In small businesses, HR professionals wear many hats, managing everything from hiring and onboarding to compliance and employee relations. HR certifications are invaluable for effectively handling these responsibilities and ensuring long-term success.
An HR professional certification boosts your knowledge and enhances your credibility, especially in entrepreneurial or HR for small business environments where human relations needs can be highly diverse and dynamic.
Is an HR Certification Worth It?
Absolutely! Obtaining an HR certification increases your value as a professional.
Small business HR professionals can benefit from certification because it allows them to manage multiple HR functions efficiently and ensure compliance with local and federal labor laws.
Focusing on HR for small businesses within your certification can also provide the specific tools needed for a hands-on approach in smaller organizations.
5 Key Considerations When Choosing an HR Certification Program
- Career Goals: Are you looking to move into a leadership role or stay in an operational capacity? Choose your certification based on your future goals.
- Experience Level: Consider where you are in your HR career. Experienced professionals typically opt for the SHRM-SCP or SPHR, while entry-level professionals might choose the aPHR. This certification does not require prior HR experience and covers foundational HR topics to prepare you for an entry-level position.
- Industry Requirements: Some industries value specific certifications more than others. Make sure the certification you choose aligns with industry expectations.
- Cost and Financing Options: Evaluate the cost of the certification and the available payment options, including financing or employer reimbursement.
- Recertification Requirements: To maintain your credentials, ensure your chosen certification offers recertification options, such as HR recertification credits.
Looking for a flexible way to earn your HR certification? Check out our online HR certification programs and find the right fit.
What Certifications Do HR Managers Need?
For HR professionals in small businesses, certifications such as the SHRM-CP (Certified Professional) or PHR (Professional in Human Resources) are highly recommended.
These certifications provide a strong foundation in HR principles and practices, making them suitable for HR managers responsible for multiple functions.
What Is the Most Recognized HR Certification?
The SHRM-SCP and SPHR certifications are often considered the most recognized and prestigious HR credentials, particularly for those in senior HR roles.
For HR for small businesses, these certifications can significantly improve your ability to manage strategic HR functions in dynamic environments.
What Are Some Globally Recognized HR Certifications?
HR certifications such as the SHRM-CP, SHRM-SCP, PHR, and SPHR are globally recognized and respected. These certifications signify that you deeply understand HR practices and can implement effective HR strategies globally.
What Is the Best HR Qualification to Have?
The SHRM-CP or PHR are ideal qualifications for small business HR professionals. They provide the skills needed to manage day-to-day HR operations while equipping you with a strategic understanding of HR management.
What Is the Difference Between SHRM-CP and SHRM-SCP?
The SHRM-CP is for HR professionals focusing on operational roles, while the SHRM-SCP is geared toward those who work in leadership and strategic decision-making roles. Both are valuable depending on your career stage and aspirations.
Explore our recertification courses to keep your SHRM-CP or SHRM-SCP credentials current and relevant.
Is HRCI or SHRM Better?
Both HRCI and SHRM offer well-respected HR certifications.
HRCI is the original HR Certification entity. They were, in fact, the licensing arm of SHRM until 2015. They have been around for over 50 years and are very well recognized. SHRM’s certifications are newer–created in 2015, but obviously SHRM’s excellent reputation as a membership organization and authority and resource in the HR space gives their certifications equal credibility. The professional level exams (PHR and SHRM-CP) focus more on the technical and operational aspects of HR. The Senior level exams (SPHR and SHRM-SCP) tend to focus on HR leadership and strategy, making them ideal for those interested in HR management.
If you fall into HR for small businesses, both certification paths provide essential skills that help build a comprehensive HR department.
How to Finance Your HR Management Certification
Many HR professionals are concerned about the cost of certification. Fortunately, you have multiple ways to finance your certification, including employer reimbursement programs, scholarships, and payment plans.
At HREN, we offer affordable HR professional certification courses and flexible payment options to make your certification journey easier.
Conclusion
HR certifications are critical for professionals looking to thrive in small business environments. Not only do they enhance your credibility and expertise, but they also position you as a key player in your organization’s growth and success.
Whether you’re looking for an entry-level certification or ready to take the next step in your HR career, HREN has the resources to guide you through the process and help you succeed.
Sign up for our HR certification test prep courses today and take the first step toward advancing your HR career!
FAQs About HR Professional Certifications
HR professional certifications can be a game-changer for anyone looking to advance in human resources, particularly small businesses. However, with so many options and requirements, it’s natural to have questions.
From choosing the right certification to maintaining it through recertification, this FAQ section covers everything you should know to make an informed decision and successfully navigate your HR career path.
How long does it take to become certified?
Certification preparation typically takes three to six months, depending on the exam and the time you can dedicate to studying.
How do I maintain my certification?
You’ll need to earn HR recertification credits every three years to maintain most HR certifications, including those from SHRM and HRCI.
