We recently added a dozen new videos to our Certification Pros page, where VMware certification holders share their experience and advice. As many point out in their comments, the community supporting VMware certifications is an important element of their success. We’re doing our part to strengthen the community by regularly highlighting certification stories here on the Education and Certification Blog, starting this week with VMware Certified Advanced Professionals. Have your own story to share? See the note at the bottom and get in touch!
Why should I get certified?
Timothy Patterson, VCAP-DCD, VCAP-DCA, mentions two of the most common reasons for getting certified—challenging himself to improve his skills and opening new doors along his career path. But we especially like his third reason: “It taught me a lot about myself,” he says.
Timothy urges those considering their certification exam not to wait because they feel they’re not ready. “Don’t be afraid of failure; you can always retake an exam,” he reminds us. “It teaches you about your strengths, your weaknesses, and how to succeed in the industry.”
Where do I start?
In addition to the authorized training classes, there are a plethora of other resources available to help you prepare for your exam, including books, online communities, and webinars. For Gurusimran Khalsa, VCAP-DCD, VCAP-DCA, preparation always begins with a VMware exam blueprint.
“If I can read through the blueprint and understand everything that’s on there, I know that I’m on track,” he explains. “I’ve never taken an exam where they asked a question that somehow wasn’t related to the blueprint—I’ve never been surprised by content.”
How do I prepare?
As a certified instructor, as well as VCP-Data Center Virtualization, VCP-Desktop, VCP-Cloud, and VCAP-DCA, Shawn Bolan has an expansive perspective on how to successfully prepare for a VMware certification exam. He stresses the importance of a “multi-layered” process, combining studying with hands-on experience.
Labs provide students with an opportunity to experiment with tools they might not be able to in their work environment, he points out. That way they “learn how to use that technology correctly before putting it in place, getting the hands-on experience to make the right decisions back in their business.”
Shawn also urges anyone who has finished a certification class to “strike while the iron is hot.” “You’re making the investment and going to a class; don’t let that knowledge sit stale,” he implores. “While it’s fresh in your mind, go back to work and set a study plan for yourself; work with the practice tests; build your own lab environment.”
Remember, your company made a big investment in the right technology; now it’s time to invest in the people who support that technology. By helping your company grow stronger, you’re also strengthening your own career opportunities.
What’s your certification story? We’d love to feature it on this blog. Contact [email protected] and help strengthen the community by sharing your experiences and insights. We are especially eager to hear about VMware Certified Associates!
