New to COGNOS

[CognosPhil]

Hi, I've just graduated from the University of Birmingham and have completed my training in COGNOS 8 Report Studio, Query Studio, Analysis Studio and Framework Manager.

I am now looking to start contracting as a COGNOS developer but I have very little practical experience. Ideally I would like to work in the Financial sector, but with my limited hands-on experience it's unlikely I'll be able to get a job like that straight away.

Does anyone know of any smaller firms who would take on someone like me? Or have any advice on how best to improve my chances of getting a position?

 

[blom0344]

Is this Birmingham , UK?
Anyway, without real knowledge about the situation in - assuming - the UK I would expect that you should aim for a position with a firm that is taking it's first steps with BI in the 'broad' sense of the word.
Over here at the continent Cognos is typically used by not-for-profit organizations. A typical example is Healthcare that is to a very large degree focussed on Cognos products (if having any real BI at all)
Such a organzation would require more than just technical skills and you will have time to 'grow' into your role.
'For profit' firms will often have more special BI-projects where they want the job done as quickly as possible and they look for highly specialized pro's that already have a good track record. You cannot expect to compete at that level yet.

Ties Blom