9 Benefits of HRCI Certification That You Should Know
Has your career in HR become stagnant? Are you looking to reinvest in yourself and in your career?
Then, you need to know about the benefits of HRCI certifications. HRCI stands for Human Resources Certificate Institute. It is a company that provides educational and professional certifications to people in HR. An HRCI certification can be a great way to improve your career and get ahead in the field of HR.
HR departments are important to the function and maintenance of any company. People working in HR supervise, interview, recruit and manage employee concerns. They complete administrative tasks to ensure that the link between high-level management and the employees remains stable and prosperous.
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Many people working in HR already have a bachelor’s degree or a master’s degree. These degrees are useful, but adding on certifications has many benefits as well. In fact, having one of these certifications can help you land a job over another candidate.
So, whether you’re looking to get your foot in the door or get promoted, HRCI certifications can help.
Ready to learn about all the benefits of HRCI certification? Read on to find out how these certifications can improve your career in HR.
9 Important Benefits of HRCI Certification
There are eight certifications offered by HRCI. These certifications were created to meet the needs of various HR professionals based on experience and education. They range from associate to professional, and lastly to senior professional-level HR staff.
To qualify for these exams, you must meet the eligibility requirements. For senior-level HRCI certification, you must have either a bachelor’s degree, a master’s degree, or 7 years of experience in HR and a high school diploma. If you have a bachelor’s degree, you’ll also need an additional 5 years of experience in a professional HR setting.
For a master’s degree, you must have 4 years of HR experience.
To qualify for the mid-level professional exam, you must either have a bachelor’s degree, a master’s degree, or at least 4 years of working in an HR professional position plus a high school diploma.
Additional experience needed for this certification if you have a bachelor’s degree is two years in the HR field. For a master’s you need one year of working experience to qualify for the professional exam.
To qualify for an associate’s exam, you only need to have a high school diploma.
Explore the following benefits of HRCI certification to learn more.
1. Networking Opportunities
Getting an HRCI certification will grant you additional networking opportunities. According to HRCI’s website, over 140,000 professionals in the HR field have a certification.
So, at your next conference or networking event make sure to put your HRCI credentials on your nametag. It’s possible that you’ll meet other HRCI certified individuals who could help you to land your next job or promotion.
2. Chances of a Higher Salary
On average, people who are HRCI certified earn a higher salary.
So, how much more do they make? The answer varies between 2.9% and 16% more than their peers without an HRCI certification.
What’s more is that when an individual achieved Senior Professional certification from Professional certification, their median pay increased from $72,000 to $108,000.
There’s also a chance of negotiating a higher salary after obtaining an HRCI certification.
3. Possibility of Promotions
The workforce can be a competitive place. Not only are we competing to get a job, but we may also have to compete against our colleagues for promotions. Individuals who have an HRCI certification are more likely to receive these promotions than their non-certified peers.
4. Improved Confidence
Education can provide us with a much-needed boost in confidence. Getting an HRCI certification can help to refresh your knowledge while also teaching you new ways to succeed. You can also learn more about your field which can improve your overall work performance.
5. Esteem
Credentials aren’t everything, but they do grant you higher esteem. Organizations, bosses, and colleagues are likely to hold you in higher regard after obtaining an HRCI certification. You’ll also get to add the credential to the end of your name to demonstrate your commitment to education and HR.
6. Job Seeking
Looking for a job can be difficult. This is especially true if you aspire to work in a professional field, but don’t have a degree. By obtaining an Associate HRCI certification, you can set yourself apart from other candidates.
Candidates with a Professional or Senior Professional HRCI certification can also improve their chances of landing a job at another company.
7. Proof of Competency
Passing an exam is no easy task. The HRCI exams range in duration from around 2 to 3 hours. The number of questions on the exams ranges from 100 to 140 questions not including pre-test questions.
By completing this exam, you are providing proof of your intelligence and competency. It also shows you are competent in understanding HR.
8. Staying Up-to-Date
After working in the field, we may feel like we need a refresher. HRCI certifications provide us with a perfect way to update our knowledge and stay on top of current HR trends. To hold an HRCI certification long-term, you’ll also need to get re-certified every 3 years.
This means that you’re setting yourself up for long-term success by committing to staying up-to-date with current HR education.
9. Low-Cost Education
HRCI certifications are affordable and accessible. These certifications have been provided in over 100 countries around the world. They are low-cost, especially, in comparison to taking a college course or getting another degree.
And, since they can provide you with a boost in pay, these certifications can practically pay for themselves.
Frequently Asked Questions about the HRCI Certification
1. How long does it take to get an HRCI certificate?
The time frame for getting HRCI certified ranges from 24 to 48 hours. The process begins with taking and passing the certification exam.
2. How much does it cost to get HRCI certified?
The cost of getting HRCI certified ranges at about $395.
Putting the Benefits of HRCI Certification to Work
To receive the full benefits of HRCI certification, you’ll need to also take action. Make sure to update your resume and/or let your boss know that you now have this certification.
Getting these certifications is an accomplishment. It shows future employers and current ones that you are self-motivated and willing to take on a challenge. It also shows them that you’re serious about your career and that you value your position.
It also shows them that you’re willing to work in HR long-term. You’ve made a commitment to your profession and are seeking growth on a regular basis.
Are you ready to get your HRCI certification? Check out our prep courses for each exam.