Thinking about a new career but can’t figure out how to make that happen without going back to college for an expensive degree?
Consider alternative credentials!
According to the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM), “Alternative credentials can be defined as any microcredential, industry or professional certification, acknowledgment of apprenticeship (registered or nonregistered), or badging that indicates one’s competencies and skills within a particular field.”
In addition to their cost-effectiveness, alternative credentials offer many other advantages, such as efficiency, accessibility, and flexibility.
Although alternative credentials have gained popularity in the last few years, they are not a new concept. When I decided to shift from hospitality management to HR 20 years ago, I obtained an HR certificate through SHRM. That inexpensive certificate, along with my prior management experience, was all I needed to pivot into my new career in human resources.
These credentials, sometimes labeled as digital badges, may sound like an affordable way to transition into a new career, but what do employers think?
“People who hold alternative credentials bring value to the workplace, according to executives (87%), supervisors (81%), and especially HR professionals (90%)”.
Look to online certificate programs – there are many free or low-cost options available through HubSpot Academy, Udemy, Coursera, and edX, to name a few!
If you’re ready for a career change and don’t want to spend time and money on a new degree, a professional certificate or credential may be just the ticket!
Shelley Maley, PHR, GCDFDreamcatcher Career Coaching, LLC www.dreamcatchercareercoaching.com
(610) 663-0585
Communications Chairperson – Pennsylvania Career Development Association (PACDA)
Connect with me on Linkedin:
https://linkedin.com/in/shelleymaleycareercoach