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IN TODAYS EMAIL:

• Cisco Exam Safeguard — What It Is

• Never Too Late: Starting Your IT Career at 41

CERTIFICATIONS & SKILLS TO WATCH:

Cisco Exam Safeguard — What It Is

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Preparing for an IT certification takes time, money, and consistency.

And if you’ve ever failed an exam thinker by just a few points, you already know how frustrating (and expensive) that can be.

Failing often means paying again, adding pressure, and second-guessing yourself—especially if the certification is tied to your job or next career move.

To solve this exact problem, many vendors have started offering safety nets.

Cisco’s answer is Exam Safeguard.

This week, we’re breaking down why Cisco Exam Safeguard might be worth it and how it can reduce stress while improving your chances of passing.

📑 The Log

Cisco Exam Safeguard is an optional purchase available for the CCNA, Cybersecurity Associate, and select professional-level core Cisco exams.

When you buy an eligible exam directly through Cisco, Exam Safeguard gives you two attempts for one price.

If you don’t pass on your first try, you can retake the same exam at no additional cost within the allowed timeframe.

Options:

• Exam Safeguard — $375 (CCNA)

  Includes two exam attempts

• Exam Safeguard Plus — $450 (CCNA)

  Includes two exam attempts + CCNA Exam Review practice test

5 Benefits of Cisco Exam Safeguard

Reduces Exam Anxiety

Knowing you have a second attempt takes pressure off immediately. You’re not walking into the exam feeling like everything rides on one shot—and that alone can improve performance.

Gives You a Better Chance at Passing

Two attempts automatically improve your odds. Even if the first try doesn’t go your way, you get another opportunity without restarting the process.

Saves You Money

Failing a $300+ exam and paying again hurts. While Safeguard costs more upfront, it can save you hundreds by preventing a full second exam fee.

Turns the First Attempt Into Real Feedback

If you don’t pass the first time, it becomes valuable data. You’ll understand Cisco’s question style, timing, and which domains need more focus.

Encourages You to Schedule the Exam

A lot of people study endlessly but never book the test. Safeguard gives you the confidence to set a date, take action, and stop waiting for the “perfect” moment.

🔑 Key Takeaway

Certifications are already stressful enough.

Cisco Exam Safeguard removes some of that pressure by giving you flexibility, confidence, and a second chance—without paying twice.

If you’re serious about the CCNA or another Cisco exam, this option can help you commit, test sooner, and pass smarter.

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RECENT EPISODE:

Never Too Late: Starting Your IT Career at 41

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Breaking into tech can feel intimidating — especially when you’re not in your 20s anymore.

This week’s topic comes straight from a listener who’s 41 years old, about to start a bootcamp, and wondering if they’re too late to begin an IT career — and whether job placement programs really work.

Short answer: 41 isn’t a disadvantage. It’s an asset.

Let’s break it down.

📑 The Log

Breaking Into Tech in Your 40s: What You Need to Know

Here’s the real truth about starting an IT career later in life, bootcamps, and job placement programs — without the hype.

Why Being 41 Is Actually an Advantage

From an employer’s perspective, someone in their 40s is often seen as a safer investment.

Companies spend time and money training new hires. They want people who are reliable, committed, and less likely to quit at the first sign of discomfort. At this stage in life, most people value stability, growth, and long-term opportunity — and employers notice that.

You’re not a risk. You’re reliable.

Tech Is Full of Career Switchers

Tech is one of the few industries where your background doesn’t define your future.

People come into IT from retail, warehouses, trucking, the military, hospitality — all the time. And many of them start in their 30s, 40s, and even later.

At 41, you still have 20+ working years ahead of you. That’s more than enough time to:

• Land your first role

• Move into a specialty

• Increase your income

• Build a long-term career

You’re not late — you’re right on time.

Bootcamps: One Rule Matters Most

If you start a bootcamp, finish it.

Bootcamps move fast by design. A lot of people start strong, get overwhelmed, and drop out — wasting time and money.

The real value comes at the end:

projects, confidence, interview prep, and momentum.

Commit fully. See it through.

The Truth About Job Placement Programs

Job placement help is valuable — but nothing in tech is guaranteed on a timeline.

Some people get hired before graduating. Others take months. Everyone’s journey is different.

Use the bootcamp’s resources, but don’t wait on them:

• Apply on your own

• Network

• Stay active on LinkedIn

You and the bootcamp should be working together, not separately.

How to Make a Bootcamp Actually Work for You

• Learn the material — don’t just complete the program

• Use every resource offered (resume help, mock interviews, coaching)

• Keep applying independently

• Be mentally prepared if it takes longer than advertised

Consistency wins.

🔑 Key Takeaway

Tech doesn’t care about your age.

It cares about skills, consistency, and execution.

If you stay focused, finish what you start, and keep showing up — you can absolutely build a successful IT career starting in your 40s.