Dear Bob ... I have a diploma, an Associates, and a Bachelors degree in Computer Information Systems. My focus point is systems analyst and programming, but I don't have any certifications. I was told that most companies are looking for people not only with degrees, but certifications. A friend suggested that I get my A+ Certification for starters. I enjoy working with databases I guess my q Dear Bob …I have a diploma, an Associates, and a Bachelors degree in Computer Information Systems. My focus point is systems analyst and programming, but I don’t have any certifications. I was told that most companies are looking for people not only with degrees, but certifications. A friend suggested that I get my A+ Certification for starters. I enjoy working with databases I guess my question is, would it make a different whether or not I have my certifications or will it give me a better chance of employers being interested in me?– Certifiable Dear Certifiable …I can’t speak to the subject statistically, only from first and second-hand experience. That tells me that certifications only matter in a few circumstances.Regrettably, yours might be among them. Hiring managers want to recruit someone who can succeed in the job. That’s the beginning and end of the requirement – everything else is a means to that end. The problem is, it isn’t all that easy to determine who is likely to do so.That’s why personal networking is so important – it’s a way for a hiring manager to get a better handle on how well a candidate is likely to do than the official channels.Experience is another strong indicator – most people don’t change all that much, so someone who has succeeded in a role in the past is likely to do so again in the future. What if you have neither a personal network or experience? First of all, you’re running uphill and against the wind, since as many as 90% of all new hires are introduced through personal networks, not through the traditional job application process. But if that’s what you have, maximize your chances.And for some positions, certifications increase the likelihood that a candidate can do the work. In particular, systems administration and IT audit are examples of positions where certifications matter. If you’re interested in IT infrastructure operations, ITIL certification could be important. And so on.Just understand, certifications don’t get you into the inside track. Given a choice, and the odds, I’d start canvassing smaller companies in your area that are looking for bargains. They’re less likely to have their HR departments screen out everyone with less than five years of experience, and they’re more likely to give someone smart a chance to show what he or she can do. – Bob ——– Technology Industry