Candidates with Skilled Credentials Are Qualified by Expertise

Consider the credentials.

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The rise of
skilled credentials

They aren't alternative, they're imperative to building a diverse workforce.

Not Alternative, But Skilled

Skilled credentials are imperative to our workforce. To support this name change and its message, we encourage you to join us as a thought leader of work, workers and the workplace, and to refer to these important recognitions of achievement as "skilled credentials."

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Making Skilled Credentials Work

Making Skilled Credentials Work: A New Strategy For HR Professionals

People who hold skilled credentials bring value to the workplace, according to executives (87%), supervisors (81%) and especially HR professionals (90%).
DOWNLOAD: MAKING SKILLED CREDENTIALS WORK REPORT
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NEXT STEPS FOR EMPLOYERS

Employers, HR professionals and hiring managers can ensure skilled credentials fulfill their potential for talent identification by following these steps:

  • CREATE ALIGNMENT between senior executives, hiring managers and HR professionals on the value of skilled credentials and how they should be evaluated and utilized in hiring and upskilling decisions.
  • SHARE SUCCESS STORIES and best practices of hiring those with skilled credentials to motivate adoption of new norms, including building a more diverse talent pipeline.
  • PROVIDE EDUCATION for HR professionals and hiring managers to make skilled credentials a part of inclusive hiring strategies.
  • DEVELOP INCENTIVE PROGRAMS that reward these initiatives.

MOST COMMON TYPES OF SKILLED CREDENTIALS U.S. WORKERS HOLD:

52%
Training
Certificates
48%
Course Completion Certificates
38%
Industry or Professional Certificates
Misconceptions About Skilled Credentials

Misconceptions About Skilled Credentials

Workplace leaders may be holding back because of certain misconceptions about skilled credentials, including that:

  • They are "alternatives" to something.
  • They have less value than traditional degrees.
  • There are too many credentials, and evaluating them is complicated and time-consuming.
  • They are not necessary to hire top talent.
  • They are a fad of the current labor market.
Articles and Resources

Articles & Resources

The Time for Skilled Credentials Is Now

SHRM All Things Work Podcast: Wendi Safstrom on the New Importance of Skilled Credentials

Skilled Credentials: Focus on skills, not degrees, to help increase your talent pool

Three Ways Associations Can Prioritize Credentials and Certificates

HR departments more willing to recognize alternative credentials

'Alternative credentials' taking on more importance in the workplace

Considering Alternative Credits Can Uncover Untapped Talent

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