Good SQL Server database administrators are in high demand, make an excellent salary, and have one of the most supportive professional networks in IT. There are hundreds of resources and books dedicated to the technology, but the real question is:
How do I become a DBA with no experience?
The DBA Roadmap seminar will show you how to prepare for and secure your first job as a SQL Server database administrator.
What’s in it?
The DBA Roadmap contains 7 audio tracks, 2 bonus tracks, and PDF companion guides with summaries and links. Each MP3 track is a standalone unit, which allows you to complete the series in any order, at your own pace.
Track 1: Introduction [0:10]
In the first track we introduce ourselves and give a brief overview of the seminar.
Track 2: How to Study [1:03]
The second segment concerns effective ways to study. Becoming a database administrator doesn’t necessarily require a university degree, but you will need effective study habits.
Track 3: What to Study [0:28]
In this track, we discuss the best learning resources. There are a number of great free and inexpensive websites and webinars, excellent books, and first-rate training courses. You’ll also learn about local, national and international conferences; and what to expect from these.
Track 4: Resumes [1:10]
We have also seen what does and doesn’t work on a DBA’s resume. In the seminar you’ll get a brief review of resume basics, and then database-specific resume recommendations. Included is why you need more than one version of your resume, and tips for specific cases — for example, dealing with gaps in your work experience, resumes for getting your first database job, etc.
Track 5: Job Hunting [1:03]
Finding your first position as a database administrator, without prior experience, can be a tricky proposition. Fortunately, we have a number of time-tested methods to launch your career, as well as solid tips for job hunting and manage recruiters.
Track 6: Interviews [1:08]
Here we take you through interviewing. You’ll learn vital (and universally neglected) interview preparation and skills to ensure that you can get through an interview confidently. The companion guide links to some of our free interviewing tutorials.
Track 7: Conclusion [0:15]
The conclusion contains our final thoughts and advice for the up-and-coming DBA.
The DBA Roadmap seminar was designed and taught by experienced SQL Server DBAs – us! We are Sean McCown and Jennifer McCown, a married pair of SQL Server DBAs. We remember very well all the questions we had when we first began pursuing database careers, and we spend a good deal of our time now answering those same questions. This seminar is the best of what we’ve learned in a combined 25 years in the industry.