Message #63008

[msmarieh]

I have a number of certifications -

IAAP: Certified Administrative Professional, Certified Professional Secretary

Software: Microsoft Office Specialist Master Level (fyi, they dropped the "U" a while ago), Certified Internet Webmaster Designer

From Toastmasters: Competent Toastmaster, Advanced Toastmaster - Silver, Competent Leader

I am planning during the next year or two to complete my Microsoft Office Specialist certification for 2007 and also possibly Professional Registered Parliamentarian. I am also planning within the next year or two to return to school to pursue my Bachelor's degree (I currently have an Associate's degree).

Are they worth it? Ultimately a certification's tangible value is based upon external recognition and few employers keep up on certifications. Many certifications are not only not well known by the employers, but our peers don't recognize them either. HOWEVER, for those of us that are good at selling our skills, they are an excellent point to bring up during job interviews and performance reviews. I know that my certifications have helped my career path in myriad ways, not least of which is because they can prove my skills and demonstrate that I am continually learning and challenging myself and seeking ways to add value to my company (and yes, that's pretty darn close to a direct quote from my cover letter for job interviews).

In addition, the real value of certifications lies in their intrinsic value - the satisfaction of a goal accomplished, the self-confidence that comes with the process, the knowledge acquired, etc. Certifications are well worth pursuing, even if there is no financial benefit to doing so.

I believe that your brain starts atrophying when you stop learning new things. You need to keep yourself mentally active and challenged, whether through certifications or taking classes for new skills or reading books or whatever.

Marie