In many industries, there is one certification that stands out as THE certification for the profession (PMP for project management, CFP for financial planning, SPHR and PHR for HR). Sourcing is still a relatively new function and there are numerous organizations in the race to establish themselves as the go-to sourcing and recruiting certification.
Is a sourcing certification worth the investment? I think it can be… if you hire the right employees to put through the program. A certification, or any training for that matter, can make a good sourcer better. However, in my opinion, a certification won’t make a bad sourcer good. On a side note, be looking for an article from Jim Schneider next week that will break down the DNA of a good sourcer. I would argue that you should only be investing in certifications for candidates that fit this criteria.
Below is a list of the certifications currently being offered by AIRS, Social Talent, The Sourcing Institute, and the People Sourcing Certification Program. When reviewing the available options, consider the following:
- Is the program 100% online or is a portion of it given in a classroom setting? (ie: Is it convenient?)
- What is the cost?
- Can the organization provide references?
AIRS
Certified Internet Recruiter (CIR)
Advanced Certified Internet Recruiter (ACIR)
Certified Diversity Recruiter (CDR)
Certified Social Sourcing Recruiter (CSSR)
Certified Social Media Recruiter (CSMR)
Professional Recruiter Certification (PRC)
Social Talent
Orange Belt in Internet Recruitment
Blue Belt in Internet Recruitment
Brown Belt in Internet Recruitment
Black Belt in Internet Recruitment
The Sourcing Institute
TSI Member Level
TSI Specialist Level
TSI Professional Level
TSI Leadership Level
TSI Leadership Only Level
The People Sourcing Certification
Certified People Sourcing Professional 1 (CPSP -1)
Certified People Sourcing Professional 2 (CPSP-2)
Do you have a sourcing certification? Have you taken a course from any of these providers? Share your opinions in the comments section below.