As you're in the process of finding out about MCSE courses, you're most likely in 1 of 2 situations: You might be wondering about a dynamic move to the field of computers, and you've discovered a great need for certified networking professionals. Or you're currently an IT professional - and you'd like to consolidate your skill-set with the Microsoft qualification.

Be sure you see evidence that the training company you use is actually training you on the latest level of Microsoft development. Many trainees get frustrated when they realise they've been learning from an outdated version which will have to be revised. Don't use training companies who are just trying to sell you something. Ask for comprehensive, personal guidance to make sure you are on the best program for your needs. Don't allow yourself to be sold some generic product by some pushy sales person.

Make sure that all your certifications are current and commercially required - don't even consider programmes which end up with a useless in-house certificate or plaque. From the viewpoint of an employer, only the big-boys such as Microsoft, Adobe, CompTIA or Cisco (for example) will get you short-listed. Nothing else makes the grade.

Ignore any salesman that just tells you what course you should do without a thorough investigation so as to understand your abilities plus your experience level. Always check they have access to a generous product range so they're able to give you an appropriate solution. With a little work-based experience or certification, you could discover that your appropriate starting-point is not the same as someone new to the industry. If this is your opening stab at an IT exam then you might also want to practice with some basic PC skills training first.

Technology and IT is amongst the most thrilling and changing industries that you could be a part of. Being a member of a team working on breakthroughs in technology puts you at the fore-front of developments shaping life over the next few decades. It's a common misapprehension that the technological advancement we have experienced is slowing down. This couldn't be more wrong. There are huge changes to come, and the internet in particular will be the biggest thing to affect the way we live.

And don't forget that the average salary in the IT market in Great Britain is a lot more than in other market sectors, which means you'll be in a good position to earn considerably more as a trained IT professional, than you would in most typical jobs. It's no secret that there is a substantial national need for professionally qualified IT workers. Also, with the constant growth in the marketplace, it is likely there will be for the significant future.

One interesting way that training providers make a big mark-up is via an 'exam inclusive' package and then including an 'Exam Guarantee'. It looks impressive, but is it really:

Everybody's aware that they're still paying for it - it's obviously already in the full cost of the package supplied by the college. It's certainly not free (it's just marketing companies think we'll fall for anything they say!) Those who take each progressive exam, paying as they go are much more likely to pass. They're aware of what they've paid and so are more inclined to be ready for the task.

Do your exams somewhere close to home and look for the very best offer you can at the time. Big margins are made by a number of companies who get money upfront for exam fees. For various reasons, many students don't take their exams but no refunds are given. Believe it or not, providers exist that depend on students not taking their exams - as that's where a lot of their profit comes from. Re-takes of previously unsuccessful exams via training companies who offer an 'Exam Guarantee' are tightly controlled. They will insist that you take pre-tests first to make sure they think you're going to pass.

Exams taken at VUE and Prometric centres are currently clocking in at an average of 112 pounds in this country. Why spend so much more on fees for 'exam guarantees' (usually wrapped up in the course package price) - when good quality study materials, the proper support and exam preparation systems and a dose of commitment and effort are what's required.

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