In 2010, the International Association for Human Resource Information Management (IHRIM) took a bold, decisive step and instituted a Human Resource Information Systems (HRIS) certification program. From this seemingly small step, the Association and the industry have dramatically and effectively expanded the numbers of certifications available.
IHRIM Continues to Lead the Field in HR Certification
Most of us understand the importance of having the right training and the relevant competencies in the HR technology field. However, there was once a time when human resource professionals did not necessarily need to understand the technology at their fingertips. The advent of the Internet, social media and mobile devices has completely changed that situation.
These days, an HR professional must have the appropriate technical knowledge as well the traditional people skills. The Human Resource Information Professional (HRIP) Certification conferred by the IHRIM is one of the most notable proofs of that technical knowledge. In 2012, IHRIM continues to deliver value to the HR industry with an updated and expanded HRIP certification program. The associated educational programs cover a broad variety of topics and the exam, itself, reflects current HR management practices and current HR technology solutions.
A partial list of competencies expected include:
- Presentation and facilitation abilities
- Business process flow analysis
- Interviewing skills
- Resource scheduling
- Understanding of financial principles
- Written and oral communication skills
- Vendor contract negotiation & management
- Software testing methodologies
The Current HR Landscape
The HRIP Certification is now more important than ever. A recent study by WANTED Analytics showed a 23%, year over year increase in demand for HR professionals with specific technical skills. In fact, there were 1500 ads placed in the last quarter of 2012 looking for HR professionals with mobile experience. This situation is not likely to change anytime soon and crosses a much wider spectrum of the HR technology landscape.
Through IHRIM’s Human Resource Information Professional Certification Program, IHRIM will help you define, establish, and distinguish yourself professionally with a meaningful, test-based HR information management certification credential. It is an exam designed to assess the knowledge and competencies of professionals in the HR technology field. Passing the exam indicates a demonstrated comprehensive understanding and proficiency in HRIS.
Getting Started – Exam Preparation Products
IHRIM offers a variety of products to help you prepare for the examination including:
- Certification Exam Preparation Course – Designed to help you prepare for the HRIP certification exam, the course is available via an instructor led course or through a series of recorded webinars.
- Exam Study Guide – Provides an overview of the body of knowledge content areas and helps you identify areas where additional study and/or work experience may be necessary prior to testing.
- Practice Exam – Use this online tool to simulate the certification exam and, based on your test scores, determine where further study is warranted.
What It Really Means to the HR Professional
Without a doubt, an HRIP certification will solidify your resume and boost your career opportunities. In short, you’ll be more comfortable and marketable in any HCM environment.
Other Sources for HR Certification
- SHRM’s HR Certification Institute – http://www.hrci.org/HRCertification/
- International Public Management Assoc for Human Resources – http://www.ipma-hr.org/professional-development/certification
The evolving challenges in human resources yield tremendous opportunities to those with the right training and credentials. Professionals who have earned industry-recognized certification are positioned for the greatest success, according to the U.S. Department of Labor. “Certified-HR professionals present a hiring advantage to both employers and employees,” said Mary E. Power, executive director of the HR Certification Institute. She continues, “An employee who has committed to achieving and maintaining certification tends to be more self-motivated and up-to-date on forward-thinking HR practices. Certification is an indicator that he or she will be a strong performer.” You can see why HR certification matters as much to the employer as it does to the employee.