Do you know that according to the ‘CPD Research Project 2010’, adding a CPD section to your CV can increase your chances of securing your dream job by 10%? In today’s world of constant change, adapting yourself to new trends, methodologies, and technologies is crucial for staying competitive and relevant. Continuous Professional Development is a great way to achieve professional and personal growth, and taking accredited courses is an excellent way to do so. These courses, whether in a classroom, seminar, or webinar setting, are an excellent way to advance your career and secure your dream job.
How Does CPD Make You Different from Other Candidates?
When applying for jobs, employees highlight their qualifications but pay less attention to show commitment to continuous learning and professional development. Adding CPD certificates to a CV can make an applicant stand out, stating that they have additional skills and expertise in the field and are committed to learning new things in their career.
Having a CPD certificate can also help you distinguish yourself and capture an employer’s interest. Here is how:
1. Collaborating Better Due to a Shifting Perspective
‘The most important single ingredient in the formula of success is knowing how to get along with people.’ – Theodore Roosevelt
Effective teamwork is essential for almost every industry today. If you have the ability to work well with others by actively taking part in CPD training that puts a lot of emphasis on group projects, building networking skills and involved volunteering, you might be an ideal employee for your next job. Collaborating effectively, adapting as needed, and being dedicated to group success are all demonstrated by engaging in such exercises.
2. Be in it To Win It
‘Networking is not about just connecting people. It’s about connecting people with people, people with ideas, and people with opportunities.’ —Michele Jennae
CPD events, seminars or workshops allow you to expand your social circle and connect with professionals from different industries. When you engage and communicate with other professionals, it helps you build a robust professional network that can make you more appealing to potential employers and even open up job opportunities that are not sometimes publicly advertised.
Excellent communication skills sprout from meeting with new people and can lead to several career opportunities, making you a unique and potential candidate for these jobs.
3. Aware of Business and Work Dynamics
‘In the business world, everyone is paid in two coins: cash and experience. Take the experience first; the cash will come later.’ – Harold S. Geneen
It’s always a good idea to show your relentless commitment to professional growth on your CV through CPD and your lifelong journey. Regardless of your career or employability status, mention that you have attended industry-specific workshops, conferences, or domain-specific courses, whether in-house or online, demonstrating how it benefits both your personal and professional growth.
From the employer’s standpoint, it will show you are aware of the ever-changing trends within the industry and that your commitment to continuous learning will add immediate value to the organisation.
4. Turning Each Hurdle into a Stepping Stone
‘In the middle of every difficulty lies opportunity.’ – Albert Einstein
In a professional setting or at work, we face unexpected situations all the time and only self-aware individuals with transferable skills can respond calmly, navigate challenges and come up with an informed decision. CPD courses, especially those that identify problem-solving skills relevant to your field along with hands-on activities, will be favourable and can help you secure a job.
These activities encourage continuous learning and require a person to engage in effective communication and problem-solving tasks. Once displayed on your CV, it demonstrates that you have been involved in challenging tasks and can apply theoretical and practical knowledge no matter the issue you face.
Thus, a blend of domain expertise with transferable skills like problem-solving can make you a perfect versatile candidate for any job.
5. Easily Meet Legal and Regulatory Requirements
Industries like cooking and baking, processing and packing factories, and hospitality mostly hunt for employees who are CPD-certified. Once you apply for such job roles with a CPD certificate, you have a higher chance of securing that position, as it solidifies the fact that you are aware of the legal and industry regulations, have completed certified CPD training, and are competent and well-versed in the role. Simply put, Continuing Professional Development enhances your skills and employability in the market.
Here is How You Can Get a CPD Certificate
There are a plethora of options to choose from when it comes to Continuous Professional Development programmes; you can choose one that best matches your field, preferences and demands. Whether you complete a webinar, seminar, in-house or online learning you will be awarded a CPD certificate which will ensure that you have completed a level of training.
On another note, achieving an accredited CPD certificate, will add volume to your application. It is crucial to apply for a job that best matches your expertise. Therefore, search for jobs that require CPD certificates and then tailor your CV accordingly.
Final Thoughts
From staying current in various fields and industries to professional growth, CPD makes you an invaluable asset in the market. It shows that you are adaptive, resilient and invested in your professional and personal growth. Today, employers seek candidates who are willing to learn, embrace and navigate challenges and find innovative solutions. So, whether you are starting fresh or just aiming for a career transition, adding CPD to your CV is a great pathway for career progression and advancement.
