|
Everybody knows
that "M.D." following an individual's name means they're
a medical doctor. And "C.P.A." signifies the individual
has met standards and fulfilled requirements to be a certified
public accountant. Thousands of associations utilize more than
a few cryptic initials in professional certification to recognize
individuals for their dedication to their chosen career and their
ability to perform to set standards. Ask a certified professional
"why?" and they'll tell you that the certification
process is one of the single most important steps you can make
in career development. Here are the top ten reasons you should
consider professional certification:
|
|
1. Certification demonstrates
your commitment to the profession. Receiving your certification shows
your peers, supervisors, and, in turn, the general public your
commitment to your chosen career and your ability to perform
to set standards. Since university degrees can no longer represent
the full measure of professional knowledge and competence in
today's evolving job market, certification sets you apart as
a leader in your field. |
|
2. Certification enhances the
profession's image. Association certification programs seek to grow,
promote, and develop certified professionals, who can stand "out
in front" as examples of excellence in the industry or field. |
|
3. Certification reflects achievement.
And not only professional
achievement, but personal achievement. A certified professional
has displayed excellence in their field and fulfilled set standards
and requirements. |
|
4. Certification builds self-esteem.
Association certification
programs create a standard for a particular profession, complete
with performance standards, ethics, and career paths. You'll
begin to define yourself beyond a job description or academic
degree. You'll see yourself as a certified professional who can
control his or her own professional destiny and find a deep sense
of personal satisfaction. |
|
5. Certification establishes
professional credentials. Since it recognizes your individual accomplishments,
certification stands above your resume, serving as an impartial,
third-party endorsement to your knowledge and experience. And
when the public looks for individuals qualified to perform services,
they seek individuals like you who have achieved certification. |
|
6. Certification improves career
opportunities and advancement. Certification gives you the "edge"
when being considered for a promotion or other career opportunities.
Certification clearly identifies you as an employee who can adapt
to changes in work, technology, business practices, and innovation. |
|
7. Certification prepares you
for greater on-the-job responsibilities. Since certification is a voluntary
professional commitment to an industry or field of knowledge,
it is a clear indicator of your willingness to invest in your
own professional development. Certified professionals are aware
of the constantly changing environment around their profession
and possess the needed tools to anticipate and respond to change. |
|
8. Certification provides for
greater earnings potential. As a certified professional, you can
expect many benefits, but for today's down-sized, right-sized,
topsy-turvy working world, salary increases speak for themselves.
Many employers offer monetary incentives to certified employees
such as higher starting wages, higher earnings potential, and
bonuses. |
|
9. Certification improves skills
and knowledge.Ideally,
achieving certification shows your individual competence by confirming
proficiency and career involvement and assuring knowledge. |
|
10. Certification offers greater
professional recognition from peers. Hear that applause? It's all for YOU!
As a certified professional you can expect increased recognition
from your peers for taking that extra step in your professional
development. |
|
Check
into certification soon. It will give your career and professional
life a real boost, making your climb up the ladder of success
a breeze. Adapted
with permission from the Michigan Society of Association Executives
publication "Association News." |