PMP® Certification is the golden ticket to a high-rewarding project management career. Undoubtedly, PMP®-certified project managers are in more demand than non-certified ones. The destination is cherishing, but the journey of earning a PMP® certification can be a backbreaker. This brings us to the question - "Is PMP® Certification worth it"?
PMP® Certification is one of the most recognized certifications in the project management domain. From an insane salary hike to being a member of a global platform, the benefits of a PMP® certification are gainful. The worthiness of the certification depends on several other factors as well, though.
In this blog, we'll explore the advantages and drawbacks of a PMP® Certification and conclude whether it's the right opportunity for you.
What is PMP® Certification?
Project Management Certification (PMP®) is an internationally recognized certification in the Project Management Domain. Issued by PMI®, the leading authority in the project management area, PMP® Certification tests a project manager's ability to manage projects proficiently. A PMP®-certified project manager is preferred by organizations globally for their efficiency and competency as a project manager.
Reasons to Get a PMP® Certification
According to the PwC survey, over 75% of high-end projects are handled by PMP®-certified project managers. It has been established that organizations with PMP®-certified project managers are more likely to succeed at achieving project goals as compared to organizations with non-certified project managers. So, let's explore the Benefits of PMP certification:
Grab More Career Opportunities
In the world of employees getting laid off, PMP® certification ensures you're always in demand. Studies by PMI® show there will be a need for 25 million project managers by 2030 to meet the global demand for project managers. PMP® certification amps up your career opportunities and gives you future security.
Enhances Your Skills
PMP® Certification significantly enhances your skills, including theoretical and practical knowledge. To earn a PMP® Certification, you need to take the PMP® exam. This exam comprehensively tests your knowledge of project management. The MCQ questions include both informative and case-study-based questions. This exam requires you to study the Project Management Body of Knowledge (PMBOK) Guide thoroughly.
Networking Opportunities
On earning a PMP® Certification, you become a part of the most prestigious platform. The PMI network has more than 6,00,000 members globally. All these project managers carry distinguished project management knowledge and practical experience.
Manage Projects Better
On obtaining a PMP® certification, you gain proficiency in managing people, budgets, and timelines. You manage your team members proficiently, understand their behavior better, and utilize their talent more efficiently. Besides, you make fool-proof strategic plans on budgets and timelines.
Higher Compensation
According to the Project Management Institute, the average salary of a PMP®-certified candidate is 16% more than candidates with no such certification. The PMP® certificate enhances your credibility immensely. The certificate is your emblem of deep PMBOK knowledge and practical experience. Thus, employers seek more PMP®-certified candidates than the non-certified ones.
Drawbacks of PMP® Certification
The advantages of PMP® certification are quite enticing. However, the disadvantages need to be considered before pursuing a PMP® Certification. These drawbacks might alter your plans of taking the PMP® exam. Let’s explore them:
It is Expensive
Obtaining a PMP® Certification can be very expensive. The registration fee alone costs 405 USD for PMI members and 555 USD for non-members. Additionally, there are other costs like training costs, course fees, PMBOK guide costs, etc
Time-consuming
Earning a PMP® certification demands substantial effort and commitment. It's not a simple task; you must diligently study the PMBOK guide and various project management theories. Additionally, investing considerable hours in training is essential to succeed in this endeavor. This 35 hours of CAPM training needs a lot of commitment. Moreover, the application process for the PMP® exam is lengthy and tedious.
Certification Maintenance
If you think PMP® certification will solve all your career problems once and for all, then you’re in a pickle. You’ll also need to earn 60 professional development units every 3 years to maintain your PMP® certification. These PDUs are maintained by continuing to gain experience as a project manager, becoming a project management trainer, teaching project management, etc
Limited Learning Scope
PMP® certification does not teach all the methods of project management. Mostly conventional managerial methods are covered under PMP® certification. This makes pursuing PMP®, a deal-breaker.
PMP® Certification Does Not Guarantee That You’re a Good Manager
Your ability to qualify for an exam does not mean that you’ll always be proficient at a designation. Some people might ace the PMP® exam and still not make a good project manager. The vice-versa of this situation is equally true. You do not necessarily have to pursue a PMP® certification to become a proficient project manager.
PMP® Certification: Pros and Cons
Before pursuing a PMP® certification, thoroughly examine the pros and cons of the PMP® Certification. This is how you’ll know if the PMP® certification is worth it for you.
Pros of PMP® certification | Cons of PMP® certification |
Higher earning potential | Expensive to obtain and maintain the certificate |
High demand for project managers globally | Needs immense effort, time, and commitment to the preparation |
Enhances project management skills and knowledge | Needs PDUs for certification maintenance |
Increased career opportunities | Certification only available for project managers |
Higher global networking potential | Highly competitive exam |
PMP® Certification made easy with Simpliaxis
The journey of obtaining a PMP® certification is not a breeze. However, the same journey can become exciting and rewarding with the right preparation partner. Simpliaxis is your preparation partner for earning the PMP® certification. The comprehensive PMP® certification course by Simpliaxis is your best bet for obtaining the PMP® certification like a pro.
Verdict
Whether a PMP® certification is worth it or not depends on your assessment of the pros and cons of the certification. If you are ready to put time and effort towards the exam preparation and think that the long-term benefits of the exam are highly rewarding, then you should start pursuing the PMP® certification.
However, if you think that you do not have the time and energy to constantly put effort toward obtaining the PMP® certification you should avoid the exam. Note that a lack of PMP® certification does not make you a bad project manager. You can still have good career opportunities and earning potential.
You can reach out to Simpliaxis if you wish to take the exam but feel the exam can be overwhelming. Simpliaxis Project Management Professional Certification course will help you be completely ready for the exam and will also help you earn the required PDUs. The experienced project management tutors will make the preparation journey a lot smoother for you.
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