See more "achievement" images on office.com/imagesI don't need to tell you that it's a tough job market out there; many of you have experienced that yourself. Some of us can't find a job while others are worried that they'll be losing theirs. Sometimes you just need that little extra something on your resume to give you that edge when you're applying for a job. As well, when you're working to stand out amongst the crowd of drones in your company, going that extra mile is going to be noticed.

If you haven't heard of Microsoft Certifications, now is the time to open your ears because getting one is what's going to give you that edge I just mentioned. Microsoft Certifications are available for most Microsoft technologies and skill levels from students to business workers to IT professionals, developers, technology trainers, and system architects.

I happen to know about one type of certification: MOS (Microsoft Office Specialist) for a couple of reasons: 1) I took  the tests and have several—though not all—Office certifications; and 2) I am the Crabby Office Lady, and not the Crabby Windows Lady or the Crabby SQL Server Lady.

Here's how it goes:

  1. You go to the MOS site, read the overview, and decide which test you want to take (meaning make a decision about which Office program—or programs—you excel at).
    Note: Some of the Office 2010 exams are still in development; however, the 2007 exams are all there.
  2. You figure out which sort of certification you want (and can handle): Specialist, Expert, or Master.
  3. You take the tests...and if you're successful, print out your certificate and gain access to all sorts of things.

    (Take a look at the FAQ to get the full scoop on all this.)

See more superhero images on office.com/images

Okay, you may be thinking, Why put myself through it? Why struggle through all that late-night cramming and exam jitters? I'm overeducated as it is and have the school loans to prove it!

Well the "whys" seem to be obvious; I stated them in the first part of this post: Earning a certification can help you differentiate yourself in the competitive job market, broaden your employment opportunities by displaying your advanced skills, and increase your productivity (which may result in higher earning potential). In other words, you'll have an edge (not to mention a certificate or two...or three), probably be noticed, and make more moolah.

But here's another reason: There is this feeling of pride that you will carry with you the rest of your days, knowing that you are a specialist in...something. (Results may vary; jealousy may occur. Try not to brag too much.)

So go on! What do you have to lose? Study and go for it! Office training and prep guides (I like this one in particular, but if you do a Web search for "MOS prep guides" you'll find many options) are just two resources to explore. I'm sure you can think of more (books, community college courses...keep thinking...).

If you do decide to go for this, will you let me know how it went? I feel like a mother hen sometimes; I just can't help it!

"Celebrate what you've accomplished, but raise the bar a little higher each time you succeed.." — Mia Hamm

— Crabby