How Certifications Help Your Job Search and Career
Is a certification program right for you?
Many professionals and entry-level students have the same recurring question. If you are someone questioning the value that a certification could add to your resume, we will cover four reasons to consider investing in a certification course.
1. Gain Credibility:
If you’re in the beginning stages of your career, getting a certification can give you a competitive advantage over other candidates with relatively the same qualifications as you.
If you are a professional looking to transition into a new field or industry, a certification can help demonstrate your knowledge and build your credibility. A certification signifies you’ve taken the appropriate steps and dedicated time to making up for a gap in knowledge.
2. Employer Preference:
Employers often list industry credentials as a "preferred" qualification on their jobs postings. Unless individuals are required by law to hold a credential in order to practice in a profession, employers often list industry credentials as a preference, so they don't screen out too many candidates. As previously mentioned, having these “preferred qualifications” can give you a leg up over your competitors.
3. Increase Your Chances for a Promotion or Advancement:
In this case, it helps to review job postings for the type of positions you’re seeking. Find some examples of your dream job. Does it require or prefer a master’s degree or specific certifications? If you’re hoping to advance in your current organization, what types of credentials do people in those positions have? Check out their LinkedIn profiles, or ask for their advice on what is needed to advance in your organization.
If you’re ready for the next step, getting a certification can provide visibility and help you stand out amongst your peers.
4. Gain New Skills and Knowledge:
If you’re trying to build your knowledge in a specific area or stay in touch with industry trends, you may want to focus on a workshop or course that addresses that niche. For example, if you need to learn more about a construction budget when dealing with townhome development, our Real Estate Townhome Development Certification is a great option.
Remember it’s important to not get stuck in the loop of only consuming new information. Many candidates have the ability to learn information about their industry, but a certification proves you’re willing to take the extra step to solidify your knowledge.
So, if your goal is to gain professional credibility, stand out in a competitive job market, or learn and grow in your profession, pursuing a certification may be right for you. If you’re interested in real estate finance and your next question is “Which course is the right one for me?”, check out our course page here.