In today’s job market, it could be argued that certifications and degrees will not make finding a job easier. However, the same cannot be said about the MCSD Certification.
What is an MCSD Certification?
A Microsoft Certified Solutions Developer (MCSD) Certification is an award given to a person who has passed a series of tests that show they know how to design and develop applications. They will know how to expertly use various Microsoft tools and technologies to create a business application.
The MCSD Advantage
The past for software developers was different from today. The business market wanted people who could develop applications and looked at capabilities over certification since they were not so many people that had the knowledge to develop software.
In today’s market, however, the hunt for jobs is tough and having a certification on your resume will go a long way. It will help your credibility, as well as give you that edge over the next candidate.
Hot Languages
MCSD focuses on the HTML5 and CSS3 languages, but it also makes sure you can develop an application using ASP.NET and ASP.NET MVC 4. HTML5 and .NET are hot languages right now and certifications let employers know you are experienced in working with them.
Assurances for Employers
When a company is looking to have a project created and made available in a matter of months, they will want developers who know what they are doing. They will be given this assurance when someone has taken the time to study and pass the Microsoft Certification Exams.
Get Microsoft Backing
When a company is looking for candidates, it will greatly benefit them to hire developers who have a Microsoft Certification in software development. Microsoft will offer referrals to companies that have a certain number of certified individuals.
Microsoft Certifications Overall Effect with Jobs
Overall, obtaining a Microsoft Certification currently is beneficial and worth it. Some people will still debate that, but here are a few reasons to take the tests.
High Unemployment Rates
Unfortunately, the unemployment rates in the United States are still very high. Jobs in the IT and medical field are two areas that are constantly hiring, but there is no shortage when it comes to job candidates. Employers are looking for those who have expertise, because years of experience are harder to find.
Fuller Resume
As stated above, the certifications will make your resume look better. Many companies look for years of experience, but that is not always possible with the tough job market. Therefore, having certifications on your resume let employers know that you are qualified for the job.
Requires Learning
The MCSD Certification is one of a few certifications that require an applicant to re-test every two years. This will make sure that you are remaining up to date with the information and technology available. It will also give the company an advantage to have a person who has the newest information.
Useful with Raise Requests
After you have secured a position in a company, having a Microsoft Certification will make it easier to negotiate wages. In today’s economy, employers are hard pressed to offer raises. You will have a better chance to get a raise when you have documentation to back up your worth.
Microsoft Products are Heavily Used
Even in the ever-changing technology world, Microsoft products are still heavily used. Apple products are the leading competition to Microsoft, but corporations prefer Microsoft for their server infrastructure. When you want a high paying position, you will need to know how to work with Microsoft tools and technology.
In Conclusion
It can still be argued that holding a Microsoft Certification, such as the MCSD is not worth the time and money you put into it. However, until the job market eases up a little, it will be extremely beneficial to have it on your resume.
It will not guarantee you a job, but it will be a highlight to employers who are looking at dozens of candidates. If you want to move up in the IT world, being able to develop programs and use the ASP.NET, HTML5 and CSS3 languages will be the direction to go.