2 replies to this topic

[ThUmPaH]

Hi there,
I'm very new here and basically seeking some advice....I'm looking to change careers.
Sorry if this comes across as NAIVE or if I seem clueless (I guess I kinda am)

I have worked on (windows xp-vista)) pc's for 10 years or so at work and at home.
I do data entry, run spreadsheets in word,excel....ect and am experienced in SAP,macola,crystal...(I use them here at work.

Anyway...I would LOVE to break into the IT department (entry level and work up from there) either here where I work or down the road somewhere else to get more financially stable and into an area I actually enjoy, as I AM VERY VERY interested in the IT field, love computers and messing around with them (trouble shooting,networking etc).

My questions are:
*What is my best bet getting started...I am aware "Comp TIA A+"  is the way to get my feet wet and get certified, my problem is knowing where to go to for -  1.) get in an OLA (on line Anytime class, since I can't commit time to these 5 day seminar/classes I have seen while googling this) ) and when that is established and I feel confident...where do you go to take the exam?

*After the comp Tia Aplus  exam what's next?
(Then would I be in a position to at least feel confident enuff to place my app into HR here for an ENTRY level position???)

As of now,  I have NO  real credentials to get into the IT deptat all  here obviously....even though I am pretty decent with windows/desktop due to my natual curiosity and many hours at home tinkering and dabbling...   etc...
I am looking to get a shot at an entry level IT spot ...just need to get this process rolling and stop spinning my wheels I'm afraid.
Thanks so much in advance for ANY advice or help to anyone that can get me ONtrack....

T~

Edited by ThUmPaH, 30 October 2008 - 09:49 AM.

[bfranklin825]

Getting certifications is definitely the way to go... they prove to your employer that you actually know something. The A+ is a great start and I would round it out with a Network+ right after... because all companies have computers and all of the computers are connected to networks- they kind of go hand-in-hand these days. A good foundation of desktop support plus network support that you would get with those two certifications should be enough to get you an entry-level position.

[melbaround]

Hi T, I recommend Mike Meyer A+ video.  http://www.learnkey.com/Aplus_2006  This video will cover material for both test required for A+ cert.  He is the A+ guru.  I find with my tight schedule I can learn quicker this way as compared to reading and falling asleep.  Call them up and ask for a discount.  They can give you 50-60% off.  I was able to get 60% off on this video and they also sent me a coupon for 50% off for my next.   I really enjoyed the video, he is a silly guy.   I also recommend measure up tests.  http://www.measureup.com/catalog/track.asp...=3&cid=A%2b  They say to work on theses test and score 100% twice and you will pass.