#19 Should you get a certification before year-end?

Every December, clients start asking:

“Should I squeeze in a certification before January? Will it help my job search?”

Sometimes the answer is yes.

Most of the time, the answer is: it depends on what story you’re trying to tell.

Here’s how I coach clients through this decision.

1. Quick certifications only pay off if they reinforce something you're already strong in

A weekend or 3–5 hour certification can absolutely add credibility - ​but only when it formalizes work you already do.

Think of it as putting a frame around an existing picture.

Examples:

• A project manager getting their PMP or CAPM → signals formality + rigor in what they already excel at.

• A marketer who's already using AI tools to streamline copy, analyse customer trends or test messaging getting an AI for Marketingcertificate → reinforces existing traction.

• A product manager who already leads discovery work getting a credential in product discovery or design thinking→ strengthens a throughline.

These don’t change your story - they sharpen it.

If you want a quick credibility boost, this is the lane to stay in.

2. Big certification = big lift so it's only worth it if it supports a true transition

Some certifications are not “light lifts.”

They require months, not hours - and they’re built for people who want to build a long-term career in that discipline.

Example:

Someone moving from legal (especially anything with a focus on risk+employment) into people operations may consider a SHRM-CP or PHR.

These are meaty, structured programs that truly shift your professional identity.

They’re valuable - if your goal is a long-term pivot into HR and want to signal that commitment.

They are not the kind of thing to cram into December because it “might help.”

Before committing to a heavier certification, ask:

• How does this stitch together with my existing experience?

• Does it strengthen the narrative I want to tell about where I’m going next?

• Does it unlock roles I couldn’t access otherwise?

If the answer is no → it’s not the right investment right now.

3. Before enrolling in anything, ask this one question:

“Does this certification make my story clearer?”

Because a credential won’t fix a fuzzy narrative.

And if you're considering a new direction, the better move is often:

Build street cred first, then certify.

That could look like:

• Taking on a small [internal] project that uses the skills you want to develop

• Shadowing a team doing that work

• Running a personal project outside of work to test your interest and competence

• Trying out a small, low-risk experiment before committing to a full transition

This gives you proof - not just a certificate - and makes your eventual certification meaningful rather than performative.

So what should you do between now and January?

→ If you want a small boost: choose a certification that reinforces what you already do well.

→ If you’re exploring a pivot: start with a small project or experience that lets you apply the skills.

→ If the certification doesn’t make your story clearer: skip it. Put your energy into clarifying your narrative instead.

Clarity and intentionality will help you standout in January hiring.

If you’d like help thinking through your direction or strengthening your story, feel free to reply and share what you’re considering. I’m happy to point you toward smart, strategic next steps.

Chat soon,

Mel

P.S. If you're genuinely geeked on something and want to take a course, go for it. I'm all in for you hone your basket weaving skills - just maybe don't make that the lead-in on your LinkedIn, ok? ;)

P.P.S. And if you're thinking about a pivot - I have room for one more to join my January cohort.