The demand for skilled and certified project managers is growing day by day. Of the many project management qualifications available today, the PMI-PMP® qualification stands out from competitors and is highly regarded by project managers and recruiters alike. Here are just a few reasons why business owners want their project managers to be PMP® certified:

PMP is exclusive

It’s only natural that when selecting someone for a role as important as a project manager, business owners want to make sure they get the best of the best.

Few project managers are lucky enough to hold a PMP® certification due to the strict criteria by which PMI® selects candidates.

Project managers require years of experience to qualify for a PMP® certification, comprehensive knowledge of project management to pass the exam, and dedication to undergo the grueling process of attaining this highly sought-after qualification.

Project managers see PMP® certifications as their way into working for a Fortune 1000 company as many see it as a mandatory requirement for the role of project manager.

Continuous professional development

A PMP® certification needs dedication to maintain. It’s not just a sign of experience in the industry, but dedication to one’s role and personal development. Maintaining a PMP® qualification requires project managers to further educate themselves in 3 key areas: Business management, leadership, and technical project management. From an employers’ perspective, a PMP® certified project manager is a good investment because they seek to continuously better their skills and understanding of the profession.

Global recognition

PMP® is built on global values and practices. The certification program is driven by the collaborative efforts of volunteers representing a diverse market. Almost every country, industry, and job-level is represented by PMI®. That means PMP® is developed to meet and exceed global standards.

Commitment

While many project management ‘best-practice’ certifications indicate the holders’ talent and knowledge, PMP® demands commitment to the project management profession.

This certification requires motivation and engagement with the project management industry. From PMI® chapter membership to project management training workshops, PMI-PMP® holders must show a commitment to their career.

Employers are far more likely to invest in your career if you can prove you’ve already taken steps towards your success and are invested in yourself.

Value

According to PMI’s 2015 salary survey, project managers who hold PMP® certificates earn, on average, 15% more than their counterparts.

It’s no secret that PMP® holders are more highly paid, that’s because they’re renowned for consistently delivering high-quality products to stakeholders and investors.

The salary of PMP® project managers isn’t just a reflection of their skills but of also the confidence employers have in the ability of PMP® project managers to add value to the businesses for which they work.