How do we, the self-taught people, get past CVs and interviews?

[FarligOpptreden]

You'll just get caught out at the interview stage so it's really pointless.

Exactly. That's how we've realized that people with these certifications, but little industry experience, are for the most part a joke.

 

[Keeper]

not only that - you won't know jack even if YOU do get the job... so yeah... never heard of people dumb enough to do it this way...

 

[foozball3000]

not only that - you won't know jack even if YOU do get the job... so yeah... never heard of people dumb enough to do it this way...

The exams and practical experience are far from each other. I was a wizz in SQL DBI, and still failed my exams. Badly! Then I studied the answers, got 97%. (one mistake)
Microsoft exams aren't practical in any sense. If you can do the job, it doesn't mean you have even a chance to pass.

 

[dequadin]

I think a more pressing issue for the OP is actually getting the interview in the first place. As it's a juniour position they probably get a fair amount of applicants, since the requirement is a degree they could just immediately exclude you from the interview.

It might be worth while putting a good motivational section in your CV. Normally I'd say those are a bit lame, but if you don't meet the job requirements/experience then it might swing you an interview? Anyone in a hiring position care to comment?

 

[Keeper]

The exams and practical experience are far from each other. I was a wizz in SQL DBI, and still failed my exams. Badly! Then I studied the answers, got 97%. (one mistake)
Microsoft exams aren't practical in any sense. If you can do the job, it doesn't mean you have even a chance to pass.

so why don't you get the Transcender exams for your tests and then get certified? then you have both the papers and the exp?

www.Transcender.com

 

[McGuywer]

I argue that you good work references will also work...

 

[donn_edwards]

There are a lot of good tips in the book "What Color is Your Parachute" and most decent second hand bookshops will have a copy. If not, buy it on Kalahari.net for R 420 for the 2009 edition, and about half price for the 2008 edition.

http://www.kalahari.net/books/What-...Hunters-and-Career-Changers/632/32714993.aspx

You are already taking the right approach by deciding who you want to work for. Now you need to do the research to see what kind of projects they are busy with, and what you can offer.

 

[foozball3000]

There are a lot of good tips in the book "What Color is Your Parachute" and most decent second hand bookshops will have a copy. If not, buy it on Kalahari.net for R 420 for the 2009 edition, and about half price for the 2008 edition.

http://www.kalahari.net/books/What-...Hunters-and-Career-Changers/632/32714993.aspx

You are already taking the right approach by deciding who you want to work for. Now you need to do the research to see what kind of projects they are busy with, and what you can offer.

Thanks. Take 2 is cheaper
http://www.take2.co.za/list.php?type=3&qsearch=What+Color+Is+Your+Parachute

But, for now, I'm putting my full focus on building my CV. I have my heart set on freelancing, so I'm getting ready for that.