![](\"http:\/\/squarehr.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/05\/cause-the-effect-you-want-part-iii-the-five-steps-of-certification.jpg\")
<\/p>\n<\/p>\n
![](\"http:\/\/squarehr.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/05\/cause-the-effect-you-want-part-iii-the-five-steps-of-certification-1.jpg\")
<\/div>\n ?<\/span>This<\/span> three-part series provides an overview of the professional development options available through SHRM Educational Programs and how they can help you <\/em>Cause the Effect<\/em><\/a> you want\u2014in your career, your organization and your profession.<\/em><\/p>\n Today, we’ll review the five essential steps to achieving and maintaining SHRM certification.<\/em>Last month<\/em><\/a>,<\/em> we discussed the <\/em>SHRM People Manager Qualification<\/em> (PMQ)<\/em><\/a>, and in <\/em>March<\/em><\/a> we explored the <\/em>SHRM Specialty Credential Program<\/em><\/a>.<\/em><\/p>\n T<\/span>here are few better ways to cause a positive effect in your organization than to become SHRM-certified.<\/p>\n SHRM Certification is now in its eighth year, and over the years, we have gathered a great deal of useful information on the program and its participants: Who are the candidates seeking a SHRM-CP or a SHRM-SCP? What are their goals and motivations? Which are the best ways to prepare for the exam? How do SHRM credentials affect HR professionals’ career development?<\/p>\n Our latest research study conducted in 2021 reveals interesting data about what it means to hold a SHRM certification:<\/p>\n The SHRM Body of Applied Skills and Knowledge<\/a> provides the framework for the SHRM-CP and SHRM-SCP credentials and exams. Passing the exam and holding a SHRM certification tells the global business community that you are a recognized expert and leader in the HR field, having demonstrated the behavioral competencies and functional proficiencies required for effective job performance. Your SHRM credential proves your value to colleagues and employers. It’s your road map for achieving vital outcomes that lead to individual and organizational successes.<\/p>\n To get started\u2014to move SHRM certification from your “to-do list” to your “today<\/em> list”\u2014we present a tried-and-true process that boils down to five steps.<\/p>\n The Five Steps of SHRM Certification<\/strong><\/p>\n The final step, SUSTAIN, is the most important, because that’s where a key component of SHRM certification\u2014commitment to lifelong learning\u2014begins. Step 5 embodies what we mean when we say, “start with the end in mind.”<\/p>\n Continuing education intersects with professional development through a wealth of opportunities, especially those offered through SHRM educational programs<\/a> and events<\/a>, which can help you effect positive change in your career and organization. For instance, through the SHRM Specialty Credential Program<\/a> and the PMQ<\/a>, you can leverage and apply what you learn to your work projects, thereby earning recertification<\/a> credits to maintain your credential.<\/p>\n\n
\n\n