Earning a certification is “part of the process of bettering your IT career,” says Katherine Spencer Lee, executive director of Robert Half Technology. Certifications can open the door to certain positions at large companies, help clarify your job qualifications, and boost your pay over non-certified employees.

Earning an IT Certification Will Increase Your Salary

Employees with relevant certifications can make $16,000 – $18,000 more a year than non-certified workers. Earning a certification can also increase your hiring potential, bonus package, and your chances of being promoted. Some popular certifications include:

• CompTIA A+
• Cisco Certified Network Assocaite (CCNA)
• Microsoft Certified Systems Engineer (MCSE)
  
  

Careers and Jobs That Make Sense

If you’re considering any of the following careers, you may want to pursue an IT certification:

• Systems Administrator
• Networking and Security
• Programmer
• Tech Support Specialist
• Project Manager