If you’re looking to apply for a job, then standing out from the rest of the applicants would be important to you. Ultimately, you want your employers to see the value that you can add to their enterprise. A great way for you to achieve this in your job application is by including your completed online course related to that field or industry.
Although online courses are becoming more commonly included on resumes, they can lead to unique exchanges between you and the recruiter. They can get better quantification for potential value by inquiring about your motivation to enroll in the courses, as well as the practical knowledge that you gained from completing them.
According to research, the value of relevant work experience is non-negotiable to the majority of employers. If you’re just starting out or switching careers, it can be challenging to demonstrate experience without completing some professional training. That’s why you are looking into CPD courses that can improve your CV.
CPD (Continuing Professional Development) is a proactive learning program that is popular among professionals looking to develop their skills and acquire new ones. Depending on your skill level and available time, you can select a CPD certified course that best suits you.
The program is relatively affordable and does not impose any time limit. As its name suggests, this learning process is a continuous one that you would be completely responsible for undergoing. Here are some reasons why you should get CPD certification.
Benefits of Participating In CPD
It communicates passion to recruiters
When going through a sea of CVs to select their prime choice, employers are always on the lookout for passionate applications. The CPD courses can set you apart from the crowd as someone with a genuine interest and passion for your career since you’re taking active steps to improve it.
It also shows them that you’re eager to learn since you can willingly expose yourself to coaching for enhancing your skillset and in turn their company. Companies are always conducting training so they have a preference for candidates that understand the importance of these procedures.
It gives you updated knowledge in your sector
Regardless of the industry that you work in, you may find it challenging to keep up with evolving practices and regulations. The courses that are CPD certified can provide you with the latest information so that your knowledge stays relevant to the sector.
Employers understandably have a preference for candidates who are updated with new methods and practices that they are likely implementing in their organization. That way, they won’t have to worry about expending resources to update your knowledge.
It enhances your salary prospects
One factor that affects the choice of applications with some companies is the proposed earnings being too small. Depending on your industry, you may be able to negotiate a higher salary if you have completed professional courses. You will likely recognise the increased value that your knowledge brings to the company because of your CPD certification.
It tells more about your discipline
Employers know how challenging it can be for applicants to enrol and complete professional courses. Having CPD certification can tell your recruiters more about your discipline and drive to take on tasks that will improve your skill sets.
When they see that you’re willing to go the extra mile, then your recap of the learning process will further indicate your passion for that field.
In summary, CPD certification can be highly beneficial for anyone looking to develop their career. Those that want to switch fields will find this initiative to be crucial for showcasing their potential value to recruiters.
If you’re serious about securing that job interview, then you should do everything possible to boost your resume so you can stand out from other applicants.
Factors to consider for undertaking CPD
When you want to take up Continuing Professional Development, you need to consider some factors to ensure you get the best out of it.
- The type of CPD: If you’re trying to improve your skills, you should select the type of CPD that is best suited to your preferred learning method. Several kinds include events, research, training courses, workshops, and E-learning programs. Also, make sure that your choice best suits your industry as well as your future career plans and expectations.
- Your free time: Before undertaking CPD, you should ensure that you have enough time to put aside for the course. Consider your family commitments and budget to determine if you’ll be better off with a part-time or full-time program.
- Personal or Group study: Are you the type of learner that benefits from studying in a group or you’d prefer a one-on-one with your tutor/material? You can select from the wide range of choices between seminars and e-learning options to match your learning pace.
