Obtaining certifications in popular software and IT tools is a great way to prove proficiency and gain an advantage in the IT sector. Microsoft products are among the most commonly used IT tools in different global industries. By becoming a Microsoft Certified Professional, you will be able to show your employer that you have been tested and are proficient in these applications that are essential to the success of his business.
Who Should Obtain the MCP Certification?
The MCP certification is perfect for people who are interested to work with Windows-based computers, Windows servers or other Microsoft technologies. Additionally, the MCP certification is a good place to start for those who want to get involved in the different IT areas, such as software development, databases, and infrastructure design.
MCP As the First Step to Obtain Higher Level Certifications
The MCP is somehow regarded as the gateway to more advanced certifications, including the Microsoft Certified Systems Engineer, Microsoft Certified Systems Administrator, Microsoft Certified Database Administrator, and Microsoft Certified Solutions Developer.
Although it is not necessarily required to obtain this first before trying to acquire the high-level credentials, the exam that you are required to pass here will count and make the upgrade path towards the other titles much easier.
MCP Helps People Get a Job
Employers and hiring managers prefer people who hold an MCP certification to work in their businesses. Furthermore, MCPs can easily find a job as entry-level support technicians and obtain positions in call centers.
You should remember that this certification is not sufficient for you to obtain a high ranking position, such as a system administrator, in today’s tough economy. However, having this Microsoft certification in your CV can definitely give you an edge over the other candidates for the job that are non-certified.
The Salary of Microsoft Certified Professionals is High
Based on latest salary surveys, Microsoft Certified Professionals get a higher salary compared to non certified, which is not that bad for a certification that requires only a single exam. However, you should also keep in mind that there are many other factors that can affect the salary.
Some of these important factors include your geographic location, your years of work experience, your educational background, as well as other certifications you may have. For instance, if you have decided to change your career and this is your first job in the field of IT, you would of course have a lower salary for your lack of experience.
How to Obtain the MCP Certificate
If you have decided to go for the MCP certificate, but do not know where to start, you can simply follow these simple steps.
#1 – Choose a specific Microsoft product that you want to learn for the certification. It is possible that you already have a wide experience in the field, but it is necessary that you pass the Microsoft-approved test regarding your preferred area. Doing so will enable you to become officially certified.
#2 – Make your decision regarding the level of certification that you want to have. There are some Microsoft products which have different levels of certification. Obviously, the higher levels will involve more examinations, or tests which require a deeper level of expertise regarding the product.
#3 – Choose the study method that you prefer. There are several ways by which you could study for your Microsoft-approved examination.
Obtain additional guidance through the various online training programs and computer-based training which are available.
Register for a bootcamp training from Microsoft certified trainers. This study method is perfect if you want to have a more active interaction and the privilege to ask questions about topics that confuse you.
Normally, these Microsoft Certified Trainers conduct their classes in ther own facility. However, if there is a great number of professionals in a single company who are seeking to obtain the same kind of certification, the training can be performed on-site.
#4 – Finish the training. Once you get started you need to finish the training and make sure that you really have a strong grasp of the material before taking the test. There are reviews, quizzes, and practice exams included in the training to help you gain more knowledge.
#5 – Look for a Microsoft testing center where you could take and pass the certification exam. The length of the test varies depending on your chosen product, as well as the certification level that you want to have. If you have trouble finding an a Microsoft-certified testing center, just visit the official Microsoft training website.