In today’s competitive job market, it’s imperative to stand out from the crowd. One effective approach is obtaining professional certifications, which validate specific skills and knowledge while showcasing your accumulated experience and expertise. These credentials create long-term value while increasing career momentum.
The Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM) reported that 87% of executives, 81% of supervisors, and 90% of human resources professionals believe individuals with certifications bring value to the workplace and are considered better performers than those without certifications.
A recent Harris Poll stated that employers say 77% of U.S. hiring managers say microcredentials are just as valuable as (39%) or more valuable than (38%) traditional degrees, and 67% of job seekers would rather spend their time getting a microcredential than getting a degree through traditional means.
Set Yourself Up for Success
With so many professional certifications available, it can be difficult to choose the right one. Take time to strategically evaluate which certification to pursue.
- Research: Each industry has certifications that employers are looking for. Do your research to find out which certification fits your field. You can also check job postings in your field to find out which certifications are in demand.
- Career Goal Alignment: Define your career goals and choose a supportive credential.
- Evaluate Return on Investment: Certifications take money and time. Figure out if you or your current employer will pay for this certification, and if they will allow time for you to take the course. Develop a study plan conducive to your personal and professional life.
Leverage the Learning Process
The learning process is a powerful journey that cultivates confidence and builds credibility.
- Capture Your Growth: During the learning process, keep detailed notes, any examples you have, or case studies. These documents can be used in your future career and demonstrate your expertise.
- Implement Learned Knowledge: If the skills you’re learning for your certification apply to your current job, implement them into your current work life to create a greater learning experience.
- Build Relationships with Peers: Connect professionally and socially with others pursuing the same certification.
Make Your Achievements Visible
Announcing your achievement creates prominence and new prospects for career growth.
- Profile Updates: Take the time to add your new certification to your LinkedIn profile. This includes your digital certificate ID or badge. In addition, add certifications to your resume.
- Intentional Recognition and New Skills: Create a post online to share your accomplishment. Within your online announcement, express a desire for complex projects.
- Certification Additions: Some certifications have post-nominal letters, which are abbreviations that signal a professional qualification, license, or accomplishment. Update your LinkedIn profile name, email signatures, and portfolio with your new post-nominal letters. Other certifications provide printable certificates that can be added to your portfolio.
Transforming Your Knowledge Into Growth
Provide your employer with resolutions that help solve business struggles.
- Broaden Your Responsibilities: With the new knowledge, you can take on additional projects that demonstrate your increased credibility.
- Leverage Your Experience: Integrate the newly acquired credentials with your established track record of results to distinguish yourself.
Stay Active in the Certification Community
Some certifications require renewal or continuing education to remain valid. It is essential to keep learning and stay updated.
After earning your certification, you can use your knowledge to mentor others, coordinate and spearhead workshops, or be a guest speaker. Leveraging your expertise on many platforms can transform your career.
Certifications That Align with Skills
While employers and job seekers find certifications valuable, skills are also a key factor in professional advancement. Resume Now illustrates how certain certifications align with in-demand skills for the future.
Over the past few years, there have been many discussions among employers about whether these certifications lead to a pay boost or a career transition. The Burning Glass Institute created a tool that lets people search for and assess each of the credentials it analyzed. Verify that your credentials are legitimate, as they are essential for mastering the rapidly evolving landscape of industries.
About Specialized Recruiting Group
Specialized Recruiting Group (SRG) is in the business of people. SRG supports local business communities and professionals seeking new career opportunities by offering an individual approach to professional staffing placements.
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