essential when looking for the right tech careers.  What better way to set yourself apart as a tech industry professional than to get, well, technical?  These technical methods allow you to use technology to apply for a job.

Standing Out When Applying for Tech Careers

There’s an App for That

Perhaps the most simplified form of technology on this list is the job application app.  Now, job sites like Indeed and Careerbuilder.com are using apps to make the application process more streamlined.  This means you can apply for a job right from your Smart Phone.

Video Resume

Video resumes are becoming increasingly powerful with the power of video marketing.  Using a video helps your potential employer feel like they know you, and gets you seen before the interview process.  Just make sure you accompany it with a good, old-fashioned paper resume.  The job may require it!

Social Media

People are using social media profiles to do a general application.  While LinkedIn is the most obvious form of this, consider alternative options as well!  Creating a separate social media profile with job application information is one way to do this.  Share to your favorite future employer, or onto a job search group in your area.

Google Ad CV

Alec Brownstein gets credit for this genius idea!  He created a job search campaign by investing in Google ads which reflected the names of major company directors.  The ad had a link to his resume!  This genius move definitely got him noticed, and you can certainly bank on companies you admire doing a Google search for themselves or the competition.  This is definitely a pro move since it’s a bit of an investment.

The Old-Fashioned Way

If you’re on-the-go all the time like the rest of today’s world, even the old fashioned form of applying for jobs needs some tech savvy.  Instead of waiting until you get home or have time, make sure you have an up-to-date and polished version of your resume stored on your phone.  This way, if a potential employer emails or you see a job that peaks your interest, you can send over the document right away.

Which method do you think you’ll use to apply for your next job?  Let us know in the comments below!

Sources:

https://Indeed.com

 

Windows 10 Version to Retire May 9th

Windows finally publicly confirmed that the debut edition of Windows 10, launched in 2015, will not be receiving further support services come May 9.

 Microsoft Training Recipients Will Learn a New Platform After May 9

Some people already expected that Microsoft will be dropping Windows 10 version 1507 from their list of supported operating systems because it was already discreetly added to Microsoft support documents, like the Windows lifecycle fact sheet. Those same documents also list the support deadline for operating systems and their versions, like the Windows 10 edition, v. 1511.

What this means is that Microsoft will not be responsible for updating, making security patches, introducing new customer-friendly features, adding new versions or fixing bugs and difficulties with the Windows 10 system.

Microsoft was clear in stating their intentions on this action within their support documents and mandates. They were supposed to service clients of Windows 10 for eighteen months total, but because they introduced a new version of the system, they could not retire the system last March. Retiring Windows 10 on May 9th gave users a two-month extension, making a total 21 servicing months for Windows 10 version 1507. Upon that extension, there was no specific date given as to when the support services would stop, but some anticipated that it would the 9th, considering that’s the scheduled monthly Patch Tuesday.

Contrary to their earlier systems, Windows 10 1507, and v. 1511 have shorter software servicing. If you still recall Windows 8.1 and 7, users had around 10 years of support from Microsoft before they were finally retired. People speculate that company’s pledge to support a particular edition was shortened to give way to newer operating systems and to encourage users to switch to them, given Microsoft is investing a lot in these new operating systems. That’s also why the support for Windows 10 edition, v. 1511 will also be terminated sometime this October.

The community should expect that Microsoft will continue the trend of lessening the time that any operating system will be under their support list. In fact, the rule they are following now is at the release of an upgrade or a new version, whatever was two upgrades back will be removed from the support list 2 months after. In this case, after version 1703 was released a couple of months ago, it necessitated the retirement of 1507. This system makes sure that Microsoft only has a maximum of 2 Current Branch for Business systems.

Are you prepared for the next Window OS?  Let us know in the comments below.

 Sources:

 Computerworld

 

The Latest Tech Accessories

Technology is an ever evolving world that presents us with everyday gadgets that can make our tasks easier to perform. For the average tech user, having the latest phone, laptop and camera are often enough, but if you’re tech savvy or work in the IT industry, you’re probably looking for more unique tech products on the market. To help you in that quest, here are 3 of the latest tech accessories you should have in your life, whether you are a professional or simply receiving remote IT training.

 Tools to Help with Your Job or Remote IT Training

  1. YOUMO

YOUMO is a unique solution to the age-old problem of lacking outlets. Someone who uses a lot of gadgets on a regular basis is always looking for a power source  – from the usual plugs to your USB all – in one outlet. Well, that’s been done, right? Not like this!  The inventors of YOUMO have developed a universal charger which solves almost every problem someone who want to plug and use their devices would have.

Apart from the usual charging stations, YOUMO also comes with wireless charging, speakers, a light source, power LAN and Wi-Fi. The device is the perfect combination of perks that can make the life of a gadget-loving person so much easier.

  1. Dash-i MicroSD Reader

Gone are the days when you had to go through different intermediaries so you could increase your storage space for pictures, videos or files. If your phone or tablet needs more memory, you can stick in a Dash-i MicroSD to expand the external storage of the device limitlessly. This is perfect for tech savvy people who are on the go, and don’t have the time to transfer their daily files to their laptops.  Or, for those who just deal with too many files every day. For a small accessory, this device packs a lot of storage. If you know you’ll be working a lot with your phone or tablet, take this with you to supplement your gadget’s limited memory.

  1. Smart, Wireless Earbuds

Although Apple confused its users with their version of wireless AirPods this year because they were so easy to lose, they were on the right track with the concept. A lot of people using earphones find the wires constricting. They always get tangled, and they’re not the easiest to use when you’re on the go. Now that almost everything is going wireless, it’s about time the much-used earphones joined the club. Instead of AirPods, you can try alternatives that lock into your ears when you put them on, like Skybuds.

What new product are you going to try?  Let us know in the comments below!

Sources:

https://www.bestproducts.com/tech/gadgets/g201/wireless-earbuds-and-earphones/

 

 

Networking Opportunities for IT Professionals

As in any industry, working in the IT industry can have many opportunities if you meet the right people. Networking is a very important part of any career, so here are some great IT industry opportunities for networking.

Make the Most of These IT Industry Opportunities for Networking

Social Media

There is a variety of networking opportunities on social media these days. LinkedIn is one of the most popular networking tools used for professionals in social media. Optimizing and creating a great LinkedIn profile is a very good way to network in the tech industry. If you are also on Facebook, find groups that are dedicated to meeting professionals in the tech industry. You can make worldwide connections on social media without ever leaving your computer. Doesn’t that sound like an IT industry dream?

Local Events

Check out your local events on Eventbrite, Mashable, or even locally run websites. There’s nothing better than an in-person event to help make connections. Just make sure you come prepared.

Conferences

Conferences are specifically designed to offer amazing networking opportunities. Part of being ahead of the game is constantly educating yourself and staying connected in the industry. Find out what type of national conferences there are that you can attend which relate to your specific industry for massive exposure and the latest in targeted learning.

Job Fairs

If you are an entry-level IT certified professional, job fairs are a great way to get your name out there. One position that will always be in demand is someone who is capable of handling technology. You can do some killer networking at job fairs, and even if you don’t leave with a job you’ll know exactly what kind of opportunities are available in your field.

Happy Hour

Don’t underestimate the power of a great happy hour.  Some areas even have happy hours that are dedicated specifically to networking opportunities.  Getting to know your area is a plus in the tech industry. Where do other people in your industry tend to hang out? Is there a company that you’re dying to get into? Find out where the employees go after work. Visibility is key, and striking up a casual conversation could mean changing your career.
Truthfully, you can find networking opportunities anywhere you look. Never miss an opportunity to make the most of a situation, and try to bring the same attitude to the grocery store that you would bring to the office. With specific events and lots of practice, you will become a networking expert, and you’ll have plenty of connections to help you along the way when climbing the career ladder.

Sources:

Mashable

Best U.S. Cities for Tech Positions

We’re always talking about all the great opportunities you can have in an IT career. The IT industry has endless possibilities, and is growing fast all over the United States. Even though we talk about the types of opportunities, in today’s nomadic society, you’re never limited to just one area. Here are some of the best cities right now to take your IT certification training in Florida.

Where Your IT Certification Training in Florida Will Take You

San Jose, California

Located in the heart of Silicon Valley, this one is obviously a winner. San Jose has been a go-to location for those in the tech industry for years. Not only does the area provide plenty of tech jobs, but it is full of tech entrepreneurs and developers, so the networking and on-site education opportunities are endless.

San Francisco, California

California of course makes the list again with San Francisco.  The job market here tends to lead to more data oriented Tech positions, but with over a hundred thousand positions open on the market today, there is no shortage of tech careers.

Tampa, Florida

For young Tech professionals starting their career, there is no better place to go than Tampa Florida. Tampa has been named one of the best launching pads for Tech positions- and it’s not hard to see why. The city attracts a young audience of entrepreneurs and goal-oriented professionals. Many believe that after you have your first starter job your next career move should be Tampa.  Tech careers range from design to management to IT service.

Seattle, Washington

If the California cities on our list had you checking your wallet because of cost of living, you’ll love the opportunities available in Seattle, Washington.  Seattle is a perfect place to pursue a career and has a large number of opportunities available for Tech professionals.  Young professionals love the area because it has a more affordable cost of living than some of the higher-end tech areas with similar opportunities and advancements.

Austin, Texas

It seems like if an industry is growing, Austin catches on pretty quickly these days. This is definitely true for the tech industry, and opportunities in Austin are perfect for those looking to launch their career or take it to the next level. Being a more midsize city with a closer-knit Tech Community, the networking opportunities can give you an advantage when it comes to climbing the ladder.

With these great cities to choose from, you’re going to want your Tech Career to get started as soon as possible. Which city would you choose to pursue your career? Let us know in the comments below!

Sources:

Informationweek.com

A Continuous Training Experience at TechSherpas

Having a basic level of technology training courses will definitely help you launch or advance your career. However, a basic level of training is not enough to take you through your entire career.  There are several reasons we offer a continuous tech training experience at Tech Sherpas.

Technology Training Courses Are a Continuous Experience

The World of Technology is Ever-Changing

In modern society, it is very difficult to have a career without an understanding of technology. What makes this even more difficult is that technology and the tools it provides are constantly changing. You can have a basic knowledge of technology and still not be aware or educated on the latest programs. That’s why we consistently stay ahead of the game by offering the latest technology training courses so that you can continue to educate yourself and make yourself newly relevant to your career.

The Software Itself is Constantly Being Updated

If you thought new programs were coming out all the time, you should see how many times the programs themselves go through changes. The major software companies are constantly improving on their products to stay ahead of the game, and every time there is a major update there is more to learn. Taking a refresher course every few years keeps you apprised of these updates and helps you learn how to best use them to your advantage.

Jack of All Trades, Expert at One

Having a basic knowledge of technology and software makes you valuable, but not as valuable as being an expert. Developers spend years creating and perfecting software and adding capabilities. Just a basic knowledge of a software is not going to give you all the information on how to best use it to your advantage.  Becoming an expert requires more training, but it is worth it. When you are an expert on a program, you understand all of its benefits and limitations and how to work around them. That makes you invaluable to employers that use that technology.

Employers and clients love seeing people who make it a priority to stay informed. A basic knowledge will help you get a great job, but it takes continuous training to get to the top and make the most of your career.

Sources:

https://www.catalog.update.microsoft.com/Home.aspx