Whether you work as a financial analyst or a secretary, a communications assistant or a manager, there’s one skill that will benefit you universally: knowledge of Microsoft Office.
Unfortunately, every job applicant says that they’re skilled in Microsoft Office, which can make standing out from the crowd a bit difficult. That’s where becoming a Microsoft Office Specialist comes in handy.
By taking the time to get a Microsoft Office Specialist certification, you’ll show employers concrete proof of your skills. This will help you differentiate yourself from others and hopefully land the job you’re after.
Ready to learn more?
Keep reading to learn all about how you can get your Microsoft Office Specialist certification.
What Is a Microsoft Office Specialist?
A Microsoft Office Specialist is someone who has passed exams relating to different Microsoft Office products. Passing the exams rewards you with a certificate that you can then show off to employers.
To pass them, you have to complete a series of tasks in a limited amount of time. This requires knowledge in all of the required subject areas.
What Types of Certifications Are There?
Microsoft offers different types of tests to choose from. You can get certified in the entire Microsoft Office Suite or individual subjects.
You can take exams that cover the following:
- Microsoft Word
- Microsoft Excel
- Microsoft Powerpoint
- Microsoft Outlook
- Microsoft Access
- Microsoft Sharepoint
- Microsoft OneNote
If you are looking for a job that needs you to use all of these different programs, take the comprehensive exam. Otherwise, you can pick and choose specific tests to take.
How Long Does It Take?
Depending on how familiar you are with these programs, prep time can be a breeze or require intensive study sessions. Officially, Microsoft recommends setting aside 150 hours for each test.
Once you’re ready to take them, each exam will take you 50 minutes. As soon as you pass them, you can get your certificate from an authorized center.
If the study requirements sound too large, you can always get help from experts, like at this service.
Why Is Getting a Microsoft Office Specialist Certification Worth It?
If you’re someone who knows that your future job will require you to use Microsoft Office, then studying for the exams to get your certificate is certainly a worthwhile investment. Employers will know that you have an advanced skill set.
If you’re not sure what career you want to work in and don’t know whether you’ll be using Microsoft Office, it might be best to wait.
Enjoy the Benefits of Being a Microsoft Office Specialist
If you’re looking for a way to stand out from other job applicants, you might want to consider becoming a Microsoft Office Specialist.
As this guide explains, the certificate isn’t hard to get, and it will benefit you greatly. Depending on the field you work in, it might just be the secret ingredient that lands you the job of your dreams.
Do you now have a better understanding of how to become a Microsoft Office Specialist? If so, make sure to check out the rest of our site for more helpful guides, tips, and explanations.
