The Value of Industry Certification

Certifications are become more prevalent today, especially in the home-based business sector. There are certification programs for home organizers, pet sitting, photograph restoration and organizing, even for creating pet fashions.

The asset inventory industry also has a certification; inventory professionals can achieve designation as a Certified Inventory Specialist (CIS) through the National Inventory Certification Association.

Some professionals are required to achieve certification, and maintain it with continuing education (accountants and insurance agents, for example). If your industry does not require certification to perform your services, why should you spend your time and money?

Leadership

Being considered a leader in your industry comes with certification, especially when it is not a prerequisite to being in business. You have chosen to go above and beyond what is required of you.

Trust

A Code of Ethics is often included with membership in many industries. This gives a comfort level to your clients. Additionally, by achieving your designation, you are making a statement to others in the industry that they can trust you, and thus refer business to you, without hesitation.

Professional and personal development

Most certification programs include or offer continuing education. By always learning, you are growing your knowledge level. This extra effort again makes the statement that you are serious about your business, and choose to be among the top in your industry.

Expertise

Often a prospective client will be considering other service providers in addition to you or your company. Your certification can be the detail that encourages them to choose you.

Pride

When all is said and done, there is one key reason to be certified. Pride in yourself! No matter the profession, knowing you achieved a goal, knowing that you stand out from the crowd, knowing that you strive to excel, brings a sense of pride that will show in your attitude, your work, and the way you interact with others.

Certification sets you apart from those who are not certified. You show your fellow professionals and your prospective and current clients that you are a leader in your industry. And that is value!