The impact of HR certification on career Growth

How can an  HR certification impact on your career Growth?

The Human Resources field has experienced rapid growth and transformation over the past decade.

As companies expand their operations and HR departments take on more strategic roles, there is increasing demand for qualified HR professionals with specialised knowledge and up-to-date skills.

This has created a competitive job market where candidates seek ways to stand out.

One of the most effective ways to boost your HR career is by earning a certification in human resources management.

According to a survey by the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM), 96% of HR professionals say certification improves their on-the-job effectiveness.

It validates their expertise in areas like employment law, recruitment, compensation and benefits.

Many companies now either require or strongly prefer certified applicants for HR positions.

In some cases, earning a certification can mean a significant bump in salary.

If you gain 5+ years of experience and have a Master’s degree, your salary will be increased by 39%, and if you do not have a Master’s degree, it will be increased by 30% only*

* HR Manager Salary in South African Rands | Sassa&Loans

Benefits of Earning an HR Certification

Studying HR is an investment into yourself, and whilst many think about how it will help them earn more, let’s explore the key benefits these credentials could give you:

• • Gain a Deep Understanding of HR Practices: Some of the key factors you’ll learn about (like HR principles, labor laws, talent management strategies and more) are key to any HR role. The in-depth knowledge you gain when studying, pays off on the job when you can correctly handle complex situations.
  • Increased Confidence and Credibility: Having a certificate shows that you have gained a certain set of skills – this gives you the confidence when faced with the practical situation in your working environment.
  • Compliance with Laws: HR is a highly regulated field. When you understand and comply with the Laws, you’re able to avoid costly mistakes, and saves the company money.
  • Higher Salaries: As the statistics show, certified HR pros typically earn higher salaries than those without credentials.
  • Career Mobility: Certification helps you qualify for more senior-level and leadership roles. It shows you have the strategic mindset needed for higher positions, which expands your options for growth.

Tips for Choosing the Right Certification

With the variety of HR certifications available, it can be overwhelming to select which one is right for you. Here are some tips to consider:

1. Realistically assess your experience level.

Choose a certification that matches where you are in your career:

2. Consider the costs:

Next, thoroughly research the requirements, exam content, and costs associated with certifications you are interested in. Compare factors like eligibility prerequisites, whether a prep course is included, and annual renewal fees. Some certifications require you to be an active society member.

Make sure you understand what is entailed so you can budget your time and money accordingly.

3. Make sure it’s aligned to you!

Finally, align the certification with your long-term career aspirations and interests within the HR field.

For example, if you want to build expertise in training talent, look for certifications focused on skills development / Training + facilitation. If you see yourself in a global HR leadership role someday, then general HR diploma’s + certifications are a good place to start

Taking the time to carefully evaluate your options will ensure you choose the right HR certification to invest in for your future goals.

Final thoughts:

In today’s complex and highly competitive HR job market, certification is essential for getting ahead. Those with certifications outpace their peers in career advancement and salary gains.

Whether you are launching your HR career or are a seasoned professional hitting a plateau, certification delivers value at any stage. It prepares you with up-to-date knowledge and skills to succeed in HR roles with increased responsibility and impact. The return on investment goes beyond just earning potential – certification builds confidence, enhances your reputation, and enables access to new opportunities.

So if you are looking to elevate your HR career to the next level, the time is now. Do your research and invest in yourself by pursuing an HR certification that fits your experience and aspirations. The payoff in terms of knowledge, growth, and advancement will be immense.

The next big career leap you’ve been striving for could be just one certification away!