Top 5 Reasons to Get Blackbaud Certified
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As an Instructor at Blackbaud University, anytime I teach a course, I remind my students to become certified in the product and/or topic that we discussed. Now, one could claim I’m biased, but hear me out—I truly believe in these certifications and the value they hold. Whenever I am asked “Why should I become certified?” here are the five reasons I give:
- Professional Development: This one is simple—it’s good for your career. Let’s say you were applying for a job and it’s down to you and another candidate with the exact same qualifications—but YOU have been professionally certified in Raiser’s Edge. Who do you think gets the position? Blackbaud products are the gold standard in the nonprofit industry. Being certified in the products is a fantastic form of professional development and a way to make yourself stand out to your current or future employer.
- Certification Supports Your Organization’s Mission: If you are certified in a Blackbaud product or Organizational Best Practices, you’re going to be able to better assist your nonprofit. It means you know your stuff and therefore will be a more efficient, astute, and capable employee. Not only will this benefit you, but it will also positively impact your organization and the mission you serve.
- Everyone Is Doing It: Did you know in the first half of 2019, we granted more than 4,000 certifications? That’s a HUGE number and shows your peers are finding value in these certifications.
- Exclusivity: Okay, I just said that everyone is doing it, but what I mean is certified users get benefits that non-certified users don’t. This includes a networking event at the annual Blackbaud bbcon event. Certified users who attend the Blackbaud K–12 User Conference or bbcon can receive their certification plaques. And there are badges you can place on your profile in the Blackbaud Community.
- No Harm In Trying: I think it was Wayne Gretzky (or maybe Michael Scott) who said, “You miss 100 percent of the shots you don’t take,” and that applies to the certification exams as well. What’s the harm in trying? Plus, if you’re looking for a way to prepare for an exam, consider our Blackbaud University courses. Our exams are based off our courses, so these are a fantastic resource to help you get ready.
Is there anything I missed? Let us know down below.
And be sure to check out these Blackbaud Certification opportunities. Best of luck on your exams!
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Organizational Best Practices Blog
10/18/2019 10:38am EDT
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