I’ve been asked a few times if getting SHRM and/or PHR certification is worth the cost and time investment. My answer differs every time someone asks this because it truly depends.
Like many certifications, having an HR certification really just proves you can study for and pass a test. It doesn’t necessarily mean you would make a good HR leader. That said, if you’re trying to transition to an HR role from another function, it’s worth it to go for the certification for a couple reasons.
It will increase your awareness of critical employment laws. You’ll never memorize all the ins and outs of every relevant law (not to mention they change all the time), BUT by studying for the certification test, it will ensure these laws will be on your radar, which means you’ll be aware enough to google things when your org might be subject to certain regulations.
It’s on about every job description for HR professionals. If you’re new to the field, it’s going to be valued by hiring managers. Having an HR certification doesn’t really make you more qualified, but sometimes to get the job, you’ve got to play the game.
Lastly, certifications are cheaper than additional degrees. We overvalue degrees in this country, and I know many times when someone is trying to transition to a new career, they’ll frequently go back to school for a “relevant degree.” Sometimes this might be the only path, or even the preferred path for an individual, but the reality is that in most fields, you can get a certification or take just a few classes to get the knowledge you need. I would certainly recommend an HR certification over someone going back to school for a bachelor or master’s in HR.
All that said, I got my certification (both SHRM-SCP and SPHR), and I haven’t bothered to enter in credits needed for recertification. I attend plenty of webinars, read articles and newsletters, and listen to HR podcasts to stay up-to-date in my field, but I no longer feel the need to ensure there are letters behind my name to give me credibility - my experience will do that now in a way it didn't when I was less experienced.
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4moCongratulations Sarah! Workman Nydegger is very lucky to have you!