Have you ever submitted a résumé and wondered if your experience was enough—or if someone else had just a bit more, leading to them getting the call instead of you? While experience plays a role, there could be another factor at play.
Many organizations now use artificial intelligence (AI) to screen applications before a hiring manager even sees them. According to Forbes in October 2024, 65% of employers will use AI to reject candidates this year. These systems scan for specific keywords, education levels, and certifications that employers deem essential for the role. But what if you believe your experience should outweigh the need for certifications? In the past, that might have been true, but today, certifications help set you apart from the competition. You might wonder, “Isn’t everyone certified?” While there has been an increase in certifications, not everyone takes the initiative to earn them. That’s where you gain an advantage.
Certifications do more than just help you get past AI screening systems—they also demonstrate your commitment to professional growth and staying current with industry trends. Employers value candidates who invest in their own development. For example, certifications like the Project Management Professional (PMP) and PMI Agile Certified Practitioner (PMI-ACP) require ongoing professional development units (PDUs) to maintain them, showing that you are continuously improving and staying relevant in your field.
Yes, earning certifications takes time, effort, and money—but in the long run, the benefits far outweigh the costs.
Are there certifications in your field that could elevate your career? It might be time to explore your options!
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About the Writer
Dr. Brian Williamson is the Executive Director with PMO Advisory and a Visiting Lecturer in Leadership and Management Studies at the University of Oxford. A global authority in business transformation, employee experience, and purpose-driven project management, he has authored multiple books.
