how to write google certification in resume

How to Add Google Certificate to Resume: A Step-by-Step Guide

Adding a Google certificate to your resume is a fantastic way to showcase your skills and stand out to potential employers. In a world where digital competencies are increasingly valued, having a Google certificate can give you an edge in the job market. The process is straightforward: you simply need to include the certificate in the education or certifications section of your resume, ensuring it’s clearly visible and properly formatted.

Step by Step Tutorial: How to Add Google Certificate to Resume

Before we dive into the steps, it’s important to understand why adding a Google certificate to your resume is beneficial. It demonstrates to employers that you have specific skills and knowledge in areas such as digital marketing, IT support, or data analysis. Now, let’s get into how to actually add it to your resume.

Step 1: Identify the Right Section on Your Resume

Place your Google certificate in the education or certifications section of your resume.

Most resumes have a section dedicated to education or certifications. This is where your Google certificate belongs. If you don’t have such a section, you might want to create one, especially if you have other certifications or relevant education to include.

Step 2: Format the Certificate Properly

List the name of the certificate, the issuing organization (Google), and the date of completion.

Your Google certificate should be listed in a clear and professional manner. Start with the name of the certificate, followed by "Google" to indicate the issuing organization. Then, include the month and year you completed the certificate. For example: "Google Data Analytics Certificate, Google, May 2021."

Step 3: Highlight Your Achievements

If applicable, add a bullet point or two under the certificate to highlight any significant achievements or projects related to the certification.

If your Google certification involved completing a project or achieving a particular milestone, mention it. This provides concrete evidence of your skills and shows employers what you’re capable of. For instance: "Developed a comprehensive marketing plan as a capstone project, increasing virtual engagement by 20%."

Step 4: Tailor the Certificate to the Job Description

Match the language of your resume, including the certificate, to the job description you’re applying for.

You want to make sure your Google certificate aligns with what the employer is looking for. Use similar language to the job description when describing your certificate and any related achievements. This will help your resume pass through Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) and catch the eye of the hiring manager.

Step 5: Proofread Your Resume

Review your resume for any errors or typos, ensuring that the addition of your Google certificate is flawless.

Even the smallest error can distract from your qualifications. Take some time to proofread your resume thoroughly. If possible, have someone else take a look too, as they might catch errors you missed.

After you’ve added your Google certificate to your resume, it should help you stand out to employers. They’ll see that you have invested time and effort into gaining new skills and that you take your professional development seriously.

Tips for Adding Google Certificate to Resume

• Tailor your Google certificate placement based on your experience level. If you’re new to the field, place it higher on the resume.
• Use industry-specific keywords related to your Google certificate for better ATS optimization.
• Combine similar certificates under one heading to avoid cluttering your resume.
• Consider linking to your digital certificate or badge if you’re sending your resume electronically.
• Keep your resume to one or two pages, even after adding your Google certificate.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a google certificate.

A Google certificate is a credential provided by Google after completing one of their online courses or programs.

Google certificates cover various topics like IT support, data analytics, project management, and digital marketing. They are designed to provide job-ready skills and are recognized by many employers.

Should I include every Google certificate on my resume?

Only include certificates relevant to the job you’re applying for.

Your resume should be concise and tailored to each job. Including unrelated certificates can distract from your relevant qualifications.

Can I add a Google certificate to my LinkedIn profile?

Yes, you can add Google certificates to the Licenses & Certifications section of your LinkedIn profile.

Adding your Google certificate to LinkedIn is a great way to enhance your professional profile and make your credentials accessible to potential employers and network connections.

How do I verify my Google certificate?

You can verify your Google certificate through the unique URL provided upon completion of the course.

When you complete a Google course, you receive a digital certificate with a unique URL that proves your credential is valid. You can share this URL with potential employers if they request verification.

Do Google certificates expire?

Some Google certificates might have an expiration date, while others do not.

It depends on the specific Google certificate. Be sure to check the details of your certificate and include the valid time frame on your resume if applicable.

• Identify the right section on your resume.
• Format the certificate properly.
• Highlight your achievements.
• Tailor the certificate to the job description.
• Proofread your resume.

We’ve covered how to add a Google certificate to your resume in a way that highlights your skills and makes you a more attractive candidate to employers. But why stop there? Consider the broader impact of continuous learning and certification on your career. The job market is always evolving, and staying current with industry-relevant certifications like those offered by Google can keep you at the forefront of your field. Imagine the doors that could open up with each new skill you acquire and validate through certification. So go ahead, add that Google certificate to your resume, and don’t be afraid to pursue further learning opportunities. Who knows what exciting career advancements await you?

Kermit Matthews is a freelance writer based in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania with more than a decade of experience writing technology guides. He has a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in Computer Science and has spent much of his professional career in IT management.

He specializes in writing content about iPhones, Android devices, Microsoft Office, and many other popular applications and devices.

Read his full bio here .

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The Right Way To List Certifications on a Resume (With Examples)

We’ll take you through exactly how to list certifications on your resume, including industry-specific qualifications to look into and where they belong on your resume.

3 years ago   •   11 min read

Let's cut straight to the chase: the key to effectively listing certifications is clarity and relevance. In 2024, where the job market is increasingly competitive and digital certifications are on the rise, it's more important than ever to highlight your qualifications in a way that stands out to employers. This means not only listing your certifications but doing so in a manner that aligns with current industry standards and expectations.

Good certifications are worth more than the paper they’re written on. Some are actually required before you can even apply for a job, while others are simply concrete proof of your skills. Either way, the right qualification can make or break a resume.

In this article, we'll guide you through the essentials of showcasing your certifications. We'll discuss why certifications are more relevant than ever in today's job market, the best ways to format and position them on your resume, and how to determine which certifications will make your application shine. Whether you're a seasoned professional or stepping into the job market for the first time, this guide will help ensure your resume's certification section is both impressive and effective.

When to include certifications on your resume (and when not to)

You should list certifications on your resume if:.

• It’s a job requirement : Some jobs will ask for specific licenses and certifications — sometimes, these are even legal requirements. If a job posting mentions a certification as a minimum requirement, you’re unlikely to even be considered unless you include it on your resume. If it’s in the “nice to have” section, it may not be as necessary, but listing it will still give you an advantage.
• It gets you past ATS : If a certification is mentioned in the job description, chances are either a recruiter or an applicant tracking system (ATS) will be screening out resumes that don’t mention it. Clearly listing certifications on your resume will prevent you from getting rejected automatically.
• It establishes credibility : Even in jobs where a certification isn’t strictly required, it can be a good way to demonstrate your skills. The more well-known or established the accreditation is, the more true this is. If you’re working or moving into a field with an industry standard certification, it might be well worth pursuing.
• You're changing careers : If you lack industry-specific experience, completing a short course or certification shows that you’re committed to changing directions (not just resume spamming) and shows that you have the technical skills needed for the job.

You should leave certifications off your resume if:

• It's not relevant to the job : Like anything on your resume, certifications should only be included if they’re actually relevant. You may have studied for ages for that nursing certification, but if you’re applying for a job in human resources, leave it off!
• It's a very short course : Unless they’re essential or deeply relevant, Coursera or similar courses that only take a few hours or days to complete aren’t usually significant enough to belong on your resume. The same goes for most short-form professional development courses, unless it's deeply relevant to the job you're applying for.
• The certification has expired : In the case of certifications that are only valid for a certain period (for example, CPR or First Aid certificates), don't list these on your resume if they're past the point of expiry — but do renew the certification if it's necessary for the job.

Got a certification that definitely belongs on your resume? Scroll down for a detailed guide to listing certifications on a resume.

Why certifications are relevant in 2024

In an era where remote work opportunities continue to rise, and digital skills are highly valued, enhancing your resume and staying up-to-date with relevant skills has become crucial. The right set of qualifications and competitive hard skills can significantly boost your resume by demonstrating adaptability, technical proficiency, and a commitment to staying current in a digitally-driven world.

Online certifications are far more common now than ever before, offering flexibility and accessibility in acquiring new skills. But, not all certificates are created equal. As there are now so many online courses available, choosing the right certificates from a recognized institution is crucial. Employers are far more open to accepting online certifications as proof of your skills. Still, you need to ensure you choose certifications that are recognized and respected in your desired industry.

How to list certifications on your resume

First things first: Here's how to list any certification on your resume.

• List the name of the certificate or qualification.
• Include the name of the certifying agency or where you obtained it. This is important for credibility, as it allows employers to verify the authenticity of your qualifications and assess their relevance.
• List the date you achieved the certification.
• Include a location (if applicable).
• Specify if the certification is still in progress. It's fine to list an in-progress qualification, as long as you add "in progress" or "expected [date]."
• If the certification has an expiration date, make sure you include the dates of validity.
• Use an ATS resume scanner to suggest industry-specific skills and keywords.
• Regularly update your resume to remove or update expired certifications.

How to format certifications on your resume

Use bold or italics for the certification name to draw attention to it, especially if it's a crucial qualification for the job you're applying for. The key is to enhance readability and highlight your qualifications without overwhelming the rest of your resume. For example:

Project Management Professional (PMP) Certification - Atlas Institute, May 2022.

This technique helps your most essential certificates catch a recruiter's eye while keeping your resume professional-looking and easy to scan.

Where to list certifications on your resume

Here's a guide to the best places to list certifications on your resume:

In the education section of your resume

The education section of your resume is probably the most intuitive spot to include certifications, especially if they’re particularly significant. List your entries in reverse chronological order, with the most recent qualifications first. If you’re changing careers and don’t have any other relevant experience, you may even want to include your education section at the top of your resume. For example:

Under a section titled ‘Other’ or ‘Additional Information’

List a certifications in an additional section if you have more relevant work experience to emphasize first or you're running out of space on your resume. If you choose to include more than one or two certifications, list them on their own line alongside things like technical skills , awards, and language fluency .

Here's an example of combining your certifications with other skill sets.

Including a subheading makes it easy for a hiring manager to find your relevant certifications.

Here's another simple example of listing a certification, which mentioning who awarded it. Use this only if your certification is not widely known and the context of your certification could help.

In a ‘Certifications’ section

As a rule, you shouldn’t dedicate too much space on your resume to listing certifications — one of two lines should generally be enough. But if you have several certifications and they’re all relevant to the specific job you’re applying for, you can create a dedicated certifications section to avoid cluttering up your resume. For example:

Creating a separate section to avoid clutter is a good idea if you’re listing more than one or two certifications.

In your resume summary or header

If you want to emphasize an essential and/or particularly well-known qualification (including professional licences), include this information in your summary or header. This isn’t the case for most certifications, so first make sure that it’s actually a crucial job requirement and that it’s a well-known and easily recognizable acronym, like PMP or HIPAA. For example:

If your certification is part of the job title you are applying to, you can consider including it directly in your header . Here's an example of a Certified Nursing Assistant's resume:

For roles like nursing where specific certifications are essential, it can be helpful to list your qualifications in your resume header.

In a projects section

If your certification included significant project experience, consider listing it in a dedicated projects section . This can be especially helpful if you’re changing careers and don’t have a lot of relevant work experience, as projects can help bridge the gap and include hands-on experience. Remember to list projects the same way you would any other experience, starting with an action verb and using numbers and metrics where possible. For example:

If you’re not sure if you’ve listed your certifications the right way, upload your resume to the tool below — it’ll scan your resume and give you detailed feedback and suggestions on how to improve your resume sections. It is also a good way to check if your resume is readable by Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS).

Use an acronym after your name

Maximize the impact of your prestigious certifications by using acronyms after your name. This immediately signals your qualifications to potential employers.

For instance, if you're a Project Management Professional, include 'John Doe, PMP' at the top of your resume. This tactic is particularly effective for certifications that are well-recognized in your industry.

Why you should consider adding certifications to your resume

Adding certifications can significantly enhance your resume by showcasing your commitment to professional development and proficiency in new skills. The right new skills can open doors to new career opportunities, potentially leading to higher salaries and advancement in your field.

In rapidly changing industries, certifications also ensure that your skills and knowledge remain up-to-date and you remain a competitive candidate for potential promotion. In the long run, certifications not only help with immediate job placement and salary benefits, but also help with long-term career satisfaction and growth.

How to determine what certifications are relevant for your resume

As with most skills on your resume, the best way to determine what skills are relevant for a position, is to look at the job description itself. See what skills are mentioned in the job description, and if you have any of the qualifications mentioned, list them clearly and prominently. Our comprehensive database of skills and keywords allows you to search for a specific job and instantly find the skills to add to your resume, including common certifications.

The next best thing is to network! The most reliable source of information is usually other people working in the industry. If you’re new to the field or changing careers, this step is extra important — our tips on how to ask for an informational interview will help you get started.

Another way to find skills and keywords for your resume is by using the tool below to search for the job you’re applying for. It’ll give you a list of relevant skills and keywords.

Recommended certifications by industry

Depending on your industry, there may be a set of common (or sometimes essential) certifications it would be helpful to pursue.

• Project Managers: Certifications include Project Management Professional (PMP), Prince2, and Lean Six Sigma.
• Human Resources : Jobs may require Professional in Human Resources (PHR) or Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM) certification.
• Information Technology and Engineering : Some of the best are AWS Certified Solutions Architect, Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP), Information Technology Infrastructure Library (ITIL), CompTIA A+, Cisco, Google Cloud, and Microsoft certifications.
• Product owners and Developers: Agile and Scrum certifications.
• Accountant : Certified Public Accountant (CPA) or Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) certification .
• Programmers : Oracle Java, Microsoft Certified Solutions Developer (MCSD), and EC-Council Certified Secure Programmer (ECSP) certifications — but when it comes to most programming languages, a good GitHub profile is far more valuable than specific certifications.
• Nurses and other Healthcare professionals: Certified Patient Care Technician (CPCT) or Certified Clinical Medical Assistant (CCMA) certification.
• Business Professionals : Certified Business Analysis Professional (CBAP) or APICS Certified Supply Chain Professional (CSCP) qualification.

How to ensure and show your certification is legitimate

Choose certificates that are from accredited and recognized institutions and well-known organizations. This is particularly crucial with the rise of online courses, where the quality and recognition of qualifications can vary. Mentioning the certifying body on your resume can help establish the legitimacy of your qualifications in the eyes of an employer, and be prepared to provide proof of your certifications if requested, which could include the certificate itself, a transcript, or a link to a verification page.

Frequently Asked Questions

If i have multiple certificates, how do i decide which to include.

Only include certificates and qualifications that are relevant to the job you're applying for. Avoid listing certifications unrelated to the position, as they may distract from your relevant qualifications. If you have multiple certifications that demonstrate the same skills, include only your most recent, the most highly recognized, or those that showcase the highest level skills.

Do I need to list the certifying body or institution that granted my certificate?

Yes. Always mention the name of the institution or organization that granted your certificate. Certifications from renowned and accredited bodies are often viewed more favorably. Omitting this information might raise questions about the legitimacy or significance of your certification.

Should I include the grade of my certificate?

Generally, most certifications are pass/fail, and the grade you achieved is not necessary. The focus should be on the certification itself and its relevance to the job. However, it could be worth mentioning if you achieved an exceptionally high grade or honor (such as graduating top of your class).

How often should I update the certifications on my resume?

You should regularly update your resume to reflect any new certifications. Keeping your resume current ensures potential employers see the most accurate representation of your skills. It's especially important to update certifications that have expiration dates or require renewal.

What is the difference between licenses and certifications on a resume?

A license typically refers to a legal permission to practice a certain profession or activity, and is often mandatory for certain jobs. A certificate usually indicates completion of a course to acquire certain skills or knowledge and is not generally required for a position.

Should I create a separate resume certification section?

Yes, especially if you have multiple relevant certifications. This makes your resume more organized and helps in drawing attention to your key qualifications.

Should I include online course certifications?

Yes, but be selective. Include online certifications that are relevant to the job and from reputable providers. They can demonstrate continual learning and skill development.

What are the risks of including expired or irrelevant certifications?

Listing expired certifications can reflect poorly on your professional image, suggesting outdated skills. Irrelevant certifications may distract from your pertinent skills and experience. Only include certifications that are current and relevant to the job.

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Why and How to List Certifications on a Resume – Guide w/ Examples

Want to include certifications on your resume, but not sure how?

We don’t blame you - it’s not as simple as it seems.

If your certifications are critical for the job, it’s essential to include them on top of your resume in the summary or contact information section, or you risk the recruiter skipping over your resume entirely.

Or, if they’re not, you should create a dedicated section for all your important certifications instead of cluttering up your other sections. 

And in this article, we’re going to teach you how to do all that!

Want to skip all the hassle of creating a resume from scratch? We got your back. You can choose any of our free resume templates to get a professional and modern resume without breaking a sweat.

What Are Certifications?

Certifications are documents awarded by accredited institutions, such as boards, associations, or professional organizations. 

Obtaining any certification shows that you possess or that you’ve developed a certain skill or that you’ve reached a certain level of technical proficiency. 

To get a certification, you typically need to be able to meet certain requirements and criteria, pay a fee, or even pass an assessment test at times. The harder a certain certification is to acquire, the more likely it is to give you an edge over other candidates for the job.

Based on your profession, there are countless certifications out there. Here are some popular examples: 

• CompTIA A+ : Popular certification for information technology professionals.
• PHR : The HR Certification Institute awards this certification to HR professionals who have mastered both the technical and personal aspects of human resource management.
• NCLEX-RN : Registered nurses, nurse practitioners, and nurse assistants can obtain this certification from their state’s Board of Nursing.

Why Get Certified??

As we already mentioned, earning a certification shows that you’re devoted to your field of work and provides evidence of your skills and work experience . 

In a nutshell, adding a professional certification to your resume is undeniable proof that you’re competent in a specific skill or field of work. In some positions, certification might be a mandatory requirement for simply being considered for a job.

For other roles, it can be an added bonus that helps you stand out amongst other equally qualified candidates.

Even if the certification isn’t a requirement to get the job, it can certainly do the following for your job hunt :

• Boost your resume
• Draw attention to your application
• Prove that you’re a valuable hire

When to Include Certifications on Your Resume

While certifications are not mandatory on a resume, there are some cases when you should definitely do it if you want to take your resume from good to great . 

Here are some of those cases: 

#1. The employer requires it

This is probably the top reason why you should include certifications on your resume - they’re a must for the job . 

If a potential employer lists a certain certification in the job description and you fail to include it on your resume, the hiring manager may disqualify you on the spot. 

As such, make sure to check the job ad and company website thoroughly before you submit your application for any job opening. 

#2. To demonstrate your skills

In certain situations, a certification may not be required for the job, but still prove invaluable to your application.

Let’s take, for example, computer skills . They’re a must for most jobs today, whether or not they’re in the IT field. So, if you’re applying for, say, an office assistant position and you list an IT-related accreditation, the hiring manager will know that you’re also great with computers.

Compared to other candidates with similar experience, this certification may be enough to give you the upper hand in the hiring process.  

#3. To highlight your industry knowledge

Another great reason to include your certifications in your resume is if they can further highlight your years of experience in a certain industry. 

As we already mentioned, some certificates can only be obtained if you’ve worked a certain number of years in the field. In turn, listing such certifications on your resume can be an additional “voucher” for your experience. 

#4. To make up for limited practical experience

Certifications can also be used to make up for the lack of work experience . 

Let’s say you’re a recently graduated graphic designer with little professional experience in the field. However, you’ve practiced graphic design a lot in college, as well as in your free time, and have gained the necessary skills for the job. 

In such a case, listing a graphic design-related certification may be able to balance out your lack of work experience. 

How to List Certifications on a Resume 

Now that you know all about certifications, including how they can benefit your resume, it’s time to learn how to add them to your resume the right way :

How to Format Your Certifications 

In 90% of cases, you should create a dedicated resume section to list your certifications. 

Here’s how you’d format such a section: 

• Add the title of the certification. List the full title of the certificate underneath the section header as a bullet point. Make sure there are no typos in the title and that any abbreviations are spelled out.
• Include the name of the awarding organization. Adding the name of the organization or institution that certified you can make the certificate much more legitimate. Here too, make sure to double-check for any spelling errors.
• List the date you earned your certification. Additionally, make sure to add the date your certificate was last renewed, in case it’s a certification that requires renewal. If you’re in the process of obtaining a certification, you can list it on your resume by including the anticipated obtainment date.
• List the date your certification expires. In case your certification has an expiration date and you still haven’t renewed it, add the expiration date too. It goes without saying that you shouldn’t add expired certificates to your resume.
• Provide details (optional). If the space allows it (remember, your resume should optimally be one-page-long ), add a sentence describing the skills related to the certification. This can help the hiring manager see how it’s relevant for the job.

Where to Add Certifications to Your Resume 

There are several places where you can add your certifications to your resume. As mentioned above, the most common one is under a dedicated “Certifications” section . 

Alternatively (and depending on how important the certification is for the job), you can also use these three resume sections to list them:

• Your resume summary
• Your contact information
• Your education section

Let’s go through each possibility in more detail: 

#1. List certifications under the “Certifications” section 

Every resume contains mandatory sections (e.g. contact information, work experience, resume summary, skills) and optional resume sections (e.g. internships , volunteer work, hobbies and interests , etc.).

Certifications belong to the latter group as, in most cases, they’re not required for most jobs. That said, certifications are among the best optional sections you can add to your resume. 

Creating such a section is fairly easy. 

Firstly, position this section after all your essential sections, as such: 

Then, create a heading on your resume named “Certifications” or “Certificates” and format all relevant certificates according to the formatting rules we outlined above. 

One thing to keep in mind is that you should list your certifications in reverse-chronological order. Start with the most recent certificate and make your way from there.

Here is a real-life example of a “Certifications” section done well and one done not so well:

Certifications

First Aid Certification

American Red Cross, July 2018

Expires: January 2020

Skills acquired: CPR

#2. List certifications In your resume summary 

If you have a certification that’s required or super relevant for the job, you can also include it in your resume summary section.

For example, if you're a certified accountant , you can mention it in your summary as follows:

Just add one line and you're already one step ahead! You don't even need to rework your existing summary, just start or end the first sentence with the certification’s title.

For example:

• Certified CPR sports teacher with 15+ years of experience and solid organizational skills, seeking to preserve and improve the quality of sports education at Amigos Children's Academy. At Jefferson Elementary, raised sports team national results by 12% and led an exhibition team at the 2019 World Aquatics Championships. 
• Data analyst with 7+ years of experience analyzing business processes. Enthusiastic to handle big data interpreting and visualizing skills at 7EDGE. CCA certified in 2013.

If you really want your certification to be the first thing the employer sees, you can even include it in your contact information section, or as part of your job title. 

Here’s what we mean by that: 

#3. List certifications in your education section 

Finally, you can also include your certifications in your resume’s education section .

This, however, is not a popular choice and you should only do it if:

• You only have one certification (and it’s not job-critical)
• You took your certification courses throughout your university years
• You want to list less important certifications outside the designated certifications section

Here’s what that would look like on a resume: 

Healthcare School of Hawaii, Aiea, HI

08/2013 - 05/2017

• Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) 2017
• Learned to assist healthcare providers with medical procedures while obtaining vital signs per protocol, feeding and bathing patients, and dressing wounds.

5 Examples of Certifications on Resumes

Here are some examples of certifications on resumes for different positions, using our tried-and-tested resume templates :

#1. Certified Medical Assistant Resume Example

#2. Web Developer Resume Example

#3. Recruiter Resume Example

#4. Flight Attendant Resume Example

#5. Tech Resume Example

10 Top Certifications That Can Boost Your Career

Some of the most popular certifications you can acquire in 2024 are as follows:

• PMP Certification . The Project Management Professional is a global certification offered by the Project Management Institute for project managers.
• BC/BE. This certification stands for Board Certified/Board Eligible and is given to physicians who have completed their residency but haven’t passed their board exam.
• PALS Certification. Pediatric Advanced Life Support is for professionals who want to specialize in caring for infants, children, and adolescents.
• Forklift Certification. The Occupational Safety Health Administration offers training and then a license to safely drive heavy machines like forklifts inside warehouses.
• Scrum Master Certification. Scrum is a framework for managing complex projects and this course offers an entry-level credential to show professionals have an understanding of the methodology.
• Certified Nursing Assistant . The CNA certification is state-specific and is a must-have for anyone who wants to work in patient care.
• First Aid Certification. This certification provides the necessary knowledge to react effectively in emergency situations before the medics arrive. This includes stitching deep cuts, addressing injuries, and even handling broken bones.
• ASE Certification. The National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence offers the Automotive Service Excellence certification to test and certify a mechanic’s skills and abilities.
• CPR Certification . The most commonly requested certification from employers, this Red Cross certification can come in handy for pursuing a number of job opportunities that are not limited to the medical industry (e.g. teaching jobs, public-facing roles, and even companies can benefit from employees being CPR-certified).
• CISSP. This is one of the most popular network security certifications, perfect for information security professionals who already have a few years of experience and want their skills to be globally recognized.

Resume Certifications FAQs

Still have some questions? You’ll find your answers in this section!

1. Should I list online course certifications on my resume?

Yep! As long as the certifications are relevant to the job, you should include them on your resume.

Online certifications can especially help you if you’re a recent graduate with not a lot of work experience .

2. Is there a situation when I DON’T list certifications on my resume?

Definitely! You should only add certifications that add value to your resume .

If you’re a business analyst, for example, a Certification of Competency in Business Analysis (CCBA) WILL help get you hired.

A bartending or CPR certification, though, won’t.

You also shouldn’t add certifications that are outdated (for obvious reasons) or ones that are just not that significant.

For example, if you’re a business analyst with 10+ years of experience, you shouldn’t include your business management certificate you got from some online course sometime in college.

So, to sum it up, you can skip certifications that are:

• Insignificant

3. What other sections can I list on my resume?

You can add a lot of interesting optional sections to make your resume even more competitive, such as: 

• Awards, Honors, Accomplishments
• Volunteering and Associations
• Extracurricular Activities
• Independent Projects, 
• Hobbies, Interests, Languages
• Publications, Training, Conferences

Make sure, though, not to over-clutter your resume, or get it to spill over to page 2 .

Look at it from the recruiter’s point of view - which of these sections would add value to you as a candidate and show that you can do the job right?

Then, choose accordingly.

Key Takeaways 

Now, let’s sum up everything we’ve learned about certifications in your resume:

• Adding a professional certification to your resume is proof that you have the competence to do something.
• Put job-critical resume certifications in four places, such as in your personal information section, in your resume summary, in your education section, or in a designated certification section.
• Always make your most noteworthy or relevant certifications visible and attention-grabbing.
• Don't include certifications that are outdated, irrelevant, or insignificant on your resume.

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Exactly When, Where, and How to List Certifications on Your Resume (Because You’ve Earned Them)

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by Regina Borsellino, original published at The Muse

As you  write your resume , many of the things you need to include may have an obvious place: Your past jobs go in your work experience section, your education goes in your education section, and your skills go in your  skills section . But what about certifications? They’re not quite experience or education, but they can be just as—if not more—important to you landing your next job.

We’ll tell you exactly when to include certifications on your resume and how, but first…

What Are Certifications?

A certification is a standardized professional credential—that is, everyone with a certification must meet the same requirements—issued by professional associations, organizations, or companies. You often need to pass exams and may need to meet certain education and experience requirements to obtain one. For example, a Project Management Professional (PMP) certification is issued by the  Product Management Institute , and in order to receive it you must have a minimum number of months of experience leading projects, complete a minimum number of hours of project management training or a lower-level certification from PMI, and pass the PMP exam.

A certification that checks all of these boxes but is issued by a government or regulatory body and/or is legally required in order to do a certain job is called a license, says  Heather Yurovsky , Muse career coach and founder of  Shatter & Shine . For example, to legally practice as a nurse in New York State you must have a  NYS nursing license , which requires completing an approved nursing degree, undergoing background checks, and passing the NCLEX exam. Teachers, doctors, social workers and other mental health professionals, accountants, and lawyers are also among the professionals who often need licenses to practice. Licenses are also more likely to require ongoing education and training to stay current in your field and can expire if you don’t keep them current, Yurovsky says.

Meanwhile, certificates and  online courses  are not certifications. They’re not standardized and are often education-based rather than experience- or assessment-based. Certificates might be issued by universities, colleges, or vocational schools and show that you completed a set of classes (usually fewer than a degree) or they might “showcase your completion of online courses and learning and development trainings,” Yurovsky says. For example you can get a certificate in  Cybersecurity Technology  from the University of Maryland Global Campus or a  Front-End Web Developer Certificate  from edX. Individual companies may require certain certificates when hiring for roles, but you generally aren’t shut out of a career without one. When relevant, certificates still belong on your resume, but you might consider putting them in your resume’s  education section  (especially when issued by a school) or otherwise distinguishing them from your certifications. If you want to include online courses and certificates on your resume, read more  here .

When Should You Include Certifications on Your Resume?

If you have a certification or license that is required or preferred for the role you’re applying to, definitely put it on your resume. Beyond that, “like with all information in your resume, you want to feature certifications that are relevant to the role you’re pursuing,” Yurovsky says. Think about whether a certification shows how qualified you are as a candidate for  this specific role.  For instance, if you’re applying for a help desk or other IT support role, a  CompTIA A+  certification that proves you’ve been tested on your IT skills will add to your resume even if the job description doesn’t ask for it.

Think about what each of your certifications is saying to a recruiter or hiring manager who reads your resume and what  transferable skills  it communicates. For example, that PMP certification will show that you can manage teams through complex projects and that you likely have strong leadership, communication, and organization skills, which might add to your qualifications not just for a project management job, but for any role where you have direct reports or are overseeing complicated processes. And, as the name suggests, a Google Analytics Individual Qualification shows that you’re an expert in Google Analytics, which might add to your value when being considered for a marketing, content, or data role.

Use the same principles to decide what to leave off your resume. You want your resume  to be tailored  so it’s clear to recruiters why you’ve applied to  this  job. Irrelevant qualifications could leave them confused or make them think you applied to a job that’s not in your field accidentally or indiscriminately. So that CPR certification from your summers as a camp counselor can probably come off your resume as you look for a full-time sales role, and the fact that you’re licensed to teach in Florida probably doesn’t matter if you’re looking for a job in tech—unless you want to pivot to edtech.

How Do You List Certifications on Your Resume?

If you’ve decided to list your certifications or licenses on your resume, there are a few places you can do it. You might consider making a “Professional Certifications,” “Licenses,” or similar section or, Yurovsky says, you can include them in your “Education” section—which you might consider renaming “Education and Certifications” for clarity.

Generally, your certification and license sections should go at the bottom of your resume—below your work experience but above education. However, you always want to lead your resume with the most important information, so if you’re an  entry-level candidate , you might consider moving your certifications and licenses up to the top of the page.

For each certification and license that you list on your resume include:

• The full name of the certification (any common abbreviation can be included in parentheses)
• The issuing organization (or state)
• The date you earned the certification
• The location (if applicable and not implied by the issuer)
• Additional additional details or add-ons (if applicable)

If you’re still working on the certification, give your reader the proper context and avoid any awkward interview moments by including “In Progress” next to the name of the certification and/or “Expected” before the month and year you’re on track to complete the program, Yurovsky says.

How would this look in practice? Here are a few examples:

Certifications Project Management Professional (PMP) ,  Project Management Institute  – June 2020 Certified ScrumMaster (CSM) ,  Scrum Alliance  – January 2017

Licenses Professional Educator License (PEL) | State of Illinois | Expected: January 2021 Endorsements: Elementary Education, Special Education

You can also immediately signal that you have your most important certification or license by including it in a  resume summary  or  headline . Particularly in the case of licenses or certifications that are “key to the position at hand,” Yurovsky says, you might also include the abbreviation next to your name at the top separated by a comma. For example, if you’re a registered nurse applying for a nursing role at a hospital, you might write, “Priya Anand, RN” at the very top of the page; or if you’re applying to a position that requires a CPA, go ahead and put “Timothy Oluwa, CPA” as your header. When you literally can’t do the job without that qualification, making it crystal clear that you’ve already jumped that hurdle will only help you.

How to List Certifications on Your Resume

Plus, discover which free and paid certifications will help your resume stand out the most.

Customers Interviewed by:

Having certifications on your resume is more important than ever. Why? Because the job market is rapidly evolving towards skills-based hiring. 

Skills-based hiring means employers are less focused on college degrees and job titles. Instead, they care more about the specific skills and abilities you bring to the table. 

Certifications show employers that you have the skills they want. This will help you stand out from other candidates with similar backgrounds who lack certifications. 

In this article, we’ll show you how to list your certifications on your resume properly. This will allow you to take advantage of the new trend toward skills-based hiring.

What are certifications?

Certifications prove you have learned certain skills . They are usually awarded by professional organizations or universities. 

How are certifications different from regular school degrees? Degrees provide a broad overview of a field. Certifications are more targeted, focusing on one specific area. 

For example, you can get certified in network security, medical coding, Google Analytics, cloud computing, or project management.

To earn a certification, you need to complete a course and pass an examination. You can take these courses in person or online.

Why should you get certifications?

Certifications help you learn new skills or get better at what you already know. This can lead to better job opportunities and promotions . 

In industries with lots of fast-paced innovation, certifications are especially valuable. This is because they can keep you up-to-date with the latest technologies and trends. 

Certifications also show employers that you’re committed to professional development. This is especially useful for those looking to advance in their career or pivot to a new one . 

In short, certifications are a good way to boost your career and stay competitive!

How to list certifications on your resume

Properly listing your certifications on your resume can improve your chances of getting an interview. So it’s important to get it right.

1) Formatting guidelines

When listing your certifications, follow these guidelines:

• Name of certification : Start with the full name of the certification. Use bold or italics if you want to make it stand out.
• Issuing organization : Follow with the name of the organization that issued the certification.
• Date of certification : Include the date you received the certification.
• Expiration date : If applicable, mention the expiration date.
• Location : If relevant, include the location where you received the certification.

Here are a couple of examples:

2) Where to put certifications on a resume

Where to list certifications on your resume depends on a couple of things:

• How relevant is your certification to the job? 
• How many certifications do you have? 

If your certifications are NOT highly relevant to the job you’re applying to, list them in the education section of your resume. 

Here’s an example:

If you have a certificate that’s highly relevant to the job you’re applying to, you need to show it off in your resume headline. 

Your resume headline is a one-line statement at the top of your resume that features your main area of expertise . 

For example, this resume headline immediately tells employers that the candidate is “RHIT-certified” (RHIT stands for Registered Health Information Technician). 

You can also list the most important certifications in your resume summary. 

Your resume summary is a short statement that goes under your headline. It’s like an elevator pitch: a quick, punchy way to say “Here’s what I can do.”

Do you have multiple certifications that are relevant to the job you’re applying for? If so, create a separate section titled “Certifications”.

Usually, this section comes after education. However, it can be placed higher if the certifications are very important for the job.

List multiple certifications in reverse chronological order, with the most recent one first. Here’s an example:

3) Leave out certifications that are not relevant

If your certifications are not in any way relevant to the job you’re applying for, leave them off your resume.

When you add certifications that don’t relate to the job, it can confuse the hiring manager.

Let’s say you’re applying for a financial analyst job, but your resume shows a culinary arts certification. While this might be an impressive personal achievement, it’s not relevant to financial analysis. 

If a hiring manager sees this, they may doubt your understanding of the job requirements. 

4) Tailor your certifications to the job

These days, simply listing your certifications on your resume is not enough. To truly stand out, it’s crucial to tailor your certifications to the job you’re applying to.

Why? Because most companies use computer software to sort and filter resumes. This software is called an applicant tracking system (ATS). 

How ATS works

When you submit your resume it goes directly into an ATS database. Hiring managers search the database for suitable candidates by typing keywords into the ATS search bar. These keywords can be skills, job titles, or certifications. 

If your resume contains these keywords, the hiring manager will find it. Perhaps they’ll offer you an interview.

If your resume does NOT contain these keywords, it will remain in the database. This means you probably won’t get the job. 

Read the job description to find keywords

How do you know which keywords the hiring manager will use to search the database? Read the job description. 

The job description lists the skills , job titles, and certifications the employer wants. 

If you have certifications that don’t appear in the job description, don’t list them on your resume. (Or mention them in your education section if you think they have some relevance to the job).

But if the job requires a “Certified Scrum Master” and you have this certification, be sure to include it in your resume heading and summary.

Use the same language found in the job listing

Try to use the same language on your resume that’s used in the job description.

For example, if the job description says “Certified Project Manager,” list your certification the same way. 

Why? Because the hiring manager will probably type that exact phrase into the ATS search bar. If your resume says “Qualified Project Management Specialist”, it might not be found.  

Use a resume optimizer to tailor your resumes

Most job seekers create one resume that they send out with every application. This allows them to apply to lots and lots of jobs quickly.

But creating only one resume isn’t the best idea. You’ll get more job interviews if you tailor each resume to the job you’re applying to.

If your resume isn’t tailored to the job you’re applying to, it’s less likely to contain the keywords hiring managers are searching for. So they’ll never even see it.

Tailoring your resume is the smart way to apply to jobs, but it’s also time-consuming and takes extra effort.

That’s why job seekers are turning to online resume optimization tools like Jobscan’s resume scanner.

The scanner uses AI-powered technology to analyze your resume against the job description. It then provides you with a match score . This tells you how closely your resume matches the job description.

The scanner works like this:

Step 1 : Paste your resume into the tool.

Step 2 : Paste the job description into the tool.

Step 3 : Click “scan”.

Jobscan’s resume scanner also tells you how to increase your score by adding keywords. Here’s an example of a report with a match score and keyword suggestions.

By adding the skills highlighted in red, you’ll increase your match score. The higher the score the more likely a hiring manager will find your resume and offer you a job interview .

NOTE : Only add skills if you have them. Don’t misrepresent yourself!

When should you include certifications on your resume?

You should include certifications on your resume when:

• They are required – Some jobs specifically require certain certifications. Even if one is not required, certifications can give you an advantage.
• They are relevant – If the certification is related to the job you’re applying for, include it. It shows you have the skills or knowledge the employer is seeking. 
• They add value to your application – Include certifications that enhance your professional profile. Even if they’re not directly related to the job. For example, a project management certification can be valuable in many roles.
• You lack experience – If you lack experience , certifications can show that you have the skills and knowledge needed for the job. This is especially helpful if you’re a recent graduate or changing careers.

Free certifications to add to your resume

If you recently graduated or lack relevant work experience, free certifications can help you stand out. 

Free certifications might not be as impressive as paid ones. But they still show employers that you’re interested in professional development. Plus, you’ll learn some useful skills! 

Here are some free certifications anyone can get online:

Marketing : HubSpot Academy’s Inbound Marketing Certification – This course covers the fundamentals of inbound marketing, including content marketing, social media strategy, and SEO.

Project Management : Project Management Institute’s (PMI) Project Management Basics – An introductory course that covers basic project management concepts and practices.

Data Analysis : Great Learning’s Free Data Analytics Courses with Certificates – These courses cover the basics of data analytics and are taught hands-on by experts. 

Cybersecurity : Cisco’s Introduction to Cybersecurity – A course that introduces the basics of cybersecurity and the potential career paths in this field.

Human Resources : OpenLearn’s Introducing Human Resources Management – A course that covers the basics of HR practices and theories.

Finance : Corporate Finance Institute’s Free Finance Courses – These include introductory courses on financial analysis, accounting, and reading financial statements.

Digital Marketing : Google Digital Garage’s Fundamentals of Digital Marketing – A comprehensive course covering all aspects of digital marketing, including email marketing, social media, and e-commerce.

Healthcare : Alison’s Diploma in Healthcare Management – Covers essential topics in healthcare management, including decision-making and managing change in healthcare.

Paid certifications to add to your resume

Paid certifications are usually more comprehensive than free ones. Some are highly valued as they show a deep level of knowledge and skill in their field. 

Here are some of the most prominent paid certifications: 

Marketing : Digital Marketing Institute’s Certified Digital Marketing Professional – This program offers extensive training in digital marketing strategies including SEO, PPC, social media, and email marketing.

Project Management : Project Management Professional (PMP)® Certification from the Project Management Institute – Recognized globally, this certification demands extensive project management experience and knowledge.

Data Analysis : Certified Analytics Professional (CAP) – Ideal for data analysts and data scientists, this certification focuses on end-to-end understanding of the analytics process.

IT and Cybersecurity : Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP) – A globally recognized certification in the field of IT security, focusing on areas like risk management and network security.

Graphic Design : Adobe Certified Expert (ACE) – Specializing in Adobe products, this certification is ideal for graphic designers looking to validate their skills in Adobe Creative Cloud software.

Human Resources : SHRM Certified Professional (SHRM-CP) – Offered by the Society for Human Resource Management, this certification is aimed at those who set up policies, act as a liaison for employees and stakeholders, and handle day-to-day HR tasks.

Finance : Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) – Offered by the CFA Institute, this certification is highly esteemed in the fields of investment and financial analysis.

Healthcare : Certified Professional in Healthcare Quality (CPHQ) – Offered by the National Association for Healthcare Quality, this certification focuses on healthcare quality management at all levels.

Environmental Science : Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) Professional Credentials – Offered by the U.S. Green Building Council, this certification is key for professionals working in green building and sustainable design.

Key takeaways

What are certifications ?

• Certificates prove you have specific skill sets; they are usually awarded by professional organizations or universities.
• Certificates are increasingly crucial in a job market favoring skills-based hiring.
• Certificates are more focused than degrees.

Benefits of certifications:

• They enhance skills and knowledge, leading to better job opportunities and promotions.
• Certificates keep you updated with the latest technologies and trends.
• They show commitment to professional development.

How to list certifications on a resume:

• Formatting – Include the certification name, issuing organization, date of certification, and expiration date (if applicable).
• Placement – Highly relevant certifications should be added to the resume headline or summary. Others can be listed in the education section or in a separate section.
• Relevance – Exclude certifications that are not relevant to the job to avoid confusion.

Resume optimization:

• List certifications as they appear in the job description for better ATS (Applicant Tracking System) compatibility.
• Use online tools like Jobscan’s resume scanner to match your resume to the job description.

In addition to your work experience and education sections, your resume can include skills, volunteer experience , awards and honors, projects, publications, and languages.

List the certification name, followed by the issuing organization. Include the date you received the certification. If applicable, mention the expiration date. Place highly relevant certifications in your resume headline or summary. Others can go in the education section or a separate certifications section.

Certificates that are good on a CV include: • Certificates that are directly relevant to the job or industry you are applying to. • Certifications that demonstrate essential skills for the position. • Well-recognized or accredited certifications in your field.

Don’t list certifications that are not relevant to the job, as they can distract or confuse the employer. Avoid listing outdated certifications that no longer hold value in your industry.

Yes, you can list certifications that are in progress. Indicate that they are ongoing by writing “in progress” next to the name or expected completion date.

Yes, especially if they are relevant to the job or showcase important skills. Ensure they are from credible sources and add value to your profile.

NOTE : If you’re building your resume from scratch, try Jobscan’s free resume builder . There are no hidden costs and it allows you to build an ATS-compatible resume in no time!

• 500 Action Verbs to Use on Your Resume Today

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Robert Henderson, CPRW, is a career advice writer and a resume expert at Jobscan.

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There’s a certifying authority, the certification itself, the date of completion, and other details! But there is only so much space in your resume.

After experimenting for over 5 years with clients from different industries, our professional resume writers have created the winning formula for writing resume certifications.

And we will teach you everything about how to put certification on your resume.

Here are the things we will learn in this blog:

• Why a certification is necessary?
• When to add certification on resume?
• How to list certifications on resume?
• Where to add a certification on resume?
• How to put certifications on a resume sample?
• Certification lists for different profiles

We will share the winning formula with you for writing the certification section on your resume in this post. By the end of this post, your resume will have a certifications section that will outshine the competition.

Both landed jobs through campus placement. With their GPA, who wouldn’t hire them? They excelled in their respective companies and were having the time of their lives.

But as luck would have it, they both realized they needed a change. Why spend the prime years of their lives stuck in a single company? They had to explore!

Now, it was time to one-up their game—the time to start climbing the fabled corporate ladder.

Surprisingly, both of them knew that the journey of the corporate ladder would invariably begin with the humble resume. So both of them got into the science of resume making and started applying for jobs through different portals and sites.

While John landed quite a few interview calls, Robert was still waiting.

They had the same profile; they both came from stellar companies and were alumni of the same engineering college.

They were applying through the same medium, and in fact, they had made similar resumes too.

Then what was the difference?

The difference was the additional section of a list of certifications in John’s resume.

It became clear what was missing!

It counts if you are doing anything extra to upgrade your skills and knowledge in the cut-throat competitive world!

Does this sound exciting? If it does, there’s a lot more in store.

Why Are Certifications Necessary?

• Certifications are essential evidence of skills acquired and knowledge gained.
• They upgrade you with the latest technologies and recent theories.
• They give you an added advantage over other candidates
• Certifications increase your bargaining power for a better salary.
• Certification is a great economical alternative to expensive university education.

Even if the certification is not job-related, it can benefit your candidacy and help draw attention to your resume.

Also Read: How to write a resume in 2022?

When Should You Add Certifications on Resume?

James is a Marketing Manager with ten years of experience, working with a top-notch brand and delivering your best to the company.

Additionally, he is an MBA graduate from a decent B-school.

Your work experience and education sections look pretty sorted.

Now let us evaluate your certifications.

Your certifications list is:

• A course in Sanskrit Language (completed halfway)
• Bakery certification from Texas
• Certificate in Yoga and Meditation from Yoga Art Center
• Digital Marketing certification

It makes sense to add only those certifications list to your resume, which adds VALUE to your current portfolio!

For a Marketing Manager , Digital Marketing Certification goes a long way in letting the recruiter know the additional skill in the same domain.

The skill of digital marketing shall enhance the marketing career of this candidate. But rest of the certifications do not necessarily add value to a Marketing resume.

So whether the rest of the three certifications can be added or avoided depends upon the space constraint in the resume.

The rest of the three skills might showcase your learning stint but would not add much value while the resume is shortlisted for an interview.

At the same time, in the case of freshers, all the certifications matter a lot.

Because freshers are still deciding their path, any new certification will add value to the resume.

For example, a fresher might have done an online certification in Leadership Training.

This work showcases an essential skill of leadership. This significantly impacts the recruiter as leadership is the trait recruiters look for.

To make it a bit easy for you, these are the three criteria you can keep in mind while deciding on your certification in a resume:

• Add certification details when it translates to a skill essential for your next recruiter
• Value enhancement in the current role for working professionals as it increases the chances of getting shortlisted
• Value enhancement of soft skills, in case of freshers and graduates

Also Read: What is the perfect resume format to achieve maximum impact?

How to Put Certification on Resume

Certifications for their immense value addition to a professional’s journey shall be added as a separate section in the resume:

Things to keep in mind while adding the certifications section in a resume: -

• Add it separately to catch the recruiter’s eye
• Do not confuse it with training programs
• Always mention the certifying authority, date, and location
• Reverse chronological order
• Highlighting the key areas of the resume

Below is the important information that you need to add to your certification:

• Certification name,
• Certification body
• Obtainment date
• Location if applicable
• Expiry date
• If you are in the process of obtaining the certification

How to List Job-Critical Certifications on Resumes

If the certification is critical for getting into the job, you need to be aggressive while adding the certification to your resume.

Put the certification in these 4 places:

• On the resume Header at the side of your name
• In the resume summary
• In a separate Certification Section
• If needed, in the work experience section

How to Put “Extra” Certifications on Resumes When

If the certification is not relevant but can add value, then they are “extra” certifications.

Put these certifications lower down in the resume. in the “Additional Information” section.

How to List Certification on Resume Summary

Apart from a separate certification section, you can add your most important certification in the summary section.

UpGrad Certified Digital Marketing professional possessing 5+ years of experience........

How to List Certification on Resume Header

You can also add your certification as part of your resume Header like this:

Example: “John Doe, CPA.”

How to List Certification in Resume Education Section

You can also list the certifications in the education sections.

• You can only do this if you only have one certification.
• You have done the certification at your university
• You don’t want to focus on that certification over your other education

Bachelor of Nursing , Rasmussen University, Altamonte Springs, FL GPA: 3.4/5.0

Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) | American Red Cross | Jul 2024

1. Certifications Section Has to Be Separate

How to add certification in resume sample: tell us which image makes a better impact.

The second image is:

We are very sure that the image with a separate certifications section must have impressed you.

So go ahead and safely add all your training programs and certifications list in this section.

2. Certification on Resume vs. Training On Resume

Certifications and training both translate into a skill that can be applied in work.

But training does not necessarily end with a certificate.

Training programs do not have to be from a proper authority.

At the time of your final hiring, they will ask for proof of certification. At this time, it would be crucial to submit all documents.

For example, if you take up an online training course in, say, metaphysics. This might not necessarily get you a certificate though it would enhance your knowledge in the same.

For this reason, it is essential and safe to name the section “Training & Certifications” if you are adding both to the resume.

Mention all your training programs and certifications in this section.

Refer to the image below:-

On the way to building your resume, it makes sense to start searching for a job site for applying. Visit our guide on Best Job Search Sites.

3. Always Mention the Certifying Authority

There are zillions of certifications happening around the world.

But a certification from a renowned organization holds more value.

Along with it, the certification date is also important.

Of course, the certification pursued this year holds much more important than the one taken a few years ago.

But if you mention both the certifications without saying the date, they become irrelevant to the recruiter.

Certifying authority can be mentioned with the location and date using a separator.

4. Follow a Reverse Chronological Order

Certification should be listed in reverse chronological order, as given in the example.

This makes it easy for the recruiter to scan the resume for the latest certifications and quickly decide.

Let us see this image:

Also Read: How to write a reverse chronological resume in 2022?

Mistakes to Avoid When Adding Certifications on Resume

1. adding expired certificate.

Don’t add an expired certification on your resume, and it takes away valuable space.

2. Don’t Use Certificate Acronyms

Always add the full name of your certificate at least once before abbreviating. It improves your chances of passing the ATS system.

3. Including irrelevant certificates

Do not include an irrelevant certificate in the resume. It does not help you in getting the job.

Certifications Lists for Different Profiles

Not all certifications are worth your time. While many others reinforce your skillset and multiply your chances of landing the interview.

Let’s walk through an easy certifications list to include in your resume.

BLS Certification on Resume

The Americal Red Cross offers a Basic Life Support or BLS certification to the candidates. This certification teaches candidates the technics of basic life-saving measures.

This certification addresses that you are a responsible citizen and willing to help people.

Here is a BLS certification on resume example:

CERTIFICATION

• BLS Certification
• Americal Red Cross, April 2020- February 2022

Also Read: How to write a nursing resume in 2022?

FEMA Certification on Resume

The Federal Emergency Management Certificate or FEMA is another necessary certificate, best for candidates who are interested in emergency management. There are a series of courses and certifications. Some have an expiry date, and some don’t.

When you add FEMA certification to your resume, make sure to add Emergency Management Institute(EMI) as the accrediting body.

Here’s a FEMA Certification on resume example:

• Professional Development Series,
• Emergency Management Institute, September 2020

Also Read: How to write a management consultant resume?

CPR Certification on Resume

CPR certification in a resume is not only for medical professionals. It’s also an essential certification for teachers.

Here is how to put CPR certification on your resume:

CPR Certified, Americal Red Cross, April 2018 - February 2020

However, don’t add the information if you are applying for a job that doesn’t require it, for instance, Account management. Since it’s not relevant, you are better off without that certification on your resume.

Note : The CPR certification is only valid for two years. And make sure your certification is valid before putting it on your resume.

Certifications to Put on Resume: Google Certifications

• Google Developers Certification
• Data Engineering Certification
• Associate Cloud Engineer
• Professional Cloud Architect
• Professional Data Engineer
• Digital Marketing Certification
• AdWords Certification
• Mobile Advertising assessment
• Display Advertising assessment
• Shopping Advertising assessment
• Video Advertising assessment
• Google Analytics Academy
• Google For Education Training Center
• Machine Learning Crash Course
• Associate Android Developer
• Mobile Web Specialist
• Google Cloud Certified - Professional Data Engineer
• Google Cloud Certified - Associate Cloud Engineer

Also Read: How to write an IT resume?

Certifications to Put on Resume: Marketing Resume

Certifications to get into the marketing world are:

• Hubspot Email marketing certification
• AMA’s digital marketing certification
• Bing Ads accredited professional certification
• Pragmatic Marketing certification
• Digital Marketing certifications
• Google Adwords Certifications
• Google Analytics Individual Qualification
• HubSpot Inbound Certification

Also Read: How to write a marketing resume in 2022?

Certifications to Put on Resume: IT Resume

IT professionals can command a better salary by getting trained and certified in systems, networking, cloud computing, and cybersecurity.

If you are in technical sales, then certifications from Microsoft, Cisco, Apple, and VMware would make sense.

Below are some of the certifications to get into the IT world which would help you climb the career ladder.

• Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA)
• Microsoft Certified Solutions Expert (MCSE)

Resume certificates for the following job profiles:

• Systems Engineer
• Systems Manager
• Systems Administrator
• Field Systems Technician

Certified Information Systems Auditor (CISA)

• Information Technology Auditor
• Security Analyst
• Systems Auditor

Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP)

• Security analyst
• Information security analyst

AWS Certified Solutions Architect – Associate

• Cloud Architect
• Cloud Manager
• Cloud Administrator

Certified in Risk and Information Systems Control (CRISC)

Also Read: How to write a system analyst resume in 2022?

Certifications List for Business Analyst Resume

IIBA happens to be a global BA certifying body.

These are some globally recognized lists of certifications to get which will take you ahead in the analytical industry:

• IIBA Certification of Competency in Business Analysis (CCBA)
• IREB Certified Professional for Requirements Engineering (CPRE)
• PMI-Professional in Business Analysis (PBA) Certification
• CBAP (Certified Business Analysis Professional) for professionals with over five years of experience in the industry
• Entry Certificate in Business Analysis is best for freshers

Certifications List for Operations Resume

If you are an Operations maverick, it would surely make sense to take note of the certifications to get in the Operations domain:

• Six Sigma Certification
• Certification in International Supply Chain Professional (CISCP)
• Certification in International Transportation and Logistics (CITL)
• Certification in Warehousing
• Certification in Strategic Operations

Certifications List for HR Resume

These are the Certifications to get into the HR industry:

• Certification in PHR®: Professional in Human Resources
• Certification in SPHR®: Senior Professional in Human Resources
• Certification in SHRM-CP: SHRM Certified Professional
• Certification in SPHRi®: Senior Professional in Human Resources — International
• Certification in PRHi®: Professional in Human Resources — International
• Certification in GPHR®: Global Professional in Human Resources

Where to Put Certification on Resume?

This question holds a lot of importance because the recruiter gives just 6 seconds to the resume.

The certifications section could be placed in a resume just after the Education section to make more sense as certification is part of education.

But, to play it smartly, you can add up a certification in your career summary to highlight it in the best possible way.

Let us look at this summary:-

In this example, this operations manager has very smartly highlighted the six sigma certification in the resume summary.

It is not to say that this certification will not go on the certification list on the resume.

But it is to play it correctly to make the maximum impact on the recruiter.

Accredited Certifications

Certifications surely help potential employers know your worth.

But these days, there are millions of institutions and education bodies offering millions of certificates.

In this huge gamut of certifications, recruiters place importance on only those certifications which are accredited.

Accredited certifications are backed by standard and reputed authorities.

These authorities are like the ISO of products and services.

You can get a fair idea of accredited online certifications on this link .

FAQs Around Certifications on Resume

Q. when should i not list my certifications on resume.

You can skip adding certification to a resume if the certification is not relevant to the job you are applying for.

Q. What Other sections Can You List on Your Resume?

There are a lot of sections that you can add to your resume. Such as:

• Awards & Honors
• Accomplishments
• Volunteer Experience
• Extra-curricular Experience
• Hobbies & Interests
• Training & Conferences

Q. Should You List Online Course Certifications on Resume?

Absolutely! If the online course is relevant for the job you’re applying for, then you should include it in your resume.

Online courses can help you get noticed, especially if you are a fresher.

However, make sure to keep the certification list conscious and write it in a separate section.

Key Takeaways

Now that we have all the knowledge about how to write certification on a resume, here are the key takeaways:

• Add certifications that give you a skill relevant to your recruiter
• Add certifications in a separate section in the resume
• Certifications are not training. And, they are different from technical skills as well.

Go to Hiration career platform , which has 24/7 chat support, and get professional assistance with all your job & career-related queries.

You can also write to us at [email protected] .

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3 career tips from Google Career Certificate graduates

Jan 05, 2023

[[read-time]] min read

Are New Year’s resolutions made to be broken? Sometimes it feels that way. After all, total transformation might seem like a lot of pressure to put on 365 days. But when it comes to finding your ideal career, a year is plenty of time. In fact, Google Career Certificates are specifically designed to quickly help people jumpstart their careers in fast-growing fields like data analytics, IT support and project management.

Enrolling is a great first step, but it’s only the beginning. Once you begin working through the program, challenges may come up and lead you to doubt yourself. Obligations arise. Responsibilities fight for your time. In short, life happens.

We asked three Google Career Certificate graduates how they faced challenges like these, and they offered tips, advice and strategies for earning your certificate and finding your dream job.

Hundreds of thousands of Google Career Certificates graduates have gained new career skills through the program. If learning new skills or making a career change happens to be your goal this year, explore our certificates at grow.google/certificates .

1. Be intentional with your time.

After spending four years as a teacher, Megan Barrick realized the profession wasn’t for her. However, she says, “It can be really challenging to focus on changing careers when you’re currently stuck in a position you don’t love.”

Fortunately, Megan discovered her teaching skills could easily transfer into a project management role. She enrolled in the Google Project Management Certificate , which gave her the flexibility to learn while simultaneously working, managing her household and applying for new jobs.

She mentioned her certificate completion date in her applications, which caught an employer’s attention. Right before completing the certificate, she was offered a position as program manager at a higher salary than she expected.

“Take a look at how you spend your downtime and create habits that will help you reach your goals,” Megan recommends. “I spent a lot of my downtime scrolling mindlessly through social media. By becoming more intentional with my time, I could make progress in my course every day.”

2. Be patient with yourself (and the course).

Before immigrating to the U.S., Sagar Mehta worked as an analyst at a prestigious consulting firm in India. Despite his background, he found it hard to find a similar position in his new country. “I didn’t have a degree or a professional certificate from the U.S., so it was difficult to show companies why I was the best fit for a role,” he says.

After taking a job in the automotive industry, he eventually found his way back to data analytics through the Google Data Analytics Certificate program. He had to take several breaks in his studies due to caregiving responsibilities, but he persevered and completed the program within a year.

During interviews, employers would acknowledge his Google Career Certificate, and Sagar finally felt his skills were appreciated. In the end, he landed a data analytics role at his dream company.

When asked for his tips on finding motivation to complete the program, Sagar says, “As the course progresses, you might take longer to understand things. Don’t let this demotivate you, and don’t try to finish the course ASAP. Instead, set a goal to spend a certain amount of time each day, week, or month to learn.”

3. Be your biggest advocate.

As a visual merchandiser who designed in-store displays, Devyn Brown’s livelihood depended on people coming into shops — a factor the pandemic radically altered. After researching career options, he realized his experience made him a prime candidate for a more sustainable career in user experience (UX) design.

Devyn finished the Google UX Design Certificate program in eight weeks, but his greatest challenge was entering a new industry. “I started out not really feeling confident because I thought I was at the bottom of the candidate list,” he says.

Despite these concerns, Devyn was able to push past uncertainty by using his existing skills, which helped him land a job as an accessibility product designer at a software company. “A big part of design — or any industry — is having soft skills, and those are transferable from most jobs,” he says.

Devyn’s piece of advice to other learners is to shake off self-doubt. “Everyone has imposter syndrome at some point, even the people you’re interviewing with. Advocate for yourself and have confidence.”

Related stories

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How to Correctly List Certifications on a Resume in 2024 (With Examples)

Follow our step-by-step guide and resume examples to learn how to correctly include certifications on your resume. Make your candidacy stand out and land the interview.

Introduction to resume certifications

It’s more obvious that resumes need to include work experience and education. But listing certifications on your resume correctly can be a bit fuzzy.

Getting certified in something normally involves completing an accredited institution’s course and passing its requirements. The types of certificates vary across industries, from technical jobs to healthcare jobs.

In this article, we’ll show you step by step how to correctly put certifications on your resume to make your candidacy stand out. Specifically, we’ll take a look at a few resume examples to learn:

• What types of certifications you have?
• Which certifications to include on your resume?
• Where to put those certifications on your resume?

Beautiful resume templates to land your dream job

Why are certifications important?

Different than honors and awards, certifications may have to be to included on your resume, depending on the industry you’re applying to.

Hiring managers often use Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) to filter out resumes and narrow the pool of applicants. Therefore, certifications may be the key to beat ATS systems and make your resume more attractive than the competition.

What types of certifications should be included on a resume?

The first and most important step is to thoroughly read the job description. If you haven't looked at any job listings yet, search for jobs in your industry to find some. Let’s go over the various types of certifications you may find in the job description before figuring out where to put them on your resume.

1. Required Certifications on a Resume

Many professions require its employees to hold certain licenses or certifications. According to the BLS , over 65% of people employed in legal occupations hold licenses and certificates. 76% of Healthcare practitioners hold licenses and certifications.

Some professions may require more than one certificate. For examples, lawyers that have passed the bar need to indicate membership of a state’s bar. The job description will usually make required certifications clear. These certifications need to be listed on your resume.

Do you work in Nursing, Accounting, or Finance? These industries typically require licenses and certifications.

2. Recommended Certifications on a Resume

Employers often use certifications as a resume filter to narrow the pool of applicants. Some certifications can give employers more confidence that a candidate has the right qualifications for the job. For example, the IT Profession has many certificates that prove proficiency in network engineering.

Employers sometimes even compile statistics and report on the number of employees with particular qualifications. Listing highly desired certificates is a very effective way to make your resume stand out. Especially if you’re an entry level candidate or student!

Recommended certificates can sometimes be found in the job description.

3. Optional Certifications on a Resume

This category of certificates are usually not part of the employer’s resume filter criteria. However, including credible certificates can greatly improve your chances of winning an interview. Especially in those few seconds that employers look at your resume before deciding to either continue reading or toss the resume out.

Optional certificates might be very effective for college students as well as those changing careers. These certifications may also be a way to stand out if you're applying in industries such as Architecture and Engineering, where only 24% of those employed hold certifications .

If presented correctly, including optional certifications, such as those acquired from online courses or universities, can be a strategic way to get noticed and land an interview. As long as it’s relevant to the job, some optional certifications may appear as highly desirable.

Should online courses be included on a resume?

Have you acquired certifications through completing an online course? Even if they’re optional, these certifications can be a great addition to your resume. Even if they’re not listed in the job description.

Remember, the point of certificates on your resume is to prove to employers that you’re a qualified candidate. Therefore, certificates from online courses should only be included on your resume if they meet the following criteria:

1. The certificate is relevant to the position you’re applying to.

Example of relevant certifications for a software engineering candidate.

Incorrect — " Certification in Accounting"

Correct — " Certification in Full Stack Web Development, Full Stack Academy "

2. The certification is credible.

Ideally, the certificate is obtained by a credible institution that the employer would recognize. The more credible the certificate issuer, the more valuable the earned certificate.

Example of Credible certifications for a software engineering candidate

Incorrect — " Certification in Algorithms & Data Structures by Random YouTube Channel"

Correct — " Certification in Algorithms & Data Structures by Harvard University"

3. Save resume space for the most important information.

Listing online courses doesn’t take up valuable space on your resume that could instead be filled with actual relevant experience. Let’s get to that in a bit.

Online courses, such as those taken on Coursera or Udemy, should be carefully assessed using the above checklist. In addition, it’s more important to surface the backing institution (Penn State, Georgia Tech, etc.) than the actual platform the course was taken on (Udemy, Coursera, etc.).

Taking an online course that doesn’t necessarily yield official certifications may still be useful for advancing your career. Although not required, taking courses can show interest in a particular field. This can be especially useful to candidates targeting a job that requires skills not highlighted by the rest of your resume.

Some online courses only help demonstrate part of the required proficiency. These can be left out of your resume along with any others that aren’t taught by a well known institution. Lessons taught by the less official online courses can still be useful. For example, they would be great talking points with prospective employers. Save the valuable space on your resume!

Specify certified qualifications only

Incorrect — " Online Course on Javascript 101"

Correct — " Coding Boot Camp, Columbia Engineering 2019"

Actual examples of projects you’ve worked on are far more attractive to employers than just having a certificate in something. So maybe you can turn your learnings from an online javascript course into an actual javascript project that you can talk about with employers. Experience creating tangible results is always preferred over just certifications. Especially if you can work on these projects on the side in your own time.

In summary, you should include online courses on your resume that:

• Not only teaches you about the subject, but also guides you in producing real results that can be shown to employers
• Relevant to the position you’re applying to
• Certified by a credible institution or well known thought leader

How should certifications be listed on a resume?

Here’s information about a license or certificate that employers expect to see on a resume:

• Full Name of Certification (not just abbreviation)
• Name of Certifying Organization
• Date of Certification Obtainment and Expiration (If Applicable)
• Location (Optional)

Don't include just the abbreviation - Nurse Example

Incorrect — " CPN, 2019"

Correct — " Certified Pediatric Nurse (CPN) - 2019"

Specify official certifications only - Lawyer Example

Incorrect — " Passed the Bar in Ohio, 2019"

Correct — " Ohio State Bar, 2019"

Use the actual certification name

Incorrect — "Certified in Accounting"

Correct — "Certified Public Accountant (CPA)"

Where should certifications be listed on a resume?

By now, you should have identified required, recommended, and optional certifications to include on your resume. Placement of certifications on your resume is a vital step to make your resume stand out from the crowd of applicants. Especially as employers narrow the candidate pool by filtering resumes with Application Tracking Software!

Depending on the type of job and significance of the certification, there are 4 sections on your resume where you should include certifications.

Certifications in Contact Info on your Resume

The contact info section on your resume is the best place to put required certifications. This section is also the best place to include official credentials. It’s common practice for lawyers, doctors, dentists, accountants and others to include their credentials next to their name. See how that’s done in this nurse resume example :

Certifications in the Resume Objective

The resume summary, or resume objective, section is a great place to include required as well as recommended certifications. It’s best practice to only include only one certification in this section. The majority of this space should be used to describe your resume objective .

Take a look at this tax accountant resume example to see how she talks about her credentials in her resume objective.

Certifications in a Dedicated section on your Resume

For listing more than two certifications, we recommend creating a dedicated section on your resume. A resume format with a dedicated section works great for listing all relevant certificates - required, recommended, and optional.

We recommend taking advantage of this especially if you’re a licensed lawyer, doctor, accountant, or a student seeking an entry-level position!

Be sure to list certificates in its own section in reverse-chronological order . To improve chances of appearing after an ATS scan, place the dedicated sections right underneath the experiences section.

This works wonders for candidates applying to industries such as Information Technology. Take a look at how this IT Specialist resume example lists certifications in an easily noticeable dedicated section.

Certifications in a Minor section on your Resume

Do you need more space on your resume, like people with a lot of work experience? Another resume format that works great is a a small dedicated certificates section. This smart resume space-saving tactic is especially effective when the section is placed in the smaller column of a 2-column resume template .

Putting certifications in a side section is highly recommended for certificates that you’ve classified as optional. Or if you can fill major space on your resume with relevant experiences.

This data analyst resume example shows how strategic placement of a small dedicated Certifications section creates more room for the experience section.

Mistakes to avoid when listing Certifications on your Resume

• Listing Old or expired certifications. Use these more of a talking point instead of taking precious resume space. For example, it’s better to mention that 4 year old Machine Learning certification to an employer in conversation. Always prioritize bullet points that you want to communicate in your resume.
• Only using Certification Acronyms - Make sure you actually fully list out the certification name at least once before abbreviating. This greatly improves your chances of passing an ATS scan.
• Including irrelevant certificates.

Including certifications on your resume can be a very effective way to make your resume stand out from the crowd. To recap, the steps to follow to include certifications on your resume:

• Thoroughly read job descriptions
• Identify required and recommended certificates.
• Place selected certificates on your resume accordingly

Easy Resume’s customizable resume templates are designed and optimized for listing both required and recommend certifications on your resume. Save hours of time reinventing your own resume format to include certifications. Get your resume ready in minutes with our free resume builder .

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Certifications on a Resume: How to Highlight Them the Right Way (+ Examples)

3 Key Takeaways

• Certifications are credentials organizations or institutions give after you successfully complete a specific assessment, training program, or online course.
• There are several types of certifications you can list on your resume to validate your expertise.
• With Teal's Resume Builder , you can add certifications to your resume while maintaining a clear, organized resume structur

You've spent the time (and quite possibly the money) working through certification courses to boost your skillset, increase marketability, and deepen your knowledge in specific areas. And especially if you don't have extensive professional experience, these certifications are extremely valuable assets—highlighting the incredible knowledge you possess.

So beyond that nifty LinkedIn feature that lets you showcase your latest accomplishment, what other ways can you effectively leverage your shiny new certificate?

One approach is including your certification on a resume. 

Certifications on resumes can help you align your credentials to the qualifications prospective employers are looking for. In fact, they can play a crucial role in illustrating your expertise and commitment to professional development—differentiating you in today's job market. 

But where do you list certifications to your resume? And how do you know if they're relevant to that position you have your eye on?

Understanding certifications on a resume

Certifications are official credentials organizations or institutions give after a person successfully completes a specific assessment, training program, or online course. 

Think of them as a kind of trophy or medal in the world of professional expertise. 

Across industries, certifications are significant because they validate competency or proficiency in specific tasks or technologies, especially where specialized knowledge is crucial (for example, IT, healthcare, finance, project management, language proficiency, etc.). They also:

• Promote career advancement 
• Align with industry standards 
• Offer job seekers a competitive advantage 
• Showcase credibility and increase trust 

Using certifications to boost your resume

Much like including projects in your resume , adding certifications helps highlight your skills and impact—elevating your professional profile. 

Especially if you have limited experience or are early in your career, including relevant certifications on your resume can significantly increase your chances of getting noticed by hiring managers, recruiters, and prospective employers as a candidate with the knowledge or skills that might be required to be successful in a particular role. 

In addition to highlighting your skills, relevant certifications can help align your qualifications (and resume!) with the requirements of specific roles. 

To determine whether or not a role you're applying for requires a certification, read the job description carefully. Look for keywords indicating "mandatory" or "required" qualifications. 

Pro Tip: Teal's Job Application Tracker and Resume Builder help extract the most important keywords from a job description so you can tailor your resume with the most relevant certifications for every job you apply to.

Finally, as an added bonus, listing certifications on your resume also fills experience gaps by demonstrating a commitment to learning and self-improvement in your field—increasing your potential and highlighting your willingness to invest in your future and career. (Way to go!) 

Types of certifications on resumes

Professional certifications .

Professional certifications are credentials awarded by recognized organizations or associations (think Scrum Alliance, Amazon Web Services, and CompTIA).

These credentials validate skills and expertise in a particular occupation or industry. Professionals often pursue these certifications to upskill, enhance careers, and establish credibility. 

Some examples of professional certifications are things like:

• Certified Public Accountant (CPA)
• Project Management Professional (PMP), 
• Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP)
• Google Analytics Individual Qualification (IQ)

Academic certifications

Educational institutions grant academic certifications at various educational levels (from undergraduate to postgraduate) to indicate the successful completion of a specific academic program or course. For example, Purdue University offers a postgraduate certificate in Cybersecurity.

Think of them like a minor to your major—complementing your primary focus. These credentials demonstrate proficiency in a particular subject or area of study. 

Some examples of academic certificates are:

• University of California, Berkeley: Data Science
• New York University (NYU): Certificate in Digital Marketing 
• University: University of Pennsylvania: Social Impact Strategy 
• University of Texas at Austin: Business Foundations 
• Georgetown University: Leadership Coaching

Technical certifications

Technical certifications focus on validating skills and knowledge related to specific technologies, tools, or software. And they're particularly prevalent in the IT industry (for instance, programming languages, cybersecurity, cloud computing, networking, and database management).

Keep in mind technical certifications aren't just limited to entry-level positions; they hold significance for professionals at any stage in their careers.

Examples of technical certifications include:

• AWS Certified Solutions Architect
• Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA)
• Microsoft Certified Azure Administrator
• Oracle Certified Java Programmer (OCP)

Industry-specific certifications

Professionals working in specialized fields or sectors can pursue industry-specific certifications. And these cater to the unique requirements and standards of particular industries—like the healthcare industry has job critical resume certifications for medical professionals like Registered Nurses (RN), Certified Medical Assistants (CMA), and more.

Industry-specific certifications serve a distinct purpose, and people often pursue multiple certifications to strengthen their expertise and differentiate themselves further in today's competitive job market. 

Some industry-specific certifications are:

• Certified ScrumMaster (CSM)
• Certified Digital Marketing Professional (CDMP)
• Certified Financial Planner (CFP)
• Certified Pharmacy Technician (CPhT) 
• Certified Professional in Supply Management (CPSM)

How to list certifications on a resume

When listing certifications on a resume, there are a few ways to draw attention to your credentials while keeping a clear, concise, and organized structure.

Where to put certifications on a resume

The most common ways to list certifications on a resume are in a dedicated "Certification" section. You can also use your "Education" section (particularly if you have academic certificates). 

Using one of these dedicated sections presents your credentials in a scannable format, making it easy for a hiring manager, recruiter, and prospective employer to get a high-level overview of your additional qualifications.

Of course, if you need more space, you can also incorporate certifications throughout different sections of your resume to highlight your areas of specialized expertise. (For example, you can start your resume summary with something like "Certified PMP with 7 years of experience.")

Step-by-step guide for how to write certifications on a resume

When it comes to adding certifications on resumes, it's slightly different than listing your projects and their impact or adding extracurricular activities to your resume . 

With certifications, there are three steps you want to take to ensure you include the necessary information

Step 1: Add the name of the certification, and in parentheses, use any common acronyms or abbreviations it may be known by (such as CPA, CFA, or CISSP). 

Step 2: List the certifying agency using the complete business, institution, or organization name. (For example, use "Indiana University" rather than "IU," and "Project Management Institute" rather than "PMI.")

Step 3: Include the start date and end date or date of completion. Be sure to follow the same date format for each. So MM/DD/YEAR, Month, Date, Year, etc.

How you format your certifications in either section is up to you, but be mindful that they should each follow the same structure. 

So, if you list the certification first, the provider second, and the date third using a repeat that for each certificate. The same goes for the white space between each certification and whether or not you use bullet points. Just be consistent. 

Certifications on resume samples

To get a clear picture of the best methods for adding certifications to a resume, check out the these resume examples across roles, industries, and seniority level below. 

“Certification” section example for devops engineer

• Certified Kubernetes Administrator (CKA) | Cloud Native Computing Foundation (CNCF) | June 2023
• AWS Certified DevOps Engineer - Professional | Amazon Web Services| October 2022
• Certified Jenkins Engineer | CloudBees, Inc. | August 2021
• Docker Certified Associate (DCA) | Docker, Inc. | March 2022

Certification section example for copywriter:

• Google Ads - Search Advertising Certification

Google - 5/23

• HubSpot Content Marketing Certification

HubSpot Academy - 7/22

• Copyblogger Certified Content Marketer

Copyblogger - 11/21

Certification section example for administrative assistant:

• Microsoft Office Specialist (MOS) - Word/Excel/Outlook

Date of Completion: September 2022

Issued by: Microsoft

• Professional Administrative Certificate (PAC)

Date of Completion: December 2021

Issued by: International Association of Administrative Professionals (IAAP)

• Certified Administrative Professional (CAP)

Date of Completion: August 2023

Issued by: IAAP

Certification in Education section example for brand strategist

• Master of Marketing and Communication New York University (NYU), New York City
• Graduation Date: December 2020
• NYU School of Professional Studies Branding Certificate
• Date of Completion: August 2021
• Issued by: New York University (NYU) School of Professional Studies

Certification in Education section example for graphic designer 

• Bachelor of Fine Arts in Graphic Design Rhode Island School of Design (RISD) | 2019
• Rhode Island School of Design (RISD) Advanced Graphic Design Certificate | Rhode Island School of Design (RISD) | 2020 
• UI/UX Design Certification | Interaction Design Foundation (IDF) |2021

Certification in Education section example for data analyst 

• Bachelor of Science in Statistics University of Texas at Austin, May 2022
• University of Texas at Austin Data Analytics Certificate - University of Texas at Austin, December 2022

Certification in Education section example for back-end engineer 

• Bachelor of Science in Computer Science Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT)

Anticipated Graduation Date: May 2024

• MIT Professional Education Software Development Certificate

Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) 

Date of Completion: May 2023

Certification in a professional resume summary example for back-end engineer:

Highly skilled Back-end Engineer with 5 years of experience designing and developing robust and scalable back-end systems. Proficient in Java and Spring Framework. AWS Certified Developer with a proven track record of deploying and managing microservices architecture for cloud-based applications.

Certification in a professional resume summary example for remote customer service :

Customer-centric Remote Customer Service Specialist with 3 years of experience providing exceptional customer support. Certified in Zendesk Support and skilled in resolving complex inquiries across multiple communication channels. Demonstrated ability to maintain high customer satisfaction levels while working remotely.

Certification in a professional resume summary example for data analyst:

Data Analyst with a strong analytical mindset and 4 years of experience in data manipulation and visualization. Proficient in SQL and Python. Google Analytics Certified with a history of generating actionable insights to optimize business performance and drive growth.

Certifications for entry-level roles:

• Microsoft Office Specialist (MOS) - Word/Excel/PowerPoint
• CompTIA IT Fundamentals+
• Google Ads - Fundamentals
• HubSpot Inbound Marketing Certification
• Salesforce Certified Administrator
• Hootsuite Social Media Marketing Certification
• Google Analytics Individual Qualification (GAIQ)
• Amazon Web Services (AWS) Certified Cloud Practitioner
• ITIL Foundation Certification

Certifications for mid-level roles:

• Project Management Professional (PMP)
• Microsoft Certified Azure Administrator Associate
• Certified Data Professional (CDP)
• Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH)
• Tableau Desktop Specialist
• AWS Certified Solutions Architect - Associate
• Certified Agile Project Manager (IAPM)
• Google Analytics Advanced Certification

Certifications for senior-level roles:

• Certified Information Security Manager (CISM)
• AWS Certified Solutions Architect - Professional
• Certified Scrum Professional (CSP)
• Google Ads - Display Advertising Certification
• Microsoft Certified: Azure Solutions Architect Expert
• Certified Business Continuity Professional (CBCP)
• Data Management Association Certified Data Management Professional (CDMP)
• Certified Chief Information Security Officer (CCISO)

By no means are these examples exhaustive. There are hundreds of thousands of online courses with certifications available for almost any role and professional level. How you choose which certifications you're interested in will ultimately depend on your interests, goals, and the specific requirements of the job market. 

Common mistakes to avoid when listing certifications on a resume

Now that you understand the significance of resume certifications let's take a look at some things you should avoid when listing certificates on a resume. 

Listing irrelevant certifications

Even if you have minimal work experience, don't list certifications certifications that aren't related to the job you're applying for can clutter your resume and distract from the qualifications that matter. (For example, your cpr certification might not be as relevant as your human resource management certification if you're applying to a role at a remote tech company.)

The only caveat is that if a certification demonstrates a transferable skill or an area of knowledge that might interest a prospective employer, it may be worth including.

Not providing enough information

Neglecting to include essential details like the certifying organization, year received, and what skills or knowledge the certification covers can hurt your credibility. This additional information also helps employers understand the relevance of (and the effort you put into) your credentials.

Misrepresenting or exaggerating certifications

Honesty is vital on a resume. Don't say you've obtained a professional certification or completed a course if you're still in progress or only partially completed it (unless you explicitly state that this is the case). Also, you should never list certifications you don't have.

Misrepresenting your qualifications can have negative consequences on your professional reputation and career. Remember, to hire you; companies also have to trust you. (And on't forget to check for an expiration date!)

Not tailoring your certifications to each job application

The certificates you list on your resume might change depending on the job you're applying for. Make sure to highlight the credentials that are most relevant to each specific job description.

How Teal's AI Resume Builder can help

Teal's resume maker offers intuitive features that make creating a professional resume with certifications a streamlined (and tailored!) process. 

With Teal, you can list certifications, other relevant skills, and experience seamlessly in whatever section you choose, including a dedicated "Certification" section—making them highly visible to prospective employers.

But before you get started, make sure you list certifications that align with the role you're applying for. 

Teal's Job Application Tracker automatically highlights the important keywords and skills required for a role you're interested in. By cross-referencing these keywords with your certifications, you can determine which qualifications are worth emphasizing on your resume.

Maximize your resume's impact with certifications and Teal

Your certifications represent your expertise and commitment to professional growth.

And regardless of your experience or where you're at in your career, showcasing them on your resume grabs the attention of the hiring manager or recruiter—drawing attention to the time you've spent honing your skills and investing in your career.

With Teal's suite of tools, you can ensure your certifications are highlighted and tailored to the specific job you're applying for—making your resume (and qualifications!) more attractive in today's market.

So don't stop here. Start adding certifications to your resume with Teal today !

Frequently Asked Questions

Should i include certifications that are not directly related to the job i'm applying for, how do i decide the order in which to list my certifications, can i include online course certifications on my resume, and how should they be presented.

Kayte Grady

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How to Add Coursera Credentials to Your Resume

January 19, 2021

Download this Guide in PDF format

Congratulations on completing your Coursera course or program! It’s now time to let the world know about your new skills and accomplishments. 

The first thing to remember as you begin the process of determining how best to feature your achievements on your resume, is that a resume is a tool you can use to showcase your unique talents, skills, and experience. It is not some fixed and locked template that you have to figure out how to squeeze yourself into. 

A resume is made up of different sections, each of which can be optimized to present yourself in the best light possible. Adding a new credential is a part of the process, but there are also additional ways that you can highlight your newfound skills and demonstrate the value you can bring to an organization. Here are some key things to consider about your Coursera training as you prepare to update your resume:

• What did you learn?  Be specific about the skills you learned on Coursera. Recruiters and hiring managers need to know exactly what functions you’re able to perform so they can determine if you’re a good fit for the job.
• What are you proud of?  Completing Coursera courses and earning credentials can be hard work, and the ability to persevere in the face of challenges is a very valuable skill. Make sure to communicate not just what you achieved, but what you had to do to get there. Demonstrating self-motivation, work ethic, and tenacity is a great way to show employers you’re the right choice for the role.
• What is most important for the reader to know?  Employers may or may not be familiar with Coursera or the specific course or program you’ve completed. Consider what they need to know about the program in order to be able to evaluate your learnings and accomplishments, and add additional information as necessary to make it clear what you learned, how you learned it, and how you applied what you learned.

Once you know what you want to communicate to employers about your Coursera experience, you can determine which resume sections are best suited to conveying that information. Below is a list of the major resume sections you’ll want to use, with guidance on how to optimize each section.

Education section

Depending on the type of credential you’ve earned, you may have questions about where to place it on your resume—should you list it under Education, or in a different section such as Training and Certifications? 

Unless there is a specific reason not to, you should list Coursera credentials in your Education section. 

One reason why you might want to make an exception is if your previously earned academic credentials are in a field unrelated to the role you’re pursuing. In that case, it can be advantageous to separately highlight your Coursera credential at the top of your resume, to make clear your current focus to anyone reading your resume. But in most cases, Education is the appropriate location.

When adding Coursera credentials to this section, you should follow the standard best practices for listing education on your resume and include the following information:

• Name . This is the official title of the course or program you completed.  Example: Big Data MasterTrack(™) Certificate, Digital Marketing Analytics Course, Master of Computer Science
• Education provider . This is the name of the university or industry partner who created the course or program. Example: University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, IBM
• Completion date
• GPA  (degrees only)
• Summary . Here, you’ll want to include a short overview of the program so that those not familiar with Coursera will understand what was covered. Example: Four-course program covering health system development, policy and research, health service delivery, human resources for health; includes a hands-on Capstone project.

Skills section

The Skills section is usually located above the Professional Experience section of your resume. An employer should be able to read this section and easily determine that you’re qualified for the role, so make sure to include the job-relevant skills you’ve learned on Coursera.

For a non-technical role, the Skills sections can consist of 4-8 short bullets detailing your core skills (also known as Areas of Expertise) organized in two or three columns. Focus on quantifiable skills like copywriting, agile project management, Google Analytics, or sales funnel management. 

For a technical role, the Skills list can be longer and be organized by type, i.e., software, programming languages, hardware, data analytics, or any other categories that apply.

Projects section

This is where you want to feature any job-relevant projects you’ve completed on Coursera. Projects are a great way to demonstrate to employers what you can accomplish using your skills, especially if you are starting a new career and don’t have other professional experience. 

When including a Projects section, always focus on what’s most important for the employer:

• List out a maximum of 3-5 projects. You want to avoid overwhelming the reader with too much information.
• Summarize each project, explain the context, and include numbers to show the scope. When applicable, link out to additional information on the projects, such as your Github repository.
• Include measurable outcomes to demonstrate your accomplishments. 

Don’t worry if you haven’t completed any projects as part of your Coursera coursework. It’s not a requirement that you have them. However, it is important to remember that any time you can demonstrate your real-world skills, you should try to do so. What you want is to convince a potential employer that you already have the skills and experience to perform the role you’re applying for.

Other sections

If the information you wanted to communicate to the employers doesn’t fit under the Education, Skills, or Projects sections, consider other existing or additional resume sections, such as Summary, Accomplishments, Hobbies and Interests, etc. 

Remember that the resume structure should support the information you want to communicate. As long as you follow the standard  best practices for resume writing , you can add and organize sections in whatever way allows you to clearly tell your story.

Learning on Coursera is an excellent way to master job-ready skills, earn valuable credentials, and advance your career. Your resume is how you’ll showcase these accomplishments to recruiters and hiring managers, as well as your network. It’s important to present your skills and experience in the best light possible, and in a way that makes it easy for potential employers to see that you’re the right candidate for the job. When you’re able to clearly demonstrate how learning on Coursera has prepared you for success in your target role, you can be sure to get the kind of attention you deserve whenever you apply for a new opportunity.

Keep reading

• Curious about digital marketing? Read on
• Project management is everywhere—but what does it mean?
• The far-reaching applications of an Executive MSc in Innovation and Entrepreneurship

How To List Certifications On A Resume (Examples Included)

In This Guide:

What are certifications, why are certifications important, when to include certifications on your resume, how to list certifications on a resume, where to add certifications to your resume + examples, the most sought-after certifications for your industry, common mistakes when listing a certificate on a resume, key takeaways.

You've earned a certificate that makes you proud. It's a great idea to feature it prominently on your resume!

A certification is a badge of honor showcasing your professional growth.

Including certifications on a resume is a clever strategy to catch the eye of hiring managers because they demonstrate your qualifications and value.

But what if you lack certifications or have too many to list? How should you organize them?

This article covers:

• Key certifications to include on your resume based on your industry.
• The ideal sections to underline your certifications.
• The proper way to list certifications on your resume and the importance of doing it right.

Certifications on a resume are official proof of your skills and knowledge in a specific field.

These credentials come from professional organizations or schools and indicate that you've met industry standards. Adding certifications to your resume can help you impress employers. They show you're serious about your career and have the expertise needed for the job.

Certifications also give employers confidence in your abilities and can boost your chances of getting hired. Simply put, certifications can make your resume more open to new job opportunities.

As noted earlier, getting a certification shows you’re serious about your field and backs up your skills and experience. In essence, having a professional certification on your resume is clear evidence of your skills in a specific area. For certain roles, certifications might be a requirement for consideration.

For other positions, they add extra value that can help you shine among other qualified candidates. Here are a few good reasons why it's important to have them:

• Commitment to career growth: They demonstrate your dedication to continuous learning and professional development.
• Boost confidence: Knowing you’re officially recognized for your skills can increase your confidence.
• Stay updated: Certifications keep you up-to-date with the latest knowledge and best practices in your field.
• Personal satisfaction: Earning certifications can provide a sense of personal achievement and fulfillment.
• Enhance your resume: Certifications significantly improve your resume by showcasing your qualifications and commitment.
• Catch employers’ eyes:  They make your application stand out, increasing your chances of being noticed by hiring managers.
• Show your worth:  Certifications demonstrate that you possess the necessary skills and expertise, proving you are a valuable asset to potential employers.

Including certifications on your resume can enhance your job prospects, but knowing when to feature them is crucial for maximizing their impact. Here are some situations where you should definitely include certifications on your resume:

Relevant to the job

If the certification is directly relevant to the job you're applying for, it should be prominently featured on your resume. For example, if you're applying for a project management position and you have a PMP (Project Management Professional) certification, this should be highlighted in both your summary and work experience sections.

Required by the employer

When a job listing specifies that certain certifications are required or preferred, it’s essential to include these credentials on your resume. Include only certifications that you have. Never lie on your resume . This shows the employer that you meet their criteria and can increase your chances of getting an interview.

Industry-standard

In some industries, certifications are a standard part of career progression. For instance, in IT, certifications like CompTIA A+, Cisco’s CCNA, or Microsoft’s MCSE are often expected. Including these certifications demonstrates that you’re keeping up with industry standards.

Enhancing qualifications

Certifications can be a great way to elevate your qualifications, especially if you lack experience in a particular area. They show you’ve dedicated time to gaining the knowledge and skills necessary to excel in your field.

Career change

If you’re switching careers, certifications can help ease the transition between your previous experience and your new career path. They can prove to potential employers that you have acquired relevant skills and are serious about your new career direction. For instance, if you’re moving from marketing to data analysis, getting a Google Data Analytics Certificate shows employers you have the necessary skills and are serious about your new career.

Showcasing continuous learning

Employers value candidates who show a commitment to continuous learning and professional development. Including recent certifications on your resume can illustrate your dedication to staying updated with new skills and knowledge.

Filling employment gaps

If you have gaps in your employment history, listing certifications earned during those periods can help explain how you used that time productively. It shows that you were proactive in improving your skills and staying engaged in your field.

Boosting credibility

Certifications can add credibility to your resume, especially from well-known and respected organizations. They can serve as third-party validation of your capabilities.

Underlining specific talents

Certifications are an excellent way to underscore specific talents that are relevant to the job. For example, if the job requires expertise in graphic design, featuring a certification in Adobe Creative Suite can highlight your creative talents and technical skills.

A certification is an investment in your future success.

Warren Buffett

Adding certifications to your resume is a smart way to show employers you have the expertise and dedication they're looking for. Certifications are proof that you’ve taken the time to learn and master specific skills. Below, you’ll find the best way to list them:

• Start with the certification title:  State the full name of the certification so it's easily recognized by employers. For example, write Project Management Professional (PMP) to ensure clarity.
• Mention the issuing organization: Provide the name of the institution that awarded the certification. This adds credibility and allows employers to verify the certification if needed. For instance, Issued by Project Management Institute.
• State the date you obtained it:  Include the month and year when you earned the certification. This helps employers understand how current your knowledge and skills are. For example, Obtained in January 2021.
• Include the renewal date if applicable:  If the certification has an expiration or renewal date, be sure to list it. This shows that you maintain up-to-date credentials. For example, Valid until January 2024.
• Add any relevant details:  Provide additional information such as a credential ID or license number, especially for certifications that require verification. Mention any special achievements or honors related to the certification. For example, License No: 12345678, Achieved with Honors.

Should you include certifications in progress?

Don't hesitate to include certifications in progress on your resume! It shows employers that you're committed to growing your skills and staying up-to-date in your field. Just be sure to clearly mark them as "in progress" and include the expected completion date. This way, employers know you're actively working towards enhancing your qualifications. For example, you might list it as “Certified Data Analyst (In Progress, Expected Completion: August 2023)” to showcase your ongoing efforts and dedication.

Should you list expired certifications on a resume?

Generally, you shouldn't list expired certifications on your resume. They don't hold the same value as active ones and can be confusing. However, if the expired certification is very relevant to the job, you can include it but clearly state it's expired. If you're renewing it, mention that as well. Focus on current, valid certifications and skills to make the best impression.

Certifications can play a pivotal role in making your resume stand out from the crowd. They not only validate your skills and expertise but also demonstrate your commitment to professional development. Whether you're a seasoned professional or a recent graduate, knowing where to add certifications to your resume can significantly boost your chances of catching a recruiter's eye. But where exactly should you place these important credentials to ensure they get the attention they deserve?

In a header after your name

Placing certifications right after your name in the header is a powerful way to immediately highlight your qualifications. This is particularly effective for high-impact certifications relevant to the job you're applying for.

For example:

In a summary or objective

Including key certifications in your resume summary or objective statement ensures they are among the first things an employer sees. This can be particularly beneficial for certifications that are crucial to the role.

For instance:

In an education section

If you have a few certifications, placing them within your education section is a logical choice. This is especially relevant for certifications obtained through academic programs. It shows your continuous learning journey.

In a separate section

For those with multiple accreditations, creating a dedicated section titled "Certifications" or "Professional Certifications" is the best approach. This allows each credential to stand out and provides a clear overview of your credentials.

Here's an example:

In a cover letter

Mentioning relevant certifications in your cover letter can add weight to your application. It provides an opportunity to elaborate on how these certifications have prepared you for the role and how they align with the job requirements.

To illustrate:

In my previous role, obtaining my PMP certification has enhanced my ability to manage complex projects effectively, ensuring timely and within-budget completions.

Every job has its own set of valued certifications, showing you're skilled and dedicated to your profession. These certifications make you an attractive candidate for potential employers. We'll go over some of the top certifications that are in demand in your field. Whether you're in healthcare, IT, finance, or any other industry, there are specific certifications that can really help your job search. By underscoring these credentials, you can make a substantial difference in landing the job you want.

Certifications for the accounting and finance industry

Getting certified in the accounting and finance industry can open up more job opportunities and show off your skills. These credentials prove you have a solid grasp of important financial concepts. Well-known institutions like AICPA  and CFA Institute  offer respected certifications that can make you more attractive in the job market and help you move forward in your career.

Check out these essential certifications for thriving in accounting and finance:

• Certified Public Accountant (CPA)
• Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA)
• Certified Management Accountant (CMA)
• Certified Internal Auditor (CIA)
• Chartered Global Management Accountant (CGMA)
• Certified Financial Planner (CFP)
• Certified Fraud Examiner (CFE)
• Certified Information Systems Auditor (CISA)
• Financial Risk Manager (FRM)
• Certified Treasury Professional (CTP)

Certifications for the business and management industry

Obtaining certifications in the business and management industry can enhance your career opportunities and demonstrate your expertise. These credentials show employers that you have a solid understanding of key management principles and practices. Institutions like PMI  and Scrum Alliance  are well-known for offering top certifications in the project management field. These certifications are widely respected and can give you a competitive edge in the job market, helping you advance in your career and achieve your professional goals.

Here’s a list of key certifications for success in business and management:

• Project Management Professional (PMP)
• Certified Management Consultant (CMC)
• Certified Business Analysis Professional (CBAP)
• Lean Six Sigma Green Belt/Black Belt
• Certified Supply Chain Professional (CSCP)
• Chartered Manager (CMgr)
• Certified in Production and Inventory Management (CPIM)
• Certified ScrumMaster (CSM)
• Executive MBA (EMBA)

Certifications for the data science industry

Certifications in data science can elevate your career by proving your skills. Leading institutions such as IBM  and  Microsoft  provide well-regarded certifications in data analysis and machine learning. These credentials highlight your expertise and make you more competitive in the job market.

Take a look at these vital certifications for making it big in data science.

• Certified Analytics Professional (CAP)
• Microsoft Certified: Azure Data Scientist Associate
• Google Professional Data Engineer
• IBM Data Science Professional Certificate
• Cloudera Certified Data Scientist (CCDS)
• SAS Certified Data Scientist
• Data Science Council of America (DASCA) Senior Data Scientist (SDS)
• TensorFlow Developer Certificate
• AWS Certified Data Analytics - Specialty
• HarvardX Data Science Professional Certificate

Certifications for the design industry

For those in the design industry, certifications are essential for validating your expertise and advancing your career. These credentials show that you are well-versed in the latest design software and methodologies, making you a valuable asset to potential employers. Reputable organizations like Adobe  and Autodesk  provide certifications that validate your expertise in using design software and creating innovative solutions.

Here are the key certifications needed for success in the design industry:

• Adobe Certified Expert (ACE)
• Certified Graphic Designer (CGD)
• UX Design Professional Certificate (offered by various platforms like Coursera and edX)
• Certified Web Designer (CIW)
• Google UX Design Professional Certificate
• Apple Certified Pro (ACP) in Final Cut Pro X
• Autodesk Certified Professional (ACP)
• Interaction Design Foundation (IDF) UX Certification
• Hootsuite Social Media Marketing Certification (for design with a focus on social media)
• Sketch Certified Professional

Certifications for the engineering industry

Certifications in the engineering industry are crucial for proving your skills and advancing your career. These credentials demonstrate your mastery of key engineering tools and techniques, making you an attractive candidate. In today’s job market, high-paying technical roles in software, electrical, industrial, and mechanical engineering are highly competitive. Renowned organizations like IEEE  and ASME  offer certifications that validate your engineering expertise.

Below are the most important certifications for excelling in the engineering field:

• Professional Engineer (PE)
• Certified Engineering Technician (CET)
• Certified Manufacturing Engineer (CMfgE)
• Six Sigma Black Belt Certification
• Certified Reliability Engineer (CRE)
• Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA)
• Certified Systems Engineering Professional (CSEP)
• Microsoft Certified: Azure Solutions Architect Expert

Certifications for the food service industry

Earning certifications in the food service industry can play a pivotal role in your career development. These credentials prove your knowledge of food hygiene, culinary artistry, and management practices, making you a desirable candidate. With the industry’s competitive nature, certifications from institutions like ServSafe  and the American Culinary Federation  can help differentiate you from other applicants.

To excel in the food service industry, consider these important certifications:

• ServSafe Food Protection Manager Certification
• Certified Professional Food Manager (CPFM)
• Food Safety Manager Certification (FSMC)
• HACCP Certification (Hazard Analysis Critical Control Point)
• Certified Dietary Manager (CDM)
• Certified Foodservice Professional (CFSP)
• Nutrition and Foodservice Management (ANFP)
• Certified Culinary Professional (CCP)
• Certified Executive Chef (CEC)
• Certified Food and Beverage Executive (CFBE)

Certifications for the HR industry

Many HR specialists recognize that earning certifications is key to enhancing their ability to manage talent effectively, foster a positive workplace environment, and ensure compliance with labor laws. Success in HR extends beyond recruitment. It involves managing employee relationships and development within the organization. Certifications from professional institutions like SHRM  and HRCI  can significantly validate your expertise and appeal to potential employers.

Essential certifications for making an impact in human resources:

• Professional in Human Resources (PHR)
• Senior Professional in Human Resources (SPHR)
• SHRM Certified Professional (SHRM-CP)
• SHRM Senior Certified Professional (SHRM-SCP)
• Global Professional in Human Resources (GPHR)
• Certified Compensation Professional (CCP)
• Certified Benefits Professional (CBP)
• Certified Employee Benefits Specialist (CEBS)
• Talent Management Practitioner (TMP)
• Certified Recruitment Specialist (CRS)

Certifications for the IT industry

If you are part of the IT industry, you're in one of the most competitive fields of the 21st century. Securing IT certifications will broaden your job prospects, and listing them on your resume will certainly impress recruiters. Prestigious institutions like Cisco  and Amazon Web Services  offer widely respected certifications that can make you more competitive in the job market and support your career growth.

Here are some essential certifications for thriving in the IT industry:

• Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP)
• Amazon Web Services (AWS) Certified Solutions Architect
• Google Certified Professional Cloud Architect
• VMware Certified Professional (VCP)
• Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH)
• ITIL Foundation Certification

Certifications for the office and administration industry

In the office and administration industry, having the right certifications can be the key to moving your resume to the "call for an interview" pile. These certifications will surely attract the attention of recruiters to your resume. An esteemed organization such as the International Association of Administrative Professionals  provides regarded certifications that can boost your competitiveness and aid your career progression.

Check out these essential certifications for excelling in the office and administration field:

• Certified Administrative Professional (CAP)
• Microsoft Office Specialist (MOS)
• Certified Professional Secretary (CPS)
• Certified Manager (CM)
• QuickBooks Certification
• Certified Office Manager (COM)
• Business Office Manager Certification (BOMC)
• Certified Customer Service Manager (CCSM)

Certifications for the sales and retail industry

For professionals in the sales and retail industry, earning certifications is key to proving your skills and moving your career forward. These credentials indicate that you are proficient in the latest sales tactics and retail management practices, making you a desirable candidate for employers. Trusted institutions like the National Retail Federation and Sales  and Sales & Marketing Executives International  offer certifications that validate your understanding of sales and retail operations. These credentials demonstrate your ability to implement effective and innovative strategies.

Discover these must-have certifications for the sales and retail industry:

• Certified Sales Professional (CSP)
• Certified Professional Sales Person (CPSP)
• Certified Inside Sales Professional (CISP)
• Certified Sales Leadership Professional (CSLP)
• Retail Management Certificate (RMC)
• Certified Retail Operations Professional (CROP)
• Sales Management Certification (SMC)
• Certified Marketing Professional (CMP)
• Certified Sales Executive (CSE)
• Certified Customer Success Manager (CCSM)

Certifications for the teaching and education industry

The education industry covers primary, secondary, and higher education, teaching various subjects and specialized skills. Recent changes include new standards and tech advancements in classrooms. For teaching professionals, certifications prove expertise and advance careers. Organizations like NBPTS  and ISTE  offer respected certifications in educational practices and tech integration.

Important credentials for teaching professionals:

• National Board Certification (NBPTS)
• Certified Teacher (CT)
• Teaching English as a Foreign Language (TEFL)
• Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages (TESOL)
• Child Development Associate (CDA) Credential
• Google Certified Educator
• Reading Specialist Certification
• Special Education Certification
• Certified Educational Technology Leader (CETL)
• Montessori Certification

Certifications for the travel and transport industry

In travel and transport, the proper certifications can turn your resume into an interview invitation. Certifications are essential for career advancement in this field. Organizations like IATA  and ASTL  offer respected certifications in transportation management and logistics.

Check out these key certifications for the travel industry:

• Certified Travel Associate (CTA)
• Certified Travel Counselor (CTC)
• Certified Travel Industry Executive (CTIE)
• Travel and Tourism Professional (TTP)
• Certified Meeting Professional (CMP)
• Certified Passenger Service Agent (CPSA)
• International Air Transport Association (IATA) Certification
• Certified Transportation Professional (CTP)
• Global Travel Professional (GTP)
• Accredited Cruise Counselor (ACC)

Certifications for the beauty industry

The beauty industry has many different areas, and certifications can show your skills. If you're working in or thinking about a career in beauty, knowing about certifications is useful.

Certifications from groups like CIDESCO  and AACS  can help you get better job opportunities and prove your abilities. These credentials can give you an edge in the job market and help you achieve your career goals.

Here are some suggestions:

• Licensed Esthetician
• Certified Makeup Artist (CMA)
• Licensed Cosmetologist
• Certified Lash Technician
• Certified Nail Technician (CNT)
• Barber License
• Advanced Hair Cutting Certification
• Certified Spa Therapist
• Permanent Makeup Certification
• Aromatherapy Certification

Certifications for the real estate industry

The real estate industry offers a range of specialties, from residential sales to property management and commercial real estate. Having the right certifications can set you apart and demonstrate your expertise in these areas. Whether you're an agent, broker, or property manager, certifications can enhance your credibility and open up new job opportunities.

Organizations like the National Association of Realtors  and the Institute of Real Estate Management  provide industry-recognized certifications that validate your skills.

Important certifications for real estate professionals:

• Certified Residential Specialist (CRS)
• Accredited Buyer’s Representative (ABR)
• Certified Commercial Investment Member (CCIM)
• Certified Real Estate Brokerage Manager (CRB)
• Certified Property Manager (CPM)
• Seniors Real Estate Specialist (SRES)
• Real Estate Negotiation Expert (RENE)
• Graduate, REALTOR® Institute (GRI)
• Accredited Land Consultant (ALC)
• Short Sales and Foreclosure Resource (SFR)

Certifications for the healthcare industry

Covering specialties like nursing, medical assisting, and healthcare administration, the healthcare industry offers diverse career options. Getting certified in these fields can only be a plus for you. These credentials prove your expertise and help you stand out. For example, the American Nurses Credentialing Center  provides respected certifications that can enhance your job market position.

Look at our suggestions below:

• Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA)
• Certified Medical Assistant (CMA)
• Certified Phlebotomy Technician (CPT)
• Certified Professional Coder (CPC)
• Registered Health Information Technician (RHIT)
• Certified Pharmacy Technician (CPhT)
• Certified Clinical Medical Assistant (CCMA)
• Advanced Cardiovascular Life Support (ACLS)
• Certified Case Manager (CCM)
• Certified Health Education Specialist (CHES)

Certifications for the marketing industry

Essential for career advancement, marketing certifications, whether free or paid, underline your proficiency in the field. In today’s competitive job market, high-paying roles in digital marketing, content creation, and brand management are highly sought after. Renowned organizations like the American Marketing Association  and HubSpot Academy  offer certifications that validate your marketing expertise.

Here are the important certifications for excelling in the marketing field:

• Google Analytics Certification
• HubSpot Content Marketing Certification
• Google Ads Certification
• Hootsuite Social Marketing Certification
• Facebook Blueprint Certification
• Certified Digital Marketing Professional (CDMP)
• Certified Marketing Management Professional (CMMP)
• Salesforce Marketing Cloud Consultant
• Content Marketing Institute Online Training and Certification
• American Marketing Association Professional Certified Marketer (PCM)

Listing a certificate on your resume is a great way to showcase your qualifications, but it's important to do it correctly to make the right impression.

Here are some common mistakes to avoid:

• Incomplete information about certifications: Failing to provide comprehensive details about the certification can be detrimental. Always include the full name of the certification, the issuing organization, the date of completion, and, if applicable, the expiration date. Avoid using acronyms unless they are universally recognized, as this can cause confusion and make your certifications less impactful.
• Irrelevant certifications:  Including certifications that are not pertinent to the job you are applying for can clutter your resume and distract from your key qualifications. Only list certifications that directly relate to the skills and experience required for the position to ensure your resume remains focused and relevant.
• Misspelling or errors: Typos and errors in the certification name or the issuing organization's name can make you appear careless and unprofessional. Double-check the spelling and formatting to ensure everything is accurate and properly presented.
• Not following formatting guidelines: Inconsistent formatting can make your resume look unprofessional and hard to read. Ensure that the formatting for your certification section matches the rest of your resume, with clear headings, bullet points, and consistent font and text size.

What's the difference between the certifications and credentials?

• Certifications  are specific recognitions awarded after completing a course or passing an exam that validates your expertise in a particular area. They are often issued by professional organizations or educational institutions and may require renewal to stay current.
• Credentials  is a broader term that includes certifications, degrees, licenses, and other professional qualifications that validate a person's expertise, education, and skills. Essentially, certifications are a type of credential.

How many certificates do you put on a resume?

The number of certificates you list on your resume depends on their relevance to the job you are applying for. Ideally, you should include 3 - 5 certifications that are most relevant to the position. Prioritize certifications that demonstrate your key skills and qualifications for the job to keep your resume focused and concise.

Are certificates more important than degrees?

The importance of certificates versus degrees depends on the job and industry. In some fields, degrees are essential as they provide a comprehensive educational background and theoretical knowledge. However, certificates are often highly valued in industries that require specific skills and practical knowledge, as they show up-to-date expertise and specialized training. Both can be important and sometimes, having both a degree and relevant certifications can make you a more competitive candidate.

How do I handle multiple certifications from the same organization?

If you have multiple certifications from the same organization, list them separately under the "Certifications" section. You can streamline the information by grouping them, for example: "Certified by Microsoft: Azure Solutions Architect Expert, Microsoft Certified: Data Analyst Associate."

Can I include online certifications and courses?

Absolutely. Online certifications and courses from reputable institutions can be included, especially if they are relevant to the job. Make sure to list the name of the course, the issuing organization, and the date of completion.

• Including certifications on your resume is a great way to catch the eye of hiring managers and demonstrate your qualifications and value.
• Certifications are official proof of your skills and knowledge in a specific field, showing employers that you meet industry standards.
• Focus on including certifications that are directly relevant to the job you’re applying for to make your resume stand out.
• Always provide comprehensive details about your certifications, including the full name, issuing organization, date of completion, and expiration date if applicable.
• List certifications in progress with the expected completion date to show ongoing efforts in professional development.

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NEWS + ADVICE

How to safely include in-progress certifications on your resume.

Certifications have become a buzzword in the cyber security community, but they reach beyond the technical IT space. From Project Management, HR, or Financial Management certifications, to Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH) or Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP) certifications, there’s a plethora of exams that can attest to your level of knowledge in a specific area of study.

Whether you’re in cyber security or another area within the government contracting landscape, certifications help to check a box. That’s why we love to put them on our resumes after completion, to make ourselves more marketable and also meet contract requirements listed on job descriptions.

But what if your certification is still in progress? Should you list it on your resume?

A recent LinkedIn survey posted by Kris’ Rides, Co-Founder and CEO of Tiro Security, asked this same question. With over 3.8K votes on the poll, 58% of respondents said yes, you should put certifications on your resume that are in progress . The remaining 42% answered no.

Why such a split in opinion? The commentary the poll prompted from survey respondents often began with “it depends.” So, let’s dive into the reasoning why you should or should not list in-progress certifications on your resume.

The Benefits

We often talk about how to write an effective cleared resume , with the goal being to get a hiring manager or recruiter to contact you for an interview. A great tactic to accomplish this is to target your resume to the job description and include keywords the recruiter is looking for.

With that being said, if you see the acronym for a particular certification listed on a job description, it’s important to include it on your resume if you have it—you’re making it clear that you check that box.

This is especially important if it’s a requirement of the job, because GovCon employers must hire based on the requirements set by the government contract award. If the contract calls for a CISSP certification, they typically can’t hire you without it, even if you have the knowledge needed to get the job done.

However, some contracts do have a little leeway. This is when noting an in-progress certification on your resume could help to keep you in the running. One person who commented on Rides’ survey noted, “ Some contracts say CISSP must be obtained in 120 days of hire. Without the ‘in progress’ you wouldn’t be looked at .”

Other times, a certification might be listed as “desired” or “nice to have” (not a requirement). This is another case in which noting your in-progress certification on your resume can be beneficial.

A technical recruiter who commented on Rides’ survey conveyed, “ In progress, to me, demonstrates a commitment to continued learning in the field , which I think demonstrates a certain drive and desire for growth that many employers desire in potential hires.”

They added, “ However, I think prospective employers are totally within their right to challenge such a claim, and candidates should be able to back that up with something tangible , such as ‘I’m enrolled in such and such class, scheduled to test on [date].’ Otherwise, they risk being viewed as disingenuous .”

With the nature of security cleared work and the government contracting landscape in mind, honesty is always the best policy. You can’t get around contract requirements or fake it till you make it. So it’s important to ask yourself what your intent is when including certifications on your resume that are in progress.

Are you listing certifications as “in progress” simply because you’ve bought a book on the topic and you think it will help fluff up your resume? Or have you been studying, taking preparation courses, and made progress towards actually being ready to take the exam?

If you just started studying yesterday, noting your certification is “in progress” doesn’t necessarily paint an honest picture. This can get you into trouble if an interviewer goes into a line of questioning to determine your true level of knowledge and you’ve just begun studying.

Though it’s customary to note expected graduation dates on a resume, degrees differ from earning certifications. A commentor noted, “ The progress towards a degree can be counted in percentage points, credit hours, remaining hours, etc . Your completion of a given certification is binary… You either scored a passing grade or you didn’t” when it comes to certifications .

The Biggest Problem

With such a split opinion, you see those who are very in favor of and very against including an in-progress certification on a resume. While some people say it’s a waste of space or means nothing unless you’ve actually passed the exam, those are opinions at the end of the day.

But what cannot be disputed is the need to clearly state the status of your certifications if you choose to include them on your resume. The author of the LinkedIn poll noted in the comments, “The issue I see is, many people put their ‘in progress’ certifications next to their achieved certifications and don’t state they are in progress , or just put a future date on them (and then don’t update their resume).”

“ I found someone with 10 certifications on their resume. When I asked, 8 were in progress and there was nothing to show that .” Rides added that most recruiters will tell you “ either through genuine mistakes or deceit, people have ‘in progress’ certifications that when asked about are clearly something they bought a book for and never opened .”

Best Practices for Including In-Progress Certifications

There are countless opinions that vary about writing resumes, but there are some key industry standards that can help guide your efforts. If you’re working towards earning a certification and want to add that information to your resume, consider the following best practices when considering doing so:

• You must clearly define that the certification is “in progress” – do NOT be vague or paint a deceiving picture by leaving it up to interpretation. It wastes employers’ time and can harm your credibility when they realize you don’t actually have it.
• Be cautious of listing more than one or two in-progress certifications on your resume. If you’re serious about earning a certification, you know how much time and effort it takes to achieve gaining one at a time.
• Don’t include certifications you haven’t made real progress towards for the sole purpose of padding your resume. Simply buying a book isn’t significant.
• Wait to include an in-progress certification till you’re committed to following through and you’ve made progress towards studying and preparing to take the exam—you don’t want an in-progress cert sitting on your resume year after year.
• Note your exam date whenever possible to further clarify you haven’t earned it yet, with the added bonus of setting a goal and keeping yourself accountable.
• Consider adding this information under your summary or another clearly labeled section of your resume, instead of mixing it with other earned certifications to avoid confusion.
• If you choose not to list an in-progress certification on your resume, consider noting the training course you’re enrolled in instead.

Ashley Jones is ClearedJobs.Net's blog Editor and a cleared job search expert, dedicated to helping security-cleared job seekers and employers navigate job search and recruitment challenges. With in-depth experience assisting cleared job seekers and transitioning military personnel at in-person and virtual Cleared Job Fairs and military base hiring events, Ashley has a deep understanding of the unique needs of the cleared community. She is also the Editor of ClearedJobs.Net's job search podcast, Security Cleared Jobs: Who's Hiring & How.

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10 tips for writing a resume in English

Writing a resume can be challenging, especially if it’s not your first language! Grammar and spelling should be spot-on, plus cultural formatting preferences vary. For example, in the U.S., resumes never include photos, and are usually limited to a single page. Although style preferences vary, best practices are universal. 

Let’s look at some dos and don’ts for writing a resume in English!

DOs for writing a resume in English

✅ 1. DO use bullet points and incomplete sentences. Incomplete sentences may seem unusual, but not in resumes! For example, an applicant for a lab research assistant might list prior experience as follows:

• Implemented a research project
• Developed a serum

💡 Tip: You can put periods after the bullets or leave them off, as long as you’re consistent.

✅ 2. DO ensure verb tenses are consistent. Resumes follow parallel structure , meaning the starting words are the same part of speech. They can be verb phrases (example 1), or noun phrases (example 2):

• Organized data
• Assisted with administrative tasks
• Implementation of a research project
• Organization of data
• Assistance with administrative tasks

You can use either, as long as it’s consistent and easy to read!

✅ 3. DO only include relevant experience. It’s not necessary to list every experience or skill. You only have one page, but don’t worry, more will be covered in interview questions ! Focus on job listing requirements and highlight your most relevant skills and experience.

Example 1: For the lab assistant position, highlight relevant skills, especially those mentioned in the listing.

• Skills: coding, chemistry, research
• ❌ Don’t include “cooking skills,” even if you have them!

Example 2: For a restaurant job, it would look different!

• Skills: prepping, catering, customer service
• ❌ Don’t include “research skills.”

✅ 4. DO include all language skills, even your native language(s)! Language skills are helpful for ANY job: the more languages you know, the better! You can say you have "excellent written and verbal skills” wherever applicable, as both are incredibly valuable. You may think it’s a given, but it’s not! Employers will be glad to know that you’d never send an email saying “heres the doc 4 u,” or use other unprofessional-sounding language. 

You can also consider listing the CEFR level of your languages or using other standardized measures, like your Duolingo English Test score, and breaking down your proficiency by speaking, reading, writing, and listening , especially if relevant for the position.

✅ 5. DO include commonly relevant skills you have. Think about skills broadly: What are tools and technology you know how to use? What are things you do well, and what do your colleagues come to you for help with? Your skills might include things like software, including Microsoft Excel, Google Docs, and task-management platforms, or your abilities, like time-management skills.

💡 Tip: You can say “proficient” for more than just languages! For example, you can also say “ proficient in Microsoft Excel” to mean that you know how to use it really well. Again, just make sure the list is consistent:

• Microsoft Excel
• Time management
• Proficient in Microsoft Excel
• Excellent at time management

Now that we have the basics for a great resume, let’s highlight common pitfalls.

DON’Ts for writing a resume in English

The “don’t”s for a resume go hand-in-hand with the “do”s:

❌ 1. DON’T use “I.” This is unnecessary, as the employer knows you’re referring to yourself.

• ❌ “I implemented a research project. I formulated a serum.”

❌ 2. DON’T write full sentences for job titles. This takes up room, leaving less space for other experiences and skills.

• ❌ Job title: “I completed an internship at Duolingo Laboratories.” Instead, your title could be “Intern, Duolingo Laboratories."

❌ 3. DON’T use inconsistent tenses. This is easy to miss, and can make a resume look disorganized.

• ❌ Implemented a research project
• ❌ Organization of data
• ❌ Report writer

💡 Tip: Say each bullet point aloud to check for consistency. If you’re using verbs to start each bullet, you can say them as “I” statements to ensure they match: “ I implemented, I organization? Wait, it should be… I implemented, I organized…” Or for noun phrases, try “Implementation of a research project… (is what I did). Organization of data… (is good).”

❌ 4. DON’T use specialized language unless applicable. A recruiter or employer should understand what you’re talking about. You don’t want them to do extra work interpreting your resume, especially when they have a pile to sift through! If there’s specific vocabulary related to your previous experience, list synonyms:

• ❌ Monolingual exercise writer for Duolingo
• ✅ Content writer for Duolingo

❌ 5. DON’T use uncommon abbreviations. While YOU may know what they mean, an employer or recruiter may not. Stick to universal abbreviations and try to avoid jargon :

• ✅ PhD, Feb., CEO
• ❌ L&C, OSI, KR

💡 Tip: Consistency is key on a resume, and this also applies to abbreviations for dates! Don’t write “Feb-Oct” on one line and “July-January” on another.

Now that we’ve reviewed the dos and don’ts, let’s put it all together and see a sample resume section! Here’s how that former research intern might format their experience on their resume, and how they might format their “Skills” section:

Don’t let different formats and styles overwhelm you. Remember two things:

A resume is your potential employer’s first impression of you and your work, and we’re rooting for you! 💪

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