Are you interested in a project-oriented work life? Or perhaps you're just beginning your journey in the field of project management? If so, gaining certifications can be a key step in establishing your expertise and enhancing your CV. Whether you're aiming for better job prospects, a promotion, or simply a clearer understanding of your current skills, certifications are a valuable asset. But which certification should you pursue first? Let's explore the options that can help you stand out as a new project manager.
Why Certifications Matter for New Project Managers
As a newcomer to the project management field, it's important to understand the true value of certifications. They serve two main purposes:
Validating Your Knowledge: Certifications test your understanding of key project management concepts and best practices. This ensures that you are equipped to handle real-life projects effectively, contributing to your organisation's success.
Enhancing Your CV: Certifications make your CV more appealing to employers. In a competitive job market, having a relevant certification can significantly increase your chances of getting shortlisted for interviews.
However, it's crucial to dispel a common myth: "If I get a certification, I’ll get a job." This is not entirely true.
While certifications do improve your chances, they are not a guarantee of employment. You still need to demonstrate your skills and experience during the interview process.
What to Consider When Choosing a Certification
When deciding on a certification, it's important to consider your career goals, the industry you wish to work in, and the methodologies your potential employers are likely to use. Keep in mind that certifications are not just about adding credentials to your name—they're about equipping yourself with the knowledge and skills that will help you succeed in real-world projects.
The Role of Real-World Experience
While certifications can open doors, they must be complemented by practical experience. The true value of certification lies in your ability to apply what you've learned to actual projects. During interviews, employers will assess your hands-on experience, so it's important to leverage your certification as a stepping stone to gaining real-world expertise.
How IPMA-SA Support Your Certification Journey
At IPMA-SA, we offer a variety of resources to help you succeed in your project management career. Whether you're looking to identify the right certification, define where your skills may need improvement, or ensure that you are positioned for success, we can guide you every step of the way. With our support, you can ensure that the right competencies are in place and that you're fully prepared to tackle the challenges of project management.
Recommended First Certifications for Project Managers
At IPMA-SA, we pride ourselves on our agnostic approach, focusing solely on enhancing competencies across project leadership, business, and management. Our commitment is to elevate skills and drive excellence, regardless of industry or methodology. This is reason why we don't have no issues to show and tell about other certifications also.
1. IPMA Level D: Certified Project Management Associate
For individuals new to project management or with limited experience, the IPMA Level D certification is an excellent starting point. This entry-level certification validates your foundational knowledge of project management principles and terminology. It also demonstrates your ability to work effectively as a member of a project team, contributing to its success.
Exam Format: The certification exam assesses your knowledge of the Competence Elements (CEs) related to project management, ensuring a broad understanding of the subject.
Eligibility Criteria: No prior experience is required, making it accessible for those new to the field.
For more information, you can visit the official IPMA Level D page or reach out to us directly.
2. IPMA-SA PM Foundation Certification (For Students in South Africa)
The IPMA-SA PM Foundation Certification is tailored for students and prepares them for the dynamic world of project management. Based on the IPMA Individual Competence Baseline (ICB), this certification ensures globally recognised training and is executed in cooperation with educational institutes.
Note: Currently, this certification is not available for individual candidates outside of the student context.
3. APM Project Fundamentals Qualification (PFQ)
The APM Project Fundamentals Qualification is ideal for those seeking a broad understanding of project management principles. This certification is particularly relevant for those planning to work in the UK.
Exam Format: The PFQ is a one-hour, 60-question, multiple-choice exam, available online with the option for remote proctoring.
Good to Know: This certification is well-regarded in the UK job market, making it crucial if you plan to pursue a project management career in the UK.
For more details, visit the APM PFQ page.
4. Certified Associate in Project Management (CAPM, PMI)
The Certified Associate in Project Management (CAPM) by the Project Management Institute (PMI) is one of the most popular certifications for entry-level project managers worldwide. It serves as a solid foundation for those planning to advance to more rigorous certifications like PMP or PRINCE2 Practitioner.
Exam Format: The CAPM exam consists of 150 questions to be completed in 3 hours, testing your understanding of project management fundamentals.
Good to Know: CAPM is recognised globally and is advantageous for those seeking to switch industries or enter project management roles.
More information can be found on the PMI website.
5. AgilePM Foundation (Agile Business Consortium)
The AgilePM Foundation certification is based on the Agile Project Framework and is ideal for those interested in Agile methodologies. It provides a practical approach to agile project management, balancing traditional project management standards with the flexibility of Agile.
Exam Format: The exam includes 50 multiple-choice questions, with a passing mark of 50%, and lasts 40 minutes.
Good to Know: AgilePM is highly valued in industries that require a blend of structure and agility, making it a versatile certification.
Explore more at the AgilePM Foundation page.
6. Professional Scrum Master™ I (PSM I) (Scrum.org)
The PSM I certification is recognised as a demonstration of fundamental Scrum mastery. It is ideal for those working in or entering the IT sector, where Scrum is widely used.
Exam Format: The exam comprises 80 questions with a passing score of 85%, to be completed in 60 minutes.
Good to Know: This certification is particularly valued in IT, but less so in other sectors like manufacturing or logistics.
7. Certified Scrum Master (CSM) (Scrum Alliance)
The CSM certification is another excellent choice for those entering IT project management. It provides a strong foundation in Scrum, which is crucial for managing agile projects.
Exam Format: After a 16-hour training course, candidates take a 50-question multiple-choice test, with 37 correct answers required to pass.
Good to Know: CSM is highly valued in the IT domain, and it's advisable to pursue additional IT certifications to further your career in this field.
Learn more on the Scrum Alliance website.
8. PRINCE2 Foundation
The PRINCE2 Foundation certification is particularly popular in the UK, Europe, and Australia. It’s based on the PRINCE2 methodology, widely used in these regions for IT and infrastructure projects.
Exam Format: The exam consists of 60 multiple-choice questions, with a passing mark of 55%.
Good to Know: PRINCE2 is highly valued for public sector jobs in the UK, and the Foundation module serves as a precursor to the more advanced PRINCE2 Practitioner certification.
Find more information on the Axelos website.
Conclusion: Choose the Right Certification for Your Career Path
Selecting the right certification is crucial for setting the foundation of your project management career. Whether you’re entering the field fresh or transitioning from another industry, these certifications offer various pathways to enhance your skills, improve your CV, and increase your employability. Remember, while certifications are a significant asset, they are most effective when paired with real-world experience. Choose wisely, and take the first step towards a successful career in project management.
Are you already a member of IPMA-SA?
Join as an organisational member and get the most benefit for your organisation: https://www.ipma-sa.org/organisation-membership
Join as an individual member and make the most out of it for yourself:
Comments