5 reasons why professional certifications are a must-have for long-term success!
Professional certification is different from ordinary degrees, and an individual wishes to pursue a professional certification for various reasons. Whether you feel stuck in your current job, want to expand your skill set, or are considering a career change, obtaining a professional certification can help you achieve your goals. Regardless of your motivation, professional certification is a valuable tool for advancing your career and gaining expertise.
Employers are seeking candidates with specific skills and expertise in today's job market. While a college degree is valuable, you may need more to distinguish you from other job applicants. Professional certifications can help you with that as they demonstrate a higher knowledge and expertise. A survey found that 91% of hiring managers consider certifications valuable for validating expertise and knowledge in a particular field. By obtaining professional certification, you can make yourself a more competitive and desirable candidate for high-profile positions in your field.
Here are five long-term benefits of professional certifications and why you should consider obtaining one:
Career Advancement Opportunities
Obtaining a professional certification can be a game-changer! Not only do certifications demonstrate your knowledge and expertise, but they can also open up new career advancement opportunities. Employers are increasingly seeking certified professionals, and having a certification can give you a distinct advantage over other job candidates. A survey by (IDC) found that 72% of employers require certifications for certain positions.
Certifications clearly indicate your skillset and demonstrate your commitment to professional development. Plus, when you earn certification while working for a company, they are vested in recognizing and utilizing your newfound knowledge and expertise. Many companies offer better opportunities and promotions to employees with professional certifications. And let's remember the impact certifications can have on your job search - they make you a valuable and irreplaceable asset to any organization.
Increased Credibility and Professional Recognition
Professional certifications demonstrate a higher level of skill and expertise in a particular field, which can lead to increased credibility and professional recognition. Increased credibility can increase trust and confidence in your abilities, resulting in more business and career advancement opportunities.
In fact, according to a recent survey, professionals with certifications earn 22% more than those without certifications. This is a testament to certifications' value to your career. Additionally, certifications can also lead to professional recognition within your field. Many professional associations and organizations offer widely recognized and respected certifications. You can access a network of other certified professionals and potential career opportunities by obtaining one of these certifications.
Transferable Skills and Global Recognition
Professional certifications are designed to teach you transferable skills and knowledge across different industries and job roles. For example, someone with a Six Sigma certification has demonstrated expertise in process improvement and quality management, which can be applied to various industries and job roles. Your certification can remain valuable and relevant even if you switch careers or industries.
Additionally, professional certifications can give you global recognition in your field. Many certifications are recognized and respected worldwide, making them a valuable asset for professionals who work in or want to work in international markets. For example, the Project Management Professional (PMP) certification, offered by the Project Management Institute, is recognized in over 200 countries.
Increased Earning Potential
One of the most significant benefits of professional certifications is that they can lead to a higher salary. According to a recent survey, professionals with certifications in their field earn, on average, 20% more than their non-certified counterparts. For example, according to a survey by the HR Certification Institute, certified HR professionals earn an average of 27% more than their non-certified counterparts. Similarly, a study by CompTIA found that IT professionals with certifications earn an average of $15,000 more per year than those without.
Additionally, certifications can qualify you for higher-level positions and more challenging projects, often with higher pay. These statistics show that investing in a professional certification can pay off in the long run in terms of increased salary and more significant job opportunities. Many employers offer bonuses or other incentives to employees who obtain specific certifications, further incentivizing the pursuit of professional development.
Staying up-to-date with the latest industry trends
As industries evolve and new technologies emerge, staying ahead of the curve is more important than ever. According to a survey, 85% of hiring managers believe that it's important for employees to stay current with new technologies and industry trends. Professional certifications can help you do that by providing you with the latest knowledge, techniques, and technologies in your field. 81% of certified professionals surveyed recently reported that certification helped them stay up-to-date with the latest technologies and trends.
By obtaining a professional certification, you can demonstrate to employers that you are committed to your profession and dedicated to staying current with industry trends and advancements. This can lead to increased job opportunities, career advancement, and greater earning potential.
Conclusion
Professional certifications offer a unique advantage that can lead to a more rewarding career in the long run. In fact, according to a recent survey, 94% of hiring managers believe that certification improves the quality of work. Not only can professional certifications increase your earning potential, but they also offer career advancement opportunities and improved job satisfaction. A survey by Microsoft found that certified professionals earn, on average, 15% more than non-certified professionals in the same field. Furthermore, 23% of those surveyed reported receiving a promotion or a pay raise after obtaining certification.