Survey: Certs Give Job-Seekers an Edge

A story in Computer Weekly contends that technical certification can significantly boost employment prospects.

The article references a survey by the British-based IT Job Board that about 75% of IT job recruiters believe that having certifications helps job prospects. In addition, 84% of IT pros and 87% of those seeking IT employment think having a credential helps their chances of landing a position.

The story also affirms the value of certification in giving a potentially crucial edge in hiring:

It is clear that both recruiters and candidates value certifications, and they can have a huge impact on people's IT job opportunities, said Alex Farrell, managing director of The IT Job Board. During difficult times, when employment is harder to come by and the competition is fierce, holding additional IT certifications could be vital.

The top-rated certifications listed by those surveyed were Microsoft, especially the MCSE, MCSA and MCT, and Cisco's CCNA and CCNP.