Ways an Industry Certification Can Help You Stand Out in Today's Job Market

If you are currently in the job market, you would know how competitive and comprehensive the market is. Thus, having an edge in some way or another is extremely important to enhance your chances of cracking your dream job. Industry Certification is one of the minimal ways to gain an edge over others in your field. An Industry Certificate will allow you to stand out in the crowd of people with similar backgrounds and skills. There is continued cut-throat competition in the world, so if you wish to be ahead in the race and make yourself noticed, obtaining an industry certification should be your next step. 

A recent survey by Pearson VUE found that 91% of hiring managers believe certifications are very or somewhat important when considering candidates. Industry certification is a credential that will demonstrate your knowledge and skills in a particular industry or profession and make you indispensable to any organization needing those skills. This blog will discuss how industry certifications can help job seekers stand out in the job market!

#1. Build an impressive online presence

Did you know that a survey states that 70% of employers use social media to screen job candidates, with 57% of those employers saying they have found content that has caused them not to hire a candidate? So, it's no secret that an online presence is essential for career success in today's digital age. More and more employers are using the internet to research potential candidates, making having a solid online profile crucial. Building and improving your online profile can open up new career opportunities and help you stand out in the job market. 

It's essential to keep in mind that anything you share online is public and could be used against you during the hiring process. That's why it's essential to keep your profiles up-to-date and ensure they give a good impression of who you are! 

#2. Demonstrates a commitment to professional development

In today's highly competitive job market, having a degree or diploma is no longer enough to guarantee job security or career advancement. Employers are increasingly looking for candidates who have taken the initiative to invest in their professional development and have acquired the necessary skills to stay competitive. Earning an industry certification clearly shows an individual's commitment to continuous learning and professional development. 

A survey suggests that 91% of employers believe certified professionals are more likely to perform their jobs well and achieve better results. So, continue your dedication to learning and improve, which will help you gain certification and get noticed. 

#3. Gain Essential Leadership and Soft skills

Sharpening your leadership and other soft skills is the key to unlocking your full potential in today's job market. Most employers are increasingly seeking candidates who possess technical skills and soft skills such as leadership, communication, and teamwork. Employers highly value these skills as they enable individuals to work effectively with others and adapt to changing work environments. In fact, a 2020 survey suggests that leadership and management take the highest priority in skill training at 57%. The top five soft skills companies should prioritize are creativity, persuasion, collaboration, adaptability, and emotional intelligence. 

Cultivating leadership and other soft skills is a valuable investment in your career that can set you apart from other candidates in the job market. By demonstrating that you possess technical skills and the ability to work effectively with others, you increase your chances of getting hired and advancing your career. I also found that employees with strong, soft skills are 12% more productive than those without them.

#4. Write and frame an impeccable CV/Resume for yourself

Did you know that according to a study by The Ladders, recruiters spend an average of 6 seconds scanning a resume before deciding whether to continue reading or move on to the next candidate? Therefore, making every word count is essential and ensuring that your CV or resume highlights your skills and experiences effectively! An Industry Certificate can become the highlight of your resume, making your employers consider you further.

A recent study also suggests that around 88% of resumes are rejected due to a photograph on the resume and around 67% of recruiters are looking for job experiences in resumes. So, make sure to remove your photo and highlight your accomplishments, not just your duties, and quantify them where possible. 

#5. Gain Networking Opportunities and use them

According to a survey conducted by LinkedIn, 85% of jobs are filled through networking. This simply highlights how important it is to have a strong professional network can significantly increase your chances of finding new job opportunities. Gaining an Industry Certification can be your doorway to creating such networking and relationships with esteemed professionals in your industry. 

Another great way to enhance your network is by attending industry events and conferences as it provides you with the opportunities to learn about new developments and trends in your field, as well as connect with potential mentors and industry leaders. In fact, a survey by ATD found that 95% of respondents believed that attending conferences helped them stay up-to-date with the latest trends and developments in their field.

Conclusion

Certifications show that you are committed to your profession and that you have taken the initiative to develop specialized skills and knowledge. They also demonstrate to potential employers that you have a well-rounded understanding of your field and are dedicated to staying current with industry trends and advancements. In fact, a survey conducted by Global Knowledge found that 60% of respondents believed that earning a certification had a positive impact on their career prospects. Additionally, according to a study by Burning Glass Technologies, job postings that require certifications often offer higher salaries than those that do not.

With so much competition for jobs, job seekers like you need to find ways to differentiate themselves from others. Earning an industry certification is a smart investment in your career that can help you gain a competitive advantage and achieve your professional goals. HRD skills provide professionals like you with insight into the most comprehensive and value-enhancing certifications and help you improve your knowledge, skills or even learn something new. So, don't wait anymore, take the big leap of faith for your career!