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LinkedIn Learning with Lynda: Online Training Courses for Creative, Technology, Business Skills

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LinkedIn Learning with Lynda: Online Training Courses for Creative, Technology, Business Skills

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Learn business, creative, and technology skills to achieve your personal and professional goals. Join LinkedIn Learning today to get access to thousands of courses. Lynda is now LinkedIn Learning.

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In today's technologically oriented economy, it's no surprise that employees with strong computer skills fare better in the job market than their tech challenged counterparts. This trend influences hiring for virtually all jobs, not just technology-centered positions.

What Skills Do You Need?

If you are in the market for a new job or formulating your professional development plan to position yourself for future career growth, then you should assess the technology preferences of employers in your field.

Review job postings for your target position on major job sites like Indeed.com and niche job sites for your industry. Make a list of the tech related qualifications that are cited most often. Also review workshop and seminar topics offered through your professional association to identify cutting edge skills.

Consult colleagues in your field and ask them which skills are the most highly valued in their environment. Check LinkedIn to see what skills your connections in similar jobs have on their profiles. Review this list of the top skills to list on LinkedIn for more ideas of the top skills employers look for.

Upgrade Your Skills

If your skills need refreshing or you need to acquire a new skillset, there are many free courses online you can take to upgrade your skills. Be sure to include all the new skills you learn on your resume.

Computer Skills That Will Help You Get Hired

Here are some computer skills that are prized by employers in a wide variety of sectors.
Microsoft Office
Virtually all workers have some familiarity with Microsoft Word. However, individuals who can carry out mail merges, modify macro scripts, format documents expertly, and execute other complex functions are most highly recruited.
Spreadsheets
Facility with spreadsheet programs, especially Microsoft Excel, is referenced in many job announcements. Candidates who can create complex macros to organize spreadsheet information are in particularly high demand.
PowerPoint
A solid grasp of PowerPoint for workers who wish to conduct dynamic presentations or prepare materials for bosses and colleagues is essential. Job candidates who can show employers some attractive examples of presentation slides will often have a leg up in the hiring process.
Microsoft Access
Job seekers who can organize and manipulate data through programs like Microsoft Access have an advantage in today's information-intensive economy.
QuickBooks
Many small businesses (and some larger ones) use QuickBooks for accounting, payroll, invoicing, reporting and more. If you're working in an accounting or administrative role, a working knowledge of QuickBooks is definitely an asset.
Email
We all use email as part of our personal and professional lives, but those individuals who can perform advanced functions with email programs like Microsoft Outlook can increase office productivity.
Web and Social Skills
Most organizations are looking to enhance their footprint on the web and within social media. Workers who can maintain and upgrade websites using tools like content management systems, HTML, Dreamweaver, WordPress and Java are very attractive to employers. Candidates who understand how to leverage social media to convey messages about their organization are in high demand.
Graphic and Writing Skills
Knowledge of Photoshop and graphics programs like InDesign and Illustrator enable employees to optimize the look and feel of websites and other communications. Writing skills are also important for many different jobs.
Enterprise Systems
Most larger employers utilize enterprise systems like Oracle and PeopleSoft as platforms for their operations. Mastering applications within these systems can enhance your appeal to these types of organizations.
Job Specific Skills
There are many skills that are job dependent. Check out this list of employment skills listed by job to ensure you have the top skills employers are seeking in candidates. Highlight those skills in your job applications to show hiring organizations you have the right stuff to get hired.

Match Your Skills to the Job Requirements

When you're working on your resume and cover letters, take the time to mention the skills you have that are listed in the job posting. Show the employer that you have the skills the company needs. Here's how to match your qualifications to a job description.

More Skills: Skills Lists for Resumes

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Computer Skills That Will Help You Get Hired

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In today's technologically oriented economy, it's no surprise that employees with strong computer skills fare better in the job market than their tech challenged counterparts. This trend influences hiring for virtually all jobs, not just technology-centered positions.

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Linda Liukas: A delightful way to teach kids about computers

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Computer code is the next universal language, and its syntax will be limited only by the imaginations of the next generation of programmers. Linda Liukas is helping to educate problem-solving kids, encouraging them to see computers not as mechanical, boring and complicated but as colorful, expressive machines meant to be tinkered with.

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Information technology is a growing field. Commonly referred to as IT, there are many job titles in the field. From programming and database creation to providing general technical support, there are roles for people with many areas of interest, and many levels of expertise.

The broad swath of jobs available means that employers look for different skills when hiring. Some may look for expertise in a specific language or program, while others might look for more general skills.

For example, the ability to communicate clearly, the ability to manage complicated projects with varying milestones and deadlines, and the ability to manage budgets and the needs of peers in other departments.

Following is a list of information technology skills for resumes, cover letters, job applications, and interviews. Including these skills as keywords on your resume and cover letter, will enable employers to make a match when reviewing resumes and cover letters. Required skills will vary based on the job for which you're applying, so also review our lists of skills listed by job and type of skill.

Top Four Most Important Skills Employers Look for in IT Specialists

Coding
One of the basic skill sets an employer will look for in an IT professional is the ability to write code. If the job is programming, an employer may seek a candidate who can code in several different languages, as many systems are built using more than just one language.

Writing code takes more than just proficiency with the coding language, it requires logical thinking, problem-solving, integrating different technology, and having a broad understanding of information systems.

Even for jobs that are not specifically code-writing, an IT professional should have at least a working knowledge of the more basic coding languages like HTML and C++.

An IT professional should also have an understanding of the process of code-writing, in order to see a software development project through and to manage things like QA (quality assurance).

Communication
It's a commonly held belief in the industry that IT professionals can exist comfortably as introverts, but this is a misnomer! Communication skills are paramount for anyone in IT, as information technology professionals are often required to work across many teams and groups. IT professionals often have to provide tech solutions for people who aren't as savvy. They have to demonstrate leadership at all levels of projects, and with many different groups. They're often called on to present ideas and reports in larger groups of people. Part of an IT professional's job will be to build teams and foster teamwork and collaboration among their peers.

Networks
Knowledge networking is something that will be required of most IT professionals, in companies both large and small. Knowledge sharing and knowledge networking is an extension of good communication skills, as it requires gathering groups of people in a working environment to share what they know, in order to build a system of knowledge within an organization that is more than the sum of its parts.

Knowledge networks require individual IT professionals to be open with their knowledge and to be open and curious about learning new things from their colleagues.

On the other side of "networks," some IT jobs may include network architects, engineers, and systems administrators. Network administrators (or systems administrators) are responsible for day-to-day operations of a larger system.

Time Management
Many IT professionals will need to be self-directed and self-motivated, and a big part of self-directed work means an ability to manage time well. Technology work can often take longer than anticipated, as proven by how often timelines and milestones change over the course of a long project. An IT professional should be able to accurately assess how long a project should take, and then be able to stick to those timelines for the long haul.

An IT professional should also be able to help an entire team manage their time, on a daily, weekly, monthly, and project basis.

The world has no shortage of need for information technology professionals. Almost every traditional analog or brick-and-mortar business now has a need for IT-focused employees, and that's to say nothing of all the tech-based jobs around the world. IT jobs can be interesting, rewarding, and lucrative, so if you possess some of the skills mentioned here, a career in IT could be right for you.

Information Technology (IT) Skills List
A - G

Assign Passwords and Maintain Database Access

Agile Development

Agile Project Methodology

Amazon Web Services (AWS)

Analytics

Analytical

Analyze and Recommend Database Improvements

Analyze Impact of Database Changes to the Business

Audit Database Access and Requests

APIs

Application and Server Monitoring Tools

Applications

Application Development

Attention to Detail

Architecture

Business Analytics

Business Intelligence

Business Process Modeling

Cloud Applications

Cloud Based Visualizations

Cloud Hosting Services

Cloud Maintenance Tasks

Cloud Management Tools

Cloud Platforms

Cloud Scalability

Cloud Services

Cloud Systems Administration

Coding

Communication

Configure Database Software

Configuration

Configuration Management

Content Strategy

Content Management

Continually Review Processes for Improvement

Continuous Deployment

Continuous Integration

Critical Thinking

Customer Support

Database

Data Analysis

Data Analytics

Data Imports

Data Imports

Data Intelligence

Data Mining

Data Modeling

Data Science

Data Strategy

Data Storage

Data Visualization Tools

Data Visualizations

Database Administration

Deploying Applications in a Cloud Environment

Deployment Automation Tools

Deployment of Cloud Services

Design

Desktop Support

Design

Design and Build Database Management System

Design Principles

Design Prototypes

Design Specifications

Design Tools

Develop and Secure Network Structures

Develop and Test Methods to Synchronize Data

Development

Documentation

Emerging Technologies

File Systems

Flexibility

Front End Design

Google Analytics

H - M

Hardware

Help Desk

Identify User Needs

Implement Backup and Recovery Plan

Implementation

Information Architecture

Information Design

Information Systems

Interaction Design

Interaction Flows

Install, Maintain, and Merge Databases

Installation

Integrated Technologies

Integrating Security Protocols with Cloud Design

Internet

IT Optimization

IT Security

IT Soft Skills

IT Solutions

IT Support

Languages

Logical Thinking

Leadership

Linux

Management

Messaging

Methodology

Metrics

Microsoft Office

Migrating Existing Workloads into Cloud Systems

Mobile Applications

Motivation

N - S

Networks

Network Operations

Networking

Open Source Technology Integration

Operating Systems

Operations

Optimize Queries on Live Data

Optimizing User Experiences

Optimizing Website Performance

Organization

Presentation

Programming

Problem Solving

Process Flows

Product Design

Product Development

Prototyping Methods

Product Development

Product Management

Product Support

Product Training

Project Management

Repairs

Reporting

Research Emerging Technology

Responsive Design

Review Existing Solutions

Search Engine Optimization (SEO)

Security

Self Motivated

Self Starting

Servers

Software

Software Development

Software Engineering

Software Quality Assurance (QA)

Solid Project Management Capabilities

Solid Understanding of Company's Data Needs

Storage

Strong Technical and Interpersonal Communication

Support

Systems Software

T - Z

User Research

User Testing

Usability

User-Centered Design

User Experience

User Flows

User Interface

User Interaction Diagrams

User Research

User Testing

UI / UX

Utilizing Cloud Automation Tools

Virtualization

Visual Design

Web Analytics

Web Applications

Web Development

Web Design

Web Technologies

Wireframes

Work Independently

How to Use Skill Lists to Help Your Job Application

This A to Z list can assist you in your application process in a few different ways:

Identify which skills you have: Sometimes, candidates take their skills and abilities for granted. When you have been doing a task or have had a certain bit of knowledge for a while, it can seem unexciting. For an employer, though, your personal mix of skills - including the ones you take for granted - could make you the perfect candidate. That is, if an employer is looking to upgrade documentation, then of two candidates with the necessary coding experience, the candidate who also mentions technical writing abilities will stand out and have an edge. Go through this list and identify all the skills you have.

Identify which skills employers need: As you review the list above, what might stand out most is skills you need to get a job, and do not currently have. If there is a skill on this list that you often see mentioned in job postings, consider taking a class or finding a way to gain experience in the area.

Emphasize skills in your application: Your cover letter and resume are a place to showcase your skills. (Here's information on what to include in a resume skills section.) As well, you'll also want to highlight your skills during interviews. Keep these skills in mind when you are reviewing job advertisements - think about how the position's requirements match up to these skills.

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Information technology is a growing field. Commonly referred to as IT, there are many job titles in the field. From programming and database creation to providing general technical support, there are roles for people with many areas of interest, and many levels of expertise.

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You can often find articles discussing a skills gap in today's workforce. What this means varies, depending on the source, the profession and the skills being addressed. Different industries have different needs, as do workers in different stages of their professional lives. It's not easy to address them all.

My colleague, Pam Wright, wrote in a past issue about the need for soft skills training - those crucial customer service and collaborative skills that are relevant to all industries. These remain as important as ever, but businesses are also looking for something else that has an impact on day-to-day operations and future success: computer skills.

At first, this seems like a no-brainer. Of course, computer skills are important. It's 2017 - technology is everywhere. Everyone has a smartphone, tablet or other device. Even with so much technology in our lives, those everyday interactions don't always translate to the workplace.

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics found in 2012 that more than half of jobs required some kind of technology skills. By 2020, that number is forecast to reach 77 percent. That means in less than three years three out of four jobs in this country will require some level of computer proficiency.

Microsoft Office skills are some of the most in-demand skills. Competency in Word, Access, Excel, PowerPoint and Outlook are desirable skills among new hires and can be pivotal for current employees to advance. A recent survey by global research firm IDC found entry-level employees in high-growth industries who hold Microsoft certifications can earn up to $16,000 more annually. In a survey of hiring managers, Microsoft found 91 percent included Microsoft Office Specialist certification in their hiring criteria.

It's impossible to talk about technology without also addressing information technology professionals. As technology and computer skills become more important in the workplace, so do the people who manage network security, hardware and maintenance.

CompTIA A+ certification is recognized worldwide as one of the best ways for entry-level employees to gain valuable IT knowledge. CompTIA A+ is vendor neutral, which means you gain skills to work across platforms, including Windows, Android, iOS, Linux and A+. Hawkeye Community College has created a new IT certificate program to prepare you for CompTIA A+ certification. This course meets twice weekly from September to December, covering IT fundamentals, customer service and CompTIA A+.

For those interested in earning their Microsoft Office certification, Hawkeye offers a new Microsoft Office Specialist Certificate in July and September. The 48-hour class prepares you to become certified in the most common software tool in the world.

Both programs were created with an understanding of current workforce needs and an eye on future demands. Computer skills, IT skills, and technology in general will continue to be a major factor in our economy. Certification shows employers you not only have the training to meet their needs, but you have demonstrated the skills to put that training into action.

For more information about these certification programs, call (319) 296-4290 or visit www.hawkeyecollege.edu/workplace-certifications.

Christi Mason is community education manager for Hawkeye Community College Business and Community Education.

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Computer skills a must in today's workforce

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You can often find articles discussing a skills gap in today's workforce. What this means varies, depending on the source, the profession and the skills being addressed. Different industries have different needs, as do workers in different stages of their professional lives. It's not easy to address them all.

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In today's economic climate, don't underestimate the importance of computer literacy in job hunting. Even if you're not planning to work in a traditional office environment, basic computer skills will still be a tremendous asset.

What is Computer Literacy?

Typically, the term "computer literacy" is used to describe the ability to understand how to use a computer effectively. On a practical level, computer literacy often includes the ability to perform the following tasks:

Opening, saving, and printing files

Reading and sending email messages, including those with attachments

Using the Internet to find information

Formatting simple documents using Microsoft Word or other word processing software

Creating tables and databases using software such as Microsoft Word or Microsoft Access

Editing digital photographs

Building basic Web pages

In some industries, the term "computer literacy" may be used to describe proficiency in specific types of software related to the duties of a particular position.

Understanding the Importance of Computer Literacy in Job Hunting

The importance of computer literacy in job hunting can't be overestimated. For example:

There are thousands of different Web sites available to provide information on topics such as writing your resume and answering common interview questions.

If you're interested in changing careers, you can use the Internet to take career assessment tests and research how your current skills may translate to a new industry.

Salary surveys can help you know how much money someone with your skills and experience can expect in a new position.

Since many companies now advertise open positions on their Web sites or through online databases such as Monster.com, someone with strong computer skills is better able to access listings that match their qualifications and career goals.

If you're interested in relocating, the Internet is often the best available resource for finding information about employment and housing in the community of your choice.

Using your computer to apply for jobs is convenient. Sending resumes and cover letters via email only takes a few minutes and ensures instant delivery. You'll also save a bundle on postage costs!

Computer Literacy in the Workplace

Even if you manage to find your dream job without a firm grasp of the essential aspects of computer literacy, technological skills are becoming increasingly valued by employers. In fact, one recent survey placed computer literacy just below communication skills and analytical ability on an employer's "wish list" for new hires. Even jobs that once required no computer skills at all, such as truck driving or food service, now commonly involve using a computer to communicate with other employees, file progress reports with a supervisor, or submit timecard information for payroll processing.

Improving Your Computer Skills

Since technology is constantly evolving, keeping your computer skills up to date should be thought of as a lifelong journey.

There are a number of books available providing instruction on a variety of computer-related topics. For example:

If you are in need of more detailed computer training, contact your local community college. Most schools have short continuing education classes available for adults who are interested in developing their computer literacy. The classes are usually very affordable and often held on nights or weekends to better accommodate busy schedules.

Additional Information

If you are interested in learning more about developing your computer skills and the importance of computer literacy in job hunting, LoveToKnow Jobs recommends visiting the following helpful resources:

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Importance of Computer Literacy in Job Hunting | LoveToKnow

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In today's economic climate, don't underestimate the importance of computer literacy in job hunting. Even if you're not planning to work in a traditional office environment, basic computer skills will still be a tremendous asset. Typically, the term "computer literacy" is used to describe the ability to understand how to use a computer effectively.

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Computer skills are necessary for ANY job

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Computer skills are necessary for ANY job

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You may have heard that a world-famous Jamaican runner set a few records during the 2012 Olympic Games. One of them wasn't even done on the track: He garnered over 80,000 Tweets per minute after he broke the Olympic record for the 200 meter dash... which he had already owned. Now that's a productive day.

Even if you don't use Twitter, you are probably aware of what it is, or at least know that it's "a big thing nowadays." Pop culture has formed a happy symbiosis with it, as it has with Twitter's social media cohort, Facebook. Don't be surprised if some of your students own expensive phones for the sole purpose of texting and posting - but don't own a computer.

That's all well and good, but what does that mean for the workplace? Isn't social media used for socializing? Or does it also have a place at the office?

Let's back up a minute and ask a larger question about technological literacy: What workplace computer skills do you need to operate effectively at your job? For those who may be entering college or the workforce, what are the basic computer skills they will need to perform and prosper?

Keyboarding
Typing is a very handy skill, as it's very likely a computer keyboard will need to be used at some point. Make sure students are comfortable with the keyboard, including the number pad and function keys.

Also, a computer mouse is very commonplace, but fortunately it is easy to use. Given that the average computer has a fairly simple interface, a little bit of practice with both the keyboard and mouse should afford a high comfort level.

Microsoft Software
In part, we can answer that question with a different one: Why does Microsoft consistently dominate technology news? The answer: the popularity of their software. Even if your students don't use them in your program, chances are they will eventually need to learn them.

Excel (for data spreadsheets), Outlook (for email) and Word (for writing/word processing) are the primary Office components, and you'll need to teach them if you don't already. PowerPoint is also very popular for some careers. Be sure to get your students comfortable with this type of software, as it's not going away anytime soon.

Email and the Internet
Let's move on to that information superhighway called the Internet and its most common uses: email and the World Wide Web. There are literally billions of email accounts in existence, and that number is growing. Sending messages electronically in general is an assumed skill these days. Text, e-chat or email, it's all about sending information instantly to another party. Your students should understand the concepts of writing, replying to (and replying to all) and forwarding emails, as well as how attachments and links work.

And now, the true goliath of the virtual world, the Web. So how does one get onto it and use it? There are many commonly used software applications for surfing the web. Browsing can be done quickly and easily with Microsoft Internet Explorer, Mozilla Firefox, Google Chrome, Apple Safari and Opera, just to name a few. The good news is that they are all free. Your students should get to experience several different browsers to get a feel for how they work. Make sure they understand:

1. What a URL is

2. How to click on links

3. How to use a search engine such as Google or Bing

4. What popups are

5. How to recognize and avoid potentially harmful links

Though Internet workplace usage is not universal, it can be a good informational resource. Have no doubts, however: there is a lot of false and misleading information out there, so always teach your students to consider the source. Websites for reputable newspapers and magazines are a good place to start, and can also be used in your lesson plans.

The bottom line is that the average computer literacy a user should know is how to open, create, and send files using Windows, Office, email, and the Internet. Sure, they may wind up using a different operating system or productivity suite, but just consider that experience a bonus for their resume. If anyone needs instruction on any of these applications, they should look to their local library or community college for any available classes.

Tags: Computer Skills, education, Workplace

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Computer Skills That Are Necessary in the Workplace - Wonderlic

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Even if you don't use Twitter, you are probably aware of what it is, or at least know that it's "a big thing nowadays." Pop culture has formed a happy symbiosis with it, as it has with Twitter's social media cohort, Facebook.

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Microsoft offers certifications on server, desktop, application, database and developer platforms. This certification guide will help you get started with Microsoft's MTA, MCSA, MCSE, MCSD, Specialist credentials as well as MCT and MCE certs.

Microsoft is best known for its Windows operating systems and Office software, but it has a much broader product portfolio that includes online services (Bing, MSN, advertising), gaming (Xbox 360), hardware (tablets, PCs, keyboards and mice) and more. The company also has a robust certification program that churns out qualified administrators and technicians to support its system and application products.

Achieving IT certifications through the Microsoft Certification Program shows a person's competence in a specific Microsoft technology, and it can result in all kinds of work-related and personal benefits. For example, studies show that IT certifications increase the chances of landing a job (or getting a promotion), and more than 80 percent of hiring managers report that IT certs are a medium or high priority in making hiring decisions.

Microsoft Certification Program Overview

Currently, the Microsoft Certification Program is divided into five main categories:

Server: Windows Server, Exchange Server, Lync (now focused on Office 365 and Skype), SharePoint and Microsoft Azure certifications

Desktop: Windows, devices certifications

Applications: Office, Office 365 and Microsoft Dynamics certifications

Database: SQL Server certifications

Developer: Visual Studio, SharePoint, Applications and Microsoft Azure certifications

Certifications within the Microsoft Certification Program include the following credentials:

Microsoft Technology Associate (MTA)

Microsoft Certified Solutions Associate (MCSA)

Microsoft Certified Solutions Expert (MCSE)

Microsoft Solutions Developer (MCSD)

Microsoft Specialist

Microsoft Office Specialist (MOS)

After you pass your first qualifying Microsoft certification exam, you are deemed a Microsoft Certified Professional (MCP). MCP status provides access to a benefits and exams dashboard, with certificates and transcripts, downloadable certification logos, promotional offers and lots more. You also get the MCP designation on your Microsoft transcript. It's important to understand that only the MCSA, MCSE, MCSE and Specialist certifications qualify as MCP certs. Neither MTA nor MOS certifications qualify for MCP status, and none of the exams are prerequisites for MCSA, MCSE, MCSD or Specialist certifications.

In addition to the certifications outlined above, Microsoft offers its MCT: Microsoft Certified Trainer and MCE: Microsoft Certified Educator credentials to those interested in teaching others about Microsoft technologies and products.

MORE: IT Career Paths & Certification Guides
MORE: Best IT Certifications
MORE: Best IT Training

Microsoft Server Certifications

The Microsoft Server certification track includes MTA, MCSA and MCSE credentials. Within the MTA Server track there is one certification - namely, IT Infrastructure. To obtain it, a candidate needs to pass one of five exams, which cover topics that include fundamentals for server administration, networking, security, mobility and devices, and cloud.

The MCSA Server track includes Windows Server 2016, 2012 and 2008 and Linux on Azure certs. All the Windows Server tracks require three exams each. But only two exams are required for the Linux on Azure certification and the MCSA: Cloud Platform, each of which also serves as a prerequisite for the next item.

Until March 31, 2017, the MCSE Server track includes Cloud Platform and Infrastructure, Server Infrastructure, Private Cloud, Messaging, Communication and SharePoint. The Cloud Platform and Infrastructure prerequisites appear in the preceding paragraph. Server Infrastructure, Desktop Infrastructure and Private Cloud solution tracks take the MCSA: Windows Server 2012 as a prerequisite, while the Messaging, Communication and SharePoint solution tracks require the MCSA: Office 365 credential. Candidates must also pass one or two additional exams to earn an MCSE Server credential. Starting April 1, 2017, the only remaining item in this track will be the MCSE: Cloud Platform and Infrastructure.

Microsoft Desktop Certifications

The Microsoft Desktop certification path includes Microsoft Specialist, MTA and MCSA certifications. The Microsoft Specialist in Windows 10 requires passing one exam. The MTA Desktop certification path has one certification - IT Infrastructure - just like the MTA Server track mentioned previously. The MTA IT Infrastructure track is earned by passing one of five exams on Windows Server administration, networking, security, mobility and device fundamentals, or cloud.

MCSA Desktop certification includes a single credential for Windows 10 as of Jan. 1, 2017. Earning the MCSA: Windows 10 requires passing two exams.

Until March 31, 2017, there are two MCSE Desktop certifications. The MCSE: Enterprise Devices and Apps retires at that date. The other credential is the MCSE: Mobility, and it continues forward as the only desktop-related credentials thereafter. This requires earning the MCSA: Windows 10 plus one more exam.

Microsoft Database Certifications

Microsoft's Database certification path includes the MTA, MCSA and MCSE. The MTA Database track requires one exam. There are two certs in the MCSA Database track at the moment - namely, the MCSA: SQL Server 2012/2014 and the MCSA: SQL 2016, both of which require three exams. The newer credential is recommended for those just starting down the database trail, because the older is likely to retire in the next year or two.

The MCSE Database track offers three certifications as of early 2017: one newer credential is the MCSE: Data Management and Analytics, while two older ones are the MCSE: Data Platform and MCSE: Business Intelligence. The newer requires four exams (MCSA plus one additional), while the older ones require five exams (MCSA plus two additional). The two older credentials will retire on March 31, 2017, after which only the MCSE: Data Management and Analytics will remain available. My earlier recommendation for the 2016 MCSA applies equally to this situation, especially for those just starting after Microsoft's database certifications.

Microsoft Developer Certifications

The Microsoft Developer certification path includes MTA and MCSD certifications. The MTA Developer certification recognizes individuals who are entry-level software developers. The certification requires candidates to pass one of three exams. Possible topics include software development fundamentals, HTML5 app development fundamentals, and software testing fundamentals.

The MCSD Developer track has six certifications to choose from: App Builder, Web Applications, SharePoint Applications, Azure Solutions Architect, Application Lifecycle Management and Universal Windows Platform (UWP). All of those credentials except for App Builder are scheduled to retire on March 31, 2017. Thus, unless you're already working on one of the others and have time to finish beforehand, you'll want to focus on App Builder. It requires earning either the MSCA: Web Applications or MCSA: UWP as its prerequisite, followed by your choice of one exam from a list of nine possible options. (The SharePoint exams retire on March 31 as well.)

Microsoft Applications Certifications

Certifications in the Microsoft Applications track vary widely, from proving competency in using a single Office product to managing Office 365 services and user login credentials. This track is also fairly large; it includes an MCSA certification as well as the entire Microsoft Office Specialist ( MOS), MOS Expert and MOS Master offerings.

The MCSA Applications track includes a single cert - the MCSA: Office 365. Two exams are required to obtain the credential. Microsoft offers a MOS Office 2016 certification for each Office application (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook, Access, SharePoint and OneNote). Office 2010 and 2013 credentials are still available, but unless you have a specific reason for achieving them, focus on Office 2016.

The MOS 2016 Expert certification identifies individuals with advanced Office skills and requires candidates to pass four exams. The MOS 2016 Master certification is the pinnacle of the MOS Certification Program and requires successful completion of six exams.

Microsoft Trainer And Educator Certifications
MCT: Microsoft Certified Trainer
Folks who teach others about Microsoft technologies and products should consider (and are often required to have) the Microsoft Certified Trainer (MCT) certification. The MCT can be obtained by submitting an application to Microsoft that proves that you hold a current Microsoft certification, one year of instruction experience (supporting reference required), plus verifiable instructional skills in the form of an acceptable instructor certification (such as CompTIA CTT+, Microsoft Certified Trainer Instructional Skills Certification (MCT-ISC) or IAMCT Approved Technical Trainer).

To renew, credential holders must possess at least one current Microsoft credential, meet the minimum instruction requirements of teaching at least one class, and maintain a Metrics that Matter quality score of at least seven. (Check the MCT website for a list of qualifying certifications and instructor certifications.)

As an MCT, you have access to the MCP benefits and exams dashboard, prep kits, the MCT community, Microsoft Online Labs and much more.
MCE: Microsoft Certified Educator
The Microsoft Certified Educator (MCE) credential is aimed at educators in academia, such as colleges, universities and training facilities. To become an MCE, you must demonstrate technology literacy through one exam.

The literacy competency is mapped to the UNESCO ITC Competency Framework for Teachers, Technology Literacy and includes education policy, curriculum and assessment, pedagogy, ICT/technology tools, organization and administration, and professional development.
Related Jobs And Careers
IT professionals who earn Microsoft certification often receive extra recognition from hiring and supervising managers, and enjoy improved on the job success and promotion opportunities. Companies that negotiate large volume purchase or subscription agreements with Microsoft (or its partner resellers) often include funding for official curriculum training and Microsoft certification exam vouchers as part of what's covered therein.

Here are how the various Microsoft certification areas shake out, job- and career-wise:

A Microsoft Server certification is ideal for the IT professional who designs, deploys, configures and/or manages a Windows Server environment, which may include various desktops and devices. Folks who achieve this type of certification work as systems administrators, systems analysts, technical specialists (often with a platform focus such as SQL Server, Skype for Business or Exchange Server), and the like.

A Microsoft Desktop certification is designed for those who deploy, configure and/or manage a Windows desktop environment and related devices, whether on-premises or in the cloud. IT professionals with this type of certification usually fill positions such as help desk technicians, support personnel and systems administrators, to name a few.

Of late, Microsoft Applications credentials have been gathering interest, coverage and momentum. People who pursue these certifications work with key windows platforms such as Office, Office 365 and Microsoft Dynamics 365, which covers CRM, ERP and more. They are usually responsible for making sure that rank-and-file employees are able to work effectively and productively, and that technology provides a boost to the bottom line.

Microsoft Database certifications cover a lot of ground. Database design, creation and maintenance are particularly important to organizations today, considering that data storage is key to most business computing, and nearly every website is supported by one or more databases running in the background. A database administrator is in charge of all kinds of database-related functions, from development, to storage and retrieval, troubleshooting and security. Now, Microsoft's database coverage also integrates business intelligence (BI) and Big Data/Data Analytics components, too, so IT professionals interested in these subject matters will find a lot to chase down and learn here, too.

Microsoft Developer certifications aim at application and mobile app developers who use programming languages and source code to create software. A developer may work independently or, more often, with a team, to develop, prototype, deploy, test and modify applications for computers and many types of electronic devices. This certification portfolio also includes development for Microsoft's cloud-based Azure environment, and for software lifecycle management as well.

Trainers (MCTs) and educators (MCEs) also play a vital role in the Microsoft ecosystem as well. MCTs populate the front lines of key training for IT professionals across all of its platforms, tools and technologies with an emphasis on cultivating workplace readiness and imparting skills and knowledge suitable for on-the-job deployment. Arguably, MCEs are even more important, by helping students at all levels of education - primary, secondary and beyond - to understand and make the most of Microsoft tools, technologies, platforms and development environments.

Training and Certification Preparation Materials
Microsoft offers training to candidates directly, both in the classroom and online. The company's Microsoft Virtual Academy ( MVA) is a great place to start poking around: it offers a huge range of free training courses, many of them at least relevant to various certification topics if not directly focused on such topics.

There's also a huge aftermarket for Microsoft training, self-study and certification preparation. Pearson operates Microsoft Press on Microsoft's behalf, where you can find self-study guides for all of the popular Microsoft cert exams (and many of the not-so-popular exams as well). Pearson's IT Certification imprint (online at PearsonITCertification.com) also offers study guides, exam crams (a series I invented), practice tests, video training materials and much more for Microsoft certification candidates. Wiley/Sybex and Osborne/McGraw-Hill also offer certification focused imprints, book series, and generally provide good coverage of major cert topics as well, also including most popular Microsoft certifications and related exams. Pearson's mindhub online store also offers "official" practice tests approved by Microsoft.

There's a wealth of excellent material available to help candidates prepare. Look to online and peer reviews, study groups and ratings sites to separate the wheat from the chaff.

Microsoft is best known for its Windows operating systems and Office software, but it has a much broader product portfolio that includes online services (Bing, MSN, advertising), gaming (Xbox 360), hardware (tablets, PCs, keyboards and mice) and more. The company also has a robust certification program that churns out qualified administrators and technicians to support its system and application products.

Server: Windows Server, Exchange Server, Lync (now focused on Office 365 and Skype), SharePoint and Microsoft Azure certifications

Desktop: Windows, devices certifications

Applications: Office, Office 365 and Microsoft Dynamics certifications

Database: SQL Server certifications

Developer: Visual Studio, SharePoint, Applications and Microsoft Azure certifications

Microsoft Technology Associate (MTA)

Microsoft Certified Solutions Associate (MCSA)

Microsoft Certified Solutions Expert (MCSE)

Microsoft Solutions Developer (MCSD)

Microsoft Specialist

Microsoft Office Specialist (MOS)

MCT: Microsoft Certified Trainer MCE: Microsoft Certified Educator Related Jobs And Careers

A Microsoft Server certification is ideal for the IT professional who designs, deploys, configures and/or manages a Windows Server environment, which may include various desktops and devices. Folks who achieve this type of certification work as systems administrators, systems analysts, technical specialists (often with a platform focus such as SQL Server, Skype for Business or Exchange Server), and the like.

A Microsoft Desktop certification is designed for those who deploy, configure and/or manage a Windows desktop environment and related devices, whether on-premises or in the cloud. IT professionals with this type of certification usually fill positions such as help desk technicians, support personnel and systems administrators, to name a few.

Of late, Microsoft Applications credentials have been gathering interest, coverage and momentum. People who pursue these certifications work with key windows platforms such as Office, Office 365 and Microsoft Dynamics 365, which covers CRM, ERP and more. They are usually responsible for making sure that rank-and-file employees are able to work effectively and productively, and that technology provides a boost to the bottom line.

Microsoft Database certifications cover a lot of ground. Database design, creation and maintenance are particularly important to organizations today, considering that data storage is key to most business computing, and nearly every website is supported by one or more databases running in the background. A database administrator is in charge of all kinds of database-related functions, from development, to storage and retrieval, troubleshooting and security. Now, Microsoft's database coverage also integrates business intelligence (BI) and Big Data/Data Analytics components, too, so IT professionals interested in these subject matters will find a lot to chase down and learn here, too.

Microsoft Developer certifications aim at application and mobile app developers who use programming languages and source code to create software. A developer may work independently or, more often, with a team, to develop, prototype, deploy, test and modify applications for computers and many types of electronic devices. This certification portfolio also includes development for Microsoft's cloud-based Azure environment, and for software lifecycle management as well.

Trainers (MCTs) and educators (MCEs) also play a vital role in the Microsoft ecosystem as well. MCTs populate the front lines of key training for IT professionals across all of its platforms, tools and technologies with an emphasis on cultivating workplace readiness and imparting skills and knowledge suitable for on-the-job deployment. Arguably, MCEs are even more important, by helping students at all levels of education - primary, secondary and beyond - to understand and make the most of Microsoft tools, technologies, platforms and development environments.

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Microsoft Certification Guide: Overview And Career Paths - Introduction

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Microsoft offers certifications on server, desktop, application, database and developer platforms. This certification guide will help you get started with Microsoft's MTA, MCSA, MCSE, MCSD, Specialist credentials as well as MCT and MCE certs.

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Job hunting has never been an easy process. In today's dynamic technology-laden society, how can we know what are must have skills? We may think we are up-to-date just to see a new version released or an application that we were considered an expert in be removed from the desired programs in most job descriptions.

Many job descriptions contain at least one Microsoft Office program. From my search through many jobs and from talking to students in my classes. The two software programs I hear about most are Excel and Word. Aside from those two, the most frequently referred to programs are Outlook, PowerPoint, and Access. From my experience and research (LinkedIn, Indeed, etc.), here are the most desired skills for each of the Microsoft Office applications.

Analyze Tables

Charts & Sparklines

Create Spreadsheets

Create Tables

Conditional Formatting

Convert Text to Columns

Data Analysis

Data Validation

Formulas

Functions (Logical, Financial, Statistical, Date and Time)

Goal Seek, Scenario Manager, Solver

Group Data

Macros

PivotTables & PivotCharts

Compare and Merge documents

Create and Manage Comments

Create Forms using fields and advanced form tools

Create Labels

Create and Use Templates

Formatting Documents

Formatting Tables

Grammar Check

Mail Merge & using Outlook for recipient list

Macros

Page Setup

Printing

Sharing & Protecting Documents

Spell Check

Text Formatting

Track Changes

Auto Reply

Calendars (Share and Configure)

Cc: and Bcc:

Configure Email Settings

Create an Electronic Business Card

Create and Send Email Messages

Email

Email Filters

Emailing Documents

Manage Junk Mail

Manage Folders

Plan Meetings

Scheduling

Set Message Rules

Sending Attachments

Set Up Email Signatures

Tasks (Create, Schedule, and Delegate)

Broadcast and Share a Slideshow

Create Presentations

Create and Format Templates

Create Interactive Slideshows (use transitions, animation and buttons)

Insert, Embed and Link data and media from other applications

Insert Hyperlinks

Insert and Format Media (Sound, Video, Across slides)

Link and Embed Video

Work with Slide Masters

Use the Advanced Timeline

Create & Design Databases

Create Advanced Queries

Calculated Controls

Data Sorting and Filtering

Establish Relationships and Join lines between tables

Use VBA and SQL within Access

Use other Office applications with Access

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Top Microsoft Office Skills Needed by Job Seekers - Onsite Software Training from Versitas

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Job hunting has never been an easy process. In today's dynamic technology-laden society, how can we know what are must have skills? We may think we are up-to-date just to see a new version released or an application that we were considered an expert in be removed from the desired programs in most job descriptions.