A Microsoft Certification Can Make Or Break Your Career

HR would usually ask an applicant this single question "What makes you stand out among the applicants today?" This usually filters out almost half of the candidates in a short time frame and is an extremely efficient and effective method in choosing the right people for the job.

With so many graduates today who are vying for the same position, it is important that no matter what industry you want to be in, to standout. This is especially true in the IT field where technological innovation is so fast that IT professionals constantly upgrade themselves to ensure that their skill sets are not obsolete. One of the ways that one can do so is by getting an IT certificate test. Although these certifications are often expensive, they are also an IT worker's gateway to more lucrative job offers and other opportunities that are otherwise closed to average IT professionals.

Why Get Microsoft Certification?

Microsoft is considered as one of the major IT software giants today garnering millions from its software products as well as computer operating system. Microsoft is considered as a "house brand" in the IT field. Because of its wide reach, plenty of jobs requiring IT people with in-depth knowledge of Microsoft software are available.

What Type of Certification Do I Need?

Microsoft certification is divided into four categories mainly in the functionality that the IT expert would be working on - desktop, database, developer and server. These functions are then divided into the four certifications:

MCSA - Microsoft Certified Solutions Associate - this is the most basic and a prerequisite that every IT needs to take before they will be able to obtain higher certifications. The certification also deals with Windows Server 2008RS Technology.

MCSE - Microsoft Certified Solutions Expert - this certification deals with server services such as private clouds, messaging, share point, server and desktop infrastructure and database services like data platform and business intelligence. IT professionals would have to retake the exam every 3 years to be recertified as MCSE.

MCSD - Microsoft Certified Solutions Developer - this certification on the other hand is for developers. The MCSD would require IT developers to be recertified every 2 years. The certification includes courses on window store apps, web application and lifecycle management.

MCSM - Microsoft Certified Solutions Master - this certification also deals with server services such as messaging, directory services, SharePoint and communication and database services. The certification would only last up to 3 years and IT professionals need to retake the exam to be recertified.

What Is In It For Me?

Getting a Microsoft certification can open up several opportunities for every IT professionals out there who want to start their career in the IT field; however, it is important to not become overconfident once you get your certification as the industry constantly upgrades itself. It is also important that one ensures that their skills are at par with the current trends so that they will not be left behind.

MCSM - Microsoft Certified Solutions Master - this certification also deals with server services such as messaging, directory services, SharePoint and communication and database services. The certification would only last up to 3 years and IT professionals need to retake the exam to be recertified.