Comptia A+ Certification on Resume

What Is Comptia A+ Certification

The CompTIA A+ certification is a globally recognized credential issued by CompTIA (Computing Technology Industry Association). IT validates the core skills and knowledge required to support physical devices such as desktops, laptops, tablets, and mobile devices; install, maintain, customize, and troubleshoot computer operating systems and other technologies; perform basic network operations; and apply fundamental concepts of security and operational procedures. The A+ certification is significant in the IT industry as IT demonstrates a candidate's competency in entry-level technical support roles.

Prerequisites for obtaining the A+ certification include either one year of experience in IT or completion of a post-secondary IT program. The certification remains valid for three years, after which IT must be renewed by earning Continuing Education Units (CEUs) or recertifying through exams. Estimated preparation time varies depending on individual learning pace but typically takes 60-120 hours and has a moderate to high difficulty level.

Should I Include Comptia A+ Certification on Resume?

Including the CompTIA A+ certification on your resume is advisable, particularly if you are seeking entry-level IT support roles or looking to transition into the field. The age of the certification can impact its relative value; while recently obtained certifications are more attractive, older certifications can still demonstrate a long-term commitment and ongoing dedication to professional development.

Situations where the A+ certification is particularly valuable include applying for helpdesk positions, technical support roles, or junior IT positions in a wide range of industries. In some regions or locations with high demand for IT professionals, having an A+ certification can make you a more attractive candidate and potentially increase your chances of getting hired. However, if you have extensive experience and advanced certifications in the field, IT might be less important to include the A+ certification on your resume.

Hiring Managers And Comptia A+ Certification on Resume

For hiring managers, the CompTIA A+ certification signifies that a candidate has the foundational knowledge and skills necessary for entry-level IT support roles. IT demonstrates competency in areas such as hardware troubleshooting, operating system installation and maintenance, network connectivity, and mobile device support.

In industry-specific contexts, the A+ certification is valued differently; however, IT remains a widely recognized credential across various sectors, including healthcare, finance, and government. Having an A+ certification can set candidates apart from competitors by showcasing their commitment to professional development and technical proficiency.

Potential negative perceptions of the A+ certification may arise if a candidate has not renewed their certification or if they lack additional relevant certifications or experience in the field. IT is essential to ensure that your A+ certification is up-to-date and that you highlight any other related credentials, education, or experience on your resume.

How to List Comptia A+ Certification on Resume

To properly list the CompTIA A+ certification on your resume, follow these guidelines:

• Use the following format: "CompTIA A+ Certification" (Capitalize first letter of each word)

• Do not include the certification number/ID

• Note expiration or renewal dates if applicable (e.g., CompTIA A+ Certification (2021-Current))

• Include the certifying organization (e.g., "CompTIA")

• List in-progress certifications with the phrase "In Progress" (e.g., "CompTIA A+ Certification (2021-Current) – In Progress")

  Examples:

• CompTIA A+ Certification (2021-Current)

• CompTIA A+ Certification (Expired in 2023, not yet renewed)

• CompTIA A+ Certification (In Progress)

Where to List Comptia A+ Certification on Resume

The optimal resume section for listing the CompTIA A+ certification is a dedicated certifications section. This section should follow the education section but precede professional experience or other relevant sections such as skills or achievements. If you do not have a certifications section, create one and list your A+ certification there. In some cases, IT may be appropriate to mention your A+ certification in the summary section if IT is directly related to the position you are applying for.

IT is generally not necessary to list multiple placements of the same certification unless you have obtained higher levels or specializations within the A+ certification. If you have multiple certifications, prioritize them based on their relevance to the position you are seeking and group similar certifications together.

Examples of How to List Comptia A+ Certification on Resume

Example 1 - For a Technical Resume

Certifications CompTIA A+ Certification, (Date of Issue - Date of Expiration) Issued by: CompTIA (Computing Technology Industry Association)

This format is suitable for a technical resume as IT separates the certifications section from other sections and provides a clear list of the candidate's technical qualifications. The specific dates indicate the validity period, demonstrating up-to-date skills.

Example 2 - For a Recent Graduate

Education Bachelor of Science in Information Technology, University Name (Graduation Date) CompTIA A+ Certification, (Date of Issue - Date of Expiration) Issued by: CompTIA (Computing Technology Industry Association)

Listing the certification alongside the educational background is beneficial for recent graduates as IT shows employers that they have practical skills in addition to their academic knowledge. The specific dates indicate the validity period, demonstrating a commitment to continuous learning.

Example 3 - In a Dedicated Certifications Section

Certifications CompTIA A+ Certification, (Date of Issue - Date of Expiration) Issued by: CompTIA (Computing Technology Industry Association)

In this format, the certifications section is dedicated to showcasing the candidate's technical qualifications. The specific dates indicate the validity period, demonstrating a commitment to maintaining professional skills.

Example 4 - In a Skills-First Resume Format

Skills CompTIA A+ Certification (Date of Issue - Date of Expiration) Issued by: CompTIA (Computing Technology Industry Association)

This format is ideal for a skills-first resume, where the focus is on demonstrating the candidate's key competencies. The specific dates indicate the validity period, showing employers that the candidate has current knowledge and skills. This can be particularly beneficial for roles that require technical expertise.