Written by: Last updated: Jan 17, 2023
More than a million project management professionals across the globe have earned the prestigious PMP certification, making it the most widely recognized (and sought-after) credential in the industry. It can be a time-consuming process to prepare for the rigorous exam, but the rewards of passing it are significant. From earning a higher salary to scoring the most challenging projects, here are the benefits of PMP certification that make it a worthwhile investment in your career.
Higher Salaries
Looking to increase your earning power – both now and throughout the course of your career? PMP certification is a smart move. According to the Project Management Institute’s 2017 Project Management Salary Survey, the median salary for project professionals with a PMP is 25% higher than those without PMP certification, and this boost in salary amplifies over time. PMP professionals with one to five years of experience can expect to earn a median salary of $103,727 and scale up to $130,000 with 10-20 years of experience.
Better Job Opportunities
Pointing to a rising need for project managers globally, as well as a significant portion of the talent pool reaching retirement age, PMI’s recent Job Growth and Talent Gap report estimates that employers will need 87.7 million individuals working in project management-oriented roles by 2027.
This is fantastic news for PMP certified professionals. Because the demand for skilled project managers is high in a variety of industries, PMP certification can give you a competitive edge over other candidates. The best jobs will be reserved for those who have the training, experience, and knowledge that comes with PMP certification.
Increased Opportunities to Switch Industries
Today’s project management jobs aren’t limited to just technology, engineering, and construction. Industries of all shapes and sizes are looking for certified project managers, from amusement parks to media and finance to healthcare. Because the principles of PMP certification are applicable to nearly any industry, this designation can make it easier to prove that you have the chops to take on a new field, or help you attract new business if you’re venturing out on your own as a freelance project manager.
Job Security
While the job outlook remains favorable for project managers, there is no guarantee that a company won’t undergo downsizing. As the recent pandemic illustrates, the fortunes of any business can change in the blink of an eye. However, holding certification in project management can give you greater confidence that you offer ongoing value for employers, who have increasing needs for skilled project managers.
More Challenging Projects
Everyone wants the juiciest assignments – the ones that provide opportunities to grow and flex new professional muscles. Certified project managers are more likely to be selected for these tasks. Whether it’s a multi-year international project with teams spread across the world speaking different languages, or a project that requires a complex risk assessment and cost structure, PMP holders are equipped with all the tools to tackle these projects confidently.
Communication Mastery
It’s likely you will take on many kinds of projects in your career. It’s also likely you will have to work with a different team each time. Speaking a common business language ensures that everyone stays on the same page. While you may learn a long list of project management terms (such as acceptance test or procurement audit) on the job, you will master the concepts by completing the PMP certification exam.
Increased Networking Opportunities
Networking is an essential part of any career path, and when you pass the PMP exam, you’ll join a worldwide community of 1 million professionals at the top of the field. Through PMI’s events, you can meet with experts across different fields and build contacts. By engaging with accomplished project managers in these meetings, you can strengthen your network within your industry and expand to other industries as well.
Need Help Prepping for the PMP Exam?
If you’re ready to reap the benefits of PMP certification, ensure you're prepared to pass the rigorous exam on the first try with USF’s PMP exam prep course. This live online program covers the three domains tested on the exam, including the Agile/Hybrid and Predictive content. It also combines expert instruction with The CertWise Learning System for PMP Exam Preparation and satisfies PMI’s 35 contact hours requirement.
