What previous IT experience counts for a network job?

I know a lot of you guys work in the network admin arena and I could use a bit of advice form you regarding my previous work experience.

I am close to sitting my CCNA now and hoping to move from general IT support contracting into a permanent networking role. I've been in IT support for almost 13 years now in jobs ranging from helpdesk, pc support, networks, Unix admin up to 3rd line MS/Novell server admin. 10 years ago I spent a year helping out the network manager with cabling up patch panels, wall ports and various fly leads. Helping with network monitoring etc but that was back in the days when it was shared networks (hubs, bridges and no switches) so the CCNA is the only up to date knowledge and I have no real hands on with that if you discount the lab work.

I am wondering how much (if any) of this previous experience will count when I get my CCNA and start sending my CV out for networking jobs. Would you think I would get a look in from within a big pile of CVs for a networking post?

Any info greatly appreciated.

Hi Starfire,

Before i reply to this post let me tell u tat im someone with only an year experience in networking and sys administration. But i do have a fair knowledge of the market scenario for networking.

The experience tat u ve got over the span of 13 years will definitely help along with the CCNA certification. Write out a CV stressin on ur previous experience on various platforms and netw. Tell them the different roles u have played in the organization. Network monitoring and cabling experience too will count. The netw scenario has changed with the arrival of the switches(exp higher end ones). but ur knowledge on hubs and bridges will help out. Further try for a post in netw support and then move towards a full netw administration one. It all depends on how confident u r in networking. If u think u r strong enuf to manage a full fledged netw then try convincing the interviewers on it.

Sky is the limit!

Jus my 2 cents!!

Thnx
Net Ivy

Wise words NetIvy, I'll remember that myself for my job hunt