Certifications for Project Managers and the Importance of PMI

Feb. 23, 2011 - PRLog -- Words: Patrick Aylmer, The Learning People

It is critical in any industry to ensure you have the relevant and up to date skills and knowledge in order to be successful. If you are looking to get into the Project Management industry for the first time or a seasoned professional looking to progress your career, the best way to demonstrate your skills is to gain a globally recognised certification.

Professional certifications are an important step in career development, and recognise qualified and competent individuals. Gaining a certification gives you a competitive edge, and the recognition you deserve to excel in your career. Now, more than ever, employers are specifically requesting certifications as a pre-requisite before hiring, as they demonstrate proficiency in tasks specific to particular job roles. From an employers’ perspective when looking to hire someone, the decision is made so much easier if that person has the relevant certification for the job role. In today's labour market, you'll often not even get to interview stage without one.

When deciding if certification is right for you, Kathryn James from the Learning People says you should consider the following questions:

   * Are you new to the project management industry and looking to kick-start your career?
   * Have you been working in the project management industry for a number of years and want to progress your career?
   * Would you like to earn more money and have greater job security?
   * Are you considering switching jobs and want to make the best impression possible?
   * Does your employer require you to stay current with the latest industry developments?
   * Are you the kind of person who likes to be the best at what you do?

If your answer is yes to any of these questions then a project management certification may be exactly what you need.

The next step is to choose the right certification for you. There is a range to choose from, and which is the right one for you will depend on a number of factors. It’s important to do your research and speak to people with experience in the different project management certifications that are available.

The global leader in project management certifications is the Project Management Institute (PMI). The PMI offers certifications for those just starting out in the industry, as well as for those who have been working as a project manager for a number of years. But what do PMI qualifications mean to the project manager in the UK? Taken from pieces within PMI.org and our own website,

PMI is the world’s leading not-for-profit membership association for the project management profession, with more than half a million members and credential holders in 185 countries. Their worldwide advocacy for project management is supported by globally-recognised standards and credentials, an extensive research program, and professional development opportunities.

PMI was the first organisation to offer a credential specifically for project managers, and their certification program remains the global standard. Developed by practitioners for practitioners and representing a diverse global audience, PMI certifications give you a technical and financial edge.

PMI credentials...

- Are flexible- PMI certifications are not based on one specific methodology, so they’re flexible and adaptable. You can easily transfer them between industries, market segments and geographic locations.

- Keep you up-to-date- PMI continually conducts in-depth studies to ensure that their credentials actually reflect the current skills, knowledge and best practices you need to succeed.

- Encourage professional growth- You never have to worry about a PMI certification becoming obsolete. The certification maintenance program requires you to earn professional development units (PDUs), which encourage you to continually develop your skills and stay current as the profession changes.

- Help you get ahead- PMI certification offers financial benefits - the Project Management Professional (PMP®) credential increases your salary by up to 10% (according to the PMI Salary Survey - Sixth Edition, 2009) and helps you stand out and better market yourself to prospective employers.

The great news is that these certifications are open to anyone - so no matter what your personal circumstance or work experience, getting a project management certification is achievable. Once you have one, a world of opportunities can open up!

Patrick Aylmer has worked in PM education for 14 years for businesses in Australia, the US and the UK. He specialises in PMI training and methodology for The Learning People. He can be emailed here. The Learning People have over 15 years experience in providing high quality and effective training and are experts in the Project Management field, particularly in certifications related to PMI.

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