PMP Certification: 12 Reasons New PM’s Should Get One

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When I first transitioned into project management, I wanted to gain credibility in the field. I worked in a completely different industry and wanted something that I could show that would validate my skills. The Project Management Professional certification has become invaluable for employers, project managers, and managers alike. Naturally, I asked myself “Should I get my PMP certification?”.

Yes. The Project Management Professional certification (PMP) demonstrates a project manager’s understanding of modern project management concepts and approaches. It also confirms your ability to speak the same standard business language as your program manager, team members, and sponsors. 

PMP certification is so important that:

• PMP-certified project managers are paid 16% more than non-certified project managers
• The demand for PMP-certified managers will increase over the next four years, creating 22 million new jobs by 2027
• Only 42% of organizations understand the importance of project management, which creates many opportunities for PMP-certified managers

The high demand for project management roles requires rigorous candidate evaluation, emphasizing the need for PMP certification. 

The PMP certification from the Project Management Institute particularly stands out because it’s recognized globally and offers unparalleled value. We highlight more reasons managers need PMP certification below.

What is PMP Certification?

The Project Management Professional (PMP) certification is easily one of the most desired project management certifications available. It demonstrates your knowledge of up-to-date project management concepts and scheduling. It also equips a candidate with the skills to manage a project’s processes, people, and business priorities more effectively. 

The certification helps you learn about concepts like waterfall project scheduling, Agile, leadership, and business management. 

Benefits of PMP Certification

Let’s explore 12 unique reasons why project managers should consider applying for the PMP certification:

Global Recognition

The PMP certification is globally recognized and demonstrates highly standardized project management knowledge in the Project Management Body of Knowledge. 

In fact, employers regard PMP as a mark of excellence in project management. This recognition is valuable for professionals working on projects with international teams or organizations with a global presence.

Learn the Best Project Management Practices

Since PMP certification is based on the Project Management Body of Knowledge (PMBOK), you learn about the best practices and methodologies used in the industry. 

This understanding and application can significantly enhance a project manager’s ability to deliver successful projects.

Industry Standard

Many organizations and industries consider the PMP certification a standard for project management excellence. It provides a common language and framework for project managers to communicate and collaborate effectively. 

PMP certification is based on the Project Management Body of Knowledge (PMBOK), a guide published by the Project Management Institute (PMI). This framework provides a standardized and globally accepted set of project management practices that ensure that certified project managers speak a common language and adhere to best practices.

Project managers spend most of their time talking to team members who may differ from project to project. The ability to use a common language ensures you’re on the same page as the vendors, team members, suppliers, clients, etc. 

You can also harmonize communications and processes between all the stakeholders, reducing the risk of project failure or stalling.

Acquire a Comprehensive Knowledge Base

The PMP certification covers different project management topics, including initiation, planning, execution, monitoring and controlling, and closing. 

This extensive knowledge equips project managers with the tools they need to handle all the different aspects of project management. Also, they gain well-rounded skills and an understanding of project management principles.

Ability to Advance Your Career 

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Many employers prefer or require a PMP certification for senior project management roles. So, managers with this certification will probably find new career opportunities easier and increase their earning potential. An applicant with a PMP certification is usually viewed as someone with an extra special mark of professionalism and competence.

Learn about Risk Management

Things happen, and knowing how to manage them in an ever-changing business is essential. Although risks differ by project, the PMP certification supplies project managers with a set of standardized management techniques they can leverage to navigate any uncertainties. 

It really emphasizes the importance of risk management in projects, a skill that helps project managers identify, assess, and manage risks effectively, leading to more successful project outcomes.

Project managers learn about tools that are endorsed, processes, and documents to help them confidently manage project risks. They also learn how to keep their team members and clients on the same page about risk identification and management methods.

Leverage Networking Opportunities

The PMP certification is usually ‘worn’ like a badge of honor. Joining the community of PMP-certified professionals provides great networking opportunities. This can be valuable for sharing your project experiences, learning tips and tricks from others, and staying updated on industry trends and best practices. PMI often organizes events, online forums, and conferences where project managers can connect and share their experiences.

Increased Confidence

When you pass your PMP exam, you’ll likely feel like you’re on top of the world. Passing the exam is not easy!

Obtaining a PMP certification can boost your confidence overall and increase confidence in your abilities as a PM. It provides a structured approach to project management, giving individuals the knowledge and skills needed to lead and deliver simple or complex projects with assurance.

Client Confidence

Clients often have more confidence in project managers who hold the PMP certification. It validates the project manager’s skills and expertise, which can be reassuring for clients. 

Companies that bid on government projects will most likely have PMP certification listed as one of the requirements. And it’s not limited to government entities; private companies like IBM have received requests for proposals where clients require managers to be PMP certified. In fact, if you don’t have one, you won’t get the deal.

What’s even more telling is that, highly regulated industries like aerospace, financial services, and pharmaceuticals hardly ever consider non-PMP-certified managers. If clients demand PMP-certified managers for projects they outsource, more organizations are inclined to employ PMP credential holders.

High Level of Adaptability

PMP certification isn’t tailored to a specific industry. Which means, PMP-certified managers can apply the principles and practices learned in different sectors, making them incredibly versatile and adaptable.

Demonstrated Commitment

Achieving PMP certification requires significant time, effort, and often resources. Passing the audit and exam is essentially attesting to the challenging nature of obtaining a PMP; hence, the willingness to undertake it while working a full-time job demonstrates a high level of commitment and devotion. Employers usually value the commitment and dedication shown by people who further their professional development.

Continuous Learning

PMI makes annual revisions to its PMBOK guide to keep project managers in alignment with the latest trends, tools, and techniques in project management. This commitment to continuous learning distinguishes PMP from other project management certifications.

Conclusion 

The PMP certification is crucial for new project managers because it provides a solid foundation of project management knowledge, enhances career opportunities, and demonstrates a commitment to the highest standards in the project management profession. It is a valuable asset in a competitive job market and contributes to long-term success in your project management career.