Best Ways to Earn SHRM Recertification Credits

Hey there, HR superstar! You’ve worked hard to earn your SHRM certification, and now it’s time to keep that badge of honor shining bright. 

Maintaining your SHRM-CP or SHRM-SCP certification isn’t just a checkbox—it’s a ticket to ongoing career growth and staying ahead in the ever-evolving world of human resources. 

So, how do you keep that certification current? By earning 60 Professional Development Credits (PDCs) in every three year recertification cycle. Don’t worry; we’ve got you covered with fun and effective ways to rack up those credits. Let’s dive in!

Understanding SHRM Recertification Requirements

First things first, let’s break down the basics. To keep your SHRM certification active, you need to accumulate 60 PDCs within a three-year cycle. These credits ensure you’re continually enhancing your skills and knowledge. 

PDCs can be earned across three main categories of qualified activities:

• Advance Your Education: Think courses, webinars, and conferences that boost your HR know-how.
• Advance Your Organization: Lead HR projects or take on roles that drive your company forward.
• Advance Your Profession: Share your expertise by publishing articles or volunteering in the HR community.

Remember, it’s essential to do your primary research and choose activities that align with SHRM’s guidelines to ensure your efforts count toward recertification.

Read on: SHRM Recertification

How to Earn SHRM Recertification Credits Through Continuing Education

Continuing education is a fantastic (and fun!) way to earn PDCs. Plus, it keeps you sharp and in-the-know about the latest business and HR trends.

What Counts as a Qualifying SHRM Activity for PDCs?

Here are some educational activities that qualify for PDCs and free credits:

• SHRM-Approved Courses and University HR Programs: Enroll in courses that delve deep into HR topics. Many universities offer programs tailored for HR professionals.
• Webinars, Podcasts, and Online Training: Perfect for learning on the go! These formats offer flexibility and a wealth of knowledge.
• Leadership Development Programs: Enhance your leadership skills with programs designed to prepare you for higher responsibilities.

Pro tip: Always ensure the activities align with SHRM’s PDC criteria. When in doubt, check SHRM’s official resources or reach out for clarification.

Related blog post: SHRM Recertification Credits

Attending SHRM-Approved Conferences and Events for Recertification

Networking, learning, and earning PDCs? Sign us up! Attending SHRM-approved events is a triple win.

Best SHRM-Sponsored Events to Earn Recertification Credits

Here are some top SHRM-sponsored events to consider:

• SHRM Annual Conference & Expo: The mother of all HR conferences. It’s packed with sessions, workshops, and networking opportunities.
• SHRM Talent Conference & Expo: Focuses on talent acquisition and retention—key areas for any HR pro looking to maintain their credentials.
• SHRM Employment Law & Compliance Conference: Stay ahead of the curve on legal matters affecting the workplace.
• Local SHRM Chapter Events: Don’t overlook local events. They offer valuable insights and a chance to connect with peers in your area.

Attending these events not only earns you PDCs but also enriches your professional journey. Plus, who doesn’t love a good expo hall swag bag?

Earn SHRM PDCs Through Webinars, Online Courses, and Podcasts

Online learning is a game-changer for busy HR pros. It’s flexible, accessible, and packed with valuable insights to keep your knowledge fresh and help you earn credits.

How to Maximize SHRM PDCs from Online Learning Platforms

Not all online courses are created equal! Here’s how to get the most out of digital learning:

• Choose SHRM-approved providers – Platforms like SHRM eLearning, LinkedIn Learning, and Prepsaret’s SHRM-CP Test Prep Program and SHRM-SCP Test Prep Program offer courses that qualify for PDCs.
• Stay organized – Keep a spreadsheet or digital log to track completed courses and certificates.
• Mix it up – Webinars, podcasts, and self-paced courses can keep learning fun and engaging.
• Engage in discussions – Many platforms have forums or community spaces where you can exchange ideas and deepen your understanding.

Volunteering and HR Leadership Roles to Gain SHRM Recertification Credits

Giving back to other professionals in the HR community is a win-win for HR pros! Volunteering and leadership roles not only help others but also earn you valuable PDCs.

Examples of Qualifying Activities:

• Serve in SHRM local chapter leadership roles – Join your local SHRM board and contribute to the HR profession and earn free credits.
• Mentor HR professionals or students – Share your expertise with the next generation of HR leaders through webcasts and other platforms.
• Participate in HR advisory boards or committees – Offer guidance on industry best practices.
• Lead HR-related community outreach programs – Support initiatives that promote workplace equity, diversity, and inclusion.

Why Volunteering is a Smart Move

• Expands your professional network.
• Enhances leadership skills.
• Gives you a sense of fulfillment while boosting your recertification efforts.

Find out: How To Earn SHRM Specialty Credential

Publishing HR-Related Articles and Research for SHRM Recertification

Love to write? Great news—you can earn PDCs by sharing your HR knowledge with the world!

Qualifying Publishing Activities:

• Write for HR industry publications – Submit articles to outlets like HR Magazine or the SHRM Blog.
• Contribute to peer-reviewed HR journals – Showcase your expertise in academic and industry circles by writing about the SHRM-SCP or Cp.
• Publish whitepapers, research reports, or HR books – Become a thought leader in the HR space.

Why Writing Matters

• Establishes you as an HR expert.
• Helps others learn from your experience.
• Builds your personal brand and professional credibility.

Using On-the-Job HR Activities for SHRM Recertification Credits

Did you know that your everyday HR work can help you maintain your SHRM certification? That’s right! SHRM allows HR professionals to earn PDCs by completing certain workplace projects that align with HR competencies. Here’s how you can make your daily work count toward HR recertification credits:

Examples of Qualifying On-the-Job Activities

• Developing or Updating an HR Policy – If you’re creating a new employee handbook, revising your company’s remote work policy, or updating compliance guidelines, you can earn credits.
• Leading an HR Technology Implementation Project – Implementing a new HRIS, applicant tracking system, or performance management software? That qualifies too!
• Conducting Employee Engagement Surveys and Action Plans – Running an employee engagement survey and using the results to drive workplace improvements is a fantastic way to earn PDCs.
• Designing and Delivering HR Training Programs – If you’re training employees or managers on topics like DEI, conflict resolution, or compliance, you can log those efforts toward recertification.

How HR Professionals can Document and Submit These Activities for SHRM Credit

To make sure SHRM recognizes your on-the-job activities, you’ll need to:

• Describe the project – Explain what you did, why it mattered, and how it aligns with SHRM’s HR competencies.
• Highlight the learning aspect – SHRM requires that your work contributed to your professional growth. Be clear about what you learned!
• Keep supporting documents – Meeting notes, project plans, training materials, or policy drafts can serve as evidence.

By leveraging your day-to-day HR work, you’re not only making an impact on career, at your company but also earning recertification credits at the same time—win-win!

Learn: What Happens after You Pass SHRM

Tracking and Submitting SHRM Recertification Credits Efficiently

Keeping track of your PDCs throughout your recertification cycle is essential. You don’t want to scramble at the last minute trying to remember what you did three years ago!

Step-by-Step Guide to Submitting SHRM Recertification Credits

1. Log into the SHRM Certification Portal – Head over to SHRM’s website and access your recertification dashboard.
2. Enter Completed Activities – Whether it’s an HR conference, webinar, or an on-the-job project, enter the details of each completed activity.
3. Upload Supporting Documentation – If required, provide proof of participation, such as certificates, meeting notes, or training materials.
4. Review and Submit for Approval – Before hitting submit, double-check that all activities align with SHRM’s guidelines.
5. Monitor Approval Status – Stay on top of your submission and track its approval progress within the SHRM portal.

Pro Tip: Don’t Wait Until the Last Minute!

Make it a habit to log your activities quarterly (or even monthly). This way, when your recertification deadline approaches, you’ll already be ahead of the game because you will know the credits required.

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