In the UK today, many workplaces couldn’t function properly if it weren’t for support workers solving problems with networks and computers, while recommending solutions to users each and every day. The world’s desire for such skilled and qualified people is constantly growing, as everywhere we work becomes progressively more technologically advanced.

Proper support is incredibly important – ensure you track down something that provides 24×7 direct access, as anything less will frustrate you and could hold up your pace and restrict your intake.

Look for training with proper support available at all hours of the day and night (irrespective of whether it’s the wee hours on Sunday morning!) Ensure you get direct access to tutors, and not simply some messaging service that means you’re constantly waiting for a call-back during office hours.

The very best programs opt for an online access 24×7 package combining multiple support operations over many time-zones. You will be provided with a single, easy-to-use interface that accesses the most appropriate office any time of the day or night: Support when it’s needed.

Always pick a trainer that cares. Only true live 24×7 support provides the necessary backup.

People attracted to this sort of work are often very practical, and won’t enjoy sitting at a desk in class, and slogging through piles of books. If this could be you, go for more modern interactive training, where you can learn everything on-screen.

If we’re able to utilise all of our senses into our learning, our results will often be quite spectacular.

The latest home-based training features self-contained CD or DVD materials. By watching and listening to instructors on video tutorials you’ll learn your subject via the expert demonstrations. Knowledge can then be tested by utilising the practice lab’s and modules.

Every company that you look at must be able to demonstrate some simple examples of their training materials. Expect video tutorials, instructor led classes and many interactive sections.

Many companies provide training that is purely available online; and although this is okay the majority of the time, think what will happen if your access to the internet is broken or you get a slow connection speed. It is usually safer to have DVD or CD discs that don’t suffer from these broadband issues.

An advisor that doesn’t ask many questions – it’s more than likely they’re just a salesperson. If someone pushes specific products before looking at your personality and experience, then it’s definitely the case.

Often, the training start-point for a person with a little experience can be massively different to the student with none.

For students starting IT studies and exams as a new venture, it can be helpful to start out slowly, kicking off with some basic PC skills training first. This can be built into most training packages.

Only consider study programs that lead to commercially acknowledged accreditations. There’s a plethora of small companies promoting unknown ‘in-house’ certificates which will prove unusable when it comes to finding a job.

From an employer’s viewpoint, only the major heavyweights like Microsoft, Cisco, Adobe or CompTIA (as an example) will open the right doors. Anything less won’t make the grade.

(C) Jason Kendall. Check out LearningLolly.com for superb advice. Click Here or Computer Networking Courses.