7 Reasons why you should study a professional qualification
Whether you are looking for or currently working in a management or HR role, you can never be too qualified for a job. With anticipated changes to the workforce as a result of Brexit, there are and will be new things to learn. Getting a professional qualification will enable you to stand out from the crowd within the workforce. Here are 7 benefits of upgrading your education and skills:
A professional qualification can expand your skillset
You can gain job-related skills, as well as refreshing and updating your knowledge. Completing a professional qualification allows you to expand your current knowledge. You’ll also have the opportunity to learn completely new skills and gaining more experience. Although you may already feel confident in your current abilities, having a professional qualification behind you will give you an extra boost.
Gain access to more courses and qualifications
You have to start somewhere! In teaching you could start with the Award in Education and Training and then move onto a higher level. For HR, you may complete the Level 3 in HR practice before moving on to level 5 HR management. In management you might progress through the ILM levels. Whichever your subject, after completing a qualification, you then have access to more courses and qualifications. This can help you to build your skills and knowledge even further.
Broaden your career opportunities
There may be a requirement in your organisation to be qualified to a certain level before applying for a particular grade of job. This means that as you complete further studies more career opportunities will open up, giving you variety in your career choices. Even if essential requirements are not stated, being qualified for a variety of different positions gives you more chances of finding a job that suits your lifestyle. It not only benefits your career growth, but also shows potential employers you are eager to learn and grow.
Improve your chances of career progression
Many employers support employees with time and money to study a professional qualification. If you are currently employed, you should find out if your company does. Completing further studies also shows current employers what you are capable of. It helps to demonstrate to them you are keen for career progression. Whether you’re looking to progress internally or externally, this then portrays you as someone who is persistent and willing to learn. This will encourage your employer to invest more time into your career and give you the opportunity to take on more responsibilities, leading to promotions and higher salaries.
Show commitment
You may have a degree, which offers scope for a range of jobs, but a professional qualification provides you with much better chances of getting a specific job. Commitment matters, and getting a professional qualification in an area of work you are interested in will show your dedication in that area. Look at it from the perspective of a recruiter: a candidate with a History bachelor’s degree will seem less dedicated to a career in Management than another who has an added an ILM Diploma in Leadership and Management.
Network
‘It’s not what you know but who you know’ is only partly true! You do need to know your stuff but you also need to know the right people. Today, people who know people run the world. Industry leaders who have direct influence on and knowledge of the industry you are entering teach professional courses. The people who attend professional courses are also usually mature, experienced individuals. The majority of students who enrol in our professional qualifications are currently working or have had previous work experience. Each and every student in the class brings another opportunity for you to network.
Feel empowered
Aside from all these career and financial benefits, completing a qualification gives you sense of self-fulfillment and accomplishment. Benefits of getting a qualification will leave you more motivated in life as well as your career!
With a wide range of perks, it’s hard to deny that it’s worthwhile investing your time into getting more qualified! Overall, benefits of getting qualifications will give you an advantage in many aspects of your life and you should take advantage of any opportunities that come your way.