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A lot of people ask me: “Mike, should I get CompTIA certifications?”

My answer isn’t just yes, it’s YES and here’s WHY these are steppingstones for you. Becoming a great IT Tech is about learning the fundamentals and adding to your skills one building block of knowledge at a time. Any successful career is about starting with a firm foundation.

Getting your A+ and Network+ certifications makes the Security+ journey easier and more rewarding as you invest in bettering yourself. This breadth of knowledge will open doors of opportunity. Having these foundational certifications gives you a better understanding of a growing body of knowledge and builds your confidence. Knowing the terminology helps you master each next step.

Most recruiters now use automated scanners to scan for credentials. These CompTIA Certifications helps your resume get to the top of their list. Having certifications makes it A LOT easier to get an interview, and tells interviewers that you love tech much that you were willing to put in the time and effort to learn the basics and build your skills. In other words, the certifications provide tangible proof of your commitment; talking the talk in an interview lets potential employers feel confident in your skills

Then they ask: “How do I get prepared for the certifications?”

Everyone learns differently, and you have to be honest with your study skills. Self-study is ideal for basic IT skills both for building certifications on your resume. As you build your skills and advance your career there comes a point where you need hands-on training to learn the material properly.

When do you need to move from self-study to hands-on? As you advance, the skills become harder but from a learning standpoint it depends on how hard you want to work with self-study and your own learning ability, it is different for everyone. You will know when you need the extra help that hands-on provides when you find it hard to fully understand the skills through only self-study.

DON’T FORGET! CompTIA will be increasing their exam prices February 1st. If you are taking CompTIA exam in 2024, purchase an exam voucher now and pay 2023 prices for your certification exam in 2024!

In the IT industry more certifications is key to not only getting in to a career, but also advancing in your career.  It’s a New Year, start working on your certifications now and get where you want to be in your career in 2024.

Don’t miss my offer below to get your Security+ certification with live training!

See ya,
Mike

Make your Security+ goal apart of “new year, new me” resolutions with $500 Live Training New Years Offer!

What if you could engage in interactive instructor-led training, part-time, and from the comfort of your home to become Security+ certified? Imagine what that would do for your confidence… your career — and at the perfect time ahead of the new year when more jobs are posted and hired than any other time!

The part-time weekly schedule is simple: Mondays – Thursdays from 6 – 9 PM and Saturdays from 9 – 2 PM (U.S. Central Time) starting January 13th and finishing March 7th.

PLUS: Even though you’ll receive tons of materials (references) and have 6+ hours of live practice sessions each week, I’m throwing in the ultimate reference, my video training course FREE!

Total Seminars has resources to help you self-study for your CompTIA Certifications

Total Seminars e-books are now available: Check out all of our e-book titles. Available 24/7 for immediate access on the Total Seminars Training Hub.

Practice Tests: TotalTester practice tests have hundreds of questions in a pool that allows you to create custom exams by exam domain or by chapter. Take tests in Practice mode with assistance (hints and explanations) or in Final mode to see if you are ready for the real exams. Includes complete explanations for each question.

Interactive simulations: TotalSims for A+ and Network+ have hundreds of online simulated labs. Prepare for CompTIA’s performance-based questions and learn more about technical concepts covered on the exams.

US and International Discount Exam Vouchers: Purchase a CompTIA voucher and save on the cost of your exams.

Today I’m talking Security+ because it is time to decide if you will take the SY0-601 or SY0-701. If you are taking the SY0-601, you need to buckle down on your studies; the retirement date is July 31st.

The SY0-701 has the same number of exam domains as SY0-601 but less objectives (28 vs. 35). The idea with the changes is to focus the objectives on the job role in a maturing industry. (Take a look at the comparison at the bottom of the blog.)

Also know that about 20% of the exam will cover new topics.  The topics include the latest trends in threats, attacks, vulnerabilities, automation, zero trust, risk, IoT, OT and cloud environments are emphasized, as well as communication, reporting and teamwork.  In addition, it will include new techniques for cybersecurity professionals working in hybrid environments that are located in the cloud and on premises; cybersecurity professionals should be familiar with both worlds.

You may have read my blog comparing Online Instructor-Led vs Self-Study Training, both can be successful and require your commitment to study. I started Total Seminars as instructor led training.  It took time for me to develop my self-study program because I know how hard it was for me to stay on track with many of the programs I had taken in the past, and it was important for me to create a solid program.

There are pros and cons to each, data says that Instructor-Led is more successful in passing the exam. The downside of course is that instructor-led for Security+ even from CompTIA costs $2500 and up. You know getting a tech job or promotion by becoming Security+ Certified is more valuable than $2500, but it is just not possible for everyone to afford instructor led.

You need three things to maximize your Security+ preparation: (1) Training, (2) Reference, and (3) Practice.

Training: You need a way to systematically be introduced to new concepts and understand how they relate to each other.
Reference: Nobody can hold all this information down this long, so a good book is a great reference of knowledge as you build your knowledge; and
Practice: All humans learn by doing, and for exams, practice (tests/questions) makes perfect

For those of you considering cutting corners on this, never underestimate the value of preparation and resources; they are the keys to turning potential into triumph. How you go about getting those resources is up to you, but for those of you who are serious about passing Security+ BEFORE the SY0-601 retires, here’s some more sage advice!

A wise man once said, best time to start was yesterday; the second-best is today. If you really want to be a “new you” in the new year, get started today and don’t miss my New Years offer below.

Remember the Security+ is changing, buckle down and get your certification before the SY0-601 retires. DON’T FORGET! CompTIA will be increasing their exam prices February 1st.  Purchase an exam voucher now and pay 2023 prices for your certification exam in 2024!

See ya,
Mike
_________________________________________________________________________________________________________
Make your Security+ goal apart of “new year, new me” resolutions with $500 Live Training New Years Offer!

What if you could engage in interactive instructor-led training, part-time, and from the comfort of your home to become Security+ certified? Imagine what that would do for your confidence… your career — and at the perfect time ahead of the new year when more jobs are posted and hired than any other time!
The part-time weekly schedule is simple: Mondays – Thursdays from 6 – 9 PM and Saturdays from 9 – 2 PM (U.S. Central Time) starting January 13th and finishing March 7th.

PLUS: Even though you’ll receive tons of materials (references) and have 6+ hours of live practice sessions each week, I’m throwing in the ultimate reference, my video training course FREE!

I must thank CyberNow Labs Institute (the world’s biggest cybersecurity career training school) for offering to do this for this price for the first 25 Sign Ups ONLY. For the upcoming January 13th course, you can enroll in CyberNow Labs Institute’s 8-week part-time and instructor-led Security+ training for 80% OFF the CompTIA price of $2500 (just $500.00!!)!!

Complete this Special Application and book a call while there is still space.  If no time is available, just email enrollment@cybernowlabs.com with the subject line “Request Mike Meyers Enrollment Packet”.

Program FAQs
Starts January 13th and ends March 7th.
All training is live & online (15-hrs per week)
All training will be recorded, so you can access anytime
Includes Mike Meyers Video Training Course
Full refunds available before January 13th

Mike

Join me for a live webinar hosted by CyberNow Labs for Hands on Cyber Career Training

US and International Discount Exam Vouchers: Purchase a CompTIA voucher and save on the cost of your exams.

Practice Tests: TotalTester practice tests have hundreds of questions in a pool that allows you to create custom exams by exam domain or by chapter. Take tests in Practice mode with assistance (hints and explanations) or in Final mode (simulate the real exams). Includes complete explanations for each question.

Interactive simulations: TotalSims for A+, Network+, and NEW! Security+, hundreds of online simulated labs. Prepare for CompTIA’s performance-based questions and learn more about technical concepts covered on the exams.

Total Seminars e-books are available: Check out all of our e-book titles. Available 24/7 for immediate access on the Total Seminars Training Hub

In the rapidly evolving landscape of Information Technology (IT), the need to fast-track your career has never been more critical. With emerging technologies, digital transformations, and a constant demand for skilled professionals, the IT industry offers ample opportunities for career growth. In order advance your career, you need effective strategies and you need a love for technology.

Keep the Learning Vibe Alive:
Stay in the loop with the latest tech. Whether it is reading the latest tech sites or taking courses, find your know what is going on in the tech world. Upgrading your skills while sipping on your favorite coffee.

Dive Deep into Hot Tech Areas:
Find your IT niche – look at what is in-demand, cybersecurity, cloud, and AI. Becoming the go-to person in these areas not only makes you a tech maestro but also a commodity in the job market.

Network Like You Mean It:
Tech events, conferences, LinkedIn groups – your backstage passes to the IT party. Building connections with fellow techies not only makes work more enjoyable but also opens doors to exciting opportunities.

Take on Projects That Raise Your Pulse:
Don’t shy away from the challenging stuff. Taking on exciting projects is like choosing the hard mode in a video game – more obstacles, but the rewards are epic. It’s your chance to show off your skills and level up your career.

Certify Your Skills, Like a Boss:
Certifications are your badges of honor in the tech world. Grab them from big names like CompTIA and AWS. Employers do notice, and they can help you get job offers.

Lead with a Cool Head:
Unlock your leadership potential. Volunteer for leadership roles, mentor your tech buddies, and be the leader everyone wants on their team.

Flexibility Is Your Superpower:
Tech changes faster than you can say “upgrade”, you need to adapt to change effortlessly. Embrace new tech, and show the world your agility in the tech arena.

Craft Your Digital Persona:
Your online presence is your tech CV. Keep your LinkedIn profile updated, showcase your skills, and contribute to online tech discussions. It’s like having a spotlight on your skills.

Fast-tracking your IT career is an adventure. Stay curious, find your tech groove, and enjoy the ride. With a mix of fun and professionalism, you’ll be the tech hero of your career story.

Talk to you next week,

Mike

Join me for a live webinar hosted by CyberNow Labs for Hands on Cyber Career Training

US and International Discount Exam Vouchers: Purchase a CompTIA voucher and save on the cost of your exams.

Practice Tests: TotalTester practice tests have hundreds of questions in a pool that allows you to create custom exams by exam domain or by chapter. Take tests in Practice mode with assistance (hints and explanations) or in Final mode (simulate the real exams). Includes complete explanations for each question.

Interactive simulations: TotalSims for A+, Network+, and NEW! Security+, hundreds of online simulated labs. Prepare for CompTIA’s performance-based questions and learn more about technical concepts covered on the exams.

Total Seminars e-books are available: Check out all of our e-book titles. Available 24/7 for immediate access on the Total Seminars Training Hub

In the dynamic world of Information Technology (IT) it’s easy to focus solely on technical skills. However, the often-overlooked success of gaining an IT job are the soft skills – those interpersonal qualities that elevate a tech professional from being good to being exceptional. I want to talk about the vital role of soft skills in IT jobs and why they are crucial for career success.

1. Communication: Effective communication is the success in IT. Whether you’re explaining complex technical concepts to a non-technical stakeholder, collaborating with team members, or providing support to end-users, the ability to communicate clearly and concisely is how to set yourself apart from other techs. Soft skills like active listening and adapting your communication style to your audience can bridge the gap between technical jargon and understandable information.

2. Problem-Solving: IT professionals need to be the unsung heroes in problem-solving. Beyond coding and technical troubleshooting, the soft skill of problem-solving involves analytical thinking and the ability to approach challenges with creativity. The best IT professionals don’t just fix issues; they identify root causes, anticipate future problems, and implement solutions that prevent recurrence.

3. Teamwork: In the collaborative landscape of IT projects, teamwork is not just a buzzword; it’s a necessity. Soft skills related to teamwork include effective collaboration, conflict resolution, and the ability to contribute positively to a team. Whether you’re part of an development team or leading a project, your ability to work harmoniously with others is a key determinant of success.

4. Adaptability: IT is synonymous with change, and adaptability is the sail that helps professionals navigate through it. Adaptability and flexibility enable IT professionals to embrace new technologies, methodologies, and evolving project requirements. Those who can pivot with ease are better positioned to thrive in the ever-changing IT landscape.

5. Customer Service Excellence: Many IT professionals interact directly or indirectly with end-users or clients. A customer-focused mindset, and effective communication contribute to superior customer service. Understanding the end-user’s perspective is not just about fixing technical issues but also about ensuring a positive experience with IT services.

6. Time Management: Juggling multiple tasks and deadlines is the norm in IT. Time management, prioritization, and organization are essential. Being able to efficiently manage your time ensures that critical tasks are completed promptly, contributing to project success and client satisfaction.

7. Leadership in Every Role: Leadership skills extend beyond formal managerial roles. Even as a team member, you can exhibit leadership qualities such as initiative, influencing positive change, and taking ownership of projects. Soft skills in leadership contribute to a proactive and empowered IT culture.

In the ever-evolving landscape of IT jobs, soft skills are the glue that holds together technical expertise, creating a well-rounded and effective professional. As you navigate your IT career, remember that your ability to communicate, collaborate, problem-solve, adapt, and provide exceptional service is just as crucial as your technical prowess. Investing in and honing your soft skills will not only set you apart but will also propel your IT career to new heights. After all, in the fast-paced world of IT, it’s not just about the code; it’s about the people who make technology work seamlessly.

Talk to you next week,

Mike

Join me for a live webinar hosted by CyberNow Labs for Hands on Cyber Career Training

US and International Discount Exam Vouchers: Purchase a CompTIA voucher and save on the cost of your exams.

Practice Tests: TotalTester practice tests have hundreds of questions in a pool that allows you to create custom exams by exam domain or by chapter. Take tests in Practice mode with assistance (hints and explanations) or in Final mode (simulate the real exams). Includes complete explanations for each question.

Interactive simulations: TotalSims for A+, Network+, and NEW! Security+, hundreds of online simulated labs. Prepare for CompTIA’s performance-based questions and learn more about technical concepts covered on the exams.

Total Seminars e-books are available: Check out all of our e-book titles. Available 24/7 for immediate access on the Total Seminars Training Hub

An IT Career is all about validating your skills, staying current and always learning more. No matter what IT Career you choose you need to continue to add certifications to your resume. Check out my blog: More Certifications = More $$.

The biggest question is where to begin? Start by deciding what IT Career is for you.  Don’t look for a quick answer!

Self-assessment:  Identify your strengths and skills. Consider your interests, passions, and values. What activities make you feel fulfilled and satisfied?
Skills and Talents:   Make a list of your skills and talents. Consider what you excel at and enjoy doing.
Interests and Passions:  What do you enjoy doing in your free time?  Aligning your work with your interests can lead to a more satisfying career.
Research: Explore different industries and professions. Look into job descriptions, required qualifications, and career paths.
Education and Training: Determine if training is necessary for your desired career. Consider the time and resources required for this investment.
Adaptability:  Be open to adapting your career path based on new experiences and insights.

Next you need to determine what certifications do I need to succeed in the Career Path I have chosen? Below is a detailed Certification MAP that lays out a series of certifications you should consider as you build your skills towards each specific IT Career Path.

Remember, finding a career is a journey, not a destination.

Mike

Join me for a live webinar hosted by CyberNow Labs for Hands on Cyber Career Training

US and International Discount Exam Vouchers: Purchase a CompTIA voucher and save on the cost of your exams.

Practice Tests: TotalTester practice tests have hundreds of questions in a pool that allows you to create custom exams by exam domain or by chapter. Take tests in Practice mode with assistance (hints and explanations) or in Final mode (simulate the real exams). Includes complete explanations for each question.

Interactive simulations: TotalSims for A+, Network+, and NEW! Security+, hundreds of online simulated labs. Prepare for CompTIA’s performance-based questions and learn more about technical concepts covered on the exams.

Total Seminars e-books are now available: Check out all of our e-book titles. Available 24/7 for immediate access on the Total Seminars Training Hub

I have been talking about IT careers and Cyber careers this fall.  I hope you are moving forward in your studies for a successful career.  Studying for certification exams requires a systematic approach to cover the exam objectives to gain a solid understanding of the concepts and skills tested.  Don’t miss study tips in my study blog.

Prepare to pass your certification exams with study materials. Everyone has a different way of learning, it is hard to say what the is the best product for an individual to learn, you have assess that for yourself.  Determine what you need to seat the concepts in your mind!

For students who learn better in more of a classroom based learning with an instructor explaining topics, utilize computer based learning video series where an instructor teaches the concepts from the book.

For those who learn well by reading, look to exam guides. You can find a complete understanding  to prepare for a certification in an all in one book that will cover your from the basics to passing the exam.  If you are an existing tech, looking to pass the exam, I like to call you “swiss cheese” knowledge techs.  You know what you work with well, but need to fill in the “holes” to pass your exams, and don’t want a book that covers the basics. You are looking for the exam facts.

Get your hands dirty, practice, practice, practice.  Whether it is working with setting up the hardware or configuring the software, get some time working on your skills.  Use online interactive simulations to help you learn technical concepts and practice answering CompTIA’s performance-based questions. Hands on labs help ensure a seamless and coherent learning experience for you.

Certification practice exams are expensive, prepare to pass the first time by using practice exams. Practice exams are a great way for you to know when you are ready to take the actual exams.  You can use them at the end of your studies to see if you are ready to take the exams.  If you are using as a final check, don’t just trust that one pass is good enough, be certain to take several exams and ensure your scores are consistent.  If you choose to use practice questions as an integral part of their study, be certain to use a larger pool of questions.  More questions help ensure that you are learning the concepts, and not just memorizing the answers to the questions in the database.

Finally, don’t pay full price.  Save on the cost of certification exams with Discount Exam Vouchers.

Mike

Let Total Seminars help you start your journey to a new career in our new CareerPath products

Join me for a live webinar hosted by CyberNow Labs for Hands on Cyber Career Training

US and International Discount Exam Vouchers: Purchase a CompTIA voucher and save on the cost of your exams.

Practice Tests: TotalTester practice tests have hundreds of questions in a pool that allows you to create custom exams by exam domain or by chapter. Take tests in Practice mode with assistance (hints and explanations) or in Final mode (simulate the real exams). Includes complete explanations for each question.

Interactive simulations: TotalSims for A+, Network+, and NEW! Security+, hundreds of online simulated labs. Prepare for CompTIA’s performance-based questions and learn more about technical concepts covered on the exams.

Total Seminars e-books are now available: Check out all of our e-book titles. Available 24/7 for immediate access on the Total Seminars Training Hub

CompTIA Security+ Certification (SY0-701), a course from the production studios of Total Seminars with subject matter experts Mike Meyers, Dan Lachance, and Lyndon Williams is releasing this week.

This course covers everything you need to know to pass your CompTIA Security+ (SY0-701) certification exam. This course will ensure you have the knowledge and skills to be a great entry-level cybersecurity tech AND help make sure you are ready to pass the CompTIA Security+ exam. Mike Meyers is well known as the “Alpha Geek“. Mike is widely known as the #1 CompTIA author and instructor with over 1 million books in print. Dan Lachance is a highly motivated and passionate IT evangelist. He is a consultant, trainer, and author with over 20 years of experience in the IT security industry. Lyndon Williams creates innovative cybersecurity solutions with Cisco, Palo Alto, and Juniper platforms to provide business acceleration and produce intelligent, resilient automated response and remediation systems. He is also an instructor for CyberNow Labs, teaching students the necessary skills to start their journey toward becoming Cybersecurity Analysts.

Check out this sneak peak!

Mike

Join me for a live webinar hosted by CyberNow Labs for Hands on Cyber Career Training

US and International Discount Exam Vouchers: Purchase a CompTIA voucher and save on the cost of your exams.

Practice Tests: TotalTester practice tests have hundreds of questions in a pool that allows you to create custom exams by exam domain or by chapter. Take tests in Practice mode with assistance (hints and explanations) or in Final mode (simulate the real exams). Includes complete explanations for each question.

Interactive simulations: TotalSims for A+, Network+, and NEW! Security+, hundreds of online simulated labs. Prepare for CompTIA’s performance-based questions and learn more about technical concepts covered on the exams.

Total Seminars e-books are now available: Check out all of our e-book titles. Available 24/7 for immediate access on the Total Seminars Training Hub

IT Fundamentals > A+ > Network+ > Security+ > CySA+ or PenTest+ > CASP

With cybercrime on the rise and vulnerabilities constantly being exposed, it is imperative that organizations take a proactive stance to protecting assets and employing skilled cybersecurity professionals. In fact, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts that the number of information security jobs will increase 28 percent from 2016 to 2026, making it one of the fastest-growing fields. Jobs requiring cybersecurity skills continue to grow rapidly, with more than 313,000 cybersecurity job openings, according to Cyberseek. Employers, from government to Fortune 500 companies, value CompTIA as an authority in cybersecurity certifications.

• $116,323/year; Average Salary for Penetration Tester for 2021 (ZipRecruiter).
• $99,815/year; Average Salary for Cybersecurity Analyst for 2021 (ZipRecruiter).
• Information security jobs will increase by 28% from 2016 to 2026
• There are more than 313,000 cybersecurity job openings
• 96% of managers use certifications as recruitment criteria.