Career Development Center at Lipscomb University: advice time...certifications? do they make you more marketable?
advice time...certifications? do they make you more marketable?
I was recently asked about the benefit of certifications and memberships by an alumnus. He is hearing mixed opinions and wanted ideas on how to proceed. My answer applies to EVERYONE, not just this specific type of cert. Read on...
HIS QUESTION:
"What do you know about PMI memberships or PMP certification? I am a program manager/project manager and I have been looking into it. Some people I work with swear it is legitimate, but like all certifications it costs money. I'm not looking to spend the money if it is not worth it. Any thoughts?"
MY RESPONSE:
"My answer is going to be a roundabout one...
I would go to a site like indeed.com and search job postings for Project Manager. Then go into a sample of the job postings that are with legit companies and see what certs are required for their ideal candidate. Is the certification you're considering listed? If so, then it would benefit you.
Another thing to do would be identify 5 top companies you'd like to work for and review postings on their website or call the recruiter. Explain that you aren't currently looking for a position but wanted their opinion on the value of the certification. Also take this opportunity to ask what type they prefer and if there are any that carry more weight in their opinion."
BOTTOM LINE: what are you doing today to make yourself a better candidate? Certifications and memberships are a fabulous way to continue to build your personal brand. The worst thing that can happen in an interview is to get the question "what have you done since graduation to make yourself more marketable" and have nothing to say in response.
THOUGHTS: have you looked at job requirements for jobs you want and seriously given yourself a hard assessment lately? If not, it's time! Companies will evaluate you against their job requirements by only looking at your resume. That resume better communicate exactly why you are a great fit for the position. It's your tailored, marketing piece.
If you are a Lipscomb student or alumnus, the Career Development Center will review your resume and work with you to present it as a tailored marketing piece at no charge.
HIS QUESTION:
"What do you know about PMI memberships or PMP certification? I am a program manager/project manager and I have been looking into it. Some people I work with swear it is legitimate, but like all certifications it costs money. I'm not looking to spend the money if it is not worth it. Any thoughts?"
MY RESPONSE:
"My answer is going to be a roundabout one...
I would go to a site like indeed.com and search job postings for Project Manager. Then go into a sample of the job postings that are with legit companies and see what certs are required for their ideal candidate. Is the certification you're considering listed? If so, then it would benefit you.
Another thing to do would be identify 5 top companies you'd like to work for and review postings on their website or call the recruiter. Explain that you aren't currently looking for a position but wanted their opinion on the value of the certification. Also take this opportunity to ask what type they prefer and if there are any that carry more weight in their opinion."
BOTTOM LINE: what are you doing today to make yourself a better candidate? Certifications and memberships are a fabulous way to continue to build your personal brand. The worst thing that can happen in an interview is to get the question "what have you done since graduation to make yourself more marketable" and have nothing to say in response.
THOUGHTS: have you looked at job requirements for jobs you want and seriously given yourself a hard assessment lately? If not, it's time! Companies will evaluate you against their job requirements by only looking at your resume. That resume better communicate exactly why you are a great fit for the position. It's your tailored, marketing piece.
If you are a Lipscomb student or alumnus, the Career Development Center will review your resume and work with you to present it as a tailored marketing piece at no charge.