Global Knowledge reported that qualified IT workers earn at least 12% more than their non-certified colleagues. CompTIA reports that 96% of HR managers consider IT Certifications when screening or hiring candidates. These results further demonstrate the value and benefits of professional qualifications. 

Learning and advancing in your field is crucial in today’s work environment. Certifications have become potent tools for increasing market value and propelling professional development as the need for knowledgeable IT employees rises. 

This article delves further into how certifications can help you take charge of your professional life and boost your earning potential.

Assessing Career Goals and Identifying Skills Gap

The IT skills gap is a serious concern in today’s fast-changing technology landscape. According to the Skillsoft 2022 IT Skills and Salary Report, 72% of firms prioritize formal training to close the skills gap. The lack of qualified candidates (44%) and issues with staff retention (33%) are to blame for this gap. To address this challenge and ensure long-term success, you must assess your career goals and identify areas where you can improve.

Here are some tips to help you effectively evaluate your skills:

• Self-assessment of strengths and weaknesses: Take a critical look at your current abilities and identify areas where you excel and need improvement. Consider both technical and soft skills relevant to your field.
• Seek feedback from colleagues and mentors: Reach out to trusted colleagues or mentors who can provide valuable insights about your strengths and areas where you can enhance your skills.
• Stay updated with industry trends: Stay informed about your field’s latest trends, technologies, and best practices. This will help you identify gaps in your knowledge or skills that need attention.
• Take advantage of self-assessment tools: Many online platforms and resources offer self-assessment tools to help you objectively evaluate your skills.

Understanding the Relevance of Certifications

Certifications offer targeted programs designed to bridge skill gaps and address industry-specific needs. By pursuing certifications in high-demand fields like cloud computing, analytics, big data, data science, and cybersecurity, IT professionals can acquire the necessary skills to meet industry requirements and fill critical skill gaps. Certifications allow professionals to enhance their skills, demonstrate their expertise, and differentiate themselves in the job market.

With certifications, IT professionals can 

• acquire specialized knowledge through in-depth training in specific areas, enabling them to develop expertise in high-demand skills;
• close skill gaps through targeted certification programs to enhance their ability to meet job requirements effectively;
• showcase a commitment to professional growth and development, making them more attractive candidates for promotions and higher-level positions;
• broaden their job prospects by demonstrating their competence in specific areas;
• improve employability, especially since 96% of HR managers use IT certifications as screening or hiring criteria during recruitment;
• and earn more than their non-certified counterparts–professionals with cybersecurity certifications, for instance, earn around 12% more than those with no cybersecurity certifications. 

Researching Certification Options

Exploring various certification programs from different organizations helps you find the best fit for you. Consider reputable certification providers recognized in the industry and valued by employers. 

To maximize the benefits of certification, consider industry-specific certifications like cloud certifications, cybersecurity certifications, and others tailored to particular sectors or technology domains. The following are the top five highest-paying IT certifications worth looking into, according to Global Knowledge’s 2022 IT Skills and Salary Report: 

• CRISC — Certified in Risk and Information Systems Control
• AWS Certified Developer
• CISM — Certified Information Security Manager
• AWS Certified Solutions Architect — Professional
• Google Cloud — Professional Cloud Architect

Additionally, look into general career-enhancing certifications, like in project management, to get foundational knowledge applicable to various IT roles.

Developing a Certification Strategy

Developing a certification strategy is crucial for efficiently and effectively pursuing certifications that align with your career goals. Here are the key steps to creating a well-structured roadmap and prioritizing certifications:

• Set clear career goals: Identify your long-term career aspirations and the specific roles or domains where you want to excel. This will help you determine the certifications that align with your goals.
• Research certification requirements: Explore the prerequisites and requirements for each certification you’re considering. Some certifications may have experience or educational requirements that you must fulfill beforehand.
• Prioritize certifications: Assess the relevance and demand of certifications in your industry. Prioritize certifications that employers highly value and want. Consider the market trends and the skills in demand to guide your decision-making.
• Create a timeline: Establish a timeline for achieving your certifications. Consider the time required for studying and preparing for each certification exam. Be realistic about your commitments and allocate sufficient time for learning and exam preparation.
• Seek study resources: Look for reputable study materials, practice exams, online courses, or training programs to help you prepare for the certification exams. Utilize a combination of self-study and structured learning approaches based on your learning style and preferences.
• Gain practical experience: While certifications provide theoretical knowledge, gaining practical experience is equally important. Look for opportunities to apply your skills through projects, internships, or volunteer work. Practical experience will enhance your expertise and reinforce the concepts you learn through certification training.
• Network with professionals: Engage with professionals in your industry who hold the certifications you are pursuing. Join industry events, online communities, and forums to connect with experienced individuals who can offer guidance and insights. Networking can provide valuable advice and even open doors to career opportunities.
• Maintain and renew certifications: Remember that certifications often have expiration dates and require renewal to stay valid. Stay informed about continuing education or renewal requirements to ensure you maintain the value of your certifications over time.
• Showcase your certifications: Once you earn certifications, include them prominently on your resume, LinkedIn profile, and other professional platforms. Highlight how your certifications align with your skills and career goals. This will help you stand out to potential employers and recruiters.
• Continuously update your skills: The IT industry constantly evolves, and new technologies emerge regularly. Stay updated with your field’s latest trends, advancements, and changes. Consider pursuing additional certifications or specialized training to keep your skills relevant and competitive.

Certifications: Your Path to Success!

In today’s rapidly evolving professional landscape, certifications have become a powerful tool for career growth and success. By enumerating the importance of certifications in increasing market value, we recognize their ability to differentiate individuals and enhance their credibility in the job market. 

Taking control of one’s career through strategic certification planning is crucial, allowing professionals to align their aspirations with industry demands. By continuously investing in certifications and staying updated, individuals can unlock long-term benefits such as improved job prospects, enhanced skill sets, and more significant earning potential. 

Embrace the transformative power of certifications and pave the way for your professional growth. Let Yellow Tail Tech help you. Book a 10-minute intro call with an Enrollment Advisor now to embark on this journey today!

The post Taking Control of Your Career: Using Certifications to Increase Your Market Value appeared first on Yellow Tail Tech.