Most job ads, especially those for mid- to senior-level positions for IT project managers today, either require or prefer a project management certification, using words such as "highly desirable," "an advantage," "preferred," or "a plus." Project Management Professional (PMP) certification allows project managers to demonstrate their skills and expertise in their field. According to the Project Management Institute’s (PMI) official website, obtaining a PMP certification greatly increases a person’s chances of being promoted and can even boost their salary by as much as 10%.

1. Leadership @ Wipro – February 2012
IS PMP Certification Required
Most job ads, especially those for mid- to senior-level positions for IT project managers today,
either require or prefer a project management certification, using words such as "highly
desirable," "an advantage," "preferred," or "a plus." Project Management Professional (PMP)
certification allows project managers to demonstrate their skills and expertise in their field.
According to the Project Management Institute’s (PMI) official website, obtaining a PMP
certification greatly increases a person’s chances of being promoted and can even boost their
salary by as much as 10%.
While companies are aware that a PMP certification does not guarantee a better project manager,
they still demand certified project managers because they understand the importance of strong
project management discipline in delivering successful projects. A certification indicates that the
professional has a certain level of knowledge and expertise to be effective in a project
environment. Companies also associate a PMP certification with commitment to project
management.
Professional certification is important to every industry, and the same applies in the field of
project management. Having the letters PMP under or after a name doesn't just indicate that a
professional is PMP certified, but also indicates an unshakable groundwork of knowledge and
experience required for efficient and effective project management. For potential employers and
future clients, a PMP certification is more of a hygiene factor as it reflects that the professional
can meet all challenges associated with project management.
What sets the PMP certification apart from other similar qualifications is that it isn't based on one
specific industry sector. Even if a professional changes the industry or market segment, or even
immigrates to a different country, a PMP certification will be respected in all industries across the
world. Moreover, a PMP certification implies having an up-to-date, in depth knowledge of how to
effectively manage a project in the current scenario, and that's invaluable.
Summing Up…
So what really are the benefits of a PMP certification?
- It looks great on a resume
- It improves job prospects
- PMP certification proves that experience as a project manager
- PMP project managers get paid better
- Being a PMP can lead to networking opportunities and potential job opportunities
- PMP certification indicates a commitment to the profession of project management
On the downside, obtaining and maintaining a PMP certification is very expensive, and preparing
for the PMP exam is extremely time consuming. Simply having a PMP qualification does not
guarantee a good project manager and companies understand this. So if a professional doesn’t
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2. Leadership @ Wipro – February 2012
have enough experience as a project manager, or does not have required skills, getting a PMP
certification could be a waste.
Obtaining a PMP certification is definitely an option to consider. Next to college degrees,
certificate programs are becoming high in demand, especially with IT companies. But with the
rough economic times, taking additional qualifications to ensure job security is advisable.
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