What do you consider a "REAL" security professional? Is it anyone like you who feels they are the king of security, but shouldn't be bothered to take a test?

Your post is just whining and complaining. I've met quite a few security professionals who know what they are about, but don't have a certification. Many of them don't want one, but are in demand. Their work experience and personal references are the key. If you can't get a job, don't blame certification holders. Look into your history, look into what people are saying about you, and look into how you write your resume. Certifications are just one tool toward getting a job, but any competent person should be able to get a job without a cert.

Certifications have a few good points, however. People who have no clue what security is about (anyone who does the hiring) have no other way to judge a person's competence. Most organizations do better in contract bids when they have a corporate resume with a lot of acronyms attached. By bucking the system, you only prove that you are a rebel and less likely to have the company's best interest at heart.

Get off of your tail, take a cert, improve the head-hunters chance of placing you, and improve your future company's bargaining position. YOU are the brick in the wall, not anyone else.

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