You can’t become an industry leader unless you’re willing to go the extra mile and make some sacrifices. In most industries, this requires driven candidates to earn advanced degrees and certifications. Earning these coveted credentials can demonstrate your willingness to do what it takes to reach the top.
Of course, this isn’t easy, and you must invest a lot of time and resources into your journey. This is an intimidating prospect, but the financial return on earning such impressive credentials speaks for itself.
Master of Business Administration
Few degrees scream “leadership” as much as a Master of Business Administration (MBA). An MBA can open the door to many prestigious job titles, like Chief Financial Officer or Marketing Director. Of course, this varies based on your career goals and which specialization you choose.
For example, if you focus your MBA on marketing, you can become a Chief Marketing Officer or Business Development Executive. Driven, data-minded students can focus on analytics and use their MBA to work toward a Senior Business Analyst position.
PhD in Organizational Leadership
A Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) degree can catapult your career, no matter which industry you work in. Like other advanced degrees, you can pick from many PhD specializations to best suit your goals. A PhD in Organizational Leadership can help you take leadership positions in academics and business.
It may sound like a broad credential, and it ultimately is, which is why it’s so beneficial. That said, this is arguably the best degree for those who want to work in academic leadership at colleges and universities. Some people work as teachers and professors while earning a PhD in Organizational Leadership in their free time.
This requires some sacrifices, but it’s the best way to become an industry titan in academia. You can also use this degree to become a Chief Learning Officer or Organizational Development Consultant. The latter is a great option for people who want to help companies maximize their potential.
Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP)
Some of the best credentials aren’t degrees, as special certifications can help you reach the highest level in your industry. The Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP) certification is essential if you want to work in cybersecurity at the highest level. Cybersecurity has never been as prominent and relevant, but lucrative and powerful positions typically require special certifications.
To qualify for a CISSP, you must have at least 5 years of experience in relevant fields. These fields include software development security, security and risk management, security operations, and other similar cybersecurity niches. With a degree and experience, you can skyrocket your career potential by earning a CISSP.
This certification can significantly increase your earning potential and open the door to leadership positions. Considering how competitive cybersecurity has become, it’s worth working toward a CISSP. It is the most coveted cybersecurity credential, and that will only become truer over the next several years.
Project Management Professional (PMP)
The Project Management Institute offers several prestigious credentials, but the Project Management Professional (PMP) stands out. Many industries, like IT, healthcare, construction, and finance, rely on strong project managers. As a project manager, you can earn credibility and boost your earnings by obtaining a PMP certification.
Your journey toward a PMP must start with a four-year degree and a Certified Associate in Project Management (CAPM) credential. From there, you must accumulate three years of experience as a project leader. That may seem like enough to set yourself up as a future industry leader, but a PMP certification can maximize your career potential.
After all, a PMP is globally recognized and can increase your earning potential by up to 33% right now. The best credentials lend invaluable credibility, and that’s the biggest benefit that a PMP offers. Higher earnings are nice, but boosting your reputation as a strong project manager can provide precious longevity.
National Board of Trial Advocacy (NBTA) Certification
Becoming a lawyer takes a lot of work, but you must go above and beyond to become a top lawyer in your specific field. Few credentials can benefit lawyers as much as a National Board of Trial Advocacy (NBTA) certification. To qualify, you must have graduated from an ABA-accredited law school and have 5 years of professional experience.
Because this credential is so highly sought after, you must also take an exam and offer extensive proof of lead counsel experience in trials. Before starting the rigorous process, you must research the requirements and make sure you qualify. It may sound intimidating, but this credential can serve as the ultimate culmination of the journey you started in law school.
Certified Supply Chain Professional (CSCP)
Supply chain management is equally rewarding and competitive, which is why having the right credentials is so important. A Certified Supply Chain Professional (CSCP) credential can elevate you from a mid-tier supply chain manager to an industry leader. To qualify, you must have a four-year degree and at least three years of industry experience.
You must also have the right Association for Supply Chain Management (ASCM) designations. There may be many requirements, but the potential 21% income boost makes the journey worthwhile.
