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Why should Project Managers earn a leadership certification?


Managing projects is one of the most challenging jobs in any organization. Project managers ensure that their projects are aligned with the organization’s vision, mission, and values and that they meet the expectations and needs of stakeholders. Project managers are vital in steering a project from inception to completion. Initially, they define the project’s scope and objectives, followed by meticulous planning and scheduling. Resource management is key, involving careful allocation of personnel, budget, and materials.

Risk management and quality assurance are crucial, requiring the identification of potential risks and the maintenance of quality standards. Managing the budget and engaging with stakeholders, including clients and team members, are also integral parts of their role. Finally, they oversee project closure, including finalizing all aspects, conducting evaluations, and documenting lessons learned. Their role is central to ensuring project success within the constraints of time, budget, and quality.

But, let’s face it. Being a great project manager has a lot more to do with leading than managing.

The correlation between effective leadership and project success is undeniable. In a dynamic environment, where adaptability and quick decision-making are crucial, project managers must be able to lead teams through the adversity of constant change. The best project managers can think strategically, align project goals with organizational vision and strategy, foresee challenges, and plan accordingly. Leadership certification proves that project managers have the knowledge and skills required to navigate the complexities of their roles.

Why should Project Managers Earn a Leadership Certification?

Project managers need to build resilient teams.

In any organization, getting the work done can be hard. Resilient teams thrive in challenging environments because they can overcome adversity, and then adapt and grow together. Leaders build resilient teams by creating a positive climate, developing cohesion, and providing purpose. Building resilient teams makes team learning possible. Team learning is the foundation of organizational learning and change.

Project teams need to be resilient to adapt to change, tackle unforeseen challenges, and maintain high performance even under pressure. Changes and setbacks are common in project management. Resilient teams adeptly handle these, making necessary adjustments to their plans and strategies. This adaptability is crucial for problem-solving and sustaining project momentum.

Resilience also plays a key role in learning from failures. Project teams that can analyze and grow from past mistakes continually improve and avoid similar pitfalls in the future. Teams that bounce back from adversity sustain a positive and collaborative work environment, which is essential for productivity. Effective communication is another benefit, as resilient teams tend to communicate more clearly and efficiently, especially in challenging situations. Resilience enhances a project team’s ability to manage risks, as their experience with overcoming challenges equips them to better anticipate and mitigate potential issues.

What are the benefits of earning a leadership certification?

Earning an RBLP leadership certification can provide project managers with a competitive edge in their careers. As RBLP certified leaders in our Community of Practice, project managers have opportunities to network, share best practices, find mentors, and discover new career opportunities.

Here are some of the specific benefits of earning a leadership certification.  

Confidence and Autonomy – Getting certified is a structured learning and assessment experience that improves leadership abilities. Earning a leader certification will introduce you to new ideas and concepts. Gaining a comprehensive understanding of leader tasks will instill a greater sense of confidence in yourself.

You can expect more autonomy at work with the knowledge and skills gained from earning a leadership certification. Current and future employers will likely give you additional responsibilities and decision-making authority.

Trust and Recognition – Earning a leadership certification demonstrates your commitment to professionalism. Current and potential employers will place more trust in you because you are a certified leader. Getting certified will also help you earn the trust of your organization’s customers, clients, and the public.

A leadership certification not only brings formal recognition but can also increase respect from your peers and colleagues. Being seen as a credible and effective leader will benefit your professional reputation.

Opportunities and Compensation – Earning a leadership certification will help you stand out in the job market. Leader certification demonstrates your understanding of how to improve motivation and commitment, boost teamwork, and raise morale in the workplace. This will make you a strong candidate for job opportunities, promotions, and assignments.

A leader certification can make you more attractive to current and potential employers. This can increase salary because certified leaders are considered more skilled and capable. Moreover, the knowledge and skills that you gain from earning a leader certification can contribute to a longer, more stable career.


Which RBLP Leadership Certification is right for you?

Leader Certification badge for RBLP.

For Frontline Managers

ACE recommends three (3) semester hours of credit at the lower-division baccalaureate level in Team Leadership.

Is RBLP certification right for you?

Leader Certification badge for RBLP-C

For Experienced Managers

 ACE recommends three (3) semester hours of credit at the upper-division baccalaureate level in Managerial Leadership.

Is RBLP Coach certification right for you?

Leader Certification badge for RBLP-T.

For Senior Managers

ACE recommends three (3) semester hours of credit at the upper-division baccalaureate level in Applied Leadership.

Is RBLP Trainer certification right for you?