Sos Roofline Systems

In these days of super efficiency, support workers who can mend computers and networks, along with giving regular solutions to users, are vital in every part of industry. As we get to grips with the multifaceted levels of technological advances, growing numbers of IT professionals are needed to run the smooth operation of functions we rely on.

Proper support is incredibly important – ensure you track down something that provides 24×7 direct access, as anything less will frustrate you and could hold up your pace and restrict your intake.

Avoid, like the plague, any organisations who use ‘out-of-hours’ call-centres – with your call-back scheduled for office hours. It’s not a lot of help when you’ve got study issues and could do with an answer during your scheduled study period.

The very best programs opt for an online access 24×7 package combining multiple support operations over many time-zones. You will be provided with a single, easy-to-use interface that accesses the most appropriate office any time of the day or night: Support when it’s needed.

Never ever take second best when you’re looking for the right support service. Many IT hopefuls that can’t get going properly, are in that situation because of support (or the lack of).

Most trainers typically provide mainly work-books and reference manuals. Obviously, this isn’t much fun and not a very good way of achieving retention.

Studies have consistently shown that becoming involved with our studies, to utilise all our senses, is proven to produce longer-lasting and deeper memory retention.

Interactive full motion video with demonstrations and practice sessions will turn you off book-based study for ever more. And they’re far more fun.

Every company that you look at must be able to demonstrate some simple examples of their training materials. Expect video tutorials, instructor led classes and many interactive sections.

Avoiding training that is delivered purely online is generally a good idea. Always choose CD or DVD based study materials where offered, as you need to be able to use them whenever it’s convenient for you – it’s not wise to be held hostage to your internet connection always being ‘up’ and available.

Ask almost any capable consultant and you’ll be surprised by their many terrible tales of students who’ve been sold completely the wrong course for them. Stick to a skilled advisor who digs deep to find out what’s appropriate to you – not for their paycheque! It’s very important to locate the right starting point of study for you.

With a bit of real-world experience or some accreditation, your starting-point of learning is not the same as someone new to the industry.

For students starting IT studies and exams as a new venture, it can be helpful to start out slowly, kicking off with some basic PC skills training first. This can be built into most training packages.

Watch out that all exams you’re studying for are recognised by industry and are bang up to date. The ‘in-house’ certifications provided by many companies are often meaningless.

Only properly recognised accreditation from the likes of Microsoft, Adobe, CompTIA and Cisco will be useful to a future employer.

(C) Jason Kendall. Browse LearningLolly.com for smart career tips. www.comptiacertification.co.uk or Comptia Network Certification.