certification in resume writing

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12 Top Certifications for Professional Resume Writers

Looking to hire (or become) a certified professional resume writer? Learn the details of the top resume certifications here.

Are you looking for a professional resume writer to help you craft the perfect resume?

Or maybe you are a resume writer hoping to obtain a resume writing certificate.

Either way, this article will provide the necessary information.

Does resume writer certification really make a difference?

A certified resume writer undergoes a testing process to ensure they have the skills to craft successful resumes.

There are several associations where a professional resume writer can seek certification.

In this article, you’ll find 12 resume writer certifications available from 5 different associations.

If the professional resume service you choose is connected with one of these associations, that can make all the difference in getting a job!

Find out more about the requirements for each certificate below.

Professional Association of Resume Writers & Career Coaches (PARWCC)

1. certified professional resume writer (cprw).

The  Certified Professional Resume Writer (CPRW) credential is offered by the Professional Association of Resume Writers & Career Coaches (PARWCC). This is one of the most recognized and prestigious certifications in the resume writing industry. The association also offers certifications for career coaches and interview professionals.

Year Founded: 1990

Resume writers will need to be active members of PARWCC to take the exam and use the certification.

Upon registration for the exam, writers will receive a study guide to prepare for the test. The test must be scheduled within a year of application.

Prospective resume writers will receive the test document by email on a scheduled date and they’ll have three days to complete the test and mail the documents back.

Tests are evaluated anonymously by the members of the Certification Committee, and results are available within 6-8 weeks.

Benefits: 

As a resume writer with PARWCC, you will get a personalized CPRW certification to display in your office.

You will also be able to:

• Use the CPRW logo on your website and other marketing material
• Use the CPRW credential after your name
• $150 for membership
• $250 for certification enrollment

National Resume Writers’ Association (NRWA)

2. nationally certified resume writer (ncrw).

The  Nationally Certified Resume Writer (NCRW) certification is issued by The National Resume Writers’ Association (NRWA). They have one of the most challenging certification processes. Certificate holders also need to offer proof of their continuing education efforts to maintain certification. The NRWA also offers another certification for online profile writers.

Year Founded: 1997

Process: 

The candidate needs to become a member of the NRWA to apply for the resume writer certification.

They also have to earn 10 Continuing Education Units (CEU) from the association. CEUs can be earned by participating in conferences and workshops, and also by writing book reviews.

The certification process consists of three steps:

• Earning CEUs
• Passing a quiz and sample submission based on the NCRW Study Guide
• Passing the NCRW examination

People can search for NRWA certified professional resume writers from the NRWA website.

The certificate holder will be able to use the NCRW designation after their name. They will also be able to display NCRW logos on their website and other marketing materials.

• $175 for NRWA membership
• $75 for writing sample review
• $250 for exam registration

Resume Writing Academy (RWA)

The Resume Writing Academy (RWA) is one of the most resourceful professional development organizations for professional resume writers and other career professionals.

The RWA offers three certifications for resume writers:

• Academy Certified Resume Writer (ACRW)
• Academy Certified Federal Resume Writer (ACRW-Federal)
• Academy Certified Career Storyteller (ACCS)

Year Founded: 2009

Unlike the Professional Association of Resume Writers and National Resume Writers’ Association, RWA certifications are achieved after undergoing training programs associated with each certification from the academy.

You will find a detailed description for each of the certifications below.

The RWA certification programs offer a great opportunity to learn plenty about professional resume writing, including info on the latest industry trends and other vital insights, along with getting the certificate.

You will also get a digital badge to display across your online portfolio.

All the resume writing certificates come with lifetime validity. As an added bonus, the writer will also get to attend an RWA E-Summit for free after completion of ACRW and ACRW-federal programs.

3. Academy Certified Resume Writer (ACRW)

Academy Certified Resume Writer (ACRW) credential is achieved after undergoing a 3-month resume training program from the academy. There’s also a self-paced version of the program available.

The training program consists of: 

• 5 web classes on grammar, formatting, writing, and homework assignments
• 3 independent industry-specific resume and cover letter writing projects
• Hands-on feedback on all assignments

Cost: $1895 or 3 payments of $650

4. Academy Certified Federal Resume Writer (ACRW-Federal)

Academy Certified Federal Resume Writer (ACRW – Federal) program is specifically designed to train and certify resume writers on the intricacies of resume writing and the job application process for federal jobs.

• Eight hours of instructor-led training
• Writing sample resumes and example applications
• Analyzing federal job postings and gathering content
• Quizzes to confirm understanding
• Projects to refine writing
• Receiving personalized feedback on quizzes and writing assignments

Cost: $2195 or 3 payments of $735

5. Academy Certified Career Storyteller (ACCS)

The Academy Certified Career Storyteller (ACCS) training and certification program helps career professionals master the art of career storytelling through resumes, cover letters, bios, and online profiles. This is an advanced-level certification from RWA. It requires writers to already have an industry-recognized certificate or complete a separate grammar assignment and evaluation of a sample resume.

The program consists of 4 sessions and homework assignments and a final project:

• Write a bio
• Write LinkedIn “About” and employment sections
• Write a “tell me about yourself” script and a letter
• Write a resume
• Write a portfolio of documents

Cost: $669 for members and $869 for non-members

Career Directors International (CDI)

Career Directors International (CDI) provides numerous professional development opportunities for career professionals, including resume writer certifications and courses.

The six CDI certificates focus on specific resume writing niches, including:

• Certified Advanced Resume Writer (CARW)
• Certified Master Resume Writer (CMRW)
• Certified Executive Resume Master (CERM)
• Certified Resume Specialist (CRS+X)
• Certified Graphic Resume Architect
• Certified Career Storyteller (CCST)

Year Founded: 2000

CDI adopts a tiered approach to resume writing certifications, based on the experience level of the candidates.

As there are a variety of resume writing certifications offered by CDI, you will find a description of each of them below.

Along with getting the CDI seal, the resume writers will get all the free tools and resources as a CDI member.

CDI also organizes the yearly Toast of the Resume Industry Awards (TORI) competition.

So, getting aligned with their best practices can give writers a headstart in achieving the TORI award.

Below is a brief overview of all the resume writing certifications offered by CDI.

6. Certified Advanced Resume Writer (CARW)

The Certified Advanced Resume Writer (CARW) certification program is for entry-level resume writers looking to get their first industry certification. It is also the most affordable resume certification offered by CDI.

The CARW certification process consists of four parts: 

• Resume sample submission
• Resume and cover letter writing
• Short-essay questions on client information gathering
• Final exam on spelling, grammar, resume writing, design, and related skills

Cost: $200 plus the $97 membership fee

7. Certified Master Resume Writer (CMRW)

Certified Master Resume Writer (CMRW) is a higher-level certification program offered by CDI to experienced resume writers. The candidate must already possess the CARW certification or any other recognized industry certification (such as the CPRW or ACRW).

The certification process involves submitting the following materials: 

• A 1000-word essay or article to demonstrate philosophy, skills, and expertise
• A portfolio of seven professional resumes
• One ATS-friendly resume
• Two cover letter samples

Cost: $297 plus the $97 membership fee

8. Certified Executive Resume Master (CERM)

The Certified Executive Resume Writer (CERM) certification is exclusively designed for executive resume writers. Consider it a high-level certification program for experienced professional resume writers. As of the date of this article’s publication, there are fewer than 25 CERMs worldwide.

The writer will need to: 

• Have or obtain any other recognized resume writing certificate
• Submit four examples of real-life executive resumes
• Take part in a 10-question Competency Review test

Cost: $297 for members and $564 for non-members

9. Certified Resume Specialist (CRS+X)

The Certified Resume Specialist (CRS+X) allows resume writers to get certification in their specific field of specialization or niche. For example, if you are a resume writer specializing in IT professions, you can get certified as a Certified IT Resume Specialist (CRS+IT). CDI offers this certification in 20 areas of specialization. The candidate must hold any other recognized industry certification for which testing was required.

Candidates will need to submit: 

• A portfolio of four industry-specific resume samples
• A one-page essay about their specialization

Cost: $197 for each specialization plus the $97 membership fee

10. Certified Graphic Resume Architect

As the name suggests, the Certified Graphic Resume Architect credential is for professional resume writers who also want to get recognized as graphic resume designers. Graphic resumes predominantly use visual elements, which contrasts the style of traditional “plain” resumes. Just like other advanced level certifications from CDI, this one requires that the candidates already possess any of the recognized certifications.

The writer will have to submit: 

• Five resume samples with visual elements
• An explanation of the project details for a selected resume

11. Certified Career Storyteller (CCST)

The Certified Career Storyteller (CCST) is a certification that accompanies a training program…similar to the ACRW certification from the RWA above. This course from CDI aims to train resume writers in the practices of how storytelling elements can be infused into resume writing and personal brand development. The course consists of 17 modules within a 6-part program. It’s a self-paced learning model requiring from 18 to 40 hours of total work.

The process includes:

• Each of the 6 parts involves lesson completion and a review process
• After all lessons are approved, the candidate will submit their final story-based portfolio
• The final portfolio is reviewed within 3-4 weeks

Cost: $2997 plus the $97 membership fee

Career Thought Leaders Consortium (CTL)

12. master resume writer (mrw).

The Master Resume Writer (MRW) credential is offered by Career Thought Leaders Consortium (CTL). CTL is owned by Marie Zimenoff, also the CEO of the Resume Writers Association above. CTL also provides certifications to career coaches, job search specialists, and digital branding specialists. Career professionals get many other tools and resources, like free guides, training, and webinars from CTL.

The candidate must have at least five years of experience to apply for the MRW credential. They also have to pass an English Language & Grammar Examination administered by CTL.

After that, the professional resume writer will need to submit five resume samples if they already have an industry-recognized certificate or 10 resume samples if they are not certified.

The certification has to be renewed every two years.

MRW is an advanced level certification that will project you as an expert in your field. There are only 27 MRWs out there.

You don’t have to become a member of CTL to get this certification. However, becoming an associate will get you a discount.

Key Takeaways

As a job seeker, you have every right to seek as many assurances as you can about your resume writer.

Getting your resume written by a certified resume writer is one of those assurances that should translate into a high-performing resume.

If the writer that you choose happens to be certified, that’s a great bonus. But more important than a writer’s certifications are the writer’s skills.

If you are looking for certified professional resume writers with a proven track record, Find My Profession is an excellent option.

We have some of the best certified professional resume writers on our team and they cover 85+ industries.

Check out our top-rated  resume writing services . We are confident that you will be satisfied with our work, and if you have any inquiries, please do not hesitate to contact us.

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Top 11 Writer Certifications

Updated July 20, 2023 17 min read

Certifications are important for writers in the job market because they demonstrate a level of expertise and proficiency in the craft. They provide employers with evidence that a writer is capable of producing quality work and has a strong understanding of the topics they write about. Certifications can also open up doors to new opportunities, as employers may be more likely to hire someone who has taken the time to obtain certifications in their field. Additionally, certifications can help writers earn higher salaries, as employers often value credentials and may be willing to pay more for highly qualified professionals. Finally, certified writers are better equipped to stay on top of industry trends and developments, which can give them an edge over other candidates when looking for work.

The purpose of this article is to review the top certifications available to writers and explain how they can help enhance a writer's career.

What are Writer Certifications?

Writer certification is a process in which writers demonstrate their skills and qualifications in order to prove that they are capable of producing high-quality content. Certification can include tests, portfolios, writing samples, and other requirements that must be met before the writer can receive certification.

Writer certification can help writers gain recognition for their work and establish themselves as professionals in their field. It also allows employers to quickly identify qualified candidates for writing jobs. Certification can also provide a competitive advantage when it comes to bidding on projects or negotiating higher fees. Additionally, certified writers may be eligible for discounts from certain businesses or access to exclusive resources. Finally, certification helps ensure that the content produced by certified writers meets industry standards and is of the highest quality possible.

Pro Tip: When considering writer certification, make sure to research the organization thoroughly and read reviews from other writers who have gone through the process. This can help ensure that you are getting a quality certification that will be recognized by potential employers.

Related : What does a Writer do?

Here’s our list of the best certifications available to Writers today.

1. Certified Professional Writer (CPW)

Certified Professional Writer (CPW) is a certification program that recognizes and validates the writing skills of professionals in the field. CPW certifies that individuals have met certain standards of excellence in their writing, including grammar, punctuation, spelling, clarity, and organization.

The CPW certification process typically takes about two months to complete. To get certified as a CPW, individuals must first take an online assessment test to assess their writing skills. After passing the assessment test, they must then submit a portfolio of their work for review by a panel of certified writers. The portfolio should include samples of professional-level writing such as articles, blog posts, web copy, press releases, and other types of content.

Once the portfolio has been reviewed and approved by the panel of certified writers, applicants will be awarded their CPW certification. The cost for this certification varies depending on the type of assessment test taken and the number of pieces included in the portfolio submission but generally ranges from $200 - $400 USD.

2. Certified Technical Writer (CTW)

A Certified Technical Writer (CTW) is a professional certification that recognizes individuals who have demonstrated expertise in the field of technical writing. This certification is offered by the Society for Technical Communication (STC). To become certified, applicants must pass an examination that tests their knowledge and skills in areas such as document design, grammar, punctuation, and style.

The CTW exam consists of 150 multiple-choice questions and takes about three hours to complete. It costs $395 for STC members and $495 for non-members. To prepare for the exam, applicants can take advantage of the many resources available from STC, including study guides, practice exams, webinars, and online courses.

In order to receive the CTW certification, applicants must pass the exam with a score of 70% or higher. The certification is valid for three years and can be renewed by taking an additional exam or completing continuing education requirements.

3. Certified Creative Writer (CCW)

Certified Creative Writer (CCW) is a certification program from the International Association of Professional Writers and Editors (IAPWE). It is designed to recognize writers who have demonstrated excellence in the field of creative writing. The certification requires applicants to submit a portfolio of their work, which is then evaluated by a panel of expert judges.

The certification process takes approximately three months from start to finish. Applicants must first register for the program and submit their portfolio for review. Once accepted, they will be required to complete an online course on creative writing techniques and principles. After successful completion of the course, they will receive their CCW certificate.

To get certified, applicants must meet certain criteria such as having a minimum of two years’ experience in professional writing or editing, having published work in at least one medium, and being able to demonstrate knowledge of grammar and syntax rules. They must also pass an exam that tests their knowledge of the craft and principles of creative writing.

The cost for the CCW program varies depending on whether you choose to take the online course or attend an in-person workshop. The online course costs $99 USD while attending an in-person workshop costs $399 USD. Both include access to IAPWE resources such as webinars, forums, and discounts on services offered by IAPWE members.

4. Certified Freelance Writer (CFW)

A Certified Freelance Writer (CFW) is a professional designation earned by writers who have demonstrated their knowledge and expertise in the field of freelance writing. The certification is awarded by the Professional Writers Alliance, a nonprofit organization dedicated to promoting excellence in freelance writing.

The CFW certification process includes an online application, a written exam, and an interview. Applicants must demonstrate their knowledge of the fundamentals of freelance writing, including topics such as grammar and punctuation, research methods, marketing strategies, and client relations.

The entire certification process typically takes about six months to complete. To apply for the CFW certification, applicants must submit an online application form with a $50 fee. Once accepted into the program, applicants will be required to take a written exam that covers all aspects of freelance writing. Upon successful completion of the written exam, applicants will be invited to participate in an interview with members of the Professional Writers Alliance board of directors.

The cost for obtaining the CFW certification varies depending on whether or not you are already a member of the Professional Writers Alliance. For non-members, there is an additional membership fee that must be paid in order to become certified; this fee is currently $100 per year.

5. Certified Copywriter (CCP)

Certified Copywriter (CCP) is a professional certification program offered by the Copywriters Association of America (CAA). It is designed to recognize and reward copywriters who demonstrate excellence in their craft. The CCP certification requires that applicants pass an exam that tests their knowledge and skills in writing, editing, and researching for marketing and advertising copy.

The CCP exam is administered online, and typically takes about two hours to complete. Applicants must have at least three years of professional experience as a copywriter or related field to be eligible to take the exam. The exam consists of multiple-choice questions covering topics such as grammar, punctuation, style, structure, research methods, persuasive writing techniques, and more.

To get certified as a CCP, applicants must submit an application form with proof of their professional experience and pass the exam with a score of 80% or higher. After submitting the application form and passing the exam, applicants will receive their official CCP certification within four weeks.

The cost of taking the CCP exam is $200 USD. This fee covers all costs associated with taking the exam including registration fees, study materials, and access to practice exams.

6. Certified Grant Writer (CGW)

A Certified Grant Writer (CGW) is a professional who has completed specialized training and passed an exam to become certified in the field of grant writing. The CGW credential demonstrates a mastery of the principles, techniques, and strategies of successful grant writing.

The certification process typically takes several months to complete. It includes completing an online training program that covers all aspects of grant writing, including research, proposal development, budgeting, and evaluation. After completing the training program, applicants must pass an exam to demonstrate their proficiency in grant writing.

To become a Certified Grant Writer (CGW), you must first complete an approved training program. There are many online courses available for those interested in becoming certified. Most programs require between 15-20 hours of coursework and include topics such as research methods, proposal development, budgeting, and evaluation. Once you have completed the coursework, you must then pass an exam to demonstrate your proficiency in grant writing.

The cost of becoming a Certified Grant Writer (CGW) varies depending on the training program chosen. Most programs range from $500-$1,000 USD for tuition and fees associated with the coursework and exam.

7. Certified SEO Writer (CSEO)

A Certified SEO Writer (CSEO) is a professional who has been certified by an independent organization to demonstrate their knowledge and expertise in the field of search engine optimization (SEO). The certification is designed to ensure that writers have the necessary skills and understanding to create content that meets the needs of both search engines and readers.

The certification process typically takes between two to three months, depending on the organization offering it. To become certified, applicants must pass a series of tests and assessments related to SEO topics such as keyword research, content optimization, link building, analytics, and more. Applicants must also submit a portfolio of their work for review.

The cost of obtaining a CSEO certification varies depending on the organization offering it. Some organizations offer free certifications while others charge a fee for their courses or exams. It’s important to research each organization before signing up for a certification program in order to make sure you’re getting the best value for your money.

Overall, becoming a Certified SEO Writer can be an invaluable asset for any writer looking to break into the digital marketing industry. It provides proof of your knowledge and expertise in this ever-evolving field, which can help you stand out from other candidates when applying for jobs or freelance gigs.

8. Certified Business Writing Specialist (CBWS)

Certified Business Writing Specialist (CBWS) is a professional certification designed to recognize individuals who demonstrate expertise in the field of business writing. The CBWS certification is awarded by the Professional Association of Business Writers (PABW), an international organization that sets standards for excellence in business writing.

The CBWS exam covers topics such as grammar, punctuation, style, document design, and audience analysis. Candidates must demonstrate their ability to write effective business documents and communicate effectively in a variety of formats.

It takes approximately two hours to complete the CBWS exam. To be eligible for the exam, applicants must have at least three years of experience in business writing or related fields and submit a portfolio of their work for review by PABW.

The cost of the CBWS exam is $200 USD and includes access to study materials and practice tests. Upon successful completion of the exam, candidates will receive a certificate from PABW recognizing their achievement as a Certified Business Writing Specialist.

9. Certified Journalism Professional (CJP)

Certified Journalism Professional (CJP) is a professional certification program offered by the International Association of Journalists (IAJ). It is designed to recognize and promote the highest standards of professional journalism. The CJP is awarded to journalists who demonstrate excellence in their field and have achieved a high level of professional accomplishment.

To become certified, applicants must meet certain criteria and pass an exam. The criteria include having at least five years of experience in journalism, being a member of IAJ or another international journalism organization, and submitting two samples of published work. Applicants must also submit a statement outlining their commitment to ethical practices in journalism.

The exam consists of multiple-choice questions about journalistic ethics, media law, news writing, and reporting techniques. It takes approximately three hours to complete the exam.

The cost for taking the CJP exam is $250 USD for IAJ members and $350 USD for non-members. Additionally, there is an annual fee of $50 USD for those who wish to maintain their certification status.

10. Certified Web Content Strategist (CWCS)

Certified Web Content Strategist (CWCS) is a professional certification offered by the Content Strategy Alliance. It is designed to recognize individuals who have demonstrated comprehensive knowledge and skills in web content strategy.

The CWCS program consists of two parts: an online course and a final exam. The online course covers topics such as content strategy fundamentals, writing for the web, SEO, user experience design, and analytics. The course takes approximately 10 hours to complete.

To become certified, applicants must pass the final exam with a score of 80% or higher. The exam consists of 50 multiple-choice questions and requires two hours to complete.

The cost of the CWCS program is $495 USD, which includes access to the online course and the final exam.

11. Professional Resume Writer Certification (PRWC).

Professional Resume Writer Certification (PRWC) is a certification program designed to recognize professionals who have demonstrated mastery of the skills and knowledge required to write effective resumes. This certification is offered by the Professional Association of Resume Writers and Career Coaches (PARW/CC).

The PRWC certification requires applicants to pass an online exam that covers topics such as resume writing techniques, job search strategies, career planning, and interviewing skills. The exam consists of multiple-choice questions and takes approximately two hours to complete.

To be eligible for the PRWC certification, applicants must have at least three years of professional experience in resume writing or related fields. They must also submit a sample resume for review by PARW/CC.

The cost of the PRWC certification varies depending on the applicant's membership status with PARW/CC. For non-members, the fee is $295 USD; for members, it is $195 USD. The fee includes access to the online exam and one year of membership in PARW/CC.

Once an applicant passes the exam, they will receive their PRWC certificate within four weeks via email or mail. The certificate is valid for five years from the date it was issued and can be renewed by taking a refresher course or retaking the exam.

Do You Really Need a Writer Certificate?

Whether or not you need a writer certificate depends on what type of writing you are planning to do. If you are writing for publication, such as books, magazines, newspapers, or websites, then it is likely that you will need some kind of certification. Many publishers and editors require writers to have some kind of professional credential in order to be considered for publication.

However, if you are an aspiring writer who just wants to write creative pieces for yourself or to share with friends and family, then a writer certificate may not be necessary. Even if you want to get published one day, there are many other ways to build your portfolio and credibility as a writer without having a formal certificate. You could take courses on writing from online schools or community colleges; join writing groups; attend workshops; volunteer for literary magazines; read books about the craft of writing; practice your skills by joining online forums and submitting work for feedback; and submit articles and stories to publications. All of these activities can help you hone your craft and build your reputation as a writer without needing a formal certificate.

Ultimately, whether or not someone needs a writer certificate depends on their individual goals as a writer and what they hope to accomplish in their career. If becoming certified is something that will help them reach their goals faster, then it might be worth pursuing. However, if they plan on taking more time-consuming but ultimately more rewarding routes towards achieving their goals as writers, then they may decide that it’s not necessary for them at this stage in their career.

Related : Writer Resume Examples

FAQs About Writer Certifications

Q1. What is a Writer Certification?

A1. A Writer Certification is an accreditation that demonstrates the writer has met certain standards of writing proficiency. It is usually awarded by an organization or educational institution after the writer has completed a course or program in writing, and it can be used to demonstrate their writing skills to employers and clients.

Q2. How do I obtain a Writer Certification?

A2. To obtain a Writer Certification, you must typically complete an approved course or program in writing from an accredited organization or institution. Different certifications may require different levels of education, experience and/or examinations in order to qualify for certification.

Q3. Are there any benefits to having a Writer Certification?

A3. Yes, having a Writer Certification can help you stand out amongst other writers in your field and show potential employers that you have the skills necessary to perform well as a professional writer. It can also open up new opportunities for employment, as some organizations prefer candidates who have been certified in their particular field of writing.

Q4. What types of Writing Certifications are available?

A4. There are many types of Writing Certifications available, such as Technical Writing Certifications, Journalism Certifications, Creative Writing Certifications and Business Writing Certifications, among others. Depending on your area of expertise and the type of job you are seeking, different certifications will be more beneficial than others for demonstrating your skill set to employers and clients.

Q5. Is there a cost associated with obtaining a Writing Certification?

A5. Yes, there are often costs associated with obtaining a Writing Certification depending on the type of certification you pursue and the organization offering it. These costs may include tuition fees for courses or programs related to the certification as well as examination fees or administrative fees associated with obtaining the certification itself

Editorial staff

Brenna Goyette

Brenna is a certified professional resume writer, career expert, and the content manager of the ResumeCat team. She has a background in corporate recruiting and human resources and has been writing resumes for over 10 years. Brenna has experience in recruiting for tech, finance, and marketing roles and has a passion for helping people find their dream jobs. She creates expert resources to help job seekers write the best resumes and cover letters, land the job, and succeed in the workplace.

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Global Professional Association of Resume Writers and Career Coaches

Certification, Training, and Awards For Resume Writers and Career Coaches

Learn, grow, and take your business to the next level

CDI will set you apart by raising the bar on resume writing through our cutting-edge training with award-winning writers and our suite of distinctive resume writer certifications to help you meet any goal. By joining the elite team of CDI-certified and trained writers you can be assured that you can meet any resume challenge and be recognized as one of the best the industry has to offer.

At CDI we offer training and certification options for wherever you are at in this process!

Membership is not required for the majority of CDI courses and programs but members do benefit from a 25% savings on all certifications and most courses and programs. Where membership is required, it will be noted and an opportunity to join will be provided.

Purchasing CDI courses, certifications, or programs is also the only way to join the association when membership registration is closed.

Resume Writing Courses

Are you ready to build your resume writing expertise and/or demonstrate to the world that you have what it takes to earn a top industry certification or award? CDI truly sets you apart by raising the bar on resume writing with our outstanding training, 1-1 mentoring, and certification programs.

Where should I start? Click here for guidance.

Since you’re here you are likely in one of three positions:

You’re considering resume writing as a professional and wondering how you get started in building your skill set.

If this is you, take a look at our Resume Mastery course with CARW certification and our Certified Advanced Resume Writer credential. 

You’ve been writing resumes for a while, either personally or professionally, and you recognize it’s time to get certified as a resume writer or first get help in fine-tuning your expertise.

If this is you, check out our Certified Advanced Resume Writer credential and our Resume Master Mentor program. 

You already have a resume writing certification but recognize the market is crowded and are looking for credentials and/or skills that set you apart from everyone else who is certified.

If this is you, there are many options to serve you. For credentials look at our Certified Master Resume Writer, Certified Executive Resume Master, Certified Graphic Resume Architect and our Certified Resume Specialist (allows you to earn one of 19 industry/specialty niche certifications ranging from IT to military transition). You may also benefit from our Resume Master Mentor program. 

You want to take your skills from excellent to awesome. 

If this is you, check out our Certified Career Storyteller course. 

You are a CMRW and have escalated your skill to managing a team of writers.

If this is you, check out our new Certified Master Resume Writer – Executive Editor credential. 

You don’t actually write resumes and just review them.

If this is you, check out our Certified Resume Analyst credential.

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Resume Writing Certifications

Do you want to stand out from the competition in the crowded certified professional resume writing market by earning a top or niche resume certification?

First Credentials

Advanced credentials, career coaching certification & training.

Are you ready to empower yourself and your clients with the tools of a strategic job search? CDI positions you to be that go-to resource with actionable programs from interview coaching to online job search. You can begin using immediately to educate, coach, and support your clients in the areas they need most.

Business Start-Up / Development Courses and One-on-One Consulting

Would you like to turn your passion into profits? CDI offers a variety of programs from 1-1 business consulting to step-by-step start-up programs and how-to sales kits to get you from zero to sixty in no time. Whether you are just starting your first careers industry business or making your next million, we have the program for you.

Awards & Competitions

What if there was a way to almost instantly position your business for outstanding success and growth? That’s what CDI award competitions such as the coveted Toast of the Resume Industry (TORIs) have been doing for industry professionals for over a decade.

Registration is open until July 18, 2024

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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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FinanceBuzz

15 Free Online Certifications That Can Launch Your Resume Ahead of Other Applicants

Posted: December 19, 2023 | Last updated: December 19, 2023

Job searches can be competitive, and sometimes you need a little something extra on your resume to make it stand out. A talent that sets you apart or extra experience in your particular field can get you noticed. 

Certifications are a good example of something that can give you a step up on your competitors. The good news is you don’t have to spend a large chunk of money to get certifications you can add to your resume. 

Here are a few to consider that are free and that might help you to move beyond living paycheck to paycheck .

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Computer Science for Business Professionals

Harvard University’s Computer Science for Business Professionals course might be the right fit for a business professional who has to make decisions related to cloud computing, web development, internet technologies, or other computer issues.

This course can help you understand computer issues in the business world, and the Harvard brand on your resume could make you stand out and maybe even make a little extra money when you get the job.

Get expert advice on making more money - sent straight to your inbox.

Quality Assurance Certification

Quality assurance is an important part of computer software testing to make sure computer programs and web applications respond the way they are supposed to.

Grab a freeCodeCamp Quality Assurance Certification to learn how to make sure your applications work as planned.

Google Ads Video Certification

Google allows you to put video ads on online sites such as YouTube in order to maximize your advertising impact.

So, check out the Google Ads Video Certification, which teaches you how to increase your market reach by using ads on websites such as YouTube and Google Video.

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Grow Offline Sales Certification

Not all commerce is done online: There are important skills you need to know if you work for a company that sells products in stores or directly to customers.

Check out the Grow Offline Sales Certification if you want to be a more well-rounded job candidate who can demonstrate an understanding of how to sell a product in different types of markets.

AWS Certified Cloud Practitioner

AWS, which stands for Amazon Web Services, is a cloud-computing platform that offers its services to businesses, individuals and others.

Get started in AWS with the AWS Certified Cloud Practitioner certificate, which can be an important mark on your resume if you’re applying for jobs with companies that use AWS services.

The Science of Well-Being

Yale University’s Science of Well-Being is a personal development course that helps you build productive habits you can use in both your personal life and work life.

You will find out more about what makes you happy and how to overcome biases, for example. Yale suggests adding the certification "to your LinkedIn profile, resume, or CV."

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Introduction to the Incident Command System

The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) offers courses for emergency responders to learn about the basic structure and uses of the Incident Command System, a standardized method of dealing with many types of emergencies.

This could be a great certification to add to your resume if you are in a position that potentially requires you to respond to emergencies.

Supervision Skills

As you move up the corporate ladder, it may be important to learn skills to successfully oversee a team of employees.

Alison’s Supervision Skills certification can help you learn how to supervise and motivate your employees to achieve the best work possible.

Google Analytics Certification

Analytics can be a great tool for marketers who are trying to make important decisions and gain important insights about their marketing campaigns.

Google offers Google Analytics Certification that demonstrates your understanding of how to collect and report crucial data.

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Get Started as a Project Manager

Project managers need to guide projects from conception to completion. LinkedIn Learning’s Get Started as a Project Manager certification can increase your proficiency in executing these skills.

Be aware that LinkedIn Learning normally charges a fee of $19.99 to $39.99 per month, but you can get your first month free and earn certifications during that period.

Technical Writing

Technical writers need a specific set of skills to convey detailed information about particular subjects. You’ll need to know how to communicate both inside an organization and how to reach out to a specific audience.

Saylor Academy offers a free Technical Writing certification that you can add to your resume.

Free Online Photoshop Course

Photoshop can be a great resource if you work with illustrating, graphic design, and other visual arts.

The EDUCBA Free Online Photoshop Course is a certification that proves you have an understanding of one of the better-known types of graphics editing software.

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Introduction to Public Health Surveillance

Health care providers may want to get a certificate that shows they know how to properly track and analyze data in response to the spread of disease.

The Public Health Foundation’s Introduction to Public Health Surveillance was developed by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and may be a good option if you work in the public health field.

AI-Powered Performance Ads Certification

Artificial intelligence software has become an important tool for different fields, including marketing and advertising.

Google’s AI-Powered Performance Ads Certification allows you to learn more about Google Ads and how the addition of AI can optimize your marketing reach.

Responsive Web Design Certification

If you’ve ever considered web design as a career option, you may want to build up your resume with a web design certification, which could help you eliminate some money stress .

The freeCodeCamp Responsive Web Design Certification helps you learn basic languages that you’ll use in a web design career.

Bottom line

Free certification programs are great options if you want something to make your resume stand out. If you have a similar background to other candidates, the right certification can help you get above the rest. 

Consider different options that are relevant to your particular field and that might lead to promotions and other opportunities to get ahead financially .

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