I'm not working in the industry (waiting for job placement, already hired) currently but based on what I'm understand from friends who actually have broken into the industry and what I learned from here is that you must have previous working experience in the field. It's funny seeing all these jobs listed as "Entry Level" but require a degree, equivalent certification with experience, or raw experience. A friend of mine does not know as much about computers as I do, he got a help desk job just changing passwords, and he went right into a Deployment Tech 2 position making 60k. No certs, no degree, just PRIOR EXPERIENCE. It didn't matter to them. I have a lot more experience and a certification, but no working job experience and I'm offered a Bench Tech 1 slot at 50K. We are offered higher salaries because we possess security clearances, so don't go into it expecting that.
This is my plan so don't take it for gospel or a surefire way to get into the industry. I've already gotten my Network+ and I'm currently working on my A+. After that, I'm jumping into CCENT to prepare for the CCNA. I don't know what I'm going to do after that but it's a goal to work toward. What you will be tested on for the CompTIA exams is leaned toward your intimate knowledge of the subject plus critical thinking. The questions I knew right away were ones where I had the same exact issue and I knew the fix. Others require memorization, like protocols and associated port numbers, just a couple of the many things you'll need to know. You need more then study guides, you'll need hands on and maybe even a teacher. Good mentors in this field can truly bridge the gaps. If you can't take the classes, find a more knowledgeable friend who would be willing to teach you or maybe just answer your questions.
In conclusion, I agree with most of the guys here when they say employers will take experience over a guy with just a cert or two and no experience. But experience with a cert is better. Social networking is the best way to go. You got a friend in the industry? See if he can't pull a few strings for you, but to keep him from looking like a weiner, you need to have a strong and genuine interest in the field. I hope this helps a bit.