Thinking of taking an MCSE? If the answer's 'yes', there's a good chance that you're in one of two situations: You're currently an IT professional and you'd like to consolidate your skill-set with the MCSE qualification. Instead this could be your first step into commercial IT, and you've discovered there is a great need for certified networking professionals.

During your research, you will notice companies that short-change you by failing to provide the current Microsoft version. Don't use such training providers as you will face problems when it comes to exams. If you're learning from an old version, it is going to be hugely difficult to get qualified. Avoid the companies that are simply out to sell something. You deserve time, expertise and advice to make sure you're registering on the correct course. Don't be shoe-horned into their standard course by an inadequate outfit.

Many people question why traditional degrees are being replaced by more commercially accredited qualifications? The IT sector is of the opinion that to learn the appropriate commercial skills, the right accreditation supplied for example by Microsoft, CompTIA, CISCO and Adobe often is more effective in the commercial field - for considerably less. University courses, for instance, often get bogged down in vast amounts of loosely associated study - with much too broad a syllabus. Students are then held back from getting enough specific knowledge about the core essentials.

Assuming a company knows what areas they need covered, then all they have to do is advertise for the exact skill-set required to meet that need. Syllabuses are set to exacting standards and do not vary between trainers (in the way that degree courses can).

There are colossal changes flooding technology as we approach the second decade of the 21st century - and it only gets more exciting every day. Technological changes and interaction through the internet will dramatically alter the direction of our lives over future years; overwhelmingly so.

Should lifestyle be way up on your wish list, then you'll be pleasantly surprised to hear that the usual remuneration of most men and women in IT is much better than with the rest of the economy. It would appear there is a lot more room for IT sector development across Britain. The sector is still growing enormously, and with the skills shortage of over 26 percent that we're experiencing, it's highly unlikely that it will even slow down for a good while yet.

Those that are drawn to this type of work are often very practical, and aren't really suited to the classroom environment, and poring through books and manuals. If you're thinking this sounds like you, go for more modern interactive training, where learning is video-based. If we're able to utilise all of our senses into our learning, then we normally see dramatically better results.

The latest home-based training features interactive discs. Through instructor-led video classes you'll find things easier to remember via the expert demonstrations. Then it's time to test your knowledge by using practice-lab's. It's wise to view some of the typical study materials provided before you sign the purchase order. You should expect videoed instructor demonstrations and interactive audio-visual sections with practice modules.

It's folly to opt for on-line only training. Because of the variable quality and reliability of all internet service providers, make sure you get CD or DVD ROM based materials.

Several companies have a handy Job Placement Assistance service, to help you get your first job. With the great need for more IT skills in this country right now, it's not necessary to place too much emphasis on this feature however. It's actually not as hard as some people make out to secure your first job once you're trained and certified.

However, what is relevant is to have help and assistance with preparing a CV and getting interviews though; additionally, we would recommend any student to work on polishing up their CV the day they start training - don't delay until you've graduated or passed any exams. It's not unusual to find that you'll land your initial position whilst you're still studying (even when you've just left first base). If you haven't updated your CV to say what you're studying - or it's not getting in front of interviewers, then you don't stand a chance! The most reliable organisations to help you land that job are generally independent and specialised local recruitment services. As they will get paid by the employer when they've placed you, they have the necessary incentive to try that bit harder.

Certainly ensure you don't spend hundreds of hours on your training and studies, and then just stop and leave it in the hands of the gods to sort out your employment. Get off your backside and make your own enquiries. Channel as much energy and enthusiasm into getting your new role as you did to gain the skills.

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