HR's Guide to Tech Certification Programs and Their Value

Professional certifications in tech have become increasingly important. As technology accelerates, employers need proof of up-to-date skills and specializations. The demands of cloud computing, artificial intelligence and cybersecurity require that tech companies hire professionals with advanced skill sets. This makes certifications from reputable third-party sources, such as Microsoft and Amazon Web Services, even more valuable.

Hiring professionals with these credentials is one way to close skill gaps in your organization. However, more companies are choosing to invest in their existing teams by paying for employees to pursue tech certification programs through trusted providers. This move supports career growth while improving retention and strengthening organizational resilience. A certified workforce is often more adaptable to change and quicker to adopt new tools, making them better equipped to tackle new challenges. Want to build a more resilient team? Read on to learn about IT certifications’ impact on businesses and discover the best strategies to establish career development opportunities.

Why Tech Certifications Matter

It’s common knowledge that professionals must continuously learn new skills to remain relevant, but technological advancements are accelerating the pace. Businesses need employees who can adapt to new tools and processes quickly. Certifications serve as powerful tools for employers to validate experience. They also signal a desire on the employee’s part to improve continually, which is probably why 86% of hiring managers prioritize certified candidates for senior positions. 

There is also a visible mindset shift among employees. Nearly half of tech professionals are currently certified, and more people are actively pursuing new credentials. On average, certified tech professionals earn $2,000 more annually than noncertified colleagues. Over time, the financial impact increases. Certified professionals with over 20 years of experience earn approximately $6,000 more per year. 

The Impact of Tech Certifications on Careers and Productivity

It’s clear that tech certifications can contribute to higher earning potential by opening the door to advanced roles and senior-level opportunities. Highly sought-after credentials, such as Google Professional Cloud Architect certification, are often held by professionals in leadership positions and roles that command salaries as high as $200,960 yearly. But tech certifications can also fuel organizational success by:

• Improving problem solving: Cybersecurity and cloud computing certifications empower staff members to tackle challenging technical difficulties.  
• Encouraging collaboration: When you train your tech team on the same methodologies, such as AWS or Google Cloud, they share a common language that simplifies collaboration across departments.
• Increasing efficiency: There’s a reason certified project managers often earn 10%-15% higher salaries. Employees with credentials, such as Project Management Professional or Certified Scrum Master, have the skills to complete tasks faster.
• Maintaining compliance: Employees who continue to earn new certifications stay current with the latest regulations and security protocols.

Businesses that invest in certification initiatives also report improved general performance and greater degrees of engagement.

How Tech Certifications Improve Employee Retention

Tech companies that invest in certification programs create more robust career pathways for their employees. Certified professionals consistently earn more than their noncertified peers. They also claim higher levels of reported job satisfaction. Perhaps that’s because 87% of executives believe certified professionals bring more value to the workplace and perceive them as better performers. Through certification programs, companies show their commitment to helping their employees advance. 

This reinforces each team member’s value across the organization and prepares them to step into leadership opportunities if they remain with their current employer. Overall, organizations providing professional development opportunities are 94% more likely to retain top talent. 

The Challenges and Limitations of Tech Certification Programs

While tech certifications provide plenty of benefits, it’s also important to understand their limitations to address potential drawbacks. Here are some of the challenges you may encounter:

• Maintaining relevant certifications: Through microcredentials and regular training, you can inspire lifelong learning and avoid skill gaps as technology advances.
• Acquiring practical skills: Supplement theoretical learning from certification programs with mentorship opportunities and project-based learning.
• Justifying certification costs: Consider in-house training options to reduce certification expenses.
• Measuring return on investment: Choose certifications that align with your organization’s needs and establish clear performance indicators.

How to Implement Effective Tech Certification Programs 

Interested in establishing a tech certification program? Some examples of best practices include:

• Conduct a skills gap assessment: Determine which certifications address your current and future business needs. IBM used AI in this stage to predict which skills would be the most important for their team moving forward. 
• Implement a learning management system: Look for platforms that include self-paced online courses and hands-on training. For example, Google employs microlearning strategies that include short online training sessions to improve knowledge retention and engagement. 
• Develop incentives: Consider providing tuition reimbursement or bonuses to employees who complete certifications. You can also recognize achievements through internal promotions and raises.
• Track performance metrics: Record key indicators, such as certification completion rates and job performance improvements. Use AI to identify industry benchmarks and discover areas for development.

Upskill Your Team with Professional Certifications in IT

Organizations such as IBM have saved $300 million annually by upskilling their workforce. Here are some practical ideas to craft a proactive tech certification program:

• Emphasize high-value certifications, such as AWS and CompTIA, to drive business expansion.
• Link certifications to career development opportunities, such as promotions and salary increases, to incentivize employees.
• Provide financial support, covering exam fees and offering tuition reimbursement.
• Use LMS platforms and AI-powered learning tools to boost engagement through personalized training options.
• Track employee retention, productivity and certifications to assess your program’s strengths.
• Work with top certifying organizations and academic institutions to stay ahead of new trends in IT.

Now is the time to be proactive and invest in your team’s future skill sets. Looking for more resources to strengthen your workforce? Discover how Dice is helping companies like yours recruit and retain highly qualified technology professionals today.