Do I need a CIPD qualification? | Reed Learning

There’s no disguising the fact that deciding to study for your CIPD is a major step…

Will there be time to study in an already hectic life.
What if I can’t keep up with the course?
It’s been so long since I studied, how will I retain the information?

… are just some of the questions that people consider when they are making their decision.

Studying for a professional qualification, particularly after a long break away from education, is bound to cause some concerns. It’s a major commitment of time, money and hard work so it’s completely natural to question if becoming CIPD qualified will be worth the effort.

To help make your decision and put your mind at ease, we’ve put together the top ten benefits of getting that HR or L&D qualification under your belt.

If you are looking to accelerate your career in the people profession, CIPD qualifications are the benchmark for success. Read on to find out why!

Top ten advantages of becoming CIPD qualified

1. Since the global pandemic, HR has been thrust into the limelight and we’ve seen major changes in the way the profession operates and holds focus. Different ways of working, employee wellbeing, retention issues around wellness are all in the forefront of business leaders’ minds. The role of HR is having more of a say in strategic decisions than ever before with salaries now reflecting this move.

2. CIPD stands for the Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development. It’s the professional body for HR and people development and has over 160,000 members worldwide. CIPD qualifications are highly respected and globally recognised by employers. They champion best practice and transform the skills of people professionals around the world.

3. CIPD qualifications set the benchmark for quality in both Human Resources and Learning and Development. They demonstrate the level of professional competence in HR or L&D that has been achieved and lead to three levels of CIPD membership – Foundation, Associate and Chartered. The qualifications are based on the CIPD Profession Map which defines the knowledge, behaviours and values underpinning today’s people profession.

4. Nothing builds confidence and credibility like a professional qualification and all four CIPD Diplomas along with the CIPD Foundation Certificate have all been designed to equip you with the latest specialist knowledge and skills to succeed in your role. Whether you are just starting out in the profession or are experienced in HR or L&D, CIPD qualifications will help you to get ahead.

5. Professional qualifications are like keys, they open doors to new opportunities. Having a CIPD Diploma on your CV shows you have the required level of skills and knowledge to make a real difference to your business. When you’re job hunting it gives you an edge over the competition and allows you to stand out from the crowd.

6. Great news! You will earn on average 12% more if you are CIPD qualified than those without a qualification according to research. HR manager roles requesting CIPD Chartered Membership offer up to £17,200 more than those not asking for CIPD membership. Entry level roles for HR administrators and assistants pay up to £5,600 more than those not requesting CIPD qualifications.

7. It’s not only individuals that benefit from being CIPD qualified. Effective HR management unlocks potential throughout the workforce. CIPD qualifications demonstrate a commitment to the highest professional standards and guarantee that you will be respected as a subject expert. As you progress through your course, you will build a broad portfolio of skills, knowledge and expertise all of which lead to exceptional performance and career advancement.

8. The world of work is constantly changing. In the last decade, HR professionals have had to grapple with leaving the EU, a global pandemic and hybrid working. The CIPD is at the cutting edge of HR research and people development. If you want to stay on top of the latest employment legislation, data analytics and wellbeing trends, a CIPD qualification will ensure your knowledge is always bang up to date!

9. CIPD qualifications can provide you with incredible career opportunities. They open the door to promotion, improve credibility at work and general real influence at a high level. In fact, most HR and L&D jobs now require applicants to be CIPD qualified to be considered for the role. If you want to stay ahead of the curve, lead the people agenda in response to business demands then becoming CIPD qualified is a must.

10. CIPD qualifications are essential at all stages of your HR or L&D career. But, if you want to become a people professional at the very top of your game, then a CIPD Level 7 Advanced Diploma will give you the strategic skills for positions such as a Chief People Officer or Head of HR. A qualification at this level will expose you to the very latest practices to get the best out of people and deliver great business results. The Advanced Diploma in Strategic People Management or Strategic Learning and Development both lead to CIPD Chartered Membership, the ultimate accolade of the people profession.

Which CIPD course is right for you

Now you’ve read out top ten reasons why a CIPD qualification is invaluable, find out which level is right for you. Take a look at our CIPD courses below to find out which qualification will help supercharge your HR or L&D career.

Need more advice or ready to enrol?

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