Will a New Certificate Get Me a Job?

Wondering whether certification is right for you? Here is everything you need to know about if certifications actually help you get the job.

In today's competitive job market, it's natural to wonder if a certificate will really make a difference in your employment prospects. After all, you don't want to waste your time and money on something that won't help you land a job or pay off in the long term. There's a lot to consider about whether a certificate is right for your career. So let's dive in and find out if a certificate is the missing piece of the puzzle in your job hunt!

What is a Certificate

Before diving into whether certification is worth it for job seekers, it is important to first understand what a professional certification is. Professional certification is a credential that demonstrates your expertise and qualifications in a specific field or industry. It is typically awarded by a professional organization or governing body within the profession to reflect that you have met certain criteria. This could be the completion of a course, passing an exam, or passing multiple exams. This is different than licensure which typically comes from a government agency or some regulatory body that regulates a profession.

Some professional certifications or designations take applications and extensive study. But, others can be easily obtained. So, if you're looking to boost your job prospects, investing in a professional certification could be a wise decision.

Value of Certifications for Professionals

The value of certifications for professionals cannot be underestimated in today's competitive job market. Employers are increasingly looking for candidates who not only possess the required skills and qualifications but also demonstrate a commitment to continuous learning and professional development. A certification can act as a validation of your knowledge and expertise in a specific field, giving you a competitive edge over other applicants.

Certifications are particularly valuable in industries where specialized skills are highly sought after, such as IT, finance, healthcare, or project management. They provide employers with confidence that you have the necessary skills to perform effectively in your role.

Moreover, certifications often help professionals stand out from the crowd and showcase their commitment to staying up-to-date with industry trends and advancements. In a rapidly evolving job market, where technology and best practices are constantly changing, having a certification can demonstrate that you have the knowledge and skills needed to adapt and thrive.

Furthermore, certifications can also lead to increased job opportunities and higher earning potential. Many employers value certifications as a way to ensure their workforce is well-equipped with the latest skills and expertise. In fact, some job postings specifically require certain certifications as a prerequisite for consideration.

Additionally, obtaining a professional certification can provide professionals with a sense of personal accomplishment and pride. Earning certification requires dedication, hard work, and a commitment to ongoing learning. By successfully completing the requirements for certification, professionals can boost their confidence and gain a sense of validation for their efforts.

Despite these great benefits, not all certifications are equal in their value to employers or to your career. Keep reading for real insights into how certifications are viewed by employers.

How Employers View Certifications when Assessing Candidates

When assessing candidates, employers view certifications as a valuable asset that showcases the necessary skills and expertise required for a specific role. Certifications provide employers with confidence that you have the knowledge and capabilities to perform effectively in your job. They also demonstrate your commitment to staying up-to-date with industry trends and advancements, which is essential in a rapidly evolving job market.

Employers often prioritize candidates with certifications as it reflects a proactive approach toward professional development. With technology and best practices constantly changing, having a certification indicates that you have the ability to adapt and thrive in such dynamic environments.

The value of certifications goes beyond just enhancing your resume. It is a way to differentiate yourself from other candidates and stand out in a competitive job market. Employers often receive numerous applications for a single position, and having a relevant certification can give you an edge over the competition.

Certifications also serve as a validation of your skills and expertise. They provide employers with tangible evidence that you have undergone rigorous training and have met industry standards. This can help instill confidence in hiring managers that you possess the necessary knowledge and abilities to excel in the role.

Furthermore, certifications demonstrate your commitment to continuous learning and professional growth. In today's fast-paced and ever-changing work environment, employers value candidates who are dedicated to expanding their knowledge and skills. By investing time and effort in obtaining certifications, you showcase your commitment to staying ahead in your field.

Depending on the specific certification that you pursue, it could lead to increased earning potential. This could be because the certifications are harder to obtain, in high demand, or of particular importance to the types of employers which you are applying.

Research the Specifics of the Certification

Researching the specifics of the certification you are interested in is crucial. Each certification has its own requirements, exam format, and renewal process. By thoroughly understanding these details, you can better prepare yourself for the certification journey.

Start by exploring the official website of the certifying organization. Look for information on eligibility criteria, study materials, and exam registration. Take note of any prerequisites or recommended experience that may be needed before pursuing the certification.

Additionally, seek out online forums or communities dedicated to the certification you are considering. Connect with professionals who have already obtained the certification and ask them about their experiences and advice for success. These individuals can provide valuable insights and guidance on how to best navigate the certification process.

In addition to researching the specifics of the certification, it is also important to evaluate the potential value it will bring to your career. Consider how relevant and in-demand the certification is within your industry or desired field. Will it enhance your knowledge and skills in a way that aligns with your long-term goals?

Lastly, weigh the credibility and reputation of the certifying organization. Look for accreditations or endorsements that demonstrate the organization's commitment to maintaining high standards of excellence.

By thoroughly researching and evaluating the specifics of the certification, its value, and the resources needed, you can make an informed decision about whether pursuing it is the right choice for you. Remember, certifications can be a valuable asset in your professional journey, but they require dedication and preparation to achieve success.

How to Assess the Return on Investment (ROI) of a Certification

Assessing the return on investment (ROI) of certification is essential before deciding to pursue it. Here are a few steps to help you evaluate the potential ROI:

1. Look at the jobs posted right now. By looking at real jobs that are out there in the market currently, you can determine if the employers really value the types of certification that you are considering. If you are consistently seeing the certification in the requirements of the job description, that's a great way to know that you are on the right track.

2. Research salary data. Look for data on professionals who hold the certification you are interested in and compare their salaries to those without the certification. This will give you an idea of the potential financial benefits it can bring.

3. Evaluate the Intangibles. Will it connect you with professionals and organizations in your field? Networking can open doors to new job opportunities or career advancements, further enhancing the return on your investment.

4. Think critically about your current gaps. Consider whether the certification will help to address your weaknesses or otherwise enhance your job performance. Evaluating the knowledge and skills you will acquire is crucial to determining the potential return on investment.

5. Consider where you want to go. Sometimes certifications can be an expectation to make it to the next level in your field. If that's the case, getting the certification now can make a difference for your career. If no one at the higher levels has it, then it could be a good sign to skip the credential altogether.

6. Account for future costs. Many certifications require continued learning, fees, and other time commitments. Look at these to determine if it is worth the investment now and if that continued cost will ultimately pay off in your career. Many employers pay for such fees, if they value the certification that you get and it is relevant to the job that you hold. But, not every employer will foot this bill. So, the cost for the future of the credential is important to consider before you start the process.

Talk to People in the Field

One of the best ways to gather insights on whether certification is worth pursuing is by talking to people already working in your field. Reach out to professionals who hold the certification you are considering and have a conversation with them. Ask about the impact it has had on their career, whether it has helped them gain new opportunities or advance in their current role. Their firsthand experiences can provide valuable insights into the potential benefits and drawbacks of obtaining the certification.

Here are some things to think about or to ask about when you meet with people in the field that have the certification:

1. Did it pay off for them? Inquire about any tangible benefits they have experienced as a result of obtaining the certification. This could include salary increases, promotions, or access to new job opportunities.

2. Why did they pursue it? Their motivations may align with your own career goals and aspirations, providing further insight into the potential value of the credential.

3. How much (time and money)? Ask about the time and effort they had to invest in obtaining the certification. Find out if they felt it was worth it, considering the fees and other commitments required. Understanding their perspective can give you a better sense of the overall value of the certification.

4. Does anyone care about the certification? Knowing whether the industry cares about the credential that you are pursuing is important. And, if there are any industry-specific credentials to consider that matter more. These factors are crucial in determining whether pursuing the certification is a smart move.

5. Did it create a bigger professional network? Some certifications come with associations, chapters, and other groups to join. In that case, the broader network is just as important in your job search as the credential itself - if people in the field value it.

Additionally, speaking with employers or hiring managers in your industry can give you a sense of how certifications are valued within the job market. Find out if having the certification is seen as a necessary requirement or simply a bonus. Understanding the perspective of those who make hiring decisions will give you a clearer picture of the value that certification holds in your field.

Move Forward!

After you make a decision about whether certification is right for your job search, the most important step is to move forward. If you decide to go get it, then commit and go get that certification. If you decide to pass, then commit to focusing that energy and time on your job search.

Whatever you choose, the key is to act on that decision to make the most of your job search. Certifications that are worth pursuing will only have value once you have one. So, don't waste any time in getting the certification. But, don't forgo your job search in the meantime. If you want to land a new job, it can take time and there are lots of steps to the process. That means you will need to prioritize and plan to make your goals happen.

If you are having trouble deciding whether certification is right for you, companies like The Contingent Plan, would be happy to help. Consulting with a careers expert can make a huge difference in the effectiveness of your efforts and help you move forward in landing a new job. Enter your information below if you would like to learn more about how someone can help you.