10 Reasons to Invest in Yourself

Whether you’re looking to get ahead in your existing job or you’re in the market for a new one, you need to stand out from the competition now more than ever. One of the most effective ways to make that happen is to invest in yourself and your career by seeking out professional certificate programs.

Here are 10 reasons why it pays to consider developing in-demand skills to boost your career today and in the future:

1. Potential for higher earnings – Enhanced professional skills can translate to higher pay and other rewards.
2. Increased job security – Those who possess critical job skills may be less likely to be downsized if layoffs take place.
3. Job growth – Gaining expertise in business areas that are undergoing expansion, such as cyber security, project management and human resources, can open up future possibilities.
4. Career advancement – Greater abilities can make climbing the corporate ladder easier.
5. Industry certificates – Some programs provide you with the industry-specific certificates hiring managers want to see on candidate resumes.
6. Critical job knowledge – Staying on the cutting edge of industry tools and techniques can have immediate benefits in your job.
7. Leading and motivating others – Advanced certificates can help you transition into a leadership role while enabling you to inspire those around you to reach for higher goals.
8. Confidence building – When you possess in-demand skills, you’re more likely to have the confidence required for peak job performance. This can lead to attainment of personal goals.
9. Respect – Advanced skills can help you gain the respect of your peers and your boss.
10. Helping the bottom line – Advanced skills can help you drive efficiency and cost reduction within your organization.

100% Certificate Programs

In addition to industry-specific certificates designed to drive advancement in niche fields, there are a number of in-demand certificates that can translate well across a spectrum of employment opportunities. Some of the hottest include:

• Human Resources – For human resources professionals, advanced certificates can be critical for landing higher-paying positions with more authority. The skills obtained can translate well into many fields.
• Project Management – Project Management certificates create a common language among project managers while providing the insights necessary to lead complex undertakings in a variety of fields.
• Cybersecurity – Certificates in this arena are in demand as the need for enhanced information security is found in numerous professional fields.

4 Ways to Pay for It All

While advanced certificates can pay for themselves over the long run, the upfront cost can intimidate. There are excellent ways to cover the costs while ensuring vital training is obtained. Here are four ways to pay:

• Employer-offered benefits – Many companies will cover all or some of the costs through tuition assistance programs. Check with your human resources department for guidance.
• Payment plans – Some institutions that offer certificate programs offer flexible payment programs to make funding programs more manageable. Contact a program representative for details.
• Government loans – Government-backed student loans are available for many certificate programs, providing low-interest fees and simple repayment.
• Traditional loans – Banks and credit unions often offer education loans that can cover the costs of certificate programs.

Is it time to start investing in yourself and reaping the rewards? Take the next step toward obtaining training by contacting a program representative today.