Trainees eager to get a career in computers and technology usually have no idea of what route to consider, or even what area to get qualified in. Because having no commercial skills in Information Technology, how could any of us be expected to understand what someone in a particular job does? To attack this, we need to discuss a variety of core topics:

- The kind of person you think yourself to be - what tasks do you get enjoyment from, and don't forget - what don't you like doing.

- For what reasons you're moving into computing - it could be you're looking to conquer some personal goal such as working for yourself maybe.

- The income needs you have?

- Because there are so many different sectors to gain certifications for in the IT industry - there's a need to pick up some background information on what makes them different.

- Taking a cold, hard look at how much time and effort that you're going to put into it.

To cut through the confusing industry jargon, and find the most viable option for your success, have a good talk with an industry expert and advisor; an individual who understands the commercial reality as well as each accreditation.

Authorised exam simulation and preparation software is essential - and must be offered by your training supplier. Don't go for training programs relying on non-accredited exam papers and questions. The type of questions asked is sometimes startlingly different - and often this creates real issues in the actual examination. You should make sure you verify how much you know through quizzes and mock ups of exams prior to taking the real deal.

For you to successfully achieve your 'MCSA' accreditation, there are actually 4 MCP ('Microsoft Certified Professional') examinations that you have to pass. Of these, 3 examinations are 'core' elements & so must be taken, but the fourth is picked from a range of so called 'electives'. An extremely useful and fully acknowledged 'elective' is the CompTIA 'Security+' , which for understandable purposes is starting to become more and more favoured by trainees. With the 'MCSE' there is now greater importance placed upon security from an 'organisational' perspective, systems planning, & network design. There are 7 'MCP' examinations in all.

Finding your first job in the industry can be a little easier if you're supported with a Job Placement Assistance facility. The fact of the matter is it's not as hard as some people make out to get employment - as long as you've got the necessary skills and qualifications; the growing UK skills shortage sees to that.

Whatever you do, don't leave it until you've passed your final exams before getting your CV updated. As soon as you start studying, mark down what you're doing and get it out there! It's not unusual to find that you will be offered your initial position whilst you're still studying (sometimes when you've only just got going). If your CV doesn't show your latest training profile (and it isn't in the hands of someone with jobs to offer) then you're not even going to be known about! You'll normally experience better results from a local IT focused recruitment consultant or service than you'll experience from any course provider's recruitment division, because they'll know the area better.

Essentially, as long as you focus the same level of energy into landing your first job as into training, you won't have any problems. A number of men and women inexplicably spend hundreds of hours on their training course and do nothing more once certified and seem to expect employers to find them.

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