My current job is my first as a DBA - before this I was a Developer with an interest in databases. I was asked by a recruiter (via LinkedIn) if I was interested in a DBA role and I too didn't think I had enough experience. I only went through the interview process to see what I would need to know in a couple of years; when I thought I would be ready for the transition.

What actually swung the decision for the employer was my attendance of a SQLBits conference in the UK and paying my own way for SQLPASS.

Sometimes showing how keen you are to learn can make the difference. I didn't know a great deal about SQL Server, but I was obviously interested and they could teach me their way of doing things without an pre-existing 'bad habits'.

Since then I've met a lot of DBAs - contractors and permanent staff and I've discovered one scary thing - the 'average' standard of a DBA is lower than you might think.

If you can get to any SQL Saturdays, or SQL in the City or suchlike then do so. Put them on your LinkedIn profile under 'training'. Create a simple blog site of what you have learned. Make sure people know you are actively studying the subject and interested in learning. That will go a long way to convincing companies to employ you.

Good luck and come back to SSC as often as you can. There are some very talented people here you can stalk.