The best certification program – 8 Parameters to consider

There has been a surge in the number of companies (Online & Offline) offering specialized programs and certificate courses in finance and Banking, Digital Marketing, Big Data, Analytics & Enterprise software.
So, how do you select the correct certification? You don’t want to end up with the wrong choice – losing precious money, time & landing up with no value.
Before you set out on the hunt for the right fit for you, make sure to answer these questions:
1. What’s your purpose of getting a certification? Which one or more of these, apply to you?
• I wish to add a CV differentiator.
• I’m just joining a new role and want to start off well
• I’m starting an MBA, and want a good foundation in my area of interest (e.g. Finance)
2. Basis the above, what topics and concepts do you wish to learn?
Having a clear purpose, will help you narrow down your choice.
Once you have these questions answered – all you need are the parameters below, to choose the right one.
1. Credibility of the certification:
Some good indicators of the credibility of a certification course, are:
1. The number of years the certifications have been in existence
2. The alumni – people who have taken up the certifications previously
3. Reviews on Google and Quora
2. Program Coverage:
Go through the Certification courses in banking outline of the program and make sure, your criteria are met.
3. Industry Recognitions/endorsements:
Often overlooked, a co-branding or endorsement by leading companies, in that area, on your certificate adds tremendous credibility. Make sure you check all the recognitions and endorsements of a company, before signing up.
4. Course Authors:
Are the courses written by faculty – who were faculty all their life? (or) the courses are written by senior industry practitioners? Remember, your interviewers are practitioners. Your faculty are usually not. This is a key factor. It ensures the courses build the functional skills, you need.
5. Length/duration:
Is it going to take 6 months, one year? Do I have that kind of time? Will a focused, short term course be better?
6. Your pace and place, or a center?
A call you need to take, basis the time you can dedicate. And if you wish to learn at your own pace, or are comfortable with a ‘one size fits all’ pace.
Always take a demo of the course you are looking to purchase, thereby reducing the chances for an error in judgement.
7. Examination methodology:
A lot of credibility of any certification ( banking certification courses) lies in the way the certification exam is conducted. That’s where free online courses like Courser, lose out. A participation or completion certification is of no use on your CV! Always look for a quality certification, that’s a result of a monitored third-party examination – written at dedicated testing centers. (Surprising how monitored examinations always have a lower pass percentage?)
8. Cost to Benefit Ratio (ROI):
Last but not least, the cost to benefit ratio for a certification program is a crucial factor to make the decision. Free isn’t great, but a high cost isn’t either. Look for a certification that offers good value.