The world of technology and engineering is ever changing and as a B.Tech graduate you might find yourself in a dilemma. After all that hard work, now it’s time to put it all into good use and get a job which in today’s world is quite competitive for your career. The most efficient practices that can increase your chances of getting hired and marketing your credentials is getting professional endorsements. This is what we aim to discuss throughout this article, the importance of certification, the variants available and which ones are best suited for you after a B.Tech.
Importance of Certification
1. Proof of Expertise and Understanding of the Industry
Certification is one of the fastest means of earning a skill in a field that you are interested in. They serve as proof that you are skilled in certain aspects and are aware of the standards that are set out in the industry, which may be important when trying to secure a job. For example, seeking a job in the field of data science and holding a data analysis or machine learning certificate makes you more relevant to the position as it shows intent.
2. Expansion of Career Prospects
Certification can help you start a new job, or move an existing job to a new career path. They often expect employees to have in-depth knowledge of what the employer is looking for, with many being specialized in such employees who possess certain skills. That is one reason why obtaining certification is essential as it is a quick way for others to know of your commitment and ability to keep up with changes in the industry.
3. Gaining Professional’s Reputation
Obtaining endorsement of certificates from established organizations adds to your credibility. It demonstrates that you are not a rogue trader; you have successfully completed the training and examination. This makes potential employees & clients more confident in you and your capabilities.
4. Professional Relations
Most people who hold certificates are able to interact with other like-minded professionals in relation to the specific certification that they possess. This, in turn, will increase the number of people who are willing to provide mentorship, job offers, and referrals to other professionals. Being part of such a community can help you in your career journey.
5. Improvement of Expected Salary
It’s a fact that those who are certified earn more than those who haven’t been certified. Many industry surveys, reports, and articles have indicated that certification can greatly influence how much you are offered during the salary negotiation process. This justifies the investment that is put in certification courses for most B.Tech graduates.
Types of Certifications to Consider
The selection of a certification is also based on an individual career path that they are aiming to succeed. Here are some popular certification categories that stand out in various sectors:
1. Project Management Certifications-
Project Management Professional (PMP)- This is a certification awarded by the Project Management Institute (PMI) that is widely accepted around the world. Target market: people looking to manage various roles related to projects.
Certified ScrumMaster (CSM): If you would like to be certified on the scrum and its applicational areas, this is a certification for you. This certification falls under the category of agile project management.
2. Data Science and Analytics Certifications
- Certified Data Professional (CDP): This certification is professional data oriented and cuts across a wide range of areas such as data analysis, data management, as well as data governance.
- Microsoft Certified: Azure Data Scientist Associate: This certification is relevant for individuals who wish to specialize in cloud computing and data science.
- IBM Data Science Professional Certificate: A document that is issued after finishing a versatile program directed on data science operations, their tools and methodologies.
3. Software Development and Programming Certifications
- Certified Kubernetes Administrator (CKA): When container orchestration services are stressed this becomes an important certification for developers and system admins.
- AWS Certified Developer: This certification is vital for learners looking to develop cloud applications using AWS services and actual best practices.
- Oracle Certified Professional, Java SE Programmer: If you whish Java programming to develop your career, this certification of yours speaks volumes of your programming skills.
4. Certifications on Networking and Cybersecurity
Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA): This is a good certification for those aspiring to work with networking and networking technologies.
CompTIA Security+: A basic credential that every aspiring junior cybersecurity practitioner should obtain. She will be armed with the fundamental concepts of security.
Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP): A certification that every midlevel and senior cybersecurity practitioner should have and is well regarded in the industry as it proves that a candidate possesses adequate knowledge of all areas of cybersecurity.
Certifications on Cloud Computing
AWS Certified Solutions Architect: Unlike the previous certification, this certification focuses on the design of distributed applications and systems on AWS and is useful for cloud architects/programmers.
Google Cloud Professional Cloud Architect: This is for professional aiming to highlight their skills in developing, designing and ordering solutions to Google Cloud.
- Other Certifications in Soft Skills and Leadership
- Certified Professional in Management (CPM): This is the certification to obtain if you are seeking to develop your management and leadership skills as this one fits perfectly for you.
- Emotional Intelligence Certification: Being a leader and a team player requires a proper understanding of emotional intelligence principles.
How to Choose the Right Certification
- Assess Your Career Goals
Firstly, you should consider your aspirations in this profession and focus on the big picture. Are you looking to delve deeper into a specific area of technology? Or do you intend to transition into a management position? Once you have an understanding of your goals, it will be easier to select the certification you wish to pursue towards such goals.
- Research Industry Demand
Examine the skill sets and the certifications that have a high demand in the markets. Consider looking through sites such LinkedIn, Glassdoor, and other specialized job boards, as they can be helpful in determining what employers are looking for.
- Consider the Investment
Determine how much time and money is involved in getting each certification. A few of them require lots of time investment and might be Net-positive after some time, thus deciding in accordance with your resources and investing circumstances is crucial.
- Seek Guidance
Converse with mentors or professors and other professionals regarding which skills and certifications they found helpful during their careers, as the information they give you will help you make educated choices.
How to Prepare for Certification Exams
After having selected a certification, the next step is preparation for that examination. Here are a few recommendations we can give you for your success:
- Study Materials
There’s a significant investment of time and money that goes into preparing for a certification examination and therefore it is advised to procure quality studying materials such as books, online courses and practice tests. You can go through certification organizations that are likely to give you the materials you require.
- Become Part of Study Groups
Working with colleagues may help you comprehend and remember more. Furthermore, study groups cultivate debates, questions and materials.
- Practice Exams
With the use of practice exams, one gets acquainted with the designs and kinds of questions they will be facing. This would in turn help boost a person’s confidence, and feel better prepared for the exam.
- Management of Time
Get a timetable that makes it possible for you to go through all the necessary materials or get a chance to do the exam. Do start studying sketchy, do bit by bit on a regular basis.
- Getting Experience
If at all possible, try to get some hands-on experiences in relation to the certification. Applying concepts in reality may help you to strengthen and prepare you for encountering such situations in the exam.
Final Words
As an asset in able to be B.Tech graduates, it is to be clearly stated that there are available certifications that may be taken. These are done in order to increase one’s knowledge and skills, enhance one’s ability to get a job, and lead to greater career earnings. Therefore, if you want to gain the best in the job market, it is wise to choose the certifications that you want to take based on the career that you would like to accomplish.
As you join this journey, bear in mind that consistent effort pays off. Be aware of the changes in the industry and be ready to pursue new qualifications as your career progresses. If you are passionate about the industry and have the necessary credentials, you can realize your career growth and have a positive effect in your field.
