I wanted to share a few thoughts.
by Larry Hadrava

I want to start out wishing CCIEFlyer a happy anniversary.

As I approach the 7th anniversary of passing the R&S lab, I have been thinking about my experiences since then. After passing the lab, my attitude was that a CCIE can always get a good job. For the first 5 years after passing the lab I was right. I had the attitude that I worked for a company because I wanted to, not because I had to.

Then I hit an area in the market where I was looking for a job. I was overqualified for most of them. At most of the interviews I was told that I'd love to hire you, but I can't pay enough to hire a CCIE. I told them that I'd take the pay cut, but most didn't want to take the chance of me being there for a few months and then getting a better offer and leaving.

So, it was the CCIE certification that got me in the door for the first five years and then it was the CCIE that kept me out of many doors during the past couple of years. I finally found a company that was willing to take a chance on hiring me - even though they didn't need a CCIE. That way about a year ago and 6 months ago I was promoted to the Netowrk Engineering Supervisor.

So what is the reason for writing this? Well, I wanted to share a few thoughts. It is not just the CCIE title that gets you work, it is the "you" that seals the deal. The CCIE can open many doors for you and it can also make some doors shut. Ultimately it is you and your attitude that puts you over other job candidates.

For me the CCIE certification has allowed me, a person, that up until a few years back had no college degree to earn a six figure income. Over the past 7 years I have grown a lot and it is because of the CCIE certification and what I have done with it that I am where I am today professionally.

If you are on the CCIE trail and getting discouraged, know that it is worth the time and effort. The certification can definitely make a difference in your professional life.

Thanks
Larry Hadrava
CCIE #12203
Check Out MyBlog: http://ccie12203.wordpress.com/