Professional Development

Grow your data career with professional development tips, leadership guidance, and practical SQL Server skill‑building resources.

SQL Server 2008 Certification Resources

There are three Microsoft certifications available for SQL Server 2008. In this tip we look at available resources for each of the different certifications: Database Administrator, Database Developer and Business Intelligence Developer.

How to find a SQL Server DBA Job

I am new to the SQL Server platform and want to break into the field. I have been doing IT work for a while now and I am looking to focus my career on SQL Server. Do you have any suggestions? Where should I start? What should I be prepared for during

Starting your SQL Server Career Path

How did you learn SQL Server? This is a question that has been asked of me a few times over the last few months. I have also been asked how someone can get up to speed with SQL Server very quickly and become productive. Check out this tip to get some s

Building a SQL Server DBA Department

In a recent tip, a DBA explained that he has SQL Server Agent Jobs created without his knowledge on a regular basis. He indicated that setting up proper security and a change management process would be the solution to this issue. Is that really all it

Starting a SQL Server DBA Job

I have been a SQL Server DBA at one organization for a number of years. I am moving on to another organization and I saw one of your tips about leaving a SQL Server job gracefully. I thought this was a good tip, but I could use some recommendations on s

Leaving a SQL Server DBA Job Gracefully

You’re leaving your current employer for a new opportunity and want to make the move as smooth as possible. You don’t want to burn your bridges and want to make sure that everything you’ve left behind can be managed by the people you’ve left behind or the

SQL Server for Network Administrators

My job function is a Network Administrator, not a SQL Server DBA or Developer, but I work with SQL Server on a regular basis. I could use some pointers to improve my skills. What would be a good SQL Server primer for me? What are some high level SQL Se

Vacation for a SQL Server DBA

There is something to be said for taking a vacation. The rest and relaxation, seeing new places, being exposed to new and exciting things. The other side of the coin is being on-call, answering pages at 3:00 AM then driving around a strange location hun

SQL Server DBA Telecommuting Tips

I've been working remotely (also known as Telecommuting) for over 8 years now. While it sounds great: Hey I get to work from home! telecommuting effectively takes a great deal of work. You can't just phone it in (sorry I could not resist the pun). B