3 reasons why getting a certification is a good idea for an early career job seeker was originally published on College Recruiter.
In a recent blog article, we defined what is meant by the word certification and then discussed the process that job seekers typically follow to obtain and then maintain a certification. Today, we’ll discuss the three primary reasons why getting a certification can be helpful to someone who is searching for a new job.
1. Demonstrates Commitment and Initiative. Earning a certification shows potential employers that you’re motivated, self-directed, and willing to invest in your professional growth. It’s a concrete way to demonstrate your commitment to your career and your initiative to stay abreast of industry trends and standards.
2. Skill Validation. A certification offers third-party validation of your skills and knowledge. It’s evidence that you not only know the theory but can apply it in practice as well. In a competitive job market, this can be an excellent way to stand out. Yes, you may have a college or university degree and a lot of employers will value that, but your goal when applying to a job isn’t to demonstrate to an employer that you’re well-qualified. No, you need to also demonstrate that you’re better qualified than other candidates. If other candidates are well-qualified as well, then your possession of a certification that proves that you’ve mastered the skills of interest to the employer will give you an advantage over the other candidates.
3. Expands Your Professional Network. Many certification programs offer membership to a professional community. This can be an invaluable resource to expand your network, learn from peers, and even find job opportunities.
