Earning Human Resources (HR) certifications can significantly enhance career advancement opportunities, leading to higher salaries and increased job responsibilities. Certifications from reputable organizations like the HR Certification Institute (HRCI) and the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM) are particularly valued in the HR profession.
Impact on Salary and Career Advancement
HR professionals with certifications often experience a substantial boost in earnings. For instance, those holding the Certified Professional Coach (CPC) credential see an average salary increase of 28%, while the Global Professional in Human Resources (GPHR) certification leads to a 16% pay boost. Even certifications like the Professional in Human Resources (PHR) and SHRM Certified Professional (SHRM-CP) can result in notable salary enhancements (payscale.com).
Beyond financial benefits, certified HR professionals are more likely to receive promotions. A study found that 82% of certified professionals reported being promoted in the past five years, compared to 68% of their non-certified counterparts (hrdive.com).
Importance of Certification
Holding an HR certification demonstrates a commitment to professional development and a mastery of HR principles. It enhances credibility with employers and peers, showcasing a dedication to staying current with industry standards and best practices. This commitment can lead to greater job security and open doors to advanced career opportunities.
The History of SHRM Certification
The SHRM certification was introduced about 11 years ago, following a shift in the relationship between SHRM and HRCI. Prior to this, SHRM and HRCI were partners, with HRCI handling the certification programs for both organizations. However, in 2014, SHRM decided to create its own certification program, differentiating its approach by focusing not only on HR knowledge but also on behavioral competencies and practical application. This led to the introduction of the SHRM-CP and SHRM-SCP certifications. SHRM’s decision to develop its own certification program allowed for a more holistic, competency-based framework, marking a shift toward aligning HR practices with strategic business goals.
HRCI vs. SHRM Certifications
Both HRCI and SHRM offer respected certifications, each with unique features:
- HRCI Certifications: Focus on the technical and operational aspects of HR, such as employee relations, compensation and benefits, and risk management. Certifications include PHR, SPHR, and GPHR.
- SHRM Certifications: Emphasize the practical application of HR concepts, integrating behavioral competencies with HR knowledge. Certifications include SHRM-CP and SHRM-SCP.
Choosing the Right Certification
As an HR professional, I remain neutral and impartial regarding HRCI and SHRM certifications, which is why I hold certifications from both organizations. I encourage my clients to pursue certifications from both HRCI and SHRM to ensure a comprehensive understanding of the HR field. Some professionals opt to pursue both to gain a well-rounded foundation in HR principles and practices, making them more versatile and competitive in the workforce.
In summary, obtaining an HR certification from either HRCI or SHRM can lead to higher salaries, increased promotion opportunities, and enhanced professional credibility. The choice between the two depends on personal career objectives and the desired focus within the HR field. However, I strongly recommend that HR professionals consider obtaining both HRCI and SHRM certifications to maximize their career potential and expertise in HR.
I am proud to offer the premier 6-week evening online bootcamp, renowned in the industry for its exceptional 99.99% passing rate. With 30 years of HR experience, I am committed to not only preparing participants to pass their certification exams but to empowering them with the confidence and expertise necessary to excel in their HR careers. This comprehensive program goes beyond exam preparation—it transforms professionals into highly knowledgeable and self-assured HR leaders, ensuring they not only meet but exceed the standards required for success in the field. Additionally, once participants pass their SPHR and SHRM-SCP exams, they can attend our 3-day GPHR bootcamp free of charge, further enhancing their global HR expertise.
Elga Lejarza
Founder/CEO
HRTrainingClasses.com
