This document provides information about Salesforce certifications for administrators, app builders, implementation experts, developers, marketers, and architects. It discusses the benefits of becoming certified, including high career demand, increased opportunities, validated skills, and an improved skillset. Various certification exams and levels are described, along with how to study, register, and maintain certifications over time. Tips are provided such as using study guides, taking exams in person if possible, and retaking exams if not passed initially. Upcoming community events in Chicago related to certifications are also listed.

1. Become a Certified
Awesome Admin
Stephen Noe
Director, Salesforce Architecture Services – 7Summits
@SnoeCloud

2. Why Should I Get Certified?
​ The “official” pitch:
“Demand for Salesforce experts is growing rapidly and companies are looking for proven professionals.
Companies who use certified cloud specialists see smoother deployments and better use of Salesforce.
Getting certified boosts your career and enables you to contribute even more to your organization's success.”
• http://certification.salesforce.com/
​ What that means:
• High demand for Salesforce professionals
• Increases career opportunities
• Validates your knowledge
• Improves your skillset

3. What Can I Get Certified In?
​ Administrators
• Salesforce Administrator
• Salesforce Advanced Administrator
​ App Builders
• Salesforce Platform App Builder
​ Implementation Experts
• Salesforce Sales Cloud Consultant
• Salesforce Service Cloud Consultant
​ Developers
• Salesforce Platform Developer I
• Salesforce Platform Developer II
​ Marketers
• Salesforce Marketing Cloud Email Specialist
• Salesforce Marketing Cloud Social Specialist
​ Pardot
• Salesforce Pardot Specialist
• Salesforce Pardot Consultant
​ Architects
• Salesforce Technical Architect

4. How Do I Get Certified?
​ Proctored Test
• Online or in person
• $200 registration fee
• 60 questions
• 90 minutes
• 65% passing score
• Pass/fail and incorrect answers not shown
​ Platform Developer II
• Additional programing assignment
​ Technical Architect
• Review Board Presentation

5. How Do I Get Certified?
​ Study Guide
• Certification.Salesforce.com
​ Trailhead
• Developer.Salesforce.com/Trailhead
​ Salesforce Help & Training
• Help.Salesforce.com
​ Online Flash Cards

6. How Do I Maintain My Certification?
​ Maintenance Exams
• Online non-proctored tests
• Focused on changes in latest release
• Align with Salesforce releases
• $100 annual maintenance fee

7. Tips & Tricks To Get Certified
• Talk with your employer about reimbursement
• Start with the Administrator certification
• Use the study guide as your foundation
• Take test in person if possible
• Don’t be afraid to fail
• Write down questions you’re unsure of
• If you don’t pass, retake test soon after
• Take your maintenance exams

8. Upcoming Chicago Community Events
​ Presented by Salesforce Community Leaders
Midwest Dreamin’
July 21st & 22nd at Navy Pier
Call for Presenters is OPEN! Closes 4/1/16
Sponsorship Opportunities Available, spaces are limited!
To learn more go to: MidwestDreamin.com or
@Midwest_Dreamin
Trailhead on the Road
May 7 – 9 am to 2 pm
Illinois Technology Association
20 N. Upper Wacker Dr. #1200
Registration Opens SOON!
Free to attend, space is limited

9. thank y u