Thursday, December 31, 2009

Training For Networking Support - Update

By Jason Kendall

In these days of super efficiency, support workers who can mend computers and networks, along with giving regular solutions to users, are vital in every part of industry. As we get to grips with the multifaceted levels of technological advances, growing numbers of IT professionals are needed to run the smooth operation of functions we rely on.

Some commercial training providers only give office hours or extended office hours support; most won't answer after 8-9pm at the latest and frequently never at the weekends.

Avoid, like the plague, any organisations who use 'out-of-hours' call-centres - with your call-back scheduled for office hours. It's not a lot of help when you've got study issues and could do with an answer during your scheduled study period.

Top training companies use multiple support centres from around the world. They use an online interactive interface to join them all seamlessly, irrespective of the time you login, there is always help at hand, avoiding all the delays and problems.

Always pick a trainer that cares. Only true live 24x7 support provides the necessary backup.

People attracted to this sort of work are often very practical, and won't enjoy sitting at a desk in class, and slogging through piles of books. If this could be you, go for more modern interactive training, where you can learn everything on-screen.

Studies have consistently shown that becoming involved with our studies, to utilise all our senses, is proven to produce longer-lasting and deeper memory retention.

Learning is now available on CD and DVD discs, so everything is learned directly from your own PC. Utilising the latest video technology, you will be able to see the instructor presenting exactly how something is done, and then have a go at it yourself - via the interactive virtual lab's.

Every company that you look at must be able to demonstrate some simple examples of their training materials. Expect video tutorials, instructor led classes and many interactive sections.

Avoiding training that is delivered purely online is generally a good idea. Always choose CD or DVD based study materials where offered, as you need to be able to use them whenever it's convenient for you - it's not wise to be held hostage to your internet connection always being 'up' and available.

A capable and professional advisor (as opposed to a salesman) will ask questions and seek to comprehend your current level of ability and experience. There is no other way of understanding your study start-point.

Often, the training start-point for a person with a little experience can be massively different to the student with none.

For students starting IT studies and exams as a new venture, it can be helpful to start out slowly, kicking off with some basic PC skills training first. This can be built into most training packages.

Every program under consideration really needs to work up to a properly recognised qualification at the finale - definitely not some 'in-house' plaque for your wall.

Only properly recognised accreditation from the likes of Microsoft, Adobe, CompTIA and Cisco will be useful to a future employer.

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