In the UK today, many workplaces couldn’t function properly if it weren’t for support workers solving problems with networks and computers, while recommending solutions to users each and every day. The world’s desire for such skilled and qualified people is constantly growing, as everywhere we work becomes progressively more technologically advanced.
Proper support is incredibly important - ensure you track down something that provides 24×7 direct access, as anything less will frustrate you and could hold up your pace and restrict your intake.
Avoid, like the plague, any organisations who use ‘out-of-hours’ call-centres - with your call-back scheduled for office hours. It’s not a lot of help when you’ve got study issues and could do with an answer during your scheduled study period.
Be on the lookout for study programmes that have multiple support offices active in different time-zones. Each one should be integrated to provide a single interface and also round-the-clock access, when you need it, with no fuss.
Never make do with less than you need and deserve. Direct-access round-the-clock support is the only way to go with computer-based training. Maybe burning the midnight-oil is not your thing; but for most of us, we’re at work while the support is live.
Most trainers typically provide mainly work-books and reference manuals. Obviously, this isn’t much fun and not a very good way of achieving retention.
Our ability to remember is increased with an involvement of all our senses - educational experts have expounded on this for decades now.
Interactive full motion video with demonstrations and practice sessions will turn you off book-based study for ever more. And they’re far more fun.
You’ll definitely want a training material demonstration from your training provider. You should ask for instructor videos, demonstrations, slide-shows and fully interactive skills-lab’s.
Avoiding training that is delivered purely online is generally a good idea. Always choose CD or DVD based study materials where offered, as you need to be able to use them whenever it’s convenient for you - it’s not wise to be held hostage to your internet connection always being ‘up’ and available.
A capable and professional advisor (as opposed to a salesman) will ask questions and seek to comprehend your current level of ability and experience. There is no other way of understanding your study start-point.
With a bit of real-world experience or some accreditation, your starting-point of learning is not the same as someone new to the industry.
Consider starting with some basic Microsoft package and Windows skills first. Beginning there can make the learning curve a much more gentle.
Watch out that all exams you’re studying for are recognised by industry and are bang up to date. The ‘in-house’ certifications provided by many companies are often meaningless.
The top IT companies such as Microsoft, CompTIA, Adobe or Cisco each have globally approved skills programs. These heavyweights will ensure your employability.
(C) Jason Kendall. Pop over to LearningLolly.com for logical career advice. www.learninglolly.com or Computer Network Course.