If you happen to be especially focused on Messaging or Security, then Microsoft have speciality MCSEs on offer to handle these options. Perhaps, the 'CompTIA' Security+ , progressing on to the CISSP ('Certified Information Systems Security Professional') may be suitable. Prior to choosing this track though you need to be aware about the amount of work experience needed for the 'CISSP'. As usual, we recommend a discussion with a professional IT training advisor to avoid any misunderstandings.

Finding your first job in the industry is often made easier if you're supported with a Job Placement Assistance service. Having said that, occasionally there is more emphasis than is necessary on this service, as it's really not that difficult for any focused and well taught person to find work in the IT industry - because there's a great need for qualified personnel.

Bring your CV up to date as soon as possible however - you should get plenty of help from your training provider on this. Don't delay till you've finished your exams. A good number of junior support jobs have been bagged by trainees who are in the process of training and haven't got any qualifications yet. At least this will get your CV into the 'possible' pile and not the 'no' pile. In many cases, a specialist independent regional employment agency - who make their money when they've found you a job - will perform better than any sector of a centralised training facility. It also stands to reason that they'll know the area and local employers better.

A big aggravation for a number of training course providers is how much people are prepared to study to pass exams, but how ill-prepared they are to market themselves for the role they're studied for. Get out there and hustle - you might find it's fun.

Many of the most useful industry-recognised certifications now are produced by the vendor neutral 'Computing Technology Industry Association' (CompTIA). Some other establishments also provide worthy certifications, for example 'CWNP' (Certified Wireless Network Professional) & 'ISC2' (International Information Systems Security Certification Consortium). Most prominently not surprisingly are Cisco & Microsoft themselves, both offering their very own certification paths. Mainly because of the scope and amount of accreditation routes available in this sector, it's very wise to talk through this sort of career move with an industry experienced advisor. Without any personally-tailored help you could potentially head-off in a wrong-direction and squander a lot of money or time.

Don't put too much store, as many people do, on the certification itself. Training is not an end in itself; you should be geared towards the actual job at the end of it. You need to remain focused on where you want to go. Never let yourself become part of the group who select a program that on the surface appears interesting - and end up with a plaque on the wall for an unrewarding career path.

Make sure you investigate your feelings on career development, earning potential, and if you're ambitious or not. You should understand what the role will demand of you, what exams are required and in what way you can develop commercial experience. Seek out help from an experienced industry professional that appreciates the market you're interested in, and will be able to provide 'A day in the life of' outline of of what you'll be doing on a day-to-day basis. It's good sense to ensure you're on the right track long before the training program is started. After all, what is the point in starting your training only to realise you've made a huge mistake.

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