Are you looking to make your résumé stand out among the crowd when employers are looking through stacks of other applicants? If so, you should look into professional certificates!
Professional certificates can help give you an edge over the competition, allowing you to showcase extra experience, knowledge, and education that can help boost your career. Earning a certificate in your career field can also help you gain skills that can even land you higher-paying opportunities.
Certificates also can even help you expand your horizons and look for new opportunities in different careers if you are looking to make a change.
Keep reading to learn more about the benefits of earning professional certificates.
Gain Knowledge and Credibility
Not only can earning a certificate help improve your chances of landing a new job, but it will also help you better understand your job better. Having expertise and knowledge in your field can help you perform your best at work. Earning a certificate shows your commitment to your career, creating more opportunities for you.
“Pursuing a professional certificate demonstrates your commitment to professionalism, upholding industry standards, and most of all continued learning,” said Diamond West, an SDSU Global Campus program manager. “From my experience working with students and industry professionals, I can say that continued professional development is the ideal way for someone to enhance their knowledge and skills. Whether you are looking to start a new career or have several years of experience, a professional certificate introduces you to the industry and will give you the essential skills needed to break into the field.”
In some career fields, it may be expected that individuals complete certificates. SDSU Global Campus offers a Professional Certificate in Contract Management, which teaches students all they need to know to pass three contract management exams in cooperation with the San Diego Chapter of the National Contract Management Association (NCMA). NCMA certifications are the industry standard in this profession.
Stand Out Among Competition
Having certifications to add to your résumé will increase your chances of getting noticed by employers and recruiters. It will be clear to see your dedication and desire to excel in your field, giving you an edge over others applying for the same position. Even if you and your competitors have similar career backgrounds, having a certificate may be what sets you apart and gives you higher chance of getting hired. Certificates can create great first impressions and enhance your résumé.
Increased Income/Promotion Opportunities
Certificates can even help someone who is aiming to get promoted within their current company. Your likelihood of receiving a raise also increases if you have earned a certificate. Check with your Human Resources department to see if there is reimbursement for continuing your education. This could either be increased earning potential or your education being paid for by your company.
For example, if you are looking to be promoted to a higher-level position, a Professional Certificate in Project Management could be a great fit. Understanding how to handle projects is a great skill for every employee to have, especially managers or those looking to advance their careers. Having this knowledge can help the whole team succeed and make you an outstanding leader.
Career Change Advantages
If you are interested in heading in a different direction in your career, adding a certificate under your belt will be a step in the right direction. Even if you don’t have much previous experience in a certain field, earning a certificate can teach you so much of what you need to know in order to succeed in your new career.
Broad Opportunities
Many certificates can be used in many different careers. Having a broad certificate can make it easy to apply for other positions and move up the ladder. A Professional Certificate in Grant Writing is a prime example of a broad certificate that can be useful in many different positions. Knowledge in grant writing can be used in nonprofit organizations, education systems, and local governments. You can take this knowledge to many different positions.
About SDSU Global Campus
SDSU Global Campus is the primary San Diego State University entity responsible for expanding access to SDSU’s programs to learners around the world. Our mission is to be a world leader in delivering innovative educational experiences to all learners, expanding opportunities, and transforming lives. Our programs and technologies are ever-evolving to meet ever-changing needs; our high level of service and support is a constant.
