HR professionals in Canada are most likely familiar with the Chartered Professional in Human Resources (CPHR) designation. It is a nationally recognized level of achievement and competence in the human resources field.

And it is believed to be a great addition to the human resources management diploma. For new immigrants who are seeking a career in HR, however, it’s hard to determine whether it’s worth investing time and resources in obtaining this designation.

Continue reading to discover the main benefits of the CPHR designation and learn how it can contribute to your career success.

New Opportunities

First and foremost, earning a CPHR designation can open doors to new career opportunities. The majority of new immigrants come to Canada with years of education and experience, but nonetheless, their credentials are not recognized by local employers. This makes it challenging for them to secure employment and pursue the same career they had at home. Unfortunately, HR professionals are not an exception here.

CPHR designation can become a magic wand that validates the expertise of foreign-trained specialists in the HR field. Sometimes, taking a human resources management diploma before applying for CPHR can be a great idea. It can help you get familiar with the Canadian laws and regulations as well as other standard practices in the field and make it easier for you to pass the National Knowledge Exam, which is required in most cases to earn the CPHR designation. Please check out the CPHR BC & Yukon website to view all the pathways. 

Once you earn the title, it will show your potential employers that no matter where you are from, you have substantial knowledge and experience that allow you to work as an HR professional in Canada and perform your duties well. A lot of employers prefer candidates with CPHR designation since it demonstrates that the bearer is a true HR expert.

Earning Potential

Since CPHR serves as a proof of expertise in the industry, it’s no surprise employers are willing to pay more to professionals who hold this designation. They usually prefer to hire a person who already has a combination of proper education, such as a human resources management diploma or degree, and a successful experience. In this case, employers don’t have to invest in a new employee’s training and can expect them to perform well on their job right away.

According to the National Salary Survey, conducted in Canada in 2016, the average income of HR professionals who hold a CPHR designation is roughly $90,000 vs. $68,000 for those who don’t. The designation represents continuous recognition of the holder’s professionalism and will help them maintain the status on the higher pay scale.  

Career Advancements

Even if you are already working in the HR field, chances are that obtaining a CPHR designation will help you get a promotion or move to a better position within your own company. By pursuing the CPHR, you prove your ability to tackle all aspects of HR and your knowledge and expertise to deal with complex projects and assignments.

If you are planning to take on the role of manager or director in human resources, you should seriously consider attaining CPHR. It demonstrates your ability to become a strategic advisor to the organization’s management, and to be a leader and a role model to your co-workers. CPHR can have a significant impact on your career, and if you dream big, you’d rather start working towards your designation now.

Community  

CPHR Canada represents 27,000 members in the human resources profession across nine provinces and three territories in Canada. By joining the association, you become part of this exclusive, nation-wide community of HR experts. Through special events, you can meet other HR professionals, establish connections and broaden your network.

Being part of the professional community is essential for career success of an entry-level specialist or a recent immigrant. Both of them can benefit from making contacts with more experienced professionals who can mentor them, give professional and career advice and also refer them to other organizations and people.

Continuing Learning

If you have completed a human resources management diploma program and are thinking that now you’ve put studying behind, you’d be disappointed. Career development requires constant learning and upgrading of your knowledge and skills in the fast-changing world. To maintain the CPHR designation, you will need to attend various online and in person continuing professional development opportunities, such as, professional events, including conferences, workshops, open discussions, lectures, online learning, webinars, etc. – many are free with CPHR BC & Yukon membership. 

Once you become a CPHR, you’ll be able to gain access to the resources available only for the members of the association. They include publications, online resources, special events, and even a job board of unique career opportunities. By pursuing your CPHR, you demonstrate your commitment to continually updating your HR skills and highlighting your long-term passion for the profession.   

Diploma in Human Resources Management program at Ashton College is accredited by the Chartered Professionals in Human Resources Canada and the member associations in all provinces except Ontario & Quebec. It allows students with a Bachelor’s degree to pursue the CPHR designation without taking the National Knowledge Examination (NKE). Learn more on Ashton College website.