8 Must-Have IT Certifications to Look for with Your Candidates

When searching for candidates in today’s IT landscape, there are some must-have IT certifications to look for with your potential hires. Even with the continued talent shortage, it is important to ensure that candidates are well-qualified for the position for which they are applying. While soft skills are increasingly important, so are hard skills in a field like IT with new, advanced technologies emerging daily.  

Below, we list and briefly describe the top eight must-have certifications. Each of these certifications provides candidates with unique and much-needed IT skills to enter the IT industry at the entry level. Candidates who have obtained the following certifications prove to be committed to understanding the field, expanding their knowledge, and upskilling their current skillset.  

Must-Have IT Certifications 

Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA) 

Becoming CCNA-certified requires passing a test that demonstrates your understanding of the following elements: network and security fundamentals, network access, IP connectivity and services, automation, and programmability. Cisco provides a CCNA course geared toward mastering the content on the exam. When receiving a CCNA certification, you can also specialize in key areas like collaboration, Internet of Things (IoT), wireless, and more. This certification is aimed at those seeking knowledge of the latest technologies and software programs or interested in an associate-level tech position. 

Cisco Certified Technician (CCT) 

Cisco Certified Technicians (CCT) can effectively troubleshoot, support, and maintain all Cisco network equipment onsite. A CCT-certified technician can identify and understand all models, devices, accessories, cables, and software interfaces. Within the CCT certification, there are three certification options: Cisco Certified Technician Collaboration (CLTECH), Cisco CCT Routing & Switching certification (RSTECH), and Cisco CCT Data Center certification (DCTECH); Cisco offers various courses aimed toward achieving each one of these CCT certifications. A CCT certification provides the necessary skills and knowledge needed for an entry-level networking position. 

Comp TIA A+ 

A CompTIA A+ certification helps IT candidates understand and master the following skills: hardware, networking, mobile devices, operating systems, troubleshooting, virtualization and cloud computing, software troubleshooting, security, and operational procedures. Receiving this certification requires passing two exams, Core 1 and Core 2, focused on the aforementioned skills. A CompTIA A+ certificate is ideal for entry-level help desk technicians and specialists, network engineers, junior administrators, and more.  

CompTIA Network+ 

CompTIA Network+ certifications cover troubleshooting, configuration, and maintenance of network systems. A Network+ certification focuses on networking fundamentals, network security, network implementations, network troubleshooting, and network operations. It is recommended that candidates receive the CompTIA A+ certification prior to achieving the Network+ certification. The ideal candidate will be a current or prospective junior network administrator, network engineer, or network technician of some sort. 

CompTIA Security+ 

CompTIA’s Security+ certification provides the necessary skills needed for any IT security role across the globe. When obtaining a Security+ certification, individuals will master skills related to the following: attacks, threats, and vulnerabilities; operations and incident response; architecture and design; governance; risk and compliance; and implementation. The skills required for this certification help candidates, like security analysts and IT auditors, keep applications, networks, and devices secure and aligned with current regulations.  

Linux Essentials Professional Development Certification (PDC) 

Linux’s Professional Development Certification (PDC) covers the basics of open-source operating system systems and functions. A PDC proves the understanding of the system’s hardware, software, processes, programs, security, and more. This certification is perfect for candidates looking to become IT administrators, developers, and engineers. Above all, this certification lasts a lifetime with no renewal required. 

Microsoft 365 Fundamentals 

The Microsoft 365 Fundamentals certification encompasses the basic knowledge needed to understand and utilize its full product and service portfolio. The certification verifies the candidate’s understanding of cloud concepts, Microsoft 365 services, security, compliance, privacy, trust, security, and support.  

PMI Certified Associate in Project Management (CAPM) 

A Certified Associate in Project Management (CAPM) certification is aimed toward entry-level candidates looking to gain or polish project management skills through the Project Management Institute (PMI). Prerequisites include a secondary degree and 23 hours of project management education. A CAPM certificate is perfect for those looking to expand their responsibility, knowledge, and management skills within the IT field. 

Finding a Qualified Candidate 

When searching for a candidate to fill an open IT position, it is essential that the candidate displays mastery and an up-to-date understanding of the subject area, software, systems, products, and more. These eight IT certifications are the baseline for any qualified candidate looking to pursue an entry-level IT position. For any questions related to IT Staffing and Recruiting, please contact our team at BCTG today.