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One of the best ways to advance your career is to get certifications. Whether you are a seasoned professional or first-time job seeker, certifications can improve your resume and help you stand out from the competition. You are also more likely to boost your salary with the right certifications.
Certifications inform recruiters that you have completed a set of training programs in a particular field. The good thing about certification programs is the short duration needed to obtain them. You can complete many programs in days or weeks while some advanced ones may take months or a year.
If you are still not sure about getting a new certification, perhaps the latest report from edX and the Linux Foundation will convince you. As per the report, 72% of surveyed hiring managers indicated they are more likely to hire a candidate with a certification.
All certifications are not made equal and this article focuses on some of the best certifications that can take you to the next level in your career. Here we go.
- Human Resources Certifications
Anyone occupying or aspiring for a management position in human resources (HR) can benefit a lot from HR certifications. These certifications can improve your management of abilities, teach you new HR strategies, and keep you up-to-date with the latest HR trends.
There are several HR certifications offered by reputable institutions such as HR Certification Institute (HRCI), SHRM (Society for Human Resource Management), Certificate in Human Resources Management, and so on. Hiring managers favor applicants with certifications from these institutions, especially those from HRCI which are seen as the gold standard of HR certifications.
We must state that HR programs are rigorous and the tests can be difficult. But you’ll be giving yourself a massive advantage if you complete them. According to PayScale, certified HR professionals earn up to $20,000 more than their non-certified peers.
- IT certifications
There is fierce competition in the IT space and you should do anything that can give you an edge. An IT certification is one of those things. It requires time and money but it is well worth it.
Employers are looking for talents with specialized skills and certifications are one way to prove to your potential and current employers that you have the skills you say you do. You’ll also be seen as a dedicated and motivated individual by your employers.
While there are several certifications that can improve your salary, some of the highest paying IT certifications include Certified Data Professional (CDP), AWS Certified Cloud Practitioner, Cisco Certified Internetwork Expert (CCIE), CompTIA (A+, Cloud+, Security+), and so on.
- Business Certifications
If you are in the business world, you will often need additional training and knowledge to advance your career. There are several business certifications awarded by different organizations. Some certifications can help you advance your career faster than others. So, it’s important you research the options available to you to decide the best ones for you.
The best business certifications cover a wide range of topics from business analysis to sales, marketing, and leadership. You can check out Certified Business Analysis Professional (CBAP), Professional Certificate in Team Leadership, Salesforce, HubSpot Inbound Marketing, APICS Certified Supply Chain Professional certification (CSCP), and Project Management Professional (PMP). Any of these certifications can do wonders for your resume.
- Public Relations Certifications
If you are in the public relations industry, there are a number of certifications that can help you stand out in the crowded market. One of the best certifications you can get is the Accredited in Public Relations (APR) certification which is renowned for its rigorous application and tests.
The entire process can also be expensive when you consider the allocation fee, textbook costs, and an online course charge. But having the certification can help you earn significantly more than your non-certified peers. Other reputable PR certifications include Professional Certified Marketer (PCM) by AMA, Certified Manager Certification (CM) by ICPM, Certified Medical Interpreter – Spanish (CMI) by the National Board Of Certifications For Medical Interpreters, and so on.
- Industrial Engineering Technology
A certification in industrial engineering technology is good for those aspiring to be industrial engineering technicians. Their job is mainly to assist industrial engineers with equipment layout, revising methods of operations at manufacturing plants, ensuring a plant runs smoothly, and so on.
There are several certifications you can apply for so do your research to choose the best choice for you. Popular options include Certified Quality Engineer (CQE), Certified Six Sigma Greenbelt (CSSGB), Certified Manufacturing Engineer (CMfgE), and so on. While all employers may not ask for certifications, having one can set you apart from the rest.