Architect Consultant blog

Today i received a mail from one of my Blog readers. I think it is a general question about becoming a SOA architect and therefore i post his question to my blog, so that anyone can help him. I will also do my share. Mail: Hello Roger,  I came across your blog and it is pretty helpful for individuals who are pursuing on a career path in SOA and integration area.  I myself have been in the same path since the past 5 years associated with the iWay ESB. I am looking into strengthen my skills and grow into a role of an SOA consultant/Architect after having dealt with a variety of SOA based scenarios in the organizations where i have worked. But i have always found it challenging when we go into the job market as with many ESB tools in the market, its tough to market one self for that particular position as people will be looking for individuals having experience in the their own esb  tools.  Even though the underlying functionality and concept is the same...