While potentially a gamble, Tabor believes his strategy of offering training, then rewards, will foster loyalty. The people we bring in are typically at a junior level. We don't pay as much, so we don't attract the people who think they know all the answers. If you're not sure how to value the certifications, find a peer who has hired similarly accredited workers. For example, Cisco Systems Inc. in San Jose, Calif., offers five levels of networking certifications.
All degrees require a written exam administered by an independent testing firm.
The certifications matter. CCNAs have a solid understanding of how networks work and can set up a local-area network just about in their sleep. However, you typically don't want them designing a costly wide-area network. I Need Somebody With tech talent scarce, it pays to be careful. Ask to see the certifications they've achieved.