Most professionals have since realized that credentials such as Microsoft Certified Systems Engineer or Cisco Certified Internetwork Expert are valuable to job seekers but are no substitute for an education, Dr. Seaton said. The number of technical certifications has exploded in the last two years. Requirements typically include an exam and continuing education courses. Industry officials say certifications streamline the recruiting process by assuring recruiters that candidates have certain skills and understand the technology being tested. The association has developed four certifications that are used by many corporations in selecting entry-level technology workers.
Experts counsel professionals to choose certifications carefully.
Credentials tied to new or obscure software languages and programs, for example, won't be recognized by many employers. You are going to pay for what you get. Mr. Clark, a Certified Computer Professional and Certified Novell Netware Administrator, said tech professionals should define their interests and career goals before pursuing a credential, which can cost thousands of dollars in training and test fees. Mr. Herman said technology professionals have to get recertified periodically and keep on top of the latest technologies. If you don't do anything, you will be moved into obsolescence.