Q I AM a polytechnic graduate in my mid-30s. I have worked in the electronics industry on the production and engineering support side. More recently, I have been in information technology (IT), also on the support side.

I want to upgrade myself, so I can improve my job prospects in the IT industry. Thus, I am thinking of studying for an IT degree through a distance learning programme.

However, I am concerned that I might not be able to find a job in the local IT industry by the time I graduate, after two years, as I will be in my late 30s by then.

Should I pursue industry certification programmes instead, and become a Microsoft Certified Systems Engineer or a Cisco Certified Network Associate?

A REGARDLESS of what you decide to pursue, if you are sure about your career direction, then it is never too late to pave your way to success.

Make sure you that gear yourself towards what will differentiate you from others, so that you can actually get ahead of the competition.

Further qualifications would help enhance your prospects. Whether you decide to go with a degree or a professional certification does not really matter.

Most IT companies require hands-on experience and transferable knowledge skills.

You should choose a course that is closely related to your job scope, so you can include the qualification as an attribute in your personal career portfolio.

In many cases, employers look not just at your past performance and qualifications, but also at that less easily quantifiable 'X' factor.

If your attitude is positive, and you are an aggressive and forward-looking team player, you could transfer your personal values and achievements to any industry.

General IT practitioners take on basic support functions in the workplace, and most institutions offer degree programmes that focus on this aspect.

There are many job opportunities in this sector, but the pay packages might not be that high.

If you are looking at better prospects for advancement, then you could consider taking up industry-specific courses related to IT networks, enterprise resource planning systems or other technology-specific fields.

Such positions are likely to generate much higher levels of remuneration.

Lee Jin Kiat
Consulting Manager
PeopleSearch

Advice provided in this column is not meant as a substitute for comprehensive professional advice. E-mail questions to a1admin@sph.com.sg.