Product Certification

Lauren Henderson 3

Hi Elizabeth, have you found that obtaining a certification through Blackbaud University has had a significant or measurable impact on your career (or not?) Do you recommend re-certifying, and if so, at what intervals?

Elizabeth Johnson

Hi @Lauren Henderson,

I think the certification adds value to me as an employee to my organization. It shows I care about learning through as many avenues as possible (and efficiency) and that I'm proud of what it is that I do. I have no intention of working anywhere else but if something happened and I had to go it says more to an employer that I'm certified than my saying I have twenty years of experience - really the two go hand-in-hand. It leaves room for upward mobility within your organization should the opportunity unfold and a relevant vacancy appear. I think Blackbaud did a study that shows that it reduces employee turnover as well (I'll try to find that but am not optimistic)

All of my supervisors (and I've been certified under three now soon to be four) appreciate that I'm certified, that I want others to be certified and see the value in it.

When we hire if I see that someone is certified I would absolutely want to follow up with them.

As to the frequency I personally like to renew annually as the newest versions of certificates were intended. Especially if I'm going to bbcon. In the past they have given out plaques and even one of my favorite hydroflasks. I'd be happy with a sticker! Some years I was able to use my Blackbaud Champion points to pay for the certifications.

I hope this helps you and others that might be following these threads!

Lauren Henderson 3

@Elizabeth Johnson Thank you for sharing your expertise!

Elizabeth Johnson

@Lauren Henderson I thought of another way it supports those who are certified this morning. Certifications are prominent here in the community (and can be on LinkedIn too) and I take note of that when I'm reading responses. Especially when I'm strapped for time (often!)