CPLP: Finding Your Own Way

I fell into learning and development, but I was lucky and found my passion in what I do for a living. Helping others develop and gain skills also has encouraged me to grow and learn. Becoming a certified professional in learning and performance (CPLP) was just another way to hone my professional skills. 

Shortly after completing my master’s degree, I learned that my organization’s learning and development team was to become part of our human resources center of excellence. The center also included the talent management, culture and inclusion, analytics, and talent acquisition teams. This new structure sparked my desire to know more about how these departments fit together and connected to learning. 

I began researching development options, and discovered the CPLP program. The program stuck out to me because of its link to talent management and understanding learning strategy. In my learning department, composed of 35 people, we had only one CPLP recipient. I was eager to take on the challenge and become the second. 

Finding a Study Method 

Studying for the Knowledge Exam can be grueling: lots of reading, and reading, and did I mention reading? While I do love to read, mostly fiction, I knew I needed a way to organize my studying, and it would require a partner. Timing issues meant I was unable to join the local ATD chapter’s study groups, but I highly recommend one if you can join! 

I was lucky to have a co-worker who also decided to pursue her CPLP, so we studied for the exam together. We set up weekly study sessions that included reviewing information and utilizing flash cards. 

Still, the majority of my studying was done solo, reading and reflecting on what I had learned, and taking pages and pages of notes. I found it helpful to take the practice exams as well. The test questions were tricky, but I had to remember that a certification worth achieving shouldn’t be easy! 

My studying tips include: 

• Find a buddy, even if it is just someone to listen to you vent. Having someone to join you on the journey is extremely helpful.

• Find the tool that works for you. For me, it was the the practice exams.

• Read, read, read. Yes, you do need to read the recommended books and the ATD Learning System. 

Sticking With the Work Product 

For my work product, I used a recent management program I had designed, developed, and implemented. The work product was not easy—maybe not as painful as studying for the test, but still a struggle. Putting my career in the spotlight for others to evaluate was humbling. When you have found success in a profession you love, it can be very scary to be judged. 

When I was notified that my work product had been disqualified due to a critical flaw, I was shaken. I had triple checked all my content and could not believe I had made an error. Yet because my program was two days long, the candidate board felt my video was from two different training sessions, which does not count. 

Nevertheless, I took my disqualification in stride and was determined to have my work re-evaluated. I resubmitted my work product three months later, with video from one day of the program. 

I could hardly wait for the results email a second time, but when I received word that my work product had passed, I was elated. The CPLP credential is a true validation of my program and skill set. I could not be prouder of the program I submitted or the impact it has had on the learners in my organization. 

My work product tips are: 

• Budget enough time to complete it.

• Make sure you understand the rules and requirements.

• If you fail, do not give up. Giving up is easy; getting up and trying again is not! 

What’s Next? 

I’m still trying to realize the full value of my CPLP. The other evening I attended an event hosted by my husband’s company, and I was speaking with someone from the HR department. When I told her I had just received my CPLP, she hugged me and congratulated me. She went on and on about how wonderful it was. It was only then I understood that others appreciate the hard work that goes into achieving it. 

Personal development is an internal process and one that takes determination, sacrifice, and drive. I am very proud of the work I put into earning my CPLP credential. I look forward to using the knowledge and experience I gained from the process. Good luck to all of you in your CPLP journey!

Learn more about the CPLP Certification.