As the world of work continues to evolve, staying ahead of the curve has become increasingly important for HR professionals. One effective way to demonstrate your expertise and commitment to the field is through SHRM (Society for Human Resource Management) certification.
However, the cost of pursuing these certifications can be prohibitive for many, as earning PDC credits through live webinars, self-study courses, podcasts, conferences, e-books, and other resources can be quite expensive.
Fortunately, there are ways to earn SHRM certification credits for free, allowing you to advance your career without breaking the bank.
About SHRM Certification
SHRM offers two main certifications: the SHRM Certified Professional (SHRM-CP) and the SHRM Senior Certified Professional (SHRM-SCP). The SHRM-CP is designed for HR professionals performing operational-level HR duties, while the SHRM-SCP is geared towards those in strategic HR roles.
The SHRM-CP and SHRM-SCP certifications can be taken either online through remote proctoring or in-person at a Prometric testing center. Scheduling for the test is done online. Before you book your test, it’s important to learn how to schedule SHRM exams.
To maintain these certifications, professionals must earn Professional Development Credits (PDCs) every three years. This ensures that certified individuals stay up-to-date with the latest HR trends and best practices.
Earning Free PDCs
While pursuing SHRM certification can be expensive, there are several ways to earn free PDCs to maintain your certification. Here are some of the most effective methods:
1. Free Online Courses and Webinars
Many platforms, such as MY-CPE, offer a wide range of free online courses and webinars that are eligible for SHRM PDCs. These courses cover various HR topics and are created by experienced professionals, industry experts, and thought leaders.
Free SHRM® Recertification Courses Offered By MY-CPE
- 1099-NEC and 1099-MISC
- Strengthening Your Employee Benefits Plan in 3 Easy Steps
- AP & Payroll Working Together for Success
- Duty to Reasonably Accommodate: Disability, Religion and Pregnancy
- Developing and Implementing Employee Policies and Procedures in the Post-MeToo Era
By attending these free courses and webinars, you can earn PDCs while staying up-to-date with the latest HR developments. The flexibility of online learning allows you to fit these courses into your busy schedule, making it easier to fulfill your recertification requirements.
2. Volunteering for SHRM Initiatives
SHRM encourages its certified professionals to volunteer for various initiatives, such as serving on committees or contributing to special projects. By actively participating in these opportunities, HR professionals can earn PDCs while making a positive impact on the HR community.
Volunteering not only helps you earn free PDCs but also provides valuable networking opportunities and allows you to develop new skills and knowledge.
Check Out: Volunteer Opportunities
3. Attending Virtual Events
SHRM frequently organizes virtual events, such as conferences, seminars, and town hall meetings, that are eligible for PDCs. These events feature renowned speakers and cover critical HR subjects, providing valuable insights and opportunities to earn free PDCs.
Virtual events are convenient and cost-effective, as they eliminate the need for travel and accommodation expenses. By attending these events, you can earn PDCs while gaining valuable knowledge and networking with HR professionals from around the world.
4. Participating in Local HR Events
Exploring local HR conferences and events in your area can be another way to earn free PDCs. Many of these events offer educational sessions that can contribute to your recertification requirements while allowing you to connect with HR peers and industry experts in your local community.
Attending local events can be particularly beneficial for building relationships with other HR professionals and staying informed about regional HR issues and trends.
5. Reading HR Publications and Blogs
Staying updated with the latest HR trends and insights by regularly reading HR publications and blogs can also help you earn free PDCs. Some publications may offer quizzes or assessments that allow you to earn PDCs while expanding your knowledge.
Reading HR content not only helps you earn PDCs but also keeps you informed about the latest developments in the field, enabling you to provide better support to your organization.
6. Listening to HR Podcasts
Podcasts have emerged as a popular medium for learning, and HR professionals can find various podcasts dedicated to HR-related topics. Listening to HR podcasts and reflecting on the content can earn PDCs, and it offers a flexible way to learn while on the go.
Podcasts can be particularly useful for busy professionals who want to make the most of their commute or downtime by engaging with HR content.
7. Participating in Online Communities
HR professionals can join SHRM-affiliated social media groups or other online communities where industry-related discussions occur. Active participation and contribution to these discussions may qualify for PDCs.
Engaging with online communities allows you to connect with HR professionals from around the world, share best practices, and learn from others’ experiences.
8. Utilizing Free SHRM Resources
As HR professionals prepare for SHRM-CP or SHRM-SCP exams, they can utilize various free resources that contribute to PDCs. These resources include sample exam questions, study guides, and practice quizzes available on the SHRM website.
By taking advantage of these free resources, you can earn PDCs while enhancing your knowledge and preparing for the certification exam.
Check Out: SHRM Exam Dates 2024
Choosing the Right SHRM Approved Recertification Provider
Since SHRM mandates HR professionals to renew their certification every three years, finding an SHRM approved recertification provider is essential. MY-CPE is one such provider that offers a variety of free course content available in different formats, such as self-study and live webinars.
MY-CPE also offers tailor-made SHRM PDC package courses at cost-effective rates. By selecting one of these formats, you can conveniently fulfill the 60-credit requirement in three years and get recertified without hassle.
The content on the MY-CPE online platform is prepared to meet the needs of HR professionals and includes the latest developments in the HR domain. Additionally, MY-CPE ensures that all free courses and webinars offered on their platform are eligible for SHRM recertification PDCs.
SHRM Recertification Requirements
To maintain their SHRM Certified Professional (SHRM-CP) or SHRM Senior Certified Professional (SHRM-SCP) certification, professionals must earn 60 Professional Development Credits (PDCs) over a three-year recertification cycle.
This requirement ensures that certified individuals stay current with the latest HR trends and best practices.
Earning PDCs
PDCs can be obtained through participating in a variety of HR-related activities, including:
– Attending conferences, seminars, and workshops
– Completing online courses and webinars
– Engaging in volunteer work for SHRM or other HR organizations
– Authoring articles or books related to HR topics
– Serving as an instructor or speaker at HR events
– Participating in SHRM chapter activities
– Completing a graduate degree or certificate program in HR
There are no minimum PDC requirements in any particular subject area, and a maximum of 20 credits can be carried over to the next recertification cycle.
Recertification Cycle
The initial recertification cycle begins on the day the individual passes the SHRM-CP or SHRM-SCP exam and ends three years later, on the last day of their birth month.
For example, if an individual passes the exam on May 3, 2024 and their birth month is July, their initial recertification cycle would run from May 3, 2024 to July 31, 2027.
Recertification Process
To recertify, individuals must:
- Earn 60 PDCs within the three-year recertification cycle
- Log the PDCs in their SHRM certification portal
- Submit the completed recertification record before the expiration date
- Pay the recertification processing fee ($135 for SHRM members, $175 for non-members)
Alternatively, individuals can recertify by retaking the SHRM-CP or SHRM-SCP exam within the last year of their recertification cycle.
Benefits of Recertification
Maintaining SHRM certification offers several benefits, including:
– Demonstrating commitment to the HR profession and ongoing professional development
– Enhancing credibility and earning potential
– Staying current with the latest HR trends and best practices
– Adhering to professional standards in human resource management
Continue Reading: SHRM Certification Requirements
FAQS
Are SHRM Courses Free?
SHRM currently offers several free courses and certificate programs, including the Getting Talent Back to Work Certificate, the Employing Abilities @Work Certificate, and a course on hiring veterans.
These programs provide training on topics such as hiring individuals with criminal records, supporting employees with disabilities, and translating military skills to civilian jobs. While SHRM membership is not required, some courses may offer professional development credits for SHRM credential holders.
Is the SHRM Exam Difficult?
The SHRM exam is considered moderately difficult, requiring extensive preparation to pass. Most candidates spend 41-200 hours studying for the SHRM-CP and 41-80 hours for the SHRM-SCP, with peak performance occurring within these ranges.
However, the SHRM exam has now been made easy. All you have to do is to hire our SHRM experts to take the exam for you. By accessing this service, you maximize your chances of passing the SHRM exam.
Can I Get SHRM Certified Without Experience?
You can obtain the SHRM-CP certification without prior HR experience. The certification does not require a specific HR title or degree, but a basic understanding of HR practices is recommended.
Candidates must demonstrate a commitment to HR-related work, with at least 1,000 hours per year in relevant activities. This certification can enhance your job prospects in the HR field, even if you’re just starting your career.
How Much Is a SHRM Certification Worth?
A SHRM certification can significantly boost your earning potential. SHRM-CP holders earn a median salary of $70,000, while SHRM-SCP holders earn $107,800 – a 54% increase.
Certified professionals are also more likely to receive promotions, with 82% of entry-level HR employees who hold a credential getting promoted in the previous five years. The certification demonstrates your commitment to the HR field and can accelerate your career growth.