The Microsoft Certified Systems Administrator course is an ideal qualification for anyone wanting to become a network support technician. So if you already have some understanding but want to improve your CV with an acknowledged certification, or you are just getting into the IT industry, you'll quickly see how to choose a program to fulfil your needs. To achieve certification at the MCSA level you need to pass 4 Microsoft Certified Professional exams (MCP's). For a newcomer to the industry, you'll probably be required to pick up some skills prior to studying for the 4 MCP's. Find a provider with people who will find the best action plan for you and can match your current skills to the right level of course.

A so-called advisor who doesn't ask many questions - chances are they're actually nothing more than a salesman. If they're pushing towards a particular product before looking at your personality and experience, then you know it's true. Quite often, the starting point of study for someone with a little experience can be largely dissimilar to the student with no experience. For students embarking on IT studies for the first time, it's often a good idea to ease in gradually, starting with a user-skills course first. Usually this is packaged with most types of training.

Some training providers have a handy Job Placement Assistance service, to help you into your first commercial role. Because of the massive skills shortage in the UK at the moment, there's no need to become overly impressed with this service however. It isn't so complicated as you might think to get employment as long as you've got the necessary skills and qualifications.

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 put it off till the exams have actually been passed. It's not unusual to find that you'll secure your first role while still studying (even in the early stages). If your CV doesn't show your latest training profile (and it hasn't been posted on jobsites) then you don't stand a chance! The most reliable organisations to help you land that job are most often specialised and independent recruitment consultants. Because they get paid commission to place you, they have the necessary incentive to try that bit harder.

Not inconsiderable numbers of students, it seems, conscientiously work through their course materials (sometimes for years), only to do nothing special when finding a good job. Sell yourself... Do your best to get yourself known. Don't expect a job to just fall into your lap.

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