New IT certifications often come with a lot of excitement, especially when a major vendor like Cisco releases them. It’s easy to get swept up in the buzz and think, “This is my chance to get ahead in my career!” The enthusiasm for earning a new certification is understandable, but it’s important to resist rushing into these exams too quickly.
While getting a new certification can be a great way to improve your skills and enhance your resume, there are several factors to consider before jumping in. Certification exams take time, effort, and financial resources, so it’s crucial to ensure that your investment is worthwhile. Instead of diving straight into every new certification that catches your eye, it might be better to take a step back and evaluate whether it aligns with your career goals and whether you’re truly ready.
Study Material Hasn’t Been Published
One of the key issues with new certifications is that study materials may not be available immediately after the exam is released. There is often a delay between the launch of an exam and the publication of third-party study materials such as books, guides, and online courses. These resources require time to research, write, and publish, and this delay can leave you without sufficient study options right when you need them.
Even if some online training courses are available shortly after the exam launch, they might not be comprehensive enough. A rushed study guide could potentially leave gaps in your preparation. A good rule of thumb is to wait until there are multiple, high-quality study materials available. This will allow you to choose the most effective resources for your learning style.
Furthermore, it’s important to ensure that the materials are from trusted sources. You don’t want to waste time or money on resources that may not adequately cover all the necessary topics.
The New Exam Is Still in Beta
Some certification vendors, like Microsoft and AWS, offer beta exams for new certifications. These exams are often less expensive or even free, but there are drawbacks. One major downside is that you won’t receive your results immediately. It can take weeks or even months for beta exam scores to be released, as the company reviews the feedback and answers from all the beta testers before making adjustments.
Additionally, just because you pass a beta exam doesn’t necessarily mean the certification will stick around. Since beta exams are still being tested, there’s a risk that the technology or exam requirements could change before the certification becomes widely available. This can make it a gamble to invest significant time and resources into preparing for a beta exam.
For those looking for a more certain path to certification, it might be better to wait until the exam is officially launched and stable. You can then take advantage of available study materials and receive results without the uncertainty that comes with a beta exam.
You’re Still in the Middle of the Old Version
New certifications are often released while older versions of the same exam are still in use. If you’re already in the process of preparing for or taking an older version of an exam, it may not be necessary to switch gears and start studying for the new certification right away. There are often multiple exams or prerequisites required to earn certain certifications, and you may still have time to complete the old version.
It’s worth noting that employers are typically more interested in your ability to work with the technology rather than your certification version. For example, if you’re working with older versions of a system, it may be more beneficial to complete the current certification path before worrying about a newer version. Many employers don’t require the latest certifications as long as you demonstrate proficiency with the tools in use at your company.
Assessing Job Requirements and Industry Trends
Before pursuing a new certification, it’s important to evaluate the needs of your current job and whether the certification aligns with your career goals. If your employer isn’t requiring the new certification, or if the technology isn’t being used in your current role, there’s no immediate need to rush.
Many companies may not prioritize the newest certifications, especially if they aren’t using the latest technology yet. You might want to focus on building your skillset with the technology your company currently uses, as this is what will matter most to your current job performance.
Additionally, researching your industry’s trends is essential. If your industry is slow to adopt new technologies or is using older systems, the latest certification might not be as valuable for you at the moment. By understanding the technologies that are in demand in your industry, you can make a more informed decision about whether to pursue a new certification.
Why You Shouldn’t Rush to Take a New IT Certification Exam
Overlapping Certification Versions
When a new certification exam is released, there’s often a significant overlap with older versions of the certification. Many times, there’s no rush to abandon the older version of the certification right away. It’s essential to evaluate whether the newer certification truly adds value to your skillset, especially if you’re still working with an older version of the technology or platform.
This is particularly common with certifications that have multiple exams or prerequisites, such as Cisco’s CCIE certifications. While newer exams may be tempting, employers generally focus on the candidate’s knowledge of the platform as a whole rather than the specific version of the technology being used. Unless you’re working with the most up-to-date version of the technology in your current job, or your employer explicitly requires the latest version, you may not need to rush into the newest exam.
For example, in the case of a Cisco certification, employers may value your ability to use the technology effectively, regardless of which version of the certification you hold. If you’re already preparing for an older version of a certification, it’s worth considering whether it’s worth investing time and money into the new version before you’ve fully completed your current certification path.
Assessing Job Requirements and Industry Trends
Before deciding whether to pursue the new certification, consider the requirements of your current job. Many job roles, especially those in established companies, often don’t require the most up-to-date certifications. As long as you’re proficient with the technologies your company uses, you may not need to focus immediately on the newest certifications.
In some cases, employers will even pay for your certifications, or they may give you the time and resources to work towards them. For example, an employer who has already adopted older technology might not see the benefit of requiring the latest certification, and as such, you might be able to hold off on the newest version until it becomes more relevant.
Additionally, you should research your industry’s trends. If your current job or industry is not rapidly evolving with the newest version of a technology, then pursuing an older version of a certification might be more beneficial for your immediate career advancement.
The Risk of Overloading Yourself with Certifications
The temptation to chase every new certification is real, but doing so without completing the earlier certifications you started can lead to overloading yourself. If you’re juggling multiple certifications or exams, the process of preparing for each can take a toll on your focus and retention. It’s better to finish what you’ve started before pursuing something new.
Completing the older certifications gives you the depth of knowledge required to work effectively with the technologies you’re already using. After you’ve solidified your understanding of these tools and systems, you can better decide whether the new certification is necessary for your career goals.
In other words, take your time to finish the certification you’re working on before rushing into a new one. A deep understanding of a technology is often more beneficial than simply accumulating certifications for the sake of it. Remember, many successful professionals take a slow and steady approach to professional development, earning certifications when they’re most relevant to their roles.
Not Using the Technology: Assessing Relevance to Your Current Work
Evaluate Whether You’re Using the Technology
When a new certification is linked to a new technology, it’s important to assess whether you’re using that technology at work, or whether you plan to use it soon. Technology is rapidly evolving, but many industries are still working with older software or systems that may not require knowledge of the newest platforms.
For example, many companies continue using legacy systems that are not immediately aligned with the latest technology. In such cases, pursuing certifications for these new technologies might not yield a substantial return on investment if you don’t use or plan to use the technology anytime soon.
While there’s value in staying ahead of the curve with emerging technologies, it’s crucial to consider whether it makes sense for you to jump into a certification that doesn’t apply to your current job responsibilities. Earning a certification in a technology you won’t be using in your day-to-day work might be unnecessary, especially if the time and effort invested could be better spent enhancing your skills in more relevant areas.
The Slow Adoption of New Technologies
In many industries, especially those in sectors such as government, healthcare, and finance, the adoption of new technology can be a slow process. This means that new technologies might not be deployed for years after their initial release. For example, upgrading to the latest operating system or cloud platform might be a lengthy process for organizations that use highly customized or proprietary software.
If you’re not planning to adopt the new technology at work anytime soon, investing in the certification could be premature. Instead, you might want to focus on skills that are directly related to the technologies you’re currently using or will use in the immediate future.
The slow adoption rate of new technologies means that many companies are still working with established tools and platforms, making certifications in those technologies more relevant for job performance and career progression. If you are unsure about the immediate need for a new certification, it’s often wise to hold off and focus on developing expertise with technologies that are in use right now.
The Risk of Wasting Resources
It can be tempting to take a new certification exam to be ahead of the curve, but if the technology isn’t something you are currently using, the time, energy, and financial investment might not provide a worthwhile return. Earning certifications without direct relevance to your current job responsibilities can be a waste of resources, especially if those certifications don’t significantly impact your career in the short term.
Instead, try to focus on certifications that directly align with your work responsibilities, job goals, and career growth. If the technology in question is something you anticipate needing shortly, you can begin planning for the certification when your employer or industry begins adopting it. Until then, focus on the technologies and skills that matter most to your current role.
Why You Shouldn’t Rush to Take a New IT Certification Exam
A Role-Based Certification May Be More Relevant
While it’s tempting to pursue certifications tied to specific products or technologies, many IT vendors are shifting their focus toward role-based certifications. These certifications are designed to assess your skills and knowledge in particular job roles, such as system administrator, network architect, or cloud solutions architect, rather than being tied to a specific version of a product.
Why Role-Based Certifications Are Gaining Popularity
The shift toward role-based certifications reflects the growing trend of companies looking for professionals with a wide range of skills that can be applied to various tasks, rather than just technical knowledge about one specific tool. Role-based certifications focus more on job responsibilities and the practical application of skills in the workplace.
For instance, Microsoft, which used to focus heavily on certifications for individual products such as the Microsoft Certified Solutions Associate (MCSA), is now consolidating its certification programs around job roles. A certification such as Microsoft Certified: Azure Administrator Associate is less focused on a specific product and more on the role you will be performing in the cloud space.
This shift has advantages for both employers and employees. For employers, it ensures they are hiring professionals who have a well-rounded skillset that applies to the tasks required by the role, even if the technology or specific tools change over time. For employees, role-based certifications are valuable because they focus on skills that are transferable across various platforms and technologies, making them more versatile and useful in a broader range of job opportunities.
Role-based certifications also offer the advantage of flexibility. Rather than focusing solely on one product or technology, they are designed to validate the expertise needed for a specific role. This makes the certification more broadly applicable and valuable, as it demonstrates your ability to handle the challenges of a job role rather than just your knowledge of a specific tool or system.
Additionally, many of these certifications can be kept current by completing ongoing training or staying up-to-date with new developments, rather than requiring you to go through an entirely new certification process when a new version of a product is released. This is particularly useful for people who want to ensure their skills remain relevant without constantly updating certifications that focus on a single product version.
Staying Current with Evolving Technologies
It’s important to keep in mind that technology is constantly evolving, and a certification based on a specific version of a product may quickly become outdated. However, with role-based certifications, you’re not only demonstrating your current skillset but also showing that you are capable of adapting to new technologies and platforms as they emerge.
For example, instead of pursuing a certification for the latest version of a specific cloud platform like AWS or Microsoft Azure, you might consider earning a role-based certification such as “Cloud Architect” or “Cloud Engineer.” These certifications are designed to cover a range of cloud platforms, so even if the platform you’re working with changes or new tools are introduced, the underlying skills are transferable.
Role-based certifications help demonstrate a broader understanding of a job function and can set you apart from others who may only be certified on specific versions of technologies. By focusing on these certifications, you’re ensuring that you have the skills necessary to adapt to the ongoing changes in the technology landscape without having to constantly chase after the latest product-specific certification.
The Value of Vendor-Neutral Certifications
Alongside vendor-specific certifications, another important consideration is the value of vendor-neutral certifications. These certifications are not tied to a specific technology provider and focus more on general skills and best practices within the IT industry. Examples of these certifications include CompTIA certifications such as CompTIA A+, Network+, and Security+, as well as the Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP).
Vendor-neutral certifications can be especially useful for professionals who want to demonstrate broad technical expertise without being restricted to a specific vendor’s products. They’re often more flexible and can apply to a variety of companies and industries, making them valuable in the long term.
In contrast, vendor-specific certifications are often most useful when you’re working with a company that uses those specific products. If your employer uses Cisco networking devices or Microsoft products, then certifications like Cisco’s CCNA or Microsoft’s MCSA are highly relevant. However, if you’re unsure about the technology stack your company will adopt in the future or if you plan on changing roles or employers, vendor-neutral certifications can give you an edge and keep your skills marketable.
For example, if you hold a Cisco certification and your company transitions to a different technology or vendor, you might have to spend time and resources updating your certifications to keep pace with the changes. On the other hand, vendor-neutral certifications allow you to apply your knowledge in multiple environments, making them a good long-term investment.
The Market Shows Signs of Change
Another important consideration when deciding whether to pursue a new certification is to evaluate market trends. The IT landscape is dynamic, with vendors regularly gaining and losing market share in various sectors. As a result, the highly popular technologies and in-demand today may not be as dominant in the future.
Understanding the Shifting Landscape of Technology
Vendors like Cisco, Microsoft, and VMware have dominated certain markets for years, but other companies have gained traction, especially in emerging fields like cloud computing, cybersecurity, and network automation. For instance, in recent years, Microsoft has focused heavily on its Azure cloud platform, while companies like Palo Alto Networks and F5 Networks are gaining significant market share in the cybersecurity space.
Before committing to a new certification exam, it’s crucial to understand the current market trends and how they align with your career goals. If you’re working in a field like cybersecurity and considering a certification from a vendor like Cisco, it’s worth researching whether other vendors, such as Palo Alto Networks, are becoming more widely used in your industry. This market awareness can help you avoid investing time and money in certifications that may not be as valuable short term.
Similarly, in the cloud computing space, companies are increasingly turning to hybrid cloud solutions, and certain cloud providers may be more popular in specific industries. If your organization uses AWS, earning an AWS certification makes perfect sense. However, if your company is adopting Microsoft Azure or Google Cloud, it would be more beneficial to pursue a certification related to those platforms.
By staying informed about the shifting market dynamics, you can make smarter decisions about which certifications will be most valuable for your career. If a certification is tied to a technology that is losing market share or becoming obsolete, it may not be the best investment. On the other hand, if you identify emerging technologies that are gaining momentum, pursuing certifications in those areas could help future-proof your career.
Keep an Eye on Vendor Initiatives
In addition to overall market trends, it’s also important to keep an eye on what the major vendors are doing. Companies like Microsoft, Google, and Amazon are constantly evolving their certification offerings based on shifts in technology. By staying up to date with what these companies are prioritizing, you can make informed decisions about which certifications to pursue.
For instance, Microsoft has shifted its focus from traditional product-specific certifications to role-based certifications. This is part of a broader trend where vendors are moving away from certifying individuals on a specific product version and instead focusing on certifying job roles and skillsets. This shift means that certifications like “Azure Solutions Architect” or “Azure Administrator” may become more relevant and valuable than pursuing certifications tied to a specific version of Windows Server.
In summary, by understanding market trends and vendor initiatives, you can make better decisions about which certifications to pursue. This will help ensure that you invest your time, money, and energy into certifications that will hold value both now and in the future.
Why You Shouldn’t Rush to Take a New IT Certification Exam
You Plan on Staying in Your Current Role
In the fast-paced world of IT, it’s common for professionals to feel the pressure to constantly update their skill set with the latest certifications. However, if your career plans involve staying in your current role or within the same company for the foreseeable future, it may not always be necessary to rush into taking the latest certification exam.
The Importance of Job-Specific Skills
If you’re happy in your current position and your job doesn’t require certifications to advance, it may be more valuable to focus on the skills and technologies that are directly relevant to your role. For instance, if you’re a network administrator, understanding the specific tools and technologies that your organization uses is far more beneficial than pursuing certifications on the latest technologies that your company doesn’t use.
In many cases, employers value hands-on experience over certifications. If you are effectively doing your job and solving real-world problems for your company, your experience will likely hold more weight than a piece of paper indicating that you passed a certification exam. Additionally, focusing on job-specific skills can make you more efficient and knowledgeable in your daily tasks, leading to greater job satisfaction and possibly even performance-based recognition from your employer.
If your current role is not reliant on certifications, there’s no need to rush into taking an exam just to accumulate them. Instead, prioritize developing expertise in the tools and technologies that are most important for your job. Focus on building a deeper understanding of the areas where you already work, as this will give you a stronger foundation for growth within your existing position.
When to Consider New Certifications
That being said, staying updated on industry trends is still valuable, even if you’re not actively seeking a new job or career change. The IT landscape is constantly evolving, and emerging technologies could have a significant impact on your current role. For example, cloud computing, automation, and cybersecurity are fields that continue to grow, and many companies are adopting new technologies to remain competitive.
If your company is planning to adopt new systems or technologies, then it may be wise to consider obtaining a certification that aligns with those changes. However, it’s important to be strategic. For instance, rather than rushing into certifications for every new tool that comes along, assess the technologies your company is likely to implement in the next few years. Take your time to research which certifications align with both your personal career goals and the future direction of your company.
Additionally, it’s worth considering whether your employer offers any support for certification expenses. Some organizations offer financial assistance or professional development programs that help cover the costs of certifications. If your employer is willing to support your certification journey, it might be a good opportunity to pursue relevant credentials without the financial burden.
Avoid the Pressure of Being “Cert-Obsessed”
It’s also important to avoid falling into the trap of being “certification-obsessed.” While certifications can certainly add value to your resume, they shouldn’t be the sole measure of your expertise. You don’t want to become a “paper tiger”—someone who collects certifications without gaining real-world experience or developing practical skills.
In the IT world, employers are looking for individuals who can apply their knowledge to solve problems and drive business success. Simply obtaining certifications, especially if they’re unrelated to your current job responsibilities, may not effectively demonstrate your ability to perform in a real-world setting. As such, it’s crucial to balance the pursuit of certifications with hands-on experience and continuous learning in the workplace.
The Cost of Certification Exams
Another critical consideration when deciding whether to rush into a new certification is the cost. Certification exams can be expensive, and the costs can add up quickly, especially if you’re planning to take multiple exams over a few years. In addition to the exam fee itself, there are often additional costs for study materials, courses, and practice exams.
If you’re unsure whether a new certification will benefit your career in the long term, it might be better to hold off on the exam and save your resources for something more relevant. Remember, certifications are an investment of both time and money, so you should ensure they align with your professional goals and aspirations.
It’s also worth noting that the value of certain certifications can fluctuate over time. What might be highly sought after today could be less relevant a few years down the road, especially if the technology is superseded by innovations. Investing in certifications that are not widely adopted or that are tied to niche technologies may not provide as much return on investment as certifications related to more universally recognized technologies.
The Value of Experience Over Certifications
When it comes to advancing in your career, experience is often the best teacher. While certifications can demonstrate your commitment to professional development, they are not a substitute for the knowledge and experience gained from actually working with the technology.
Employers place a significant emphasis on practical experience because it shows that you can apply your knowledge to real-world situations. IT professionals who have hands-on experience with the tools and technologies they’ve been certified in are often seen as more valuable than those with certifications but little practical experience.
Moreover, you can often gain experience by working on side projects, contributing to open-source initiatives, or collaborating with colleagues in different departments. By demonstrating your ability to learn and adapt to new challenges in real-world scenarios, you can prove that you’re capable of excelling in your job, regardless of whether you have the latest certification.
The Impact on Career Growth
Certifications can play an important role in career growth, but they shouldn’t be the only factor you rely on. A thoughtful approach to your career development includes assessing both your long-term goals and the skills you need to achieve them. If you’re planning on staying in your current role, focus on building expertise in areas that will have a direct impact on your job performance.
However, if you’re looking to switch careers or move into a higher-level role, certifications can be a way to boost your qualifications. In this case, you should carefully evaluate which certifications will provide the most value and take the time to thoroughly prepare for them.
Ultimately, certifications should complement your career path, not dictate it. If you are already skilled in a particular area and your job doesn’t require new certifications, there may be no need to rush into exams. Focus on developing your expertise, staying up-to-date with industry trends, and continuing to improve your skills in the areas that matter most for your current role.
Final Thoughts
As we have seen throughout this series, there are many reasons why you shouldn’t rush to take a new IT certification exam. From the lack of available study materials to the fact that the certification might be in beta, rushing into new certifications without proper consideration can lead to wasted time, money, and effort. Additionally, certifications tied to specific products or technologies might not hold the same value in the long term as certifications focused on broader job roles and skill sets.
Before committing to a new certification, it’s essential to assess your career goals, the technologies your company is using, and the potential market trends that could impact the value of the certification in the future. Certifications should be an investment in your professional development, so take the time to choose the ones that will provide the most value to your career.
Furthermore, always remember that experience is just as important, if not more important, than certifications. Employers value hands-on experience, problem-solving skills, and the ability to apply your knowledge in real-world situations. So, while certifications can certainly enhance your resume, they should be complemented by practical experience and ongoing learning.
By carefully weighing these factors and taking a thoughtful, strategic approach to your certification journey, you can make smarter decisions that align with your career aspirations and help you achieve long-term success.
Good luck with your professional development and certification journey. Take your time, plan, and don’t rush into exams without considering the broader picture of your career growth.
