Is the Project Management Professional (PMP) certification worth it?

A recent PwC survey states that certified PMP project managers handle more than three fourth of the high performing projects. Also, companies with more than one-third PMP certified managers have much better project success than companies which do not. What's more? PMP is the fifth highest-paying certification in the year 2016.

Benefits of doing a PMP certification

1. Adds value to the resume

There are several professional certifications that you can pursue throughout your career. But, among all of those, PMP certification is the most valuable certificate programme. Hence, they tend to prioritize profiles with PMP certification over those which do not have such certification.

Project management jobs are high in demand. So, in most cases, several people apply for these jobs. It is time and resource consuming for the company to interview and assess the potential of all the applicants. As such, they like to filter out as many people as possible before the project management interview process. This is where the PMP certification proves beneficial as it is one of the most objective ways in which one can shortlist the candidates.

Furthermore, many companies are making it mandatory to have a PMP certification. It means you cannot even apply for some positions without these credentials.

PMP certification can also be extremely valuable if you plan to advance in the current company you are working at. It puts you way ahead of your colleagues in terms of moving up the career ladder. Also, a certified manager can do much better in a grueling project management interview than a non-certified one.

2. Provides Industry recognition

PMP is global and works with any industry and in any location. So, regardless of the professional background and industry, you can gain by adding the certification to your resume.

If you are just starting out your career in project management, then PMP certification will make up for the lack of experience. Say you are experienced and have a proven track record of your work. Then PMBOK certification can take you to the next level in your company.

3. Helps you learn important skills

PMP certification has high standards. As such, it is not easy to clear this exam without extensive preparation. Moreover, it requires you to master the practical application of the material. Attaining PMP credential will include learning several hard and soft skills. It builds the knowledge of fundamental project management processes tools & techniques and methodologies. Further, it exposes you to best practices and current trends in project management. You can also learn new tricks and techniques in project management activities.

Want to keep growing in your career? You cannot do it without becoming better at what you are doing currently. Experience may teach you to improve how you manage projects. But, a certification can do the same thing in a lesser span of time.

4.       Contributes to higher income

Survey shows that certified project managers earn almost 25% more than the non-certified ones. Among women, PMP certified holders earn a lot more than female, certified professionals in other fields.

PMP has consistently been the highest paid IT certification. Also, the trend indicates that PMP salaries will only continue to grow in the future and improves your job security.

5.       Provides networking opportunities

PMI arranges frequent meetings for members in major cities across the world. These meetings are also arranged to help the members earn Professional Development Units (PDUs).

6. Validates your dedication to the job

An employee who invests in learning is a big asset for the company. A PMP certification symbolizes your drive towards improving your professional abilities, credentials, knowledge. It also helps you command respect among peers and team members.

In summary, some people might view PMP certification as expensive, time-consuming and difficult. But, many hiring experts treat PMP certification as an important credential that adds credibility to your resume. Further, it helps you build essential skills required to excel in your career.

So yes! PMP certification is worth the effort.
 
Are you interested in getting PMP certified? Then train with the best in the industry. Ciel Consulting is a leading PMP training organization and an authorized PMI REP (Registered Education Provider). We have trained more than 4,000 professionals with an impressive success rate.