Archive for the ‘Certification’ Category

Shape the Future of Microsoft Certifications, win an Xbox

Monday, June 28th, 2010

The folks over at the Microsoft Born to Learn Blog are looking for your input. A new survey is available to get your feedback about the current state of Microsoft certifications and about some possible changes in the future. If you’ve ever wanted to give Microsoft a piece of your mind, that chance is here now!

Take the survey

As an incentive, it looks like they’re giving away some Xbox 360 systems to lucky winners. All the rules and small print are available from Microsoft. The deadline to get your survey in is June 30.

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New Course: ITIL® v3 LearnSmart Video Training

Thursday, June 24th, 2010

ITIL® is among the world’s leading authorities on technology and IT Service Management (ITSM) best practices. PrepLogic’s new ITIL® v3 LearnSmart Video Training helps people who want a career in this profession to get ITIL® skills and certifications that are becoming so popular in the field.

The new course provides total instruction for you to pass your ITIL v3 Foundations exam and earn the ITIL® v3 Foundations certificate. ITIL® Foundations is the first in a series of certifications from ITIL® that also includes ITIL® Intermediate certification and ITIL® Expert. All of these certifications center around best practices for service management. Not sure what a service is? Then check out this clip from ITIL® v3 LearnSmart Video Training

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The complete ITIL® v3 Foundations course includes three sessions of training devoted to IT service management. Session 1 gives you a complete introduction and overview of concepts with sections including Service and the Service Lifecycle, Understanding Service Management, Service Strategy and more. Session 2 digs a little deeper into the service lifespan with sections including Service Asset/Configuration Management, Change Management and ITIL© Management. Session 3 wraps up the course with instruction on Incident and Problem Management, Continual Service Improvement, Technology and Architecture and finally a discussion on the exam itself.

ITIL® v3 LearnSmart Video Training is available now as an independent product or as part of our Unlimited Access library. To find out more about ITIL© or IT Service Management training, give us a call at 1-800-418-6789. Good luck on your training.

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Microsoft Office 2010 The Movie

Monday, June 21st, 2010

Check out this preview video for Microsoft Office 2010. It’s safe to say this is probably the best trailer for a productivity suite you’re ever likely to see.

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PrepLogic Responds to Your Feedback

Friday, June 18th, 2010
Every PrepLogic Practice Exam question includes a “Feedback Link” that allows you to provide feedback or alert us to items you believe may be in error. From time to time we like to address some of your remarks here in our blog. Let’s take a look at some of our recent Practice Exam Feedback.
Our first comment is in regards to a question in our Certified Ethical Hacker (312-50) Practice Exam. The question is:
You are a security consultant hired to perform a wireless penetration test. Which of the following would be considered part of the test? Select the best answers.
A.) Application Testing and Code Review
B.) Cordless Communications Testing
C.) Privacy Review
D.) Infrared Systems Testing
E.) PBX Testing
F.) Intrusion Detection System Testing
The correct answers are B, C and D.
Vincent writes in to say that “IDS testing should be a part of any Pen Testing for WAN or LAN.”
This is an excellent point for discussion. It’s true that IDS, in theory, can be used in the testing of wireless network vulnerabilities, but it isn’t a standard practice according to the CEH exam. IDS testing is essentially meant for wired communications. This journal article notes the need for improvements to IDS systems in order to account for the inherent vulnerabilities in wireless networks, but at this time, IDS systems are not used in this way. In the wireless penetration test example given, Cordless Communications Testing, Privacy Review and Infrared Systems Testing would be considered part of the test.
Our next comment comes from the feedback for our CISSP® Practice Exam. The question is:
Which of the following is NOT a preventative physical access control? Select the best answer.
A.) Biometrics
B.) Fences
C.) Call back systems
D.) CCTV (Closed-Circuit TV)
The correct answer is C, Call back systems, which is a preventative technical access control.
Our commenter asks “Isn’t biometrics considered more of a technical control than a physical control?”
It is true that Biometrics is a technical control.  But it is also a physical control.  Consider that a technical access control mechanism is one that prevents access to systems with the intention of protecting information. Laptops with built-in fingerprint scanners would be an example of biometrics used as a technical access control mechanism.  Physical access control mechanisms are distinguished from technical access control mechanisms, in that they restrict you from physically entering a space you don’t belong.  A finger print scanner at a secure entryway would be a biometric physical access control mechanism. Of the choices listed, Call back systems are not a preventative physical access control.
The final comment we will address today is from PrepLogic’s A+ Practical Application (220-702) Practice Exam. The question is:
Question: You upgrade a system that contains a layered service provider from a previous version of Windows Vista.  The system loses network connectivity when configured for dynamic address assignment. How would you verify that this upgrade is the probable issue? Select the best answer.
A.) Open a command prompt with administrator rights, issue netsh winsock reset and check the listings.
B.) Open a command prompt, issue ipconfig and check for a “169.254.x.x” IPv4 address.
C.) Unplug and reinsert the network card, check for a loose cable and try to ping a nearby host.
D.) Call the Internet Service Provider and contact a network administrator.
The correct answer is B.  The 169.254.x.x is an APIPA address, signifying that the computer has no current network visibility.
An A+ candidate writes that “an APIPA does not verify an upgrade issue. There are many possible reasons for an APIPA. The only thing it verifies is that there is no network connectivity.”
One of the biggest problems with Layered Service Providers is corruption of the TCP/IP stack, usually as a result of improper or incomplete removal of the service.  This is a widely known issue.  If the TCP/IP stack does become corrupted, the computer no longer can access the network and, thus, the computer pulls an APIPA address rather than one assigned by DHCP.  We can verify that the upgrade is the problem on the simple notion of causality.  Before the upgrade, my computer had access to the network.  After the upgrade, my computer pulls an APIPA address, leaving me to believe the TCP/IP stack is corrupted, since the question includes no additional information regarding improper DHCP configuration is included in the stem.
Remember, if you have any comments or questions about a practice question, simply submit your comment and our editorial team will review it. If we made a mistake (we’re only human!) we’ll correct it in a practice exam update. Thanks for your feedback, and good luck on your exams.

Every PrepLogic Practice Exam question includes a “Feedback Link” that allows you to provide feedback or alert us to items you believe may be in error. From time to time we like to address some of your remarks here in our blog. Let’s take a look at some of our recent Practice Exam Feedback.

Our first comment is in regards to a question in our Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH) (312-50) Practice Exam. The question is:

You are a security consultant hired to perform a wireless penetration test. Which of the following would be considered part of the test? Select the best answers.

A.) Application Testing and Code Review
B.) Cordless Communications Testing
C.) Privacy Review
D.) Infrared Systems Testing
E.) PBX Testing
F.) Intrusion Detection System Testing

The correct answers are B, C and D.

Vincent writes in to say that “IDS testing should be a part of any Pen Testing for WAN or LAN.”  This is an excellent point for discussion. It’s true that IDS, in theory, can be used in the testing of wireless network vulnerabilities, but it isn’t a standard practice according to the CEH exam. IDS testing is essentially meant for wired communications. This journal article notes the need for improvements to IDS systems in order to account for the inherent vulnerabilities in wireless networks, but at this time, IDS systems are not used in this way. In the wireless penetration test example given, Cordless Communications Testing, Privacy Review and Infrared Systems Testing would be considered part of the test.

Our next comment comes from the feedback for our CISSP® Practice Exam. The question is:

Which of the following is NOT a preventative physical access control? Select the best answer.

A.) Biometrics
B.) Fences
C.) Call back systems
D.) CCTV (Closed-Circuit TV)

The correct answer is C, Call back systems, which is a preventative technical access control.

Our commenter asks “Isn’t biometrics considered more of a technical control than a physical control?” While it is true that Biometrics is a technical control, it is also a physical control.  Consider that a technical access control mechanism is one that prevents access to systems with the intention of protecting information. Laptops with built-in fingerprint scanners would be an example of biometrics used as a technical access control mechanism.  Physical access control mechanisms are distinguished from technical access control mechanisms, in that they restrict you from physically entering a space you don’t belong.  A finger print scanner at a secure entryway would be a biometric physical access control mechanism. Of the choices listed, Call back systems are not a preventative physical access control.

The final comment we will address today is from PrepLogic’s A+ Practical Application (220-702) Practice Exam. The question is:

You upgrade a system that contains a layered service provider from a previous version of Windows Vista.  The system loses network connectivity when configured for dynamic address assignment. How would you verify that this upgrade is the probable issue? Select the best answer.

A.) Open a command prompt with administrator rights, issue netsh winsock reset and check the listings.
B.) Open a command prompt, issue ipconfig and check for a “169.254.x.x” IPv4 address.
C.) Unplug and reinsert the network card, check for a loose cable and try to ping a nearby host.
D.) Call the Internet Service Provider and contact a network administrator.

The correct answer is B.  The 169.254.x.x is an APIPA address, signifying that the computer has no current network visibility.

An A+ candidate writes that “an APIPA does not verify an upgrade issue. There are many possible reasons for an APIPA. The only thing it verifies is that there is no network connectivity.” One of the biggest problems with Layered Service Providers is corruption of the TCP/IP stack, usually as a result of improper or incomplete removal of the service.  This is a widely known issue.  If the TCP/IP stack does become corrupted, the computer no longer can access the network and, thus, the computer pulls an APIPA address rather than one assigned by DHCP.  We can verify that the upgrade is the problem on the simple notion of causality.  Before the upgrade, my computer had access to the network.  After the upgrade, my computer pulls an APIPA address, leaving me to believe the TCP/IP stack is corrupted, since the question includes no additional information regarding improper DHCP configuration is included in the stem.

Remember, if you have any comments or questions about a practice question, simply submit your comment and our editorial team will review it. If we made a mistake (we’re only human!) we’ll correct it in a practice exam update. Thanks for your feedback, and good luck on your exams.

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Microsofoft Virtualization Certifications All in One Place

Thursday, June 17th, 2010
Virtualization is all about reducing costs and reducing risk. No wonder it’s such a popular technology. Now Microsoft has put all the information you need about their Virtualization Certifications all in one place. Check out Microsoft’s Virtualization Certification page for an overview of their programs, detailed requirements for each certification path and more information about becoming MCTS and MCITP certified in Microsoft Virtualization technologies.
Microsoft Virtualization MCTS and MCITP Certifications
Windows Server 2008 R2, Server Virtualization (MCTS)
Windows Server 2008 R2, Desktop Virtualization (MCTS)
Windows Server Virtualization, Configuring (MCTS)
Windows Server 2008 R2, Virtualization Administrator (MCITP)
Another cool feature you’ll find on this page is a downloadable PDF Virtualization Certification Roadmap that plots your course towards these valuable certifications. If you have any questions about Microsoft IT certifications, including virtualization, give PrepLogic a call at 1-800-418-6789. Thanks, and good luck.

Virtualization is all about reducing costs and reducing risk. No wonder it’s such a popular technology. Now Microsoft has put all the information you need about their Virtualization Certifications all in one place. Check out Microsoft’s Virtualization Certification page for an overview of their programs, detailed requirements for each certification path and more information about becoming MCTS and MCITP certified in Microsoft Virtualization technologies.

Microsoft Virtualization MCTS and MCITP Certifications

  • Windows Server 2008 R2, Server Virtualization (MCTS)
  • Windows Server 2008 R2, Desktop Virtualization (MCTS)
  • Windows Server Virtualization, Configuring (MCTS)
  • Windows Server 2008 R2, Virtualization Administrator (MCITP)

Another cool feature you’ll find on this page is a downloadable PDF Virtualization Certification Roadmap that plots your course towards these valuable certifications. If you have any questions about Microsoft IT certifications, including virtualization, give PrepLogic a call at 1-800-418-6789. Thanks, and good luck.

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New Product Focus: Convergence+ LearnSmart Video Training

Thursday, June 10th, 2010

One of PrepLogic’s newest titles is Convergence+ LearnSmart Video Training. The new course trains IT professionals in the topics you need to know to pass the CompTIA Convergence+ certification exam. Over the past few years, the Convergence+ certification has grown in popularity and acceptance as the adoption of VoIP technology has ramped up.

Convergence+ is a credential for technicians who specialize in unified communications. Passing the exam illustrates a technician’s ability to design, implement and manage both data and voice networking.

The Convergence+ LearnSmart Video Training course goes into detail about why VoIP really matters. Expert Tom Carpenter discusses the origins of telephony and the series of technological advances that have brought us into this era. In addition to Convergence+, the material in this video can prepare you to earn your CCNA Voice certification.  Some of the topics Tom covers include:

  • Understanding Traditional Telephony
  • VOIP Fundamentals
  • Unified Communications
  • Working with Gateways
  • Configuring Dial Peers
  • Quality of Service
  • Gatekeepers
  • Troubleshooting

The 13 hour Convergence+ LearnSmart Video Training course takes you step-by-step through the process of implementing IP address schemes and IP services to meet network requirements in a medium-size enterprise branch office network. In addition, this course will show you how to design and implement full featured switched networks that converge efficiently. To help get you familiar with the course, PrepLogic has put up a free 30-minute preview of Convergence+ LearnSmart Video Training. Check it out today.

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Server 2008 Active Directory (83-640) and (70-640): What’s the Difference?

Wednesday, May 26th, 2010
What to Know
Server 2008 Active Directory (70-640) and (83-640): What’s the Difference?
Many of our callers recently have asked what the difference is between TS: Windows Server 2008 Active Directory, Configuring (70-640) and TS: Windows Server 2008 Active Directory, Configuring (83-640). So, here’s the answer.
The difference between the (70-640) and (83-640) is the format of some of the questions you’ll be be asked.
The (83-640) exam is mostly multiple choice questions, but also includes some performance-based “virtual-lab questions.” The (70-640) exam includes only multiple choice questions.
That’s the only difference. The content you need to know to pass is the same for either the (70-640) and (83-640) exams. The performance-based “virtual lab” questions on the (83-640) exam allow a technician to prove their knowledge by completing various tasks in a lab environment. These are tasks that you must know in order to pass either exam. So, your study and preparation will likely be the same for either version of the exam.
The price of admission is the same, whether you’re taking the (70-640) or (83-640). Like all Microsoft exams, (70-640) or (83-640) are available only at Prometric Test Centers. Microsoft vouchers are essentially “one size fits all,” so you can take either exam wiwith a Prometric Microsoft Voucher.
http://www.microsoft.com/learning/en/us/exam.aspx?ID=83-640
http://www.microsoft.com/learning/en/us/exam.aspx?ID=70-640
Here’s a short rundown of each version of this Server 2008 Active Directory Exam:
(83-640) TS: Windows Server 2008 Active Directory, Configuring
- Valid for credit toward MCTS and MCITP certification
- Includes multiple choice and “virtual lab” questions
- Available in select countries (including U.S)
- Is the only version available in the U.S.
- Available in English only
- May be taken at Prometric Test Centers
- Check with your local Prometric Test Center for more details
(70-640) TS: Windows Server 2008 Active Directory, Configuring
- Valid for credit toward MCTS and MCITP certification
- Includes only multiple choice questions
- Available internationally outside of the United States
- Not available in the United States
- Available in English, Brazilian Portuguese, Chinese [Simplified], French, Japanese, Korean, Russian, and Spanish.
- May be taken at Prometric Test Centers
- Check with your local Prometric Test Center for more details
If you have any questions about your TS: Windows Server 2008 Active Directory, Configuring exam, or about the training materials you should use, give PrepLogic a call at 1-800-418-6789. Our guys have heard every question a million times before and we’re always ready and available to serve you. Good luck on your exam.

Many of our callers recently have asked what the difference is between TS: Windows Server 2008 Active Directory, Configuring (83-640) and TS: Windows Server 2008 Active Directory, Configuring (70-640). It’s an excellent question that’s very important to your Microsoft exam training, so here’s the answer:

The difference between the (83-640)  and (70-640) is the format of some of the questions you’ll be be asked.

The (83-640) exam consists mostly of multiple choice questions, but also includes some performance-based “virtual-lab questions.” The (70-640) exam includes only multiple choice questions.

That’s the only difference. The content you need to know to pass is the same for either the (83-640) or (70-640) exams. The performance-based “virtual lab” questions on the (83-640) exam allow a technician to prove their knowledge by completing various tasks in a lab environment. These are tasks that you must know in order to pass either exam. So, your study and preparation will likely be the same for either version of the exam.

The price of admission is the same, whether you’re taking the (83-640) or (70-640). Like all Microsoft exams, (83-640) or (70-640) are available only at Prometric Test Centers. Microsoft vouchers are essentially “one size fits all,” so you can take either exam with a Prometric Microsoft Voucher.

Here’s a short rundown of each version of this Server 2008 Active Directory Exam:

(83-640) TS: Windows Server 2008 Active Directory, Configuring

  • Valid for credit toward MCTS and MCITP certification
  • Includes multiple choice and “virtual lab” questions
  • Available in select countries (including United States)
  • Is the only version available in the United States
  • Available in English only
  • May be taken at Prometric Test Centers
  • Check with your local Prometric Test Center for more details

(70-640) TS: Windows Server 2008 Active Directory, Configuring

  • Valid for credit toward MCTS and MCITP certification
  • Includes only multiple choice questions
  • Available internationally outside of the United States
  • Not available in the United States
  • Available in English, Brazilian Portuguese, Chinese [Simplified], French, Japanese, Korean, Russian, and Spanish.
  • May be taken at Prometric Test Centers
  • Check with your local Prometric Test Center for more details

If you have any questions about your TS: Windows Server 2008 Active Directory, Configuring exam, or about the training materials you should use, give PrepLogic a call at 1-800-418-6789. Our guys have heard every question a million times before and we’re always ready and available to serve you. Good luck on your exam.

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High Tech Jobs on the Rise

Monday, May 24th, 2010

A new article published by the Associated Press has good news for people looking for a job in technology. High-tech jobs, especially positions for individuals with IT certifications, are on the rise.  According to the article, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics rates job prospects as excellent for IT positions  “ranging from network administrators, software engineers and programmers to computer manufacturers, operators and repairers.”

Sources in the article recommend certifications including CompTIA A+, Network+ and Security+ for those interested in taking advantage of the opportunities in the field.

Additionally, the article indicates that the opportunities aren’t limited to high-tech companies. IT positions in the medical field are likely to increase due to the ramping up of online, confidential medical records and documentation.  “Feeding that growth is the more than $25 billion that the federal government plans to spend to expand use of health IT by 2014.”  Positions that should increase in demand include network systems analysts, data communication analysts and software engineers.

For more information about IT certifications and the opportunities they provide, contact PrepLogic’s IT career counselors at 1-800-418-6789.

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Microsoft Office Certification News : Goodbye MCAS

Monday, May 24th, 2010

Back in the day of  Microsoft Office 2003, people who wanted to prove their Office skills were able to earn the Microsoft Office Specialist (MOS) certification. The MOS was replaced for the Office 2007 series with the Microsoft Certified Application Specialist (MCAS) certification. Now, Microsoft has decided to switch back. For Office 2010, Microsoft will once again offer the Microsoft Office Specialist (MOS) certification series. Each of the certifications in the series will consist of a single exam focusing on one of the products in the Microsoft Office Suite of productivity software. Check out the lineup for Office 2010:

MOS: Microsoft Office Word 2010 (Exam 77-881)
MOS: Microsoft Office Word 2010 Expert (Exam 77-887)
MOS: Microsoft Office Excel 2010 (Exam 77-882)
MOS: Microsoft Office Excel 2010 Expert (Exam 77-888)
MOS: Microsoft Office PowerPoint 2010 (Exam 77-883)
MOS: Microsoft Office Outlook 2010 (Exam 77-884)
MOS: Microsoft Office Access 2010 (Exam 77-885)
MOS: Microsoft SharePoint 2010 (Exam 77-886)
MOS: Microsoft Project 2010, Managing Projects (Exam 77-178)
  • MOS: Microsoft Office Word 2010 (Exam 77-881)
  • MOS: Microsoft Office Word 2010 Expert (Exam 77-887)
  • MOS: Microsoft Office Excel 2010 (Exam 77-882)
  • MOS: Microsoft Office Excel 2010 Expert (Exam 77-888)
  • MOS: Microsoft Office PowerPoint 2010 (Exam 77-883)
  • MOS: Microsoft Office Outlook 2010 (Exam 77-884)
  • MOS: Microsoft Office Access 2010 (Exam 77-885)
  • MOS: Microsoft SharePoint 2010 (Exam 77-886)
  • MOS: Microsoft Project 2010, Managing Projects (Exam 77-178)

All of these certifications are still in development and will be available within the next few months from Microsoft. The other part of this story is that everyone who earned an MCAS certification will have their credential switched to an MOS certification. Nothing about the credential will change other than the name. For a more through explanation, check out what the people at Microsoft have to say about the new series of certifications. For more info about Microsoft Office certifications and other productivity training, check back with PrepLogic or give our team a call at 1-800-418-6789.

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PrepLogic’s Hiring Manager Secret #8

Wednesday, May 19th, 2010
8. Don’t Look Stupid on the Internet
Social Media makes it very tempting to be more and more transparent about your personal life. It can be easy to let your guard down and reveal facts that shouldn’t be for public consumption. Now is the time to reel it back in.  Carefully manage your privacy settings and closely monitor the content you allow to be seen publically. Better yet, you may want to follow this rule: only post material that you’d show directly to your boss. It’s important to be in control of your online presence. Employers Google your name, you should do the same to see what comes up.
Be purposeful about your online presence. In response to an online blog, one poster commented that this year they planned to “be more diligent at linking my LinkedIn, Twitter, and Facebook strategies in order to facilitate more of a personal connection.” This is a wise strategy you can employ for yourself. It’s also important to keep to the topic at hand. Not all social media serve the same purpose. Look at what the “mission statements” are for Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIN.
Twitter
Discover what’s happening right now, anywhere in the world
Facebook
what’s on your mind? / Facebook helps you connect and share with the people in your life.
LinkedIn
Over 65 million professionals use LinkedIn to exchange information, ideas and opportunities
Stick to the topic! Try not to include too much personal activity on your LinkedIN. Your contacts won’t appreciate it. Don’t use Facebook and LinkedIN for minute-by-minute updates, that’s what Twiter is for. Use your social and professional media to your advantage, don’t let it tear you down. Also, make sure thay you use the highest integrity with your screen names, avatars, email addresses and even your passwords. No hiring manager wants to seriously consider a candidate with sexydude37@yahoo.com for an email address.

Our new 12 Hiring Manager Secrets to Getting the Job You Want whitepaper has many great secrets that will help you get the edge when you’re looking for your next job.  Check out hint #8 and learn something very important about your online reputation. And when you’re done, go and get the full 12 Hiring Manager Secrets document free from PrepLogic. Enjoy.

Hiring Manager Secret #8. Don’t Look Stupid on the Internet

Social Media makes it very tempting to be more and more transparent about your personal life. It can be easy to let your guard down and reveal facts that shouldn’t be for public consumption. Now is the time to reel it back in.  Carefully manage your privacy settings and closely monitor the content you allow to be seen publically. Better yet, you may want to follow this rule: only post material that you’d show directly to your boss. It’s important to be in control of your online presence. Employers Google your name, you should do the same to see what comes up.

Be purposeful about your online presence. In response to an online blog, one poster commented that this year they planned to “be more diligent at linking my LinkedIn, Twitter, and Facebook strategies in order to facilitate more of a personal connection.” This is a wise strategy you can employ for yourself. It’s also important to keep to the topic at hand. Not all social media serve the same purpose. Look at what the “mission statements” are for Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIN.

Twitter
Discover what’s happening right now, anywhere in the world

Facebook
What’s on your mind? / Facebook helps you connect and share with the people in your life.

LinkedIn
Over 65 million professionals use LinkedIn to exchange information, ideas and opportunities

Stick to the topic! Try not to include too much personal activity on your LinkedIN. Your contacts won’t appreciate it. Don’t use Facebook and LinkedIN for minute-by-minute updates, that’s what Twiter is for. Use your social and professional media to your advantage, don’t let it tear you down. Also, make sure thay you use the highest integrity with your screen names, avatars, email addresses and even your passwords. No hiring manager wants to seriously consider a candidate with sexydude37@yahoo.com for an email address.

Ready to find out more? Check out the full 12 Hiring Manager Secrets to Getting the Job You Want for the full list of helpful hints about managing and maintaining your career and positioning your skills and accomplishments for maximum value.  Got any questions? Give us a call at 1-800-418-6789.

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