Four separate areas of study make up a full CompTIA A+; you’re thought of as competent at A+ when you’ve gained exams for 2 out of 4 subjects. For this reason, the majority of training establishments offer only two of the training courses. In reality it’s necessary to have the teaching in all areas as many jobs will ask for an awareness of the whole A+ program. It isn’t necessary to qualify in them all, although it would seem prudent that you at least have a working knowledge of every area.
As well as learning how to build PC’s and fix them, students on an A+ training course will learn how to work in antistatic conditions, along with remote access, fault finding and diagnostics.
You might also choose to think about adding the CompTIA Network+ training as you can then also take care of computer networks, which means greater employment benefits.
Training support for students is an absolute must – ensure you track down something providing 24×7 full access, as not obtaining this level of support will severely hold up your pace and restrict your intake.
You’ll be waiting ages for an answer with email based support, and phone support is often to a call-centre who will make some notes and then email an advisor – who will attempt to call you within 24-48 hrs, at a suitable time to them. This is no use if you’re sitting there confused over an issue and only have a specific time you can study.
The very best programs tend to use an online 24 hours-a-day service combining multiple support operations throughout multiple time-zones. You will be provided with a simple environment which accesses the most appropriate office irrespective of the time of day: Support when you need it.
Never make do with less than this. Direct-access 24×7 support is the only viable option when it comes to technical study. Maybe burning the midnight-oil is not your thing; usually though, we’re out at work when traditional support if offered.
So many training providers only look at the plaque to hang on your wall, and completely avoid what it’s all actually about – which will always be getting the job or career you want. Always start with the end goal – don’t get hung-up on the training vehicle.
Avoid becoming one of the unfortunate masses who choose a training program that seems ‘fun’ or ‘interesting’ – and get to the final hurdle of an accreditation for something they’ll never enjoy.
Set targets for how much you want to earn and what level of ambition fits you. This will influence what qualifications you’ll need to attain and what’ll be expected of you in your new role.
Sense dictates that you look for advice and guidance from an experienced industry professional before making your final decision on some particular training course, so there’s little doubt that the chosen route will give you the skill-set required for your career choice.
The sometimes daunting task of landing your first computer related job is often made easier by training colleges, through a Job Placement Assistance service. It can happen though that there is more emphasis than is necessary on this service, for it’s really not that difficult for well qualified and focused men and women to find work in this industry – because companies everywhere are seeking qualified personnel.
Help with your CV and interview techniques is sometimes offered (if it isn’t, consult one of our sites). Make sure you work on your old CV today – don’t leave it till you pass the exams!
It’s possible that you won’t have even taken your exams when you land your first junior support role; but this isn’t going to happen unless your CV is with employers.
Generally, you’ll receive better results from an independent and specialised local recruitment consultancy than any training course provider’s national service, because they will be more familiar with the area and local employers.
A big grievance for a number of training providers is how hard trainees are prepared to study to get top marks in their exams, but how ill-prepared they are to market themselves for the job they have trained for. Get out there and hustle – you might find it’s fun.
Throw out the typical salesman who offers any particular course without an in-depth conversation so as to understand your abilities plus your experience level. They should be able to select from a generous product range so they’re actually equipped to give you an appropriate solution.
Occasionally, the starting point of study for someone with some experience will be substantially different to the student with none.
Opening with a basic PC skills module first is often the best way to start into your IT program, depending on your current skill level.
Copyright 2009 Scott Edwards. Pop over to CareerChangeOptions.co.uk/acco.html or Computer Training Courses.
