Formal education and degrees are not the only ways to get a recruiter or headhunter’s attention. Going back to college takes a lot of time and resources. Plus, there is no way of knowing which courses or degrees can further your career.

So what is the alternative? Instead of spending years in a university or college, why not sign up for short courses or get certified. Both options can be completed in a shorter amount of time and get employers to take notice.

But with so many courses available, how do you determine which ones are taking up? Save time by reading this list of courses and certifications that impress talent scouts.

1. Project Management Professional (PMP) Certifications

One of the weaknesses of a resume or a CV is that you can write almost anything on it. Strong organizational and leadership skills are some of the most commonly used terms on a resume. However, proving that you do have those skills is trickier until you get to the interview stage or get hired.

If you intend to work as a project manager or take on similar leadership roles, having a PMP certification dramatically improves your chances of getting the job. Having a PMP certification proves that you know what is needed to take on projects, and know how to handle them from inception to completion.

Unlike other certifications, PMP certification is recognized all over the globe. It is a useful certification to take with you wherever you go, whether you are checking out careers in the Asia Pacific, in Europe, the US, or elsewhere.

Another advantage of taking up project management is its versatility. The knowledge you acquire from attending project management courses is applicable in other fields and industries outside project management.

2. Human Resources Certification

As the name implies, this certification is more specifically designed for individuals applying for HR positions or planning to enter this field. Having this professional certification under your belt indicates specialist knowledge and expertise. Take this certification to complement any work experience you may have in the area.

Recognized certifications can vary between regions and companies. Some of the more well-known and acknowledged HR certifications in the US, and on LinkedIn include the following:

• Professional in Human Resources (PHR)
• Senior Professional in Human Resources (SPHR)
• SHRM Certified Professional (SHRM-CP)

In the UK, HR certifications from the Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development (CIPD) are highly prized. On the other hand, in the Middle East, the Certified Human Resource Professional (CHRP) by ILM UK is recommended. If you are planning to work for multinational companies or in different countries, a Global Professional in Human Resources (GPHR) certification may be more appropriate in your case.

3. Google Certifications

Google goes beyond search engines. Because of the variety of products and services it offers, it can be challenging to make a list of the most critical certifications for professionals. For instance, if your work revolves around Google Ads, you may want to look into the Google Analytics certification from the Google Publisher University.

A Google Analytics certification indicates knowledge in setting up Google ad campaigns, collecting the data, and seeing any potential trends. It may be an excellent certification to obtain as well if you plan on working in Search Engine Optimization (SEO) companies, as well as it allows you to get a better understanding of how keywords work.

Besides Google Analytics, there are many other types of certifications. Look into getting a Google certification if you are going into software engineering, data science, or digital marketing.

4. Cybersecurity

Hackers received a lot of flak in the past as it makes people think of unscrupulous individuals trying to gain access to a company or government’s online database. Nowadays, hacking and cybersecurity are highly-regarded skills, as it is the institutions and businesses themselves seeking the services of hackers. Businesses and organizations look for certified professionals who can see the flaws in their online security systems and see how they can be improved.

5. Network certifications

For network engineers and administrators, a Cisco certification is one that can help boost your resume and application. Depending on the specific role you are aiming for, there are several certifications you can look into, including:

• Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA)
• Cisco Certified Network Professional (CCNP) Routing and Switching certification
• Cisco Certified Internetwork Expert (CCIE)
• Cisco Certified Design Expert (CCDE)

Most companies would look for a CCNA or CCNP, although if you wish to go higher, aim for a CCIE certification. For employers, a CCIE indicates expertise, dedication to the field, and subject matter, as well as perseverance.

The CCIE certification alone consists of six different tracks. It is suitable for senior networking specialists with years of experience working in the field and with various Cisco networking products.

As you can see, there are many certifications, depending on the field you wish to get into. Look into these certifications if you want to get an edge over your competition. If you are unsure of which one to get, contact a reputable training institute that offers the certification to know your options.

AUTHOR BIO

Jerrin Samuel is the Executive Director at Regional Educational Institute (REI) in Abu Dhabi. Since 1995, REI has been at the forefront of education by delivering quality corporate training courses in the UAE, helping many businesses and organizations achieve greater productivity and higher customer satisfaction levels.