I've spent the last three years working in help desk support and recently earned my Network+ certification. I'm currently studying for my Security+ certification and I'm planning to move into a system administrator role. Once I complete my Security+, what kind of labs or hands-on experience should I pursue to stand out to potential employers? Are there any additional certifications I should consider to increase my chances of landing a job in sys admin? Thanks for your advice!
6 Answers
Certification is useful, but being adaptable and trainable is even more crucial. Those soft skills often set candidates apart. Focus on being someone who learns quickly and takes the initiative, and you'll be in a good spot for transitioning into a sys admin role.
Instead of focusing all your efforts on certifications, try learning key technologies that are relevant to the systems you'll be managing. Tools like Office365 and Active Directory can be vital, especially if they are used in your current workplace. They align well with what many employers look for in sys admins.
It's great that you're making the transition! In my experience, employers often value personality and work ethic just as much as certifications. If you can show that you're proactive and eager to learn, that's a huge plus. Try volunteering for projects with your sys admin team to get hands-on experience; even if it's unpaid, it can showcase your dedication and willingness to learn. Also, consider diving into practical tasks like re-cabling or basic server maintenance, which will also help you build rapport with the team.
Oh really? Volunteering for free after hours? How does that benefit anyone?
Everyone has a unique path, and not all of us go for certifications. I never focused much on them but learned a lot practically. The key is accountability and solid communication. Building relationships and articulating your thoughts well can really open doors. While certifications can help, I wish I had more hands-on experience and connections when I was starting out.
How much time are you spending building virtual environments at home? That kind of hands-on tinkering can be incredibly beneficial for learning.
Having experience with virtual environments can really boost your resume. Don’t dismiss the idea of creating a home lab; it's a fantastic way to practice and simulate real-world scenarios. Employers often appreciate candidates who take initiative like this, even if it’s self-driven learning.
I agree that volunteering can be tricky, especially outside the USA. It might be better to seek a paid opportunity or at least official time off if you're doing real work.