Second Shot with a Side of Career Assist: Just What the Doctor Ordered

In light of the current state of the economy (not to mention recent news in my own back yard (I can still call it that since we continue, against our deeply held wishes, to own a house in Redmond)), I make it a point to count my blessings every day. A loving and supportive family is primary among them, of course, but the presence of gainful employment cannot be taken for granted.

Of course, not all of us are so fortunate. My friends over at Microsoft Learning (MSL) are stepping up. For several months now, they’ve been offering a program called Second Shot, whereby you get a free retake if you fail your Microsoft Certification exam.

Until 30 June 2009, if you register for Second Shot, you get any Microsoft E-Learning collection for just US$35 (typically priced up to US$349) – up to 90% off!

There’s a limit of one discounted E-Learning Collection per customer, and once you’ve activated yours, it will only be available for 90 days.

Whether you’re looking to accelerate your career, become indispensible in your current role, or build your skills to get (back) into the technical workforce, this is a great way to maximize your certification and training budget.

If you think you can make use of this program, register for Second Shot here. You don’t need to pay for your Certification Exam when you register for Second Shot, and you don’t need to pay your US$35 until you redeem your voucher when you finish shopping in the e-learning section of the Microsoft Learning Catalog. In other words, you can register today for this offer without dropping any cash. I state this with some authority because I just did so.

So.. whether you’re in a growth mode or a recovery phase, this offer will help you keep your skills current, or even grow some new ones. Whatever your personal situation, these are uncommonly tough times for all of us. I wish you well as you navigate them, and I hope these tools can help.

-wp