Entering and thriving within the workforce is equally exciting and intimidating. It’s hard to watch some people around you rise meteorically while others climb the ladder slowly. Everyone’s journey is unique, but the skills and credentials in your quiver can alter your trajectory.
Today, employers look for distinguished candidates with many skills and credentials to boast. Whether it be a degree, license, or certification, each credential on your resume can improve your credibility. However, choosing the right credentials to boost your career is easier said than done.
The last thing you want to do is work hard to earn a credential only to find out it won’t advance your career. You can avoid this problem if you ask yourself and even some seasoned professionals the right questions.
Follow along as we explore how to choose the right credentials to boost your career and credibility.
Make the Most of Your Career with the Right Credentials
You’re not alone if you’ve ever scoured through LinkedIn profiles and felt overwhelmed by the competition. Many people post a laundry list of degrees and certifications that make them look like great professional candidates. Not only do such credentials look great, but they can also open the door to many unique opportunities.
Think of professional credentials like cards in your deck. Each card, or credential, has the chance to advance your career and provide a desirable outcome. However, some credentials are as useful as Joker cards in that they won’t necessarily lend you any credibility. Choosing the right credentials is easier if you consider a few things, such as:
1) Think About Your Future
You can’t choose the right credentials for your career until you figure out your goals. Different certifications and degrees can lead to unique career outcomes and professional titles. Naturally, the credentials you should pursue vary based on what you want out of your career.
For example, an advanced degree, such as a master’s or doctoral degree, can open the door to in-demand careers. You can get many entry-level jobs with a bachelor’s degree, while a master’s degree can help you get leadership and administrative jobs. Certifications are just as important as degrees, and they affect what jobs you may qualify for.
Look up job listings you’re interested in and see their required degrees. This can tell you whether it’s worth pursuing advanced degrees to maximize your career potential. Some people even juggle entry-level jobs with online courses to earn money while working toward a better career.
2) Look Into In-Demand Credentials
The ideal credentials that will help launch a successful career vary based on the industry you work in. While there is some crossover between industries, most desirable certifications, licenses, and degrees cater to specific industries. Look for relevant job listings and pay attention to the requirements and desired credentials.
For example, you may see that many leadership positions require project management credentials. Any credentials that show you have leadership skills can help boost your resume and career potential.
3) Verify Credibility
Things can get murky when it comes to organizations that offer credentials. Offering credentials doesn’t necessarily mean the credentials in question can help you. Understandably, many corporations and businesses value some organizations over others.
Upon finding the credentials you need for your career, you must vet organizations that offer such credentials. Carefully research their history and reputation to understand the benefits of pursuing their credentials. For example, you can search for LinkedIn profiles and job listings that cite the organization.
Of course, it’s best to get credentials from prestigious, well-respected organizations. For example, aspiring lawyers can benefit from attending American Bar Association-accredited colleges. Respected organizations can lend you their credibility and make you look as great as possible. Accreditation tells you that an organization is legitimate.
4) Research the Requirements
Nothing is free, and earning reputable credentials typically takes a lot of work. Some credentials are harder to earn and require professional experience in the field. That means you may have to work for several years to even qualify for some certifications.
You can earn other credentials at any time if you’re willing to do some hard work. For example, you can work towards a master’s degree after earning a bachelor’s degree. Other credentials require you to enroll in courses during your free time.
It’s important to research the requirements for specific credentials before pursuing them. This makes managing your time much easier, especially if you’re balancing your work life and personal life.
5) Weigh the Pros and Cons
You can only earn so many credentials, so it’s important to consider which ones are worth it. Sure, some credentials look great on paper, but will they all help your career? Carefully weigh the pros and cons of the credentials you’re looking into.
Earning certain credentials takes a lot of time and even a lot of money in some cases. It’s only worth the time and money if you’re sure that the credentials will ultimately benefit your career. Weigh the pros and cons of the time and financial investment that some credentials require.
If possible, reach out to an experienced professional within your desired industry. Pick their brain and see which credentials they think are worth pursuing. Insider knowledge can help paint a realistic picture of what you can expect and how to boost your career. Take every chance you can to seek advice from industry insiders.
Build a Strong Case for Yourself with Undeniable Credentials
The best way to maximize your potential is to arm yourself with undeniable credentials. Pursue credentials that you’re certain will impress your future employers. Simple Internet searches can show you what kind of credentials are prominent in your desired industry.
This can not only give you a glimpse of what to expect from your career but also prepare you for it. Each credential in your arsenal can show potential employers that you’re willing to go the extra mile. Putting such credentials to practical use will prove that you’re worth hiring and ready for a successful career.
