Are you an HR professional seeking to stand out from the crowd, maximize your earning ability, open new job opportunities, and future-proof your skillset?
Earning the globally recognized SHRM-CP or SHRM-SCP credential offers the ultimate career investment.
Let me walk you through everything involved in successfully getting certified this year so you can add those coveted letters after your name in 2023!
An Overview of Prestigious SHRM Certification
First, what exactly is SHRM? The Society for Human Resource Management is the world’s largest HR association. Since 1948, SHRM has:
- Provided education, thought leadership and advocacy to over 300,000 HR pros and executives globally
- Created ANSI standards that drive HR excellence and ethical decision-making
- Published respected behavioral research and insights via journals, newsletters and infographics
Widely considered the #1 designation for HR practitioners, SHRM certifications validate mastery of both strategic and operational HR competencies through rigorous and practical exams.
Let’s explore the impressive impact:
- 92% of SHRM credential holders confirm certification improved their job performance
- Number of certified pros grew over 60% from 2016 to 2022
- 20% higher average base salary compared to non-certified individual contributors
- 12% average raise just 1 year after achieving certification
Clearly, SHRM credentials deliver immense value. But how do you know whether to pursue SHRM-CP or SHRM-SCP?
Which SHRM Certification Is Right For You?
The SHRM Certified Professional (SHRM-CP) exam tests understanding of day-to-day HR operations. It best suits professionals handling tasks like:
- Maintaining HRIS systems
- Supporting recruitment/onboarding
- Coordinating training programs
- Running payroll
- Ensuring compliance
Alternatively, the SHRM Senior Certified Professional (SHRM-SCP) exam focuses more on strategic decision-making for overall HR department vision and business alignment like:
- Developing organizational and HR policies
- Overseeing workforce planning
- Leading integration initiatives post-restructure/M&A
- Maximizing employee engagement and culture
- Partnering with executives on talent strategy
Either exam tests a well-rounded body of HR knowledge across 9 behavioral and 14 functional areas. Your exposure and experiences will dictate whether SHRM-CP or SHRM-SCP makes sense today. Plus you can always earn the other later as your career progresses!
Now, do you meet basic prerequisites to get started?
Who Qualifies For SHRM Certification?
While exemption eligibility may apply in special cases, most candidates must meet these requirements:
SHRM-CP Qualification Checklist
| Criteria | Details |
|---|---|
| Bachelor’s degree | HR concentration OR another field + 1 year related HR experience in last 10 years |
| Other education | HR master‘s degree or higher OR HR-related grad certificate or coursework |
| Professional background | Bachelor‘s degree + HR-related professional certification like aPHR from HRCI |
SHRM-SCP Qualification Checklist
| Criteria | Details |
|---|---|
| Bachelor’s degree | HR concentration OR another field + experience as outlined for SHRM-CP |
| Work Experience | 3+ years of exempt-level HR role in the last 5 years |
| Leadership Tenure | 1+ year managing the business’ HR function with enterprise-wide impact |
| Existing Certification | Good standing of SHRM-CP for at least 3 years |
Self-evaluate if your career background meets either checklist fully. Still unsure? SHRM offers a quick online Eligibility Pre-assessment Tool to confirm or receive related HR role suggestions if you need a bit more experience first.
Okay, let’s turn to the official application process itself so you can get approved for the exam.
How to Apply for 2023 SHRM Certification Exams
Submitting your application involves just 4 simple steps after reviewing the free SHRM Certification Handbook outlining all program policies and procedures in detail:
Step 1. Visit the SHRM Certification Portal to setup your individual account login credentials
Step 2. Initiate a certification application, selecting either SHRM-CP or SHRM-SCP exam
Step 3. Complete the online application questionnaire covering eligibility
Step 4. Pay associated exam fees via Visa, Mastercard or debit card to finalize submission
That’s it! Very straight-forward. The current regular rate is $475 USD for SHRM members and $700 USD for non-members. Expect 5-7 day processing.
Once approved, you can schedule the exam date/location through Prometric. With your eligibility verified, it’s time to shift focus toward diligent studying using reputable prep materials.
Smart SHRM Exam Preparation Strategies and Tactics
While absolutely achievable, make no mistake – these exams are tough even for tenured professionals. Sufficient preparation separates those who pass from those who fail. Arm yourself for success with these tips:
Invest In The SHRM Learning System
Available by annual paid subscription directly from SHRM for around $1,000 USD, this immersive web portal delivers the definitive exam prep experience with:
- 600+ carefully developed practice questions
- Custom-paced education modules
- Post-quiz remediation to strengthen concepts
- 3 simulated practice tests reflect real format
- E-reader downloadable reference guides
I recommend the SHRM Learning System as your primary study investment given the direct alignment to real exam content.
Research Alternative Prep Options Too
Beyond the SHRM’s official resources, third parties also offer more affordable alternatives:
- HRCP – $78 simulated exams
- Udemy Courses – $200 video lessons
- LinkedIn Learning – $30/month video course access
- Study Groups – Free! Connect locally or virtually
Review exam prep reviews to choose your best supplementary fit.
Make a Custom Study Plan
Regardless of resources selected, dedicate 4-6 focused weeks to prep using a personalized roadmap like this:
Block your calendar in advance around obligatory personal/work commitments so this vital certification goal receives 1-2 hours of prime energy daily to absorb concepts. Joining a weekly study group adds valuable discussion and peer accountability too.
You’ve got this! Now let’s demystify the exams themselves.
Demystifying the SHRM Certification Exams
Both the SHRM-CP and SHRM-SCP exams share similar formats hosted at Prometric Testing Centers globally or remotely online. Here is what to expect:
Scheduling Your Exam
Choose your preferred exam date and location at Prometric scheduling sites based on availability. Testing windows span:
- May 1 – July 15
- December 1 – February 15
When an open slot matching your schedule is found, pay to register. Then receive your Authorization To Test (ATT) email confirmation within 5 business days containing necessary check-in codes and site/room directions for your appointment.
Arriving On Exam Day
Give yourself extra transit time in case of traffic or train delays even when testing remotely from home. You must provide 2 valid forms of ID upon arrival and when launching remote proctoring software. Familiarize yourself with all rules ahead of time via the SHRM Testing Guide video.
Eat a good meal beforehand and dress comfortably to stay relaxed. Noise-reducing headphones and basic calculators are allowed if needed. Phones must remain powered off and stowed during the full session.
Exam Composition
Both exams comprise 165 multiple choice questions with 15 extra pretest items that do not count toward your score. These help evaluate new questions. The exact composition varies but expect roughly:
- 69 situational judgement questions
- 50 knowledge-based questions
- 46 competency-based questions
No penalties or deductions exist for wrong answers, so there’s no advantage to leaving any blank. Eliminate obviously wrong options, then make your best guess!
Let’s explore what caliber of results you need…
What’s a Passing SHRM Exam Score?
SHRM exams follow standardized scoring methodology:
- Scale spans 200 to 500 points
- Minimum passing score is 200
- This equates to about 73% correct overall
- Approximate raw score = scale score x 0.40
So out of those 150 scored questions, answer 110-115 questions correctly to expect a passing result!
Pretest questions are not scored but analyzed to potentially become a scored question on future exams if proven statistically fair, appropriate and accurate.
Within 1-5 days after your exam, see your Pass/Fail status including section reports on the SHRM Certification portal showing your competencies strengths/weaknesses to identify learning gaps to work on.
Say you don’t quite pass on attempt #1 or #2, know that many persevere so don’t lose hope! Stay positive and simply continue knowledge gains through more courses, mentors, books and projects until re-testing victory.
You’ve got this! Now let’s talk recertification…
Maintaining SHRM Certification After Initial Earning
I’m proud of you for passing! However, the learning can‘t stop after exam day if you want to retain those prestigious credentials long term.
SHRM certification stays valid for 3 years initially. You must prove Continuing Education (CE) via 60 professional credits before expiration through avenues like:
- Conferences – SHRM Annual Conference earns up to 12 credits
- Seminars – Half and full-day local events qualify
- Coursework – College classes grant 10 credits each
- Articles and Books – Pre-approved reading materials apply
- Volunteering – SHRM chapter/committee roles count
Luckily, recertifying is quite achievable because ongoing education is integrated into our routines already! Just save evidence of CE activities when they happen.
Plus every 3 years, you can choose to simply re-take the certification exam as alternative renewal.
How To Advance Your HR Career With SHRM Certification
Beyond foundational knowledge gains and higher compensation, let’s explore 5 ways to maximize certification ROI:
1. Update Resume & LinkedIn Profile
Add SHRM credentials to all branding materials, include the logo, and update your professional summary to position the new distinction.
2. Request an Updated Job Title
Dialogue with your manager on formally updating internal systems and org charts to reflect the new recognition of your expertise.
3. Ask For a Salary Increase
Leverage annual review cycles or project milestones to (politely) petition appropriate compensation increases aligned to expanded scope.
4. Seek Promotions More Confidently
Apply for internal requisitions more proactively knowing you meet stated preferred qualifications.
5. Become a SHRM Chapter Leader
Getting involved locally builds personal community visibility, media publication chances, and C-level executive connections over time.
The professional journey doesn’t end at SHRM certification. In fact, an exciting new world of career possibilities opens up by proactively pursuing them with self-assurance.
Yes, SHRM Certification Is Absolutely Worth It!
Given the deep commitment to pass a tough exam, then maintain credentials, is getting SHRM certified truly worth the demands involved?
In a word – absolutely.
Talk to any SHRM-CP or SHRM-SCP holder to hear firsthand how certification:
- Grew their compensation by an average of 12%+ instantly
- Opened up job interview opportunities at aspirational companies
- Provides peer respect and recruiting interest months later still
- Built confidence in public speaking and leadership capabilities
- Expanded their national network exponentially
The return on time and money invested pays dividends for decades over any HR pro’s entire career. That high salary difference compounds hugely over 30 years before retirement too!
Certification also keeps skills current regarding legal compliance, HR technology, workforce trends, and regulations that continually evolve. This ensures you remain a trusted advisor.
Take the First Step Toward SHRM Certification This Year!
I hope this complete guide outlined everything you need to know to earn prestigious SHRM credentials in 2023.
Here is a quick checklist of key next steps:
- ✅ Review eligibility criteria fully
- ✅ Create SHRM.org portal account
- ✅ Submit certification application
- ✅ Study diligently for 4-6 weeks
- ✅ Pass SHRM exam!
You’ve totally got this. Wishing you tremendous success entering the elite ranks of SHRM certified pros this year! Please reach out if any other advice would be helpful.
