Obtaining a Microsoft Certification is a way to display what IT skills you possess to employers. The job market is getting tougher to get into, so employers are looking for the people who stand out above the rest. SharePoint 2013 is a platform that is being used heavily by many companies, making getting the Microsoft SharePoint 2013 certification vital.
SharePoint
SharePoint is a platform that was launched in 2001 and has been extremely successful. It was originally used mainly in Fortune 500 companies, but this is no longer the case. It is such an invaluable tool to a company that anyone who works in the IT field should be an expert in using it.
In 2014, Microsoft launched their newest version of SharePoint, SharePoint 2013. The new version had even more features, as well as fixes to the previous version. It allows companies to brand themselves online, handle more data, offer mobile support, and integrate with other Microsoft Office tools.
With the number of changes that have been made with SharePoint, current professionals are unaware how they can be used. When you prepare for and pass the Microsoft SharePoint 2013 certification, you will immediately stand out from your competitors, simply because you know how to take advantage of the new features.
Microsoft Certified Solutions Expert (MCSE)
The first certification route you can take is by obtaining the Microsoft Certified Solutions Expert (MCSE). This is the initial step into SharePoint and you can easily get your current employer to cover the cost for the exam. When you talk to your employer, make sure they know that the MCSE Certification will boost the company’s ability to remain organized throughout the entire organization.
Please note that in you must have the MCSA: Windows Server 2012 or MCSA: Office 365 certification to earn MCSE Sharepoint certification.
The IT department of any company will need to ensure their windows and office infrastructure is running properly, as well as problem-solve troubles that arise. These are all areas you will learn when you successfully complete the MCSE Certification.
It is common for people who obtain a MCSE Certification for SharePoint 2013 to earn around $70,000 a year.
Microsoft Certified Solutions Developer (MCSD)
Another option is to obtain a Microsoft Certified Solutions Developer (MCSD) certification. You will learn how to use various SharePoint applications, as well as other web programming languages. Prior to taking the MCSD certification, you will need to already know HTML5, JavaScript, and MVC.
Microsoft expects you to be able to program in HTML5 and build web applications in .NET. These will be tested on the exam, along with developing solutions for SharePoint Server 2013. When you receive the certification, you will be able to qualify for jobs as a developer.
Jobs that require this certification are already competitive. The ability to work with SharePoint 2013 will put you in the spotlight with recruiters and companies. Some companies are even willing to pay for the certification to ensure you have the necessary skills to perform your job efficiently.
How to Receive Certification
Microsoft Certifications are not easy to obtain. They test a massive amount of information, so they require you to take classes to prepare for them. You will also need to find an authorized testing location and be ready to spend a few hours taking the exam. It is widely accepted though that one of the best ways to get Microsoft certified is to attend a certification bootcamp.
Convincing Employers to Cover Costs
If you currently have a job at a company, but are looking forward to obtaining a certification in SharePoint 2013, you should consider having your employer pay for the test. Each test can cost over $100, so it will be in your best interest to talk to your employer. Formulate a presentation that shows them how the certification will benefit your work.
Businesses are interested in themselves and saving the company money. If you are certified to work with SharePoint 2013, they will not need as much IT to support as they did. In addition, you will have the ability to train the rest of the team, saving the company even more money.
In Conclusion
SharePoint is the way of the future with businesses, so it is important you understand how to use it. What started as an asset to large businesses has been shown to help small companies as well. There are a few avenues you can take to receive certification, and the route you take is dependent on what your career path looks like.
For those interested in an IT career, 2015 is the year to consider getting a Microsoft Certification for SharePoint 2013. There have been many changes and new features so showcasing your Sharepoint and development skills will give you a better chance at a high-income job.