Hi all! I just passed the PMI-ACP and ASM. I see many positions ask for a CSM certification. I also see there is PSM and SAFe. Which certifications do I REALLY need to keep myself marketable? At $1K a class I can see this getting very pricey.
One more thing - I'm currently in the job market so I'm frequently reviewing job postings. I've seen Scrum listed on many but if they want a preferred certification it's usually a PMP with CSM or PMI-ACP. Some of the smaller certifications aren't as well known (not that they don't have value but if your purpose is to get by the computer screening process you want to tick the right boxes) Saving Changes...
I'd actually recommend doing the opposite - CSM then PSM for one reason. You have to take the class to sit for the CSM and the exam is easier. You can take the PSM without paying for a class so if you take a quality CSM class you can knock out both certifications for less
Susan, I agree. I am seeing the same thing.
After taking the PMI-ACP and the ASM (came as a package deal from Simplilearn), I need to rest my head! Also the thought of sitting through a 15 hour web class over two days makes my skin crawl!
Right now I am taking an AWS Solutions Architect Associate class. Found it is needed for some govt work. Though also 15 hours, I can stop and start it.
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1 reply by Susan Marangos
Jun 24, 2020 10:03 AM
Susan Marangos
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With a PMI-ACP there's not a giant rush unless you're not getting through the autoscreening because there's no CSM on your resume.
Online classes are a pain, I agree. When I did the CSM in December I actually took the class in person over a weekend and at least got to network. I'm doing the CSPO online in a few weeks and while it'll be good experience for me, I tend to hate online classes.
After taking the PMI-ACP and the ASM (came as a package deal from Simplilearn), I need to rest my head! Also the thought of sitting through a 15 hour web class over two days makes my skin crawl!
Right now I am taking an AWS Solutions Architect Associate class. Found it is needed for some govt work. Though also 15 hours, I can stop and start it.
With a PMI-ACP there's not a giant rush unless you're not getting through the autoscreening because there's no CSM on your resume.
Online classes are a pain, I agree. When I did the CSM in December I actually took the class in person over a weekend and at least got to network. I'm doing the CSPO online in a few weeks and while it'll be good experience for me, I tend to hate online classes. Saving Changes...
Senior Projects Manager | Field & Marten AssociatesNew Westminster, British Columbia, Canada
I am not sure what is the added value of having both CSM and PSM. I actually find PSM much better and gaining more popularity everyday.
For PSM, no course required, exam cost is less and no renewal required for the certification which I believe is totally the opposite for the CSM.
RK
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1 reply by Jared Padgett
Jun 24, 2020 6:39 PM
Jared Padgett
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I think the purpose for earning both CSM and PSM is to cast a wider net in the job search. Some employers list the CSM because it's popular, but others list the PSM because of perceived rigor. I did both, partially for the purpose I described, but also because I wanted to see if it really was more challenging than the CSM. I didn't see a big difference between the two.
Saving Changes...
Jared PadgettVerizon MediaVentura, Ca, United States
Jun 24, 2020 12:52 PM
Replying to Rami Kaibni
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I am not sure what is the added value of having both CSM and PSM. I actually find PSM much better and gaining more popularity everyday.
For PSM, no course required, exam cost is less and no renewal required for the certification which I believe is totally the opposite for the CSM.
RK
I think the purpose for earning both CSM and PSM is to cast a wider net in the job search. Some employers list the CSM because it's popular, but others list the PSM because of perceived rigor. I did both, partially for the purpose I described, but also because I wanted to see if it really was more challenging than the CSM. I didn't see a big difference between the two. Saving Changes...
Phil AkinwaleProject Management & Leadership Speaker, Coach, Trainer & Author| PRAIZIONMesa, Az, United States
CSM. No brainer. I did the research for myself. In the marketplace, ACP does not stack up high enough against CSM. It is just too dominant. Besides the classes are mostly quality controlled and pragmatic. CSM first before ACP imho. Perhaps even PSM before ACP. PSM is vicious even though it looks basic. You really need a good grasp of the content. CSM - PSM - ACP. With the ACP, CSM and PSM should be your next targets and then CSPO etc.
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1 reply by Susan Marangos
Jul 09, 2020 2:33 AM
Susan Marangos
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I agree with this progression.
I moved my CSPO up to do it while I’m studying for the PSM because I want to do something productive while I’m job searching and I actually ran across the CSPO in a job listing.
CSM. No brainer. I did the research for myself. In the marketplace, ACP does not stack up high enough against CSM. It is just too dominant. Besides the classes are mostly quality controlled and pragmatic. CSM first before ACP imho. Perhaps even PSM before ACP. PSM is vicious even though it looks basic. You really need a good grasp of the content. CSM - PSM - ACP. With the ACP, CSM and PSM should be your next targets and then CSPO etc.
I agree with this progression.
I moved my CSPO up to do it while I’m studying for the PSM because I want to do something productive while I’m job searching and I actually ran across the CSPO in a job listing. Saving Changes...
Bumping to add that I’m finishing the training for my CSPO today then I plan on reviewing and taking the PSM I just to show more in depth knowledge. Saving Changes...
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