Microsoft Certification?

Is anyone certified by Microsoft for software development or hardware or systems administration? Is it really a big thing? Will it very helpful in getting a job if I have an MS certification?

Microsoft Certification?agv

Hi there

I'm certified for hardware (Microsoft Certified Desktop Technician - MCDST), software development - or solutions developer (MCSD), as well as Systems Administration (MCSA) and Systems Engineer (MCSE).

Certification has its pros and cons. Mostly, it depends on the employer. I've had some employers pass me over because they thought I was over-qualified. I've been in interviews where the employer spent the whole time telling me how useless certifications are. And finally, because there are brain-dumps and other test crams available, some folks believe the certifications aren't a valid determination of your skills.

On the other hand, as a contractor, having these credentials has proved very lucrative, and has been worth the time and expense several times over.

The key is making sure you really earn the certifications. You'll need to back them up with real knowledge and expertise.

If you don't have much experience, getting certified will also show you have some amount of dedication - enough to invest some time and money into your career.

If you're already working in the IT industry, your employer may pay for training and testing.