Effective Ways to Showcase Licenses and Certifications on Your Resume
When crafting a resume, the inclusion of licenses and certifications can be a game-changer. We have certified professional career coaches (CPCC), and resume writers (CPRW) in our panel, offering their expertise on this matter. If you have queries, reach out to us freely.
Incorporating Certifications and Licenses into Your Resume
Including a section titled “Education and Professional Development” towards the end of your resume is a strategic way to list your relevant credentials. If you possess numerous licenses and certifications, consider creating a separate section under “Education” for them. However, ensure that these credentials align with your current career objectives.
Understanding and Listing Certifications on a Resume
Certifications, issued by various recognized bodies like associations, schools, and professional organizations, demonstrate proficiency in specific skills or knowledge areas. To earn these, you might need to demonstrate experience, pay a fee, and pass certain assessments.
The Value of Certifications
While obtaining certifications can require time and resources, they are often beneficial. They can set you apart in job applications, especially when they are essential for a role or industry. Certifications can be particularly useful when transitioning careers or when lacking in work experience.
Strategically Placing Certifications on Your Resume
When adding certifications, consider these key reasons:
- Meeting Employer Requirements: If a job listing specifies certain certifications, ensure they are prominently listed on your resume.
- Skill Showcase: Certifications can highlight additional skills that may be appealing to employers.
- Compensating for Experience Gaps: Certifications can bolster your qualifications, especially if you’re short on relevant experience.
- Demonstrating Industry Knowledge: Certifications can underline your years of experience and expertise in a field.
- Facilitating Career Changes: When switching careers, certifications can be crucial in demonstrating new, relevant skills.
How to Properly List Certifications
- Certification Title: Start with the full title of the certification.
- Issuing Organization: Mention the issuing body for credibility.
- Issuance and Renewal Dates: Include when you received and, if applicable, when you’ll renew the certification.
- Additional Details: Optionally, add specific skills or knowledge associated with the certification.
Including In-Progress Certifications
Mention any relevant certifications you are currently pursuing, using the expected completion date.
Placement of Certifications on Your Resume
- Dedicated Certifications Section: Place this section below your education details. Name it “Certifications,” “Certifications and Licenses,” or “Professional Development,” as appropriate.
- Within the Education Section: If you have a few certifications, you can integrate them with your educational qualifications.
- In the Resume Summary: Highlight key certifications in your professional summary if they are significant for your job application.
- Alongside Your Contact Information: You may list critical certifications with acronyms next to your name at the top of your resume.
Examples of Certifications on a Resume
- Certified Nursing Assistant, City College of San Francisco, June 2020
- Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP), International Information System Security Certification Consortium, Jan. 2022
Certifications in Progress Examples
- Certified Nursing Assistant (in progress), City College of San Francisco. Expected date of completion: Apr. 2024
Desirable Certifications for a Resume
A wide range of certifications can enhance your resume, depending on your industry and job aspirations. Some notable ones include Certified Administrative Professional (CAP), Project Management Professional (PMP), Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP), and Certified Business Analysis Professional (CBAP).