If you’re in the IT industry, you may have heard of the A+ Certification, one of the most renowned IT certifications recognized worldwide. But how do you bring this accomplishment to the forefront of your resume and get noticed by hiring managers and recruiters?

Why is A+ Certification Important for Your Resume?

Firstly, let’s discuss why adding A+ certification to your resume is so important. The A+ certification is a highly recognized credential, established and maintained by the Computing Technology Industry Association (CompTIA) that validates your knowledge and expertise in Basic IT infrastructure, computer maintenance, and troubleshooting.

The IT industry is highly competitive, and recruiters often screen resumes based on relevant certifications such as A+ and the skills required for the job. A+ certification is a game-changer for those seeking entry-level IT jobs or looking to advance their careers.

Moreover, A+ certification is not just important for getting a job, but it also helps you to stay relevant in the ever-evolving IT industry. The certification requires you to renew it every three years, which means you have to keep up with the latest technology and trends in the industry. This ensures that you have the necessary skills and knowledge to perform your job effectively and efficiently.

Understanding the A+ Certification Exam and Requirements

Before you add A+ certification to your resume, let’s first understand the exam and certification requirements. The A+ certification entails two separate 90-minute exams, each comprising up to 90 multiple-choice questions. The exams cover various IT-related topics, including computer hardware, networking, and cybersecurity concepts, Windows operating systems, and other software technologies. A passing score for both exams is at least 675 out of 900.

Becoming A+ certified requires no formal prerequisites, but CompTIA recommends that candidates have at least 9-12 months of hands-on professional experience or a CompTIA IT Fundamentals certification.

It is important to note that the A+ certification is vendor-neutral, meaning that it is not specific to any particular brand or product. This makes it a valuable certification for IT professionals who work with a variety of hardware and software systems. Additionally, the A+ certification is recognized globally, making it a valuable asset for those seeking employment opportunities in the IT industry.

Once you have obtained your A+ certification, it is important to maintain it by completing continuing education requirements. This ensures that your knowledge and skills remain up-to-date with the latest advancements in technology. CompTIA offers a variety of continuing education options, including online courses, webinars, and conferences, to help you stay current in your field.

How to Prepare for the A+ Certification Exam

Preparing for the A+ certification exam requires dedication and effort. Fortunately, several resources are available to help you prepare, including practice exams, virtual labs, courses, and study guides. Also, CompTIA’s official website provides detailed information about exam objectives, structure, and recommended study materials.

To improve your chances of success, consider enrolling in an A+ certification course taught by experienced IT professionals. These courses provide valuable insights, real-world scenarios, and practical hands-on experience that will help you develop the skills and knowledge needed to ace the exam.

Another useful resource for A+ certification exam preparation is online forums and discussion groups. These platforms allow you to connect with other exam takers, share study tips, and ask questions about challenging topics. You can also find study groups or study partners to help keep you motivated and accountable.

It’s important to create a study plan and stick to it. Set aside dedicated study time each day or week, and make sure to cover all exam objectives thoroughly. Take practice exams regularly to assess your progress and identify areas that need improvement. With dedication and effort, you can successfully prepare for and pass the A+ certification exam.

The Benefits of Having an A+ Certification on Your Resume

Now that you understand the exam requirements and how to prepare, let’s discuss the benefits of A+ certification on your resume.

Adding A+ certification to your resume provides several benefits, including:

• Validating your knowledge and expertise in computer hardware, software, and operating systems
• Making you stand out from the competition, especially when applying for entry-level IT jobs
• Qualifying you for positions that require A+ certification
• Indicating to employers that you take your career seriously and are dedicated to staying current with the latest IT trends and technologies

Another benefit of having A+ certification on your resume is that it can lead to higher salaries. According to CompTIA, individuals with A+ certification earn an average salary of $59,000 per year, which is higher than the average salary for non-certified IT professionals. Additionally, A+ certification can serve as a stepping stone to more advanced certifications, such as Network+ and Security+, which can further increase your earning potential.

How to Add A+ Certification to Your Resume

Now that you understand the benefits of having A+ certification on your resume, let’s discuss how to add it. Begin by creating a separate section for your certifications and list A+ certification in reverse chronological order. It is best to list your certifications at the top of your resume, just below your contact information and summary.

Here’s an example of how to add A+ certification to your resume:

Certifications:

CompTIA A+ Certification, Issued July 2021

It is important to note that A+ certification is not the only certification that can enhance your resume. Depending on your career goals, you may want to consider obtaining additional certifications in areas such as networking, cybersecurity, or cloud computing. These certifications can demonstrate your expertise in specific areas and make you a more competitive candidate.

When listing your certifications on your resume, be sure to include the name of the certification, the date it was issued, and the organization that issued it. You may also want to include any relevant coursework or training you completed in preparation for the certification exam.

Tips for Highlighting A+ Certification in Your Work Experience

If you’re looking to further emphasize your A+ certification on your resume, consider highlighting it in your work experience. You can list it as part of a specific job description or highlight it under a “Skills” section.

For example:

Computer Technician

XYZ Company – Anytown, USA

• Install, maintain and repair computer hardware and software using A+ certification knowledge
• Diagnose and repair hardware and software problems while ensuring system performance

Another way to highlight your A+ certification in your work experience is to mention it in your job responsibilities. For instance, you can state that you utilized your A+ certification to troubleshoot and resolve technical issues for clients or customers. This will demonstrate your practical application of the certification and showcase your expertise.

Additionally, you can mention any specific projects or initiatives that you worked on that required your A+ certification knowledge. This could include implementing new hardware or software systems, upgrading existing systems, or providing technical support to colleagues or clients. By highlighting these accomplishments, you can demonstrate your value as an A+ certified professional and showcase your ability to apply your skills in real-world scenarios.

Showcasing Your Skills: Using A+ Certification in Your Resume Summary or Objective

Another way to showcase your A+ certification on your resume is to include it in your resume summary or objective. This is a brief statement that summarizes your qualifications, experience, and career objectives.

For example:

Objective:

Goal-oriented IT professional with CompTIA A+ certification seeking a challenging role in computer system support.

Having an A+ certification demonstrates your proficiency in computer hardware and software, making you a valuable asset to any IT team. Including this certification in your resume summary or objective can catch the attention of potential employers and increase your chances of getting hired. Additionally, highlighting your A+ certification in your resume can also lead to opportunities for career advancement and higher salaries in the IT industry.

Examples of How to List A+ Certification on a Resume

When adding A+ certification to your resume, it’s essential to follow proper formatting guidelines. Below are some examples of how to list A+ certification on a resume:

• CompTIA A+ Certification, Issued July 2021
• CompTIA A+ Certified, Issued July 2021

Having A+ certification on your resume can significantly increase your chances of getting hired in the IT industry. This certification validates your skills and knowledge in computer hardware and software, networking, and troubleshooting.

It’s important to note that A+ certification is not a one-time achievement. To maintain your certification, you must renew it every three years by completing continuing education units (CEUs) or retaking the exam. Therefore, it’s crucial to keep your certification up-to-date and mention the date of issuance on your resume.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Adding A+ Certification to a Resume

When it comes to adding A+ certification to a resume, it’s essential to avoid making mistakes that may discourage recruiters or hiring managers from considering your application.

Some common mistakes to avoid include:

• Misrepresenting your certification status
• Listing expired or non-relevant certifications
• Mentioning certification without providing evidence or context of how it boosts your skills and qualifications
• Failing to proofread your resume for grammar or formatting errors

Another mistake to avoid when adding A+ certification to your resume is failing to tailor your resume to the specific job you are applying for. While A+ certification is a valuable credential, it may not be relevant to every job you apply for. Therefore, it’s important to highlight how your A+ certification and other qualifications align with the job requirements and responsibilities. This can help you stand out as a strong candidate and increase your chances of getting hired.

Conclusion

Adding A+ certification to your resume can significantly increase your chances of success in the IT industry. It demonstrates your knowledge and skills in computer hardware, software, and operating systems and shows that you’re committed to staying current with the latest IT trends and technologies. By following the tips discussed in this article and avoiding common mistakes, you can effectively showcase your A+ certification on your resume and position yourself as a top candidate for IT jobs.

Furthermore, obtaining A+ certification can also lead to higher salaries and better job opportunities. Many employers require or prefer candidates with A+ certification, and those who hold this certification often earn more than their non-certified counterparts. Additionally, A+ certification can open doors to specialized IT fields, such as cybersecurity or network administration.

It’s important to note that A+ certification is not a one-time achievement. To maintain your certification, you must complete continuing education and stay up-to-date with the latest advancements in the IT industry. This ongoing commitment to learning and professional development can help you stay competitive in the job market and advance your career over time.