No Time For School? Professional Certifications Are In Demand - Page 5
If money were no object, you can bet your paycheck that many people would head back to school to advance their education. Let’s face it — the job market is super competitive given our economic situation which makes opportunities more and more scarce. Having a leg up on your competition or something that sets you apart can be the difference when it comes to landing a job.
But what happens when a Master’s degree is not in the cards for you? Does this mean you are down and out for the count?
Thankfully there are other things that can make you you shine bright outside of your great personality and professional experience. Many professionals consider certifications in their industry that shows current and future employers their dedication to their craft. In many cases these can be stepping stones to job positions, or open a completely new door to a career opportunity. Here are some professional certifications that are currently in high demand.
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Project management professional (PMP)
There seem to be more opportunities for project managers popping up which is awesome for those who have experience with this line of work. One way to command more attention is with the necessary Project Management Professional credentials. Professionals with the necessary experience can really set themselves apart and even command a higher salary as this certification shows your competence and demonstrated abilities.
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Microsoft certifications
Practically every company uses some sort of Microsoft program that can range from Outlook (email) to PowerPoint and more. For this reason, those who pursue a Microsoft-related certification can have a real advantage in job markets. Examples of certifications include Microsoft Certified Solutions Expert (MCSE) and Microsoft Office Specialist (MOS) among others.
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Corporate trainer
Companies do not always have the answers to questions or problems and therefore may rely on the expertise of a corporate trainer. Training and development is a pretty big deal to businesses as many look for knowledgeable people to help enhance their productivity and overall brand. The American Society of Training & Development offers a variety of certificate programs to make you that sought after individual. Examples include the ASTD Master Trainer Program and Career Planning and Talent Management Certificate.
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Certified financial planner
Financial planners not only forecast and demystify financial trends, but also work to make sense of current situations. They examine your financial status and help you set (and stick to) your short and long-term goals. As there are many companies with their own arsenal of financial planners, one way to make yourself standout among the herd is to become a Certified Financial Planner. This certification is highly respected and shows your dedication to your industry, and willingness to maintain ethical practices.
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Certified information systems security professional (CISSP)
Ah, another IT-related certification.
Having a CISSP certification is like gold as it doesn’t focus so much on specific products (think Microsoft), but overall information security that concentrates on ten areas that include: software development security, operations security, legal, regulations, investigations and compliance and much more.
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Clinical medical assistant
For those who are interested in pursuing a career in health care but don’t have a related degree, consider becoming a Certified Clinical Medical Assistant. This will open doors for job opportunities as you will learn about clinical and administrative procedures that will make you marketable to clinics and even hospitals.
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Certified management accountant
As long as there is money to be made and taxes to be paid, accountants will remain employed. One professional certification that is in demand is the Certified Management Accountant. This is an advanced professional certification for experienced accountants that enhances their knowledge and skill set within their field. It’s even reported that a CMA can command an additional $34,000 in salary compared to their peers who do not have the same certification.
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Web design
The world has gone digital over the last decade with more companies offering their products and services online. Because of this, there has been a growing need for web design professionals that can tailor their talents to the objectives of a company. If you don’t have a four-year college degree, consider a certificate in web design. Various colleges and online universities offer continuing education to make you more marketable to companies.
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Personal training
Well it looks like you don’t have to get a certificate in an office or computer-related field. Believe it or not, there is a demand for personal trainers as the U.S. continues to focus on the effects of good and bad health. This is a great certification for those who are interested in a career change, a side hustle or taking their love of fitness to the next level. Various organizations like the National Academy of Sports & Medicine and Aerobics and Fitness Association of America have personal training certifications that will make you desirable to gyms and other companies.
