How long ago did you get your college degree? If it’s more than five years ago – or really, more than just one year ago! - there’s undoubtedly information that your traditional education didn’t cover. Just think about how swiftly things change these days.

Instead of going back for more traditional education to stay up-to-date, you can earn professional certifications in your free time – and within your budget.

So why do you need professional certifications?

Certifications Help You Stay Up-to-Date

Certifications are an affordable way to learn a new skill – or stay up to date with software!

Technology is always changing and updating. It’s easy to fall behind. Getting certified in something like Excel helps you brush up on your skills and even learn shortcuts and techniques that can make your job easier.

But it’s not only technology that’s changing. Regulations change, new laws are passed, and it can be difficult to keep up. Professional certifications offer you a refresher on what you already know while also teaching you all the new information you might have missed.

Certifications Highlight Your Skills

Even if you are already a self-proclaimed expert in something like Internal Controls, earning a professional certification can show you really know your stuff.

A professional certification from a reputable company is a great way to highlight your skills. Not only does it give you a chance to learn more about the topic, it proves to others (including your superiors or future employers) that you know the topic in detail.

Getting certified when it isn’t required is a great indicator of your initiative and talent, and shows that you’ve gone above and beyond industry standards.

Certifications Help You Market Yourself

Nowadays you can’t wait until you’re ready to find a new job to market yourself.  Instead, you should be thinking ahead to your next promotion or next position.

Earning professional certifications sets you apart from the crowd. They boost your credibility as a thought leader, especially if you’re building a platform on social media or your own website. Even if you’re just focused on your current position, certification can show your company that you’re willing to go above and beyond – and puts you first in line for the next promotion.

Certifications Help You Gain Confidence

If nothing else, earning certifications proves to you that you know what you’re talking about! This can be especially helpful early in your career. Earning a professional certification is an excellent way to continue your education – without having to take out more student loans.

There are lots of options when it comes to earning professional certifications. Some programs can end up costing more than traditional education while providing even less value. So before you make a decision, make sure you understand what you’re getting. Evaluate the cost and reputation of the company, and make sure you’re getting what you’re promised. And then get started! Professional certifications might be exactly what your career needs right now.