Consider Jannette, a top firm project manager with a decade of full-time experience in his field. Despite this, she consistently gets passed over for promotions in favor of other employees. One possible reason could be the absence of relevant credentials/certificates by professional certification program provider in her resume, which might hinder her chances of securing the position she deserves. Janette is someone who holds strong beliefs and approaches everything with a traditional mindset. She believes that hard work will lead her to the right opportunities. Over the years, she has observed how individuals with the right credentials often achieve higher positions than she does. She has come to understand that certification not only demonstrates the skills one has acquired but also showcases expertise in various subjects. This mastery can instill trust in employers, as it indicates that she could be a valuable asset to their company. This story is a valuable narration that teaches us the importance of certification during these evolving times, allowing us to aim, learn, grow, and achieve.
What is Certification?
Certification is the process that verifies or approves the abilities of a person to perform the required sets of skills. Usually, it is a document given by an organization claiming a certain level of proficiency of an individual, organization, or object. It validates the mastery of a subject, practical skills, and theoretical knowledge. These credits assist you in building your resume, giving you an edge over other competitors. Certain certifications such as CEU (Continuing Education Unit)/ CEC (Continuing Education Credit), PDC (Professional Development Certification), and CPE (Continue Professional Educational) provided by HRCI, SHRM, and NASBA respectively offer value to your career and growth. There are numerous benefits that these credentials provide to us that we will discuss further in this blog.
Certification: Life-long Learning
A never-said notion pertains to our society, which is to follow a certain pattern or frame to achieve success. Our actions are the result of certain expectations set by society such as completing education by a certain age and then doing a job or a startup. Our degree puts an end to our learning and growth. However, lifelong learning empowers us to adapt to change, enhance our skills, and enrich our lives, fostering both personal growth and professional success. Indulging in the process of certification not only deepens your expertise in a specific field but also promotes a mindset of lifelong learning, equipping you with the skills and knowledge needed to thrive in an ever-evolving world. Certification does not pertain to any age frame, anyone whether a student, working professional, or someone who has retired. Anybody can enroll in a certification course. Usually, retired people think about the benefit of indulging in the process of certification now as it won’t cater to any of the notions of success or career enhancement. However, one should not look at it this way, certifications help you to delve into the whole process of lifelong learning and broaden your knowledge of different subjects of life that certification might offer. The courses are excellent options to pursue during your free time. They help individuals establish a routine and work steadily to earn credits, fostering consistency and a more productive mindset throughout the day.
How do we gain Certifications in a particular subject?
As we mentioned, certification is a process, therefore, it becomes highly essential for us to understand the whole process of certification. Is it even beneficial for us to indulge in this process, and how can one attain any particular certification? Attaining certification is not a one-night or one-day process, it is a detailed procedure that requires consistent and dedicated efforts for a continuous period. If you are trying to acquire any certification or looking for something you can indulge in productively in your free time to enhance your career prospects, here are some clear-cut steps that might help you in this process.
- Research- Research is a crucial starting point when undertaking any new venture; or pursuing a certification is no exception. Without thorough research, it can be challenging to gain the clarity and commitment needed to embark on such a journey. The first step is to understand the underlying reasons for pursuing a certification. This clarity is essential, as it provides a sense of purpose and direction. Once this is established, the next logical step is to investigate the various resources available, both online and offline. Comprehensive research into the different certification options will allow you to evaluate their respective advantages and drawbacks.
For example, if you are considering a certification in Human Resource Management to advance your career, broaden your professional scope, and gain a competitive edge in the job market, the research process becomes critical. Upon exploring options, you may discover numerous certifications offered through online and offline channels. As a working professional, pursuing an online certification may emerge as the most practical and flexible choice. After identifying five potential certifications, it is important to analyze each one carefully—evaluating the pros and cons, comparing their content, and gaining a deep understanding of their value.
The decision-making process should factor in key considerations, such as whether the certification holds global validity, the specific benefits it offers in terms of career advancement, and whether it is recognized by your current employer—especially if you are aiming for a promotion or professional development credit within your organization. Thus, it becomes evident that research is a highly individualized process. What may be a highly beneficial certification for one person could be of little value to another, depending on their unique professional goals and circumstances. Consequently, conducting personal research tailored to your specific needs and aspirations is essential, as you are best positioned to identify the certifications that align with your interests and career objectives.
- Understand baseline qualifications- Once you have conducted thorough research and gained a clear understanding of which certification aligns with your career goals, the next critical step is to evaluate whether you meet the eligibility requirements for that certification. In other words, it’s essential to assess whether you are qualified to pursue the chosen certification. For example, if you decide to pursue the certifications offered by the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM), you must first ensure that you fulfill the specific eligibility criteria for the certification you intend to pursue.
SHRM offers two main levels of certifications, each with its own set of eligibility requirements:
- SHRM Certified Professional (SHRM-CP)
Eligibility Requirements:- If you hold a bachelor’s degree: At least one year of HR-related work experience is required.
- If you have an HR-related master’s degree: No prior work experience is necessary.
- If you have a high school diploma or an associate’s degree: At least three years of HR-related work experience is essential.
- SHRM Senior Certified Professional (SHRM-SCP)
Eligibility Requirements:- If you hold a bachelor’s degree: At least three years of senior HR-related work experience is required.
- If you have an HR-related master’s degree: At least two years of senior HR-related work experience is required.
- If you have a high school diploma or an associate’s degree: A minimum of six years of senior HR-related work experience is required.
It is crucial to ensure that you meet these specific eligibility requirements before proceeding with the certification application. Only once you fulfill the outlined criteria will you be considered eligible to pursue the SHRM certification. If you do not meet the required qualifications, you may need to explore other certification options that are more suited to your current qualifications and experience level. Therefore, understanding these prerequisites is an essential step in determining whether or not you are on the right path toward certification.
- Preparation- Once you have completed thorough research on the certification you wish to pursue and confirmed that you meet the baseline eligibility requirements, you have already overcome a significant hurdle. The next critical step is to begin your preparation with a clear focus and strategy. Achieving the credentials you are aiming for requires dedicated effort and a structured approach.
Start by gaining a solid understanding of the exam structure and content. For instance, if you are preparing for certifications offered by the Human Resource Certification Institute (HRCI), your study efforts should be directed towards key areas such as HR practices, employment law, and strategic management, depending on the certification level you are pursuing (e.g., Professional in Human Resources (PHR) or Senior Professional in Human Resources (SPHR)). On the other hand, if you are preparing for certifications from the National Association of State Boards of Accountancy (NASBA), familiarize yourself with the four primary sections of the exam: Auditing and Attestation (AUD), Financial Accounting and Reporting (FAR), Regulation (REG), and Business Environment and Concepts (BEC), along with the specific topics covered in each section.
In addition to understanding the exam content, it is essential to develop a comprehensive study plan. This plan should outline your study goals and milestones, enabling you to cover all relevant topics and chapters within a timeframe that suits your schedule. Make sure your study plan aligns with your exam date, and allocate sufficient time for reviewing material. A well-structured plan will help you stay on track and ensure that you are fully prepared by exam day.
Moreover, successful exam preparation involves sourcing high-quality study materials and training courses. Consider enrolling in specialized courses that offer in-depth coverage of the exam content. For workplace compliance or regulatory compliance training, platforms like Course Ministry can be invaluable in order to provide online courses and certification. It is indeed a great place to earn certification and provides a wide range of learning options, including lectures, live webinars, recorded sessions, and resources on various relevant topics, trends, and chapters. By participating in these courses, you can enhance your knowledge and preparation for certifications from institutions such as HRCI, SHRM, or NASBA, helping you to earn the credentials that will propel your career forward.
In summary, once you have established your certification path, detailed exam understanding, and a robust study plan, the key to success lies in consistent preparation and leveraging the right educational resources.
Certifications Credits: Brief Insights
HRCI: Human Resource Certification Institute
HRCI is a global-level leader in certifying human resource professionals. It provides a range of certificates from entry-level to senior management positions, such as aPHR (Entry-level), PHR (Professional in HR), SPHR (Senior Professional in HR), and GPHR (Global Professional in HR). These certificates demonstrate proficiency in key areas like talent management, employee relations, compensation, and strategic HR leadership. These certificates are globally respected and are valid for three years, requiring professionals to earn continuing education credits to maintain these credentials.
SHRM: Society for Human Resource Management
SHRM is a professional association that provides valuable resources, education, and networking opportunities to HR professionals globally. It offers two primary certifications such as SHRM-CP, designated for early to mid-career HR professionals, and SHRM-SCP for senior HR professionals who develop HR strategies and form HR functions within organizations. These certifications are valued internationally and valid for three years. To maintain certification, one must enroll in workshops, courses, and HR-related learning to earn continuing professional development (CPD).
NASBA: National Association of State Boards of Accountancy
NASBA is an organization that supports the State Board of Accountancy in the United States and plays a central role in the CPA exam process. It oversees the administration of the CPA exam. The CPA exam is one of the key components in becoming a licensed CPA. NASBA also plays a role in licensing mobility, allowing CPAs to transfer their license across state lines. It acts as a resource for prospective CPAs, guiding them through the certification process.
Conclusion
In today’s competitive job market, certifications are more than just a way to validate your skills—they are a powerful tool that can propel your career forward. Whether you’re an HR professional, an accountant, or someone in a completely different field, obtaining the right certification can open doors to new opportunities, higher earning potential, and increased job satisfaction. As we’ve discussed, certifications provide a competitive edge by showcasing your commitment to professional growth, ensuring you stay up-to-date with industry standards, and giving you the expertise needed to tackle evolving challenges in the workplace. Achieving certification isn’t just about passing an exam—it’s about investing in yourself, your career, and your future. By following a structured path that includes understanding eligibility criteria, preparing effectively, and embracing lifelong learning, you can unlock the potential certifications have to offer. These credentials elevate your qualifications, enhance your professional network, and increase your marketability in an ever-changing job landscape. Ultimately, certifications are a journey of continuous growth and development. They not only provide instant career benefits but also encourage a mindset of lifelong learning—an essential trait for navigating success in any industry. So, whether you’re aiming for a promotion, a career change, or simply seeking personal development, take the next step and explore the certifications that align with your goals. The power of certification is within your reach—seize it, and let it guide you toward lasting success.
