You are only desired in the job market once you get 2 years experience.
Alot of people get a job dealing with a simple network such as a high school for resume experience.
Their are way to many CCNA's avalible today..
But many do not have the common sense to think when they are around actual equipment.
This has pushed empoyers to want people with 2 years experience.
Once you get the experience you have an edge over most ccna's out their.
Going up to CCNP/CCIP/ or CCVP will boost you a lot especially if you get 2 yrs experience to put on your resume.
Start from the bottom, work yourself through the mess to the top.