BleepingComputer.com: So, I'm finally getting my A+ Cert

This summer, I'm finally going to get my A+ cert. I already work as an IT support / Webmaster, but I don't make very much money. I know the A+ isn't looked upon as very prestigious anymore, but what would you guys recommend I ask for per hour? I'm still in college, and I only make 8.50/hr. It sucks, but its a job in these hard times. Once I'm A+, I was told that I can ask for up to 16/hr. But that was by my college adviser, and they are always way too optimistic. If you have your A+ cert, what did you ask for, or when you got a job, what did you ask for?

Check here: http://www.payscale.com/

My dads been working IT for years, and he makes good money, but it took him years to get there. I would talk with your employer and ask him what he would do raise wise, but it may just boil down to working your way up. it also depends on the local economy. when I lived in a smaller town in nebraska, 8.50 an hour was good no matter what job you had. There were guys at a computer store nearby who were A+ certified with a 4 year college degree who only made 12 an hour. Sad but true. In the town Im in now, I make 17.50 an hour driving truck-no college experience required, but the cost of living is higher and the economy is better. It may just boil down to you working your way up the ladder, once your boss sees you can do the job well, and you got a few years experience under your belt, the easier its going to be to get a higher paying job. That goes for any line of work.

Just wanted to say congrats on getting IT

Congrats! All additional education is an increase to your value as an employee.

Depending upon where one lives, the market often controls what one can earn/demand.

Talk with your employer/boss and negotiate? You need to be aware of what others in similar jobs there earn?

I have been under contract and paid well over $150 an hour when deployed.
I ran my own business and paid myself and most others working for me at $10 an hour.
Of course, I made a lot of money when I sold the business off. I shared some with those employees as a bonus.

In my experience, I have found the easiest way to get a raise is to get a new job or to give your notice that you are leaving for another job that pays more. If they like you where you are you will get a raise to keep you and if they can't or won't give you more money your new job is waiting.

Its important to pursue your education and certificates to advance your career.

I appreciate the replies, and praise. It feels great to finally get this cert. I'll take the advice you guys gave me, and see what happens. But with the economy in a rut, it may be kind of hard. Thanks again.