Reasons to be professionally certified

By Tunde Eso

In today's competitive job market, professional certification has become a valuable asset for individuals seeking to advance their careers, improve their expertise, and stand out to employers. Whether you're just entering your field or looking to enhance your skills, obtaining professional certification can provide numerous advantages. Here are some key reasons why pursuing professional certification can be a wise investment:

Professional certification can significantly enhance your employability. Many employers view certifications as a mark of competence and professionalism. They signal to potential employers that you have the skills and knowledge necessary to perform at a high level in your field. This can increase your chances of getting hired, as certified professionals are often seen as more qualified compared to those without certification.

Certifications can often lead to higher salaries. Certified professionals are typically paid more than their non-certified counterparts, as they bring specialized expertise to the table. For example, fields like information technology, public relations; project management, human resources and healthcare often offer salary premiums to certified professionals due to the demand for their specialized knowledge.

Professional certification can accelerate career progression. Many companies offer promotions and raises to individuals who demonstrate a commitment to enhancing their skills through certification. Additionally, some career paths may require specific certifications for advancement, making it a necessary step for anyone aiming for higher-level positions.

My research discovered that earning a certification from a reputable organization enhances your credibility within your industry. Certifications from well-known accrediting bodies or educational institutions like Trio Professional Schools that embodies, Professional School of Project Management (PSPM), Professional School of Public Relations (PSPR) and Professional School of Human Resources (PSHR); Nigeria Institute of Public Relations (NIPR) and Chartered Institute of Public Management (CIPM) and more in this part of the world can provide recognition from your peers, demonstrating that you have achieved a certain level of expertise and are committed to maintaining professional standards.

One of the most important reasons to pursue certification is that it ensures you stay up to date with the latest industry trends, tools, and best practices. Certification programs are often built around the most current industry standards, meaning you will gain relevant, cutting-edge knowledge that can be immediately applied to your job.

Being part of a certification program often opens doors to a wider professional network. Many certification bodies offer opportunities for networking with other professionals in your field, through conferences, forums, or online communities-due technological development in the world, some professional bodies modified opportunities for people to attain their professional certification online. This network can provide support, mentorship, and potentially lead to new job opportunities or collaborations.

Achieving certification can also be a source of personal pride and accomplishment. It demonstrates your commitment to professional growth and can provide you with the confidence that you have mastered important concepts and skills in your field. This sense of achievement can fuel your motivation and encourage you to continue advancing in your career.

In an ever-evolving job market, having a professional certification can provide greater job security. As industries and technologies change, employers are looking for individuals who have demonstrated an ability to adapt and grow. Having certification shows that you have taken the initiative to stay current, which can help make you an indispensable asset to your employer.

Globally many certifications have international recognition, which can be particularly beneficial for those who are looking to work abroad or in multinational companies. For example, certifications in fields like IT, finance, project management; public relations, human resources and healthcare are often recognized worldwide, making it easier for certified professionals to find work in different countries or regions.

The aforementioned reasons to be professionally certified can help build confidence in your professional abilities. By completing a rigorous certification process, you gain not only technical expertise but also the assurance that you are well-equipped to handle challenges in your field. This confidence can enhance your performance at work, making you more effective and proactive in your role.

Finally, professional certification offers a wide range of benefits, from improving job prospects to increasing salary potential and career growth. It demonstrates your commitment to your profession and your desire to stay current and relevant in your field. Whether you're looking to advance in your current role, explore new career opportunities, or simply enhance your professional credibility, certification can be a powerful tool for success.

• Tunde Eso, Professional Trainer, Teacher, Public Relations Expert, and Initiator of Youthocracy and Visionocracy - new system of governments. He can be reached through tundeeso8@gmail.com; 08038272210.