ccna employment

[soda9999]

hi everyone,
I could use some input from others to see if Im on the right path. Here is the thing, Im 39 and was laid off of my job last year. Computers have alway intriged me. When I was laid off I decide to change careers from servicing electric motors to computer networking. I completed a computer network admin course for the last yr and passed. I already took my a+ and passed so Im ceritified in that, now Ive been studying for my ccna which Im taking the intro exam next week. Here is the thing, if I get my ccna certificate do you think employment will be hard to find. I don't really have experience in the computer computer field. I feel that If I do have my certification someone is bound to give me a shot...and Im not getting any younger...Im really motivated to get into this type of field. Has anyone at my age decided to try and enter this field similar to how doing it. Im willing to travel anywhere to get some experience. What to you guys think my chances are, your input is really appricated on this one, thanks
bye for now

 

[CiscoGuy33]

soda9999,

With A+ and a CCNA and no experience you will be looking at an entry level job if you really know your stuff well. Many places - when they hire entry level - are hiring CCNAs to do the PC support and light networking.

To get your foot in the door while you are working on your CCNA try to get on with CompUSA, Best Buy or a computer place like that just to get some experience and make some contacts!

You also might look into a Cisco Network Academy to complete your CCNA study - lots of hands on work and access to Cisco Academy alumni area for looking for jobs etc. lots of bennifits of working with a Cisco Network Academy - go to the Cisco website and read about it.

You also might check with the local community colleges or colleges and try to get on the IT staff or help desk there.

There are a lot of people with computer and networking experience trying to find work - you need to work on your interviewing skills - go to Borders or Barnes and Noble - grab a book from the business section and grab a cup of coffee and read it for FREE! Understand what you will see in the interview and be ready for it.

To make up for your lack of experience get as much "hands-on" practice you can with old PCs, router sims and your own CCNA lab off of eBay. The more you can "talk the talk and walk the walk" the better you will do when questioned by the techs as part of the interview process!

Good luck and I hope this helps!


E.A. Broda
CCNA, CCDA, CCAI, Network +