What Happens after You Pass SHRM

Passing the SHRM certification exam is a significant milestone in your professional journey, marking your achievement and commitment to the field of human resources. However, many candidates may wonder what steps to take next after receiving their certification. So, what happens after you pass your SHRM certification exam?

Understanding the post-exam process is crucial for leveraging your new credential effectively and maximizing its benefits. From celebrating your accomplishment to planning for recertification, there are several important considerations to keep in mind as you transition into this new phase of your HR career.

How Will I Receive my SHRM Exam Results after I Test?

After taking the SHRM exam, you will receive their results in a structured manner. After completing the exam, candidates will see an unofficial pass or fail decision displayed on the final screen before they click “end test.” This initial result is also sent via email to the address used when scheduling the testing appointment, usually within 24 hours of taking the exam.

Approximately four weeks later, candidates will receive another email directing them to access their official results through the My Resources tab in their certification portal. For confidentiality reasons, official results are not communicated via email, phone, or fax.

To download your SHRM Certification Score Report, visit the SHRM certification portal and click on “Login.” Once you log in, if your exam results and score report are available (SHRM will notify you via email when these results can be accessed), navigate to the “My Resources” section and select “My Test Results.”

In this section, you will find details about your exam type (either SHRM-CP or SHRM-SCP), the date taken, your result, and a link to download your Score Report in PDF format.

It’s important to note that for security reasons, the SHRM Customer Experience team cannot download and email your results; however, they can assist you with accessing the portal or updating your profile after conducting a security check. If you pass your exam, your score report will include a copy of your digital certificate.

I Passed my SHRM Certification Exam – What’s Next?

After successfully passing your SHRM certification exam, you may be wondering what steps to take next. Achieving certification, whether through the SHRM-CP or SHRM-SCP, is a significant milestone in your HR career that opens up numerous opportunities for professional growth and development.

With over 100,000 employers relying on SHRM-certified professionals to manage their workforce effectively, your new credential not only enhances your resume but also positions you as a valuable asset in the job market.

According to SHRM, certified HR professionals earn approximately 14% to 15% more than their non-certified peers, making this certification a worthwhile investment in your future.

• Update Your Professional Profiles

Once you have received your certification, it’s essential to leverage this achievement to advance your career. Start by updating your resume and LinkedIn profile to reflect your new credentials. Highlight your SHRM certification prominently, as it demonstrates your commitment to the HR profession and showcases your expertise in key areas such as:

• Talent management
• Employee relations
• Organizational development

• Network with HR Professionals

Networking is another critical step; connect with other HR professionals through:

• SHRM events
• Local chapters
• Online forums

Engaging with the HR community can provide valuable insights into industry trends and job opportunities that may not be widely advertised.

SHRM Recertification: What You Need to Know

Earning your SHRM certification is a significant milestone in your HR career, but it doesn’t end there. To maintain your certification, you must engage in ongoing professional development and SHRM recertification. This ensures that you stay current with industry trends and best practices, ultimately enhancing your skills and value in the workplace.

How Do I Maintain My SHRM Certification?

Moreover, continuing education is vital for maintaining your certification and staying current in the ever-evolving field of human resources. To maintain your SHRM certification, you must earn 60 professional development credits (PDCs) every three years. These credits can be obtained through various activities, including:

• Continuing Education: Participate in workshops, seminars, or courses that enhance your HR knowledge.
• Professional Contributions: Engage in activities such as presenting at conferences, writing articles, or serving on HR-related committees.
• Self-Directed Learning: Complete online courses or webinars that align with HR competencies.
• Volunteering: Involvement in HR-related volunteer work can also contribute to your PDCs.

Tracking your credits is essential, as it ensures you meet the requirements before your recertification deadline. You can log into the SHRM certification portal to monitor your progress and submit any completed activities for credit.

When Does Recertification Cycle Start and End?

The recertification cycle begins on the date you pass your certification exam. For example, if you earned your SHRM-CP on June 1, 2022, your recertification cycle will run until May 31, 2025. It’s important to note that all 60 PDCs must be earned within this three-year period. If you fail to meet the requirements by the end of your cycle, you risk losing your certification status.

Four Key Steps to SHRM Recertification Success

Achieving successful recertification can be simple if you follow these four steps:

1. Plan Your Professional Development: At the beginning of your recertification cycle, create a plan outlining how you will earn the required PDCs. Consider attending workshops or enrolling in courses that fit within your schedule.
2. Engage in Relevant Activities: Actively seek out opportunities for professional development that align with HR competencies. This might include attending industry conferences or participating in online learning platforms.
3. Track Your Progress: Regularly log your PDCs in the SHRM certification portal. Keeping a detailed record will help ensure you are on track to meet the requirements by your deadline.
4. Submit Your Credits Before the Deadline: As you approach the end of your recertification cycle, ensure that all credits are submitted and approved well before the deadline. This will give you peace of mind and allow for any potential issues to be resolved in advance.

What’s Next After Completing My Specialty Credential Purchase?

Earning a SHRM Specialty Credential represents a significant investment in your ongoing career development. This achievement can be accomplished through engaging in content-specific, competency-based education followed by successfully passing an online assessment. Here’s a step-by-step guide on what to expect next:

1. Attend the Seminar:
   • Complete either an in-person or virtual seminar related to your specialty credential.
   • You will receive a confirmation email 7-10 days prior to the seminar’s start date, as well as another email on the first day of the seminar.
   • If you have not received this confirmation, please contact SHRM Customer Experience at shrm@shrm.org for assistance.
2. Access eLearning Modules:
   • After completing your purchase, your self-paced eLearning modules will be available within 24-48 hours.
   • Complete the assigned eLearning courses at your convenience by logging into the eLearning portal at SHRM Education.
   • For detailed instructions and support, refer to the resources provided on the portal.
3. Pass the Online Assessment:
   • Once you have completed both the seminar and eLearning modules, you will be eligible to take an online knowledge assessment.
   • Note that only a pass or fail grade will be issued after taking the test, and you will have two attempts to pass.
   • The assessment is non-proctored and timed, allowing you to complete it in a comfortable environment.

The Benefits of Getting SHRM Certification

After passing the SHRM exam, you can obtain SHRM certification. Obtaining a SHRM certification can provide numerous benefits for HR professionals looking to advance their careers. As the industry leader in HR professional development, SHRM supports over 100,000 employers representing 140 million employees worldwide.

By earning a SHRM-CP or SHRM-SCP certification, you can demonstrate your competence as an HR practitioner and position yourself for success in the ever-changing world of work.

• Increased Practical Skills and Knowledge

One of the primary advantages of SHRM certification is the practical skills and knowledge it provides. The certification process focuses on the competencies and behaviors needed to be proficient in HR, equipping you with the tools to navigate complex workplace challenges.

Certified professionals gain valuable market insights that help them strategize and implement effective policies within their organizations. This hands-on approach to learning sets SHRM certification apart from traditional degree programs, which often focus more on theoretical knowledge.

• Enhanced Career Opportunities

SHRM certification can open doors to new career opportunities and advancement. Employers often prefer candidates with HR certifications, recognizing the value they bring to the organization. Certified individuals are more likely to secure promotions and achieve career growth compared to their non-certified counterparts.

The SHRM-CP is designed for entry-level HR professionals, while the SHRM-SCP targets those in strategic-level HR roles. By pursuing the certification that aligns with your career goals, you can demonstrate your commitment to professional development and increase your marketability in the job market.

• Improved Organizational Performance

When HR professionals are SHRM-certified, their organizations benefit as well. Certified employees bring a deeper understanding of HR best practices and a proven ability to handle challenging situations.

This expertise can lead to improved organizational performance, as certified HR professionals are equipped to develop and implement effective policies that support the overall success of the company.

Additionally, SHRM certification helps HR professionals stay current with industry trends and changes, ensuring that their organizations remain competitive in an ever-evolving business landscape.

• Networking and Community Engagement

Pursuing SHRM certification also provides opportunities for networking and community engagement. By participating in SHRM certification preparation courses or study groups, you can connect with other HR professionals who share your passion for the field.

These connections can lead to valuable mentorship opportunities, job leads, and ongoing support throughout your career. SHRM also offers a wide range of resources for certified professionals, including webinars, conferences, and local chapter events, allowing you to stay engaged with the HR community and continue learning and growing in your profession.

Does SHRM-CP Certification Expire?

Yes, the SHRM-CP certification does expire. Once you pass the SHRM-CP exam, your certification is valid for three years, ending on the last day of your birth month. To maintain your certification, you must complete one of two options during this period:

1. Earn 60 Professional Development Credits (PDCs): You can accumulate these credits through various professional development activities related to HR.
2. Retake the certification exam: This must be done within the last year of your recertification cycle.

If you fail to meet the recertification requirements by the end of your three-year cycle, you enter a 60-day grace period to complete them. If not completed by the end of this period, your certification will be revoked, and you will need to start the certification process anew to regain it.

How to Prepare for the SHRM-CP Exam

To effectively prepare for the SHRM-CP exam, consider enrolling in a SHRM-CP test prep course. This comprehensive program offers over 500 practice test questions, including retired exam questions and updated practice materials. These questions are designed to reflect the actual exam format and content, providing a realistic testing experience.

Each practice test question comes with well-explained answers, allowing you to understand the reasoning behind correct responses and reinforcing your learning. This method not only helps in identifying your strengths but also highlights areas that need further study.

Additionally, utilizing the SHRM Learning System can enhance your preparation. It combines structured learning with flexible study options, including self-study and instructor-led formats. The system is aligned with the SHRM Body of Applied Skills and Knowledge (BASK), ensuring comprehensive coverage of all exam topics

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