Why IT certifications are important and which certifications to start with

My name is Stephen Mernagh. I'm a Technical Trainer with New Horizons Training, specialising in CompTIA and Microsoft Training.  The training courses I teach range from basics like CompTIA A+ Technical Support and Microsoft Azure Fundamentals, all the way up to more advanced courses covering CompTIA Security and Microsoft Azure Administrator, as examples.

Why Take a Course?

So, the big question - WHY do these courses. We can break this into two areas, namely, first steps in an IT Career or if already employed in IT - building knowledge and/or gaining certification for your job.
Taking any CompTIA or Microsoft course will assist you in gaining valuable skills and knowledge in a particular area, and hopefully later, gaining Certification in that area as well.

Why get Certified?

So, why get 'certified' at all. Again, if you're a new-comer to IT, certification shows you understand that area and have the skills and knowledge of industry to help gain employment - it could make the difference in an interview for that first IT job. If you're already in IT, gaining certification can help in areas such as proven knowledge/skills set, better promotion chances and perhaps better pay - it doesn't harm to get certified. It also keeps you up to date in the ever-changing world of IT.

A lot of employers expect their IT staff to be up-to-date and/or always certified - it may even be an Industry / Business requirement or compliance, depending on the area you work in.

Taking part in these courses can help with those requirements, whether it's to just update your skills or get that certification. You can also pick up some great tips from instructors who may have many years of expeirence with the subject at hand.

Where to Start?

Well you can check out all of New Horizons IT training courses by clicking here. If you are just starting ut in the IT industry, we recommend starting with the CompTIA A+ certification.

CompTIA A+ is the industry standard entry-level certification that proves you have the foundational knowledge to begin a career in IT. 

CompTIA Network+ is another industry standard certification for establishing a career in IT and is the preferred qualifying credential for technical support and IT operational roles.