Training for Networking Support – Update

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.

Some commercial training providers only give office hours or extended office hours support; most won’t answer after 8-9pm at the latest and frequently never at the weekends.

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.

Always pick a trainer that cares. Only true live 24×7 support provides the necessary backup.

It’s likely that you’ve always enjoyed practical work – the ‘hands-on’ individual. Usually, the world of book-reading and classrooms is something you’ll make yourself do if you have to, but it’s not ideal. Check out video-based multimedia instruction if learning from books is not your thing.

If we’re able to utilise all of our senses into our learning, our results will often be quite spectacular.

Learning is now available on CD and DVD discs, so everything is learned directly from your own PC. Utilising the latest video technology, you will be able to see the instructor presenting exactly how something is done, and then have a go at it yourself – via the interactive virtual lab’s.

You’ll definitely want a training material demonstration from your training provider. You should ask for instructor videos, demonstrations, slide-shows and fully interactive skills-lab’s.

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.

Don’t forget, if in the past you’ve acquired any previous certification, then you will often be able to pick-up at a different starting-point to someone new to the industry.

Where this will be your first attempt at IT study then it may be wise to cut your teeth on user-skills and software training first.

Every program under consideration really needs to work up to a properly recognised qualification at the finale – definitely not some ‘in-house’ plaque for your wall.

The top IT companies such as Microsoft, CompTIA, Adobe or Cisco each have globally approved skills programs. These heavyweights will ensure your employability.

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