PMP Certification – worth the effort?

·     What is the PMP?

Wherever you are in your career, the globally recognized Project Management Professional (PMP) certification tells employers, peers, and the world you know what you’re doing in project management.

Even if “project manager” isn’t part of your title, the PMP applies to anyone who helps bring a project to completion. Just like a CPA validates expertise for accountants, the PMP recognizes your ability to manage projects—and the hard work you’ve done so far.

·     Why the PMP

The PMP delivers value far into your career. CIO magazine ranked the PMP as the top project management certification because it proves you have the specific skills and experience employers seek. Certified PMPs report earning up to 25% more than non-certified project management professionals.

. What is the point of getting one? 

The biggest advantage of the PMP certification is that it highlights a certification holder’s ability to apply project management knowledge and practices (of a global standard) at the workplace and thereby bring immense value to his employers/clients. Additionally, it also makes the certification holder very marketeable and helps him command a greater renumeration than non-certified peers would not be able to command.

here are some advantages of PMP certification

  1. Proof that a project manager has the experience and skills to make a project successful.
  2. A higher salary (20% higher on average) than those without a PMP certification.
  3. More Hiring Preference
  4. Complete more of their projects on time, on budget and meeting original goals.
  5. Helps you connect worldwide – signifies that you speak and understand the global language of PM.

·  Can anyone apply for PMP?

Earning the PMP is a commitment, and that’s why it’s valuable. Do you have real-world project management experience that’s led to success? Great—you’ve finished the hardest part. Before you apply, make sure you meet one of the following sets of qualifications:

— OR —

  • A four-year degree
  • Three years leading projects
  • 35 hours of project management education/training
  • 4500 hours of experience leading and directing projects

. Is a PMP certification worth it?

 There are many factors that influence salary.PMP certification is not mandatory to work as project manager, unless some specific contracts require it.

. What is the investment for PMP?

When we say investment, it is both the money and time that you need to put in to get the pot of gold: PMP benefits.

. PMP Training Modes

You can get PMP training in 3 different modes. There are obvious pros & cons of each mode.The classroom training can cost between $200-$2500 depending on your geography/country.

1. Classroom Training:The classroom training courses are the best for learning. They can increase the chances of your success substantially.

2. Self-learning mode : Simply called online training.You can save a lot of money by taking a good self-learning course – usually a good course costs between $200-$400. 

3. Instructor-led mode : Called live online training .Usually a good instructor led course costs between $200-$2000. 

Out of these self-learning courses are cheapest.