05
Jun 2014
NO COMMENT
Importance of Certification
I T certification has long been a proven means of differentiation and qualification among professionals in the industry. A recent study by Prometric, a test development and delivery provider, surveyed over 400 IT professionals and hiring decision-makers to communicate the value IT training and certification provides both individuals and organizations. The results of the study uncover some of the many benefits of IT training and certification, including its impact on job satisfaction and influence when it comes to being competitive in the job market.One area of the study looked at measuring the importance of certification and its impact on IT employee job satisfaction and overall productivity and efficiency. When it comes to job satisfaction, 86% of certified professionals said they are satisfied with their job, which is slightly higher than those that don’t hold certifications. Certification also leads to higher job performance for IT professionals compared to their non certified peers. It was found that IT certification goes hand-in-hand with on-the-job experience when it comes to developing the skill set needed to increase productivity and carry out the tasks necessary for a particular job. According to the survey, certified IT professionals “have greater confidence in their ability to implement IT systems on budget and on time.” (Prometric Survey, 2013).
“[IT certification] shows that the candidate has the desire and ability to advance personal knowledge and to stay current with industry advances.”The study also examined the perceived benefits of IT certification for both IT professionals and hiring decision-makers. It was found that IT professionals recognize the benefits of IT certification primarily in terms of career enhancement and the personal development of skills and knowledge. 83% of IT professionals believe IT certification makes them more marketable, while 78% believe it makes them a more attractive candidate for a promotion. When it comes to gaining skills, it was reported that IT professionals believe certification helps “keep skills current, apply knowledge to the job, (and) troubleshoot problems without help of outside support” (Prometric survey, 2013). 81% of these professionals believe they gain knowledge from certification that can be applied directly on the job.
From an employers’ perspective, the study found that IT certification is an important qualification in the hiring process and can make a difference in scoring an initial interview. Many IT decision-makers look to the benefits certification provides to the overall organization, and often recognize the importance of certification in helping keep employee’s skills current. One quote from the study states, “It shows that the candidate has the desire and ability to advance personal knowledge and to stay current with industry advances.”
– IT Decision-Maker
The study also states that “85% of IT decision-makers and 74% of HR/hiring influencers would set up an interview or put the person with IT certification into consideration for an interview” (Prometric Survey, 2013).
From this study, we can gain insight into the significance of IT certification and the benefits it provides for both individuals and employers. Certification plays an important a role in helping a job candidate get their foot in the door by landing an initial interview, but also provides a meaningful way to acquire new knowledge and help keep skills current. We understand the importance of certification training, and this is why we are committed to helping you achieve the level of certification that will ensure you are competitive in this fast growing industry. We offer a variety of classes that are well suited to meet any of your needs—be sure to check them out today, and take the first step to a successful career in the IT industry!