It was fortuitous for me that the first Certified Professional in Learning & Performance credentials were awarded in 2006, since just a year later I made the leap to the talent development field and soon discovered I had a need for just such a certification. One day at my old job, I had an epiphany. Although I loved the culture where I was, I noticed I was most passionate when I was training others and designing and developing their learning content, which comprised only a small fraction of my actual job. I needed to make a switch to a role that embodied what I really enjoyed doing. I decided to transition to talent development.

I landed a wonderful position in a new industry. Over the next several years, I realized I needed professional credentials to further establish my credibility in my chosen field, and to break out of being pigeonholed and defined by my old career. As well, based on how I had transitioned, I suspected I had gaps in my knowledge and wanted to ensure I truly had a solid talent development foundation. The CPLP credential was the perfect solution for both of my needs. I applied and participated in an online study course, but mostly drilled myself on the nine areas of expertise to ensure I knew the breadth of knowledge required to pass the exam. I’m happy to report that I soon passed the Knowledge Exam (pure relief!).

It was difficult to balance work and plans for my upcoming wedding while preparing for the second phase of earning the CPLP, but it was also extremely fulfilling. I felt fully in sync with my earlier decision to make the switch to talent development. Despite several challenges due to changes at work, I finally completed the second phase. As I tensely awaited the results of my submission, I received bad news. My employer had undertaken an unsuccessful acquisition, which unfortunately led to the company’s demise. I would soon be out of a job.

Luckily my CPLP candidacy helped secure my new job. The hiring manager was seeking someone to lead the learning function who invested in their own learning, and thus lived their learning values. She felt a CPLP epitomized that, and later shared that my candidacy was a deciding factor in her hiring decision. Thus, just being a CPLP candidate opened a door for me to the next phase of my career. Shortly thereafter I officially became a CPLP, and I vividly remember the pride and excitement I felt when I received the good news!

I started my new job, got married, and was brimming with confidence at having achieved my CPLP. So buoyed was I by the experience that I immediately decided to pursue my master’s of science degree in instructional technology management. Coupled with becoming a new mom, studying and working was definitely a full load to balance. I enjoyed it all though, as I continued to learn and have wonderful experiences and opportunities. After obtaining my degree, I was promoted to a newly created role in my global organization as a human resources business partner for the corporate function. I was thrilled to be able to apply different areas of my expertise in my new role, such as coaching, that I had honed while becoming a CPLP.

It’s been full steam ahead for me since the moment I decided to become a CPLP thanks to a mentor who encouraged me to apply. If you are considering becoming a CPLP, I absolutely encourage you to go for it and never look back! To ensure your success, be sure to map out your timing and strategy and really think through the potential obstacles that could derail your studying and ability to complete the requirements. Give yourself enough time to study so that you feel confident when you go into the exam. There is no worse feeling than just relying on hope that you will pass an exam. To me, having an element of control over what I chose was paramount, so that I could ensure I met the requirements no matter what bumps in the road turned up. Having a mentor or cheerleader on your side, like I did, really helps when the going gets tough, as it inevitably will. The good news is that once you pass, you will be on an excellent advancement track and your efforts will be recognized and admired.

Having benefited so much from becoming a CPLP, I have made a consistent effort to give back to the profession. In addition to being an ATD member, and a member of two local ATD chapters, I volunteered as the vice president of communications for the ATD Eastern Pennsylvania chapter for 2013–2014. I also served as their vice president of technology for 2015–2017. This year I am serving as an APTD form reviewer for the Summer 2018 APTD Exam Refresh.

Becoming a CPLP was transformative for me. It met my original objectives of providing a top-notch credential in my field and filled in the gaps I had in my talent development foundation. As I continue to advance my career, I’ve been able to grow and delve further into each CPLP area of expertise. My talent development journey has been exhilarating. I’ve been able to leverage my certification for a new job, promotions, increased earnings, and most importantly, a career that keeps me personally engaged in my chosen field. The rewards of becoming a CPLP are long-lasting. It is the gift that keeps on giving long after the actual certification is obtained, so I highly recommend pursuing it if you want good things to come into your life!