Is The CIW Certification A Joke?

There's a relatively new certification in town. It's call the Certified Internet Webmaster certification, and it's purpose is to ensure that someone understands the basics of webmastering. There are a number of sub-certifications covering different aspects of the industry. The tests and associated classes are "meat and potatoes" type classes - they go over the basics and ensure you understand them.

The CIW certification is NOT a joke. It's industry accepted and very useful. However, if you went into them with the concept that "you already know it all" or "it's a big joke" or some other similar things, then you are correct - you won't get anything from the classes.

I took the CIW security class and found it very useful. Yes, I already knew a lot of the data but there was enough new material to still be useful. A refresher can be good as well, and it was nice to sharpen my skills - even though I am an advanced security expert.

My advice as a manager with 25 years of experience (and several previous VP positions) is to take the tests. If you've already paid for the classes a few bucks more to get additional benefits would be the rational choice.

Managers do hire entry level people, however, entry level people get entry level salaries and positions.

Some tips:

  1. Create your own web site and show off your talents in it's creation. If you are looking for a webmaster type job, creating one or more web sites is a great way to prove you are good.

  2. Become a consultant.

  3. Do volunteer work to build up your resume. Find someone who needs a site built and do it in return for a letter of reference

  4. Work in a school computer lab

  5. Sign up at a school which offers internship programs. This allows you (as part of a course) to do a project for a company. The company donates some money to the school for the use of you and some other students on the project. My company has used this several times with great success.

  6. Network at industry conventions.

  7. Write articles, letters to the editors and frequent newsgroups - and participate.

The point is "there ain't no such thing as a free lunch". Yes, people will give you a chance now and then, but you've got to show them how you can help them out.

The wrong approach is "I need a job". The right approach is "I can help you with this and this and this". As a manager, I want to know how you are going to help me and my company. I have little to no interest in helping you. It sounds harsh, but I don't care that a person needs a job - millions of people need jobs. I care that a person can solve one or more problems. That's the tip that will get you hired.

   

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