Is PMP Certification Really Worth It?
you already have your PMP certification, have you asked yourself if it’s been worth it? Or if you’re thinking about going after the title, do you wonder if it will be worth the considerable work, time, trouble, and cost?
You might be thinking that being a PM is all you need and that the PMP certification simply means doing the coursework and taking the test and keeping up on the post-certificate professional development units (PDUs). That said, if nothing else, having it does show that someone has had the drive and obvious dedication to get that project done.
Common sense would dictate that earning any certification or license would help separate you from the rest of the project managers. It would increase your chances for better roles with better salaries and benefits. However, what about your knowledge, employment track record, and personal and professional references?
Most of the time, these will still be what you need to become a PM the majority of the time. It is vitally important to have a successful track record in managing projects. Ironically enough, the success in managing projects is the same for obtaining a role as a PM AND for getting your PMP certificate.
But do employers actually want a project manager who has the PMP certification? There are a good many times that HR personnel use having it as a screening mechanism. The problem with this is that very good and competent project managers with years of experience and successful project management fall along the wayside.
There are instances where PMs have worked for companies who did not hold much credence for PMP certification and as a result did not pay for the test and what goes with it. There are some project managers who because of the nature of their roles just never have the time to take the course, sit the exam, and take the professional development units.
