We will look at why it is possible to spend money, time and effort and still not get desired results. We will not be able to cover every single certification blunder, but let's look at 5 most common howlers.

1. Choosing a certification because it is hot This is a common problem I encounter with most certification candidates. They have no idea of what certification involves but they love it because it is hot. Should you be picking a certification that does not match what you want to do or be? Do you know what you want to do or be? Don't just go for an MCSE and assume you'll make it. Going for certification for wrong reasons is both wasteful and unreasonable.

Are you new in IT? Your first step towards a successful career should be researching different options available. Learn about these options. Yes, you may love computers, but what aspect? What is your background? Skill base? Personality? All of these factors can tell you not only if you're really cut out for IT, but what type of IT field might be best for you. For those already in IT, are you choosing a certification because your job requires this specific certification or is it a crucial step in direction of your long-term career goals? Otherwise, it may not be worth your time and resources. MCSEs, for instance, look after Microsoft servers and networks. But if programming is your passion, go for a developer's certification such as MCSD or Java.

Whether you're new to IT or already in IT, certification should not be seen just as a meal ticket. It should be part of an individual's career development strategy. Don't rush into it because it is vogue in town. Depending on what stage you're at and your career interests, your need for certification and type of certification vary from individual to individual. Certification is only for you if you have identified your career goals and you see it as a tool for getting you from where you are to where you should be. The worst thing you can do is to choose a certification without thinking about your long-term career path.

2. Underestimating real cost of certification. How much does it cost to get certified? Too often we underestimate costs involved. Most people believe it is just a matter of funds required for training, books, training CDs, manuals and certification exams. A good certification is built on realization that money is not only resource you need to get happily certified. I know quite a few people who register for courses but who keep on dropping out due to one commitment or other. You've paid for training and you've bought books, but how committed are you?

Do you have drive and zeal that requires reading, attending training sessions, and practicing? Do you love studying? How will you handle your other commitments, social, work or family? When it comes down to crunch, can you make effort? Sometimes, it even requires extra effort. Most especially if you already have a tight schedule. Are you capable or ready to read and master (not cram) your certification objectives? Now and then with certification, going gets tougher. It is a shame that many spend so much to acquire certification resources, but they never really get off mark when it comes to effort.

Candidates who are successful in certification ALL possess drive and motivation to succeed and advance their careers. Success with certification costs more than just training, certification tools and materials; without effort you're going nowhere.

3. Going to sleep after getting certified Many certification candidates believe that once they are certified they no longer have to work to increase their skills (value). It will be a big mistake for any professional to simply bask in euphoria of getting certified and forget about continuing requirements. Once you achieve certification you must set new goals. As stated earlier certification is not an end in itself. It is a career development driver. At each stage in your career you have to ask yourself: Where am I? Where do I want to be? How do I get there? If you stand still, your technical skills will stagnate.