5 Reasons to Get Certified in Project Management

Project Management Professional (PMP) is a professional certification offered by the Project Management Institute (PMI). It is a globally recognized and respected certification but going through the process of taking the PMP examination is costly and requires a great deal of preparation. Is it really worth all the effort?

Here are five reasons why PMP certification is in high demand in comparison to other professional certification courses.

1. It boosts your resume
   You will see a change in the attitude of recruiters when your resume shows you have attained PMP certification. They tend to prioritize profiles with PMP certification over those who don’t have it.
   Project management jobs are in high demand and there are often many applicants for every job. Having PMP certification gives you an advantage that may just fast track you onto a shortlist.
2. Clients demand it
   Many companies are making it mandatory to have the certification and you can’t even apply for some positions without it. They make PMP training and certification a prerequisite because they realize that when those with this certification manage projects, the success rate increases.
   Projects are more likely to be completed on time and within the budget when they are managed by those with PMP certification.
3. It contributes to a higher income
   PMP Certification is not easy and the exam tests not only academic concepts but their practical application too. When you add the pressure of time, it may be difficult for even seasoned project managers to pass.
   Certification also has to be maintained so passing isn’t the end of the road. It is no wonder that this certification is regarded so highly and why companies are prepared to pay higher salaries to those who have it.
   The median salary of certified project managers is considerably higher than non-certified ones. Various surveys across the world show that certified project managers earn almost 20% more than the non-certified ones.
   In the United States, a median PMP salary is in the region of $111,000 as against about $91,000 for a non-certified manager.
4. It improves your project management skills
   If you spend time and money getting the certification, it shows you are committed to project management. You don’t just study theory for the certification but acquire many practical skills too.
   The standards are high and it is not easy to pass without extensive preparation. You have to learn both hard and soft skills as well as build your knowledge of project management processes, methodologies, tools and techniques. You are also exposed to current trends in project management and best practices.
5. It gives industry recognition and networking opportunities
   PMP certification is universally recognized, regardless of your industry or professional background. The Project Management Institute (PMI) has many active members across the world and when you sign up, you become part of an international community.
   The PMI arranges meetings for members in major cities all over the world. You can network with other members and earn Professional Development Units (PDUs). You need these to renew your certification every three years. You can also find out about new job opportunities as specific times are allotted in meetings to advertise them.

Networking is one of the best ways to learn a new job. Build your professional network by joining the largest PM-curated community on LinkedIn.

A PMP certification shows your drive towards improving your knowledge, credentials and professional abilities. It is especially valuable if you want to move up the career ladder. It provides you with credibility, respect and the skills you need, giving you an edge over your competitors.

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