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The job market today is tougher than ever due to economic changes, different needs in various industries, and, most of all, new technology. You can have a bachelor’s degree but still become jobless if you lack the training and credibility many employers seek today.

For this post, we will cover six of the most well-known entry-level certifications that impress employers. We’ll tackle the following certifications:


  1. Google IT Support Professional Certificate
  2. CompTIA A+
  3. HubSpot Inbound Marketing
  4. Certified Associate in Project Management (CAPM)
  5. Lean Six Sigma Yellow Belt
  6. Adobe Certified Associate (ACA)

These entry-level certifications that impress employers offer practical benefits and can significantly boost your resume.

The Value of Entry-Level Certifications

The most sought-after skills employers are keeping an eye on are those related to the use of technology. Of course, soft skills like communication, problem-solving, and teamwork are also important, but having technical skills can really set you apart from the competition.

Here’s a short scenario:

You’re applying for an entry-level position in your field, let’s say IT support. Your resume lists your bachelor’s degree in computer science, but so do many others. But because you’ve earned a Google IT Support Professional Certificate, you’re able to prove that you’re not just book-smart but also ready to handle real-world tech problems.

Related:

Top Entry-Level Certifications That Impress Employers

1. Google IT Support Professional Certificate

One of the top entry-level certifications that impress employers in information technology jobs is the Google IT Support Professional Certificate. It teaches essential skills for starting a career in IT support, including:

  • Troubleshooting
  • Customer Service
  • Operating Systems
  • System Administration
  • Networking
  • IT Security

It offers hands-on labs and projects that let you practice solving real IT problems, ensuring you’re ready for a job. You don’t need any IT experience or a degree to start, so it’s perfect for people new to the field or changing careers.

2. CompTIA A+

CompTIA A+ certification benefits mainly those who want to pursue entry-level IT help desk or technical support jobs. This certification has long been considered a cornerstone of IT careers, equipping aspiring professionals with the following skills and knowledge:

  • Hardware
  • Networking
  • Operating Systems
  • Troubleshooting

Did you know that CompTIA A+ is essential for IT technicians who want to work in major companies like HP, Dell, and Intel? Furthermore, it is also a baseline requirement for cybersecurity positions with the US Department of Defense.

3. HubSpot Inbound Marketing

Want to master attracting and engaging customers online? The HubSpot Inbound Marketing certification is one of the best entry-level certifications that impress employers in almost any industry. As today’s businesses become increasingly reliant on the internet, having this certification shows you can effectively manage their online presence and drive customer engagement.

This certification covers:

  • Content Creation
  • Social Media Strategy
  • Lead Generation
  • Email Marketing

4. Certified Associate in Project Management (CAPM)

The Certified Associate in Project Management (CAPM) shows you have the basic skills for project management and can handle various methods like traditional, agile, and business analysis. Among the skills you’ll gain includes:

  • Project planning
  • Scheduling
  • Risk management

After completion, you can advance to the Project Management Professional (PMP) certification.

5. Lean Six Sigma Yellow Belt

A Lean Six Sigma Yellow Belt certification demonstrates your knowledge of the Define, Measure, Analyze, Improve, and Control (DMAIC) approach to employers. Consider this certification if you want to become competitive in operations, quality control, and business management roles.

This degree allows you to list the following skills on your resume:

  • Advanced Analytics
  • DMAIC Project Management
  • Process Improvement
  • Process Design

6. Adobe Certified Associate (ACA)

The Adobe Certified Associate (ACA) is also one of the best certifications for entry-level jobs. And no, we’re not only talking about people who plan to work in the creative industry. The ACA certification is valuable for various fields, including marketing, design, and multimedia.

ACA certificate holders show basic skills in Adobe software like Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign, and Premiere Pro. This certification strengthens your resume by proving you can effectively create and manage digital content.

How Certifications Enhance a Resume

Certificates, unlike degrees, are more concentrated. Earning one relevant to your field showcases your specialized skills and knowledge. Half of the employers surveyed in the Job Outlook 2023 report said they highly value technical skills on resumes and consider them crucial for the job.

Next, let’s discuss how to include certifications on your resume properly.

  1. Name of the certification.
  2. The organization that issued the certification.
  3. Date awarded. If ongoing, write “In progress.”
  4. Date of expiration.
  5. Skills gained from the certification that match the job you’re applying for.

The Process of Earning Certifications

The steps to earning certification are fairly straightforward:

#1: Determine what you need.

#2: Research and select a certification that aligns with your goal.

#3: Check the prerequisites and ensure you meet them.

#4: Sign up for the certification classes and engage in any required preparation.

#5: Follow any ongoing requirements or renewals to keep your certification up-to-date.

While certifications are short-term commitments, they often involve a detailed process. To ensure success, here are a few tips:

  1. Read textbooks, take practice exams, and attend review courses or workshops. If needed, seek help from mentors or tutors.
  2. Set up a study routine and follow it. Use time management apps to keep track of your studies and make sure you’re meeting both your certification requirements and your degree classes.
  3. Most importantly, take care of yourself. Get 7-8 hours of sleep, eat well, and manage stress to keep your mind and body in good shape.

Additional Entry-Level Certifications Worth Considering

For additional information, here are a few more tried and tested certifications that help get a job in various fields:

  • Microsoft Office Specialist
  • Cisco CCNA
  • Google Analytics
  • Certified in Production and Inventory Management (CPIM)
  • Hootsuite Social Media Marketing Certification

There are more entry-level certifications that impress employers. The best approach is to choose one that matches your career interests, current skills, and what employers seek in your industry.

For instance, certifications like CompTIA A+ or Google Data Analytics can be very appealing if you’re interested in technology and data. On the other hand, if you’re leaning towards a career in business or project management, certifications such as the CAPM would be best.

Conclusion

Many people wonder whether a degree or a certification is more important. Our answer? Both are valuable and work well together.

A degree helps you understand the theoretical foundations and provides a broad knowledge base. On the other hand, certifications offer specialized skills and practical expertise that help you stand out from your peers. Combining both can make you stand out.

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