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If you are considering a career in HR or L&D or are already working in the field and looking to advance your professional qualifications, the Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development (CIPD) offers a range of levels to suit your needs. But how do you determine which CIPD level is right for you? Read to explore the different levels and their relevance to your career. But first, let’s understand more about what CIPD is. 

The CIPD (Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development) qualifications are recognized globally as the HR and L&D gold standard, with almost 160,000 members across the world. They offer a recognized standard of excellence that demonstrates proficiency in HR management. Having a CIPD qualification shows that you’re a skilled HR or L&D professional who can help a company succeed and adapt to changes in the industry. In this article, you will discover the benefits of obtaining a CIPD qualification, the various levels of CIPD, and which level is most suitable for you.

Some Benefits of CIPD Accreditation

The CIPD qualification offers an array of benefits to those who pursue it. 

No Experience Needed

Anyone can pursue this qualification without prior HR and L&D experience, making it accessible to anyone interested in advancing their career in these fields.

Globally Recognized Credential

It provides a globally recognized credential, enhancing the professional reputation and credibility of individuals in HR and L&D.

Requested by Employers

CIPD certifications are becoming highly sought after. By February 2023, CIPD qualifications were ranked as the 10th most commonly requested certification for HR job postings.

Expertly Crafted Curriculum

Our curriculum is designed by our team of experts, ensuring that it reflects the latest industry trends and practices. It aims to equip learners with up-to-date knowledge and skills that are relevant and applicable in today’s dynamic workplace environments.

Recognized Benchmark for HR and L&D Excellence

As a recognized benchmark, the CIPD qualification stands as a mark of expertise and proficiency within the field. Pursuing CIPD not only fosters personal and professional growth but also opens doors to exciting opportunities for career advancement and development within the dynamic landscape of HR and L&D.

Higher Earning Potential

CIPD members have the potential to earn significantly more than professionals who are not certified. According to data gathered by CIPD between March 2022 and February 2023, the average earning of people professionals with a CIPD certification was 12% higher than those without it.

Read the report

Deciding on the Right Qualification

Wondering which qualification is best for you? Continue reading to find out!

There are three levels of CIPD qualifications and are delivered by CIPD-approved study centers. 

Level 3: Foundation Certificate in People Practice

The CIPD Level 3 qualification is ideal for you if you are looking to find your first role in the people profession or are working in support roles and aim to progress. This course provides a solid foundation in HR and the essential skills and knowledge required to excel in the field. The expected duration to complete this certification is 8-12 months and you will become a CIPD foundation member upon successful completion.

Level 5: Associate Diploma

If you have some work experience in HR or L&D and want to grow your professional expertise, the CIPD Level 5 qualification is a great choice. This qualification is designed for mid-level HR and L&D professionals aiming for career advancement. The Level 5 qualification dives deeper into HR and L&D practices, equipping you with the skills to handle more complex challenges. The expected duration to complete this certification is 12-16 months and you will be awarded the CIPD Associate membership upon successful completion. 

Level 7: Advanced Diploma

If you are an experienced people professional in senior HR or L&D roles or aspiring to be an HR leader, the CIPD Level 7 will be the right choice for you. The Level 7 qualification is designed for strategic thinkers who want to take the lead and shape the future of their profession. It covers advanced topics and equips you with the expertise needed to lead HR and L&D strategies.  The expected duration to complete this certification is 16-24 months and you will be awarded a CIPD Associate membership upon successful completion. You can then apply to upgrade to Chartered Member (MCIPD) or Chartered Fellow (FCIPD), depending on your experience. 

Factors to Consider

When deciding which CIPD level is right for you, there are several factors to consider like… 

• Your level of experience in the field

 If you are just starting, the Foundation Level is a good starting point. If you have some experience, you may be better suited for the Intermediate Level. And if you are a seasoned professional looking to take your career to new heights, the Advanced Level would be better suited for you. You’ll read more on those different levels later. 

• Your long-term career goals

Where do you see yourself in the next five years? Which level of qualification will support your aspirations and help you achieve your goals? It’s essential to align your CIPD level with your career ambitions to get the most out of your professional development journey.

• Your availability to commit

Each CIPD level requires a different level of time and effort. The higher the level, the more demanding the coursework. Be realistic about your availability and make sure you can commit to your chosen CIPD level.

Thinking About Pursuing the CIPD Qualification?

CIPD is an excellent choice for people professionals who want to develop and enhance their knowledge and skills. And, determining the right level for your career advancement in HR or L&D is crucial for maximizing your professional potential. 

Interested in pursuing the CIPD qualification? Kaplan Professional ME is one of the CIPD-approved study centers in the UAE and we currently offer the CIPD Level 3 Certification program in Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and the rest of the Middle East region. Our program is led by qualified trainers with a comprehensive curriculum for a fruitful, yet seamless journey with interactive sessions, extensive assessment guidance, customized study resources, and flexibility. 

For more information, get in touch with us at info@kaplanme.com or call us at 04-554-6184.

You might be asking yourself if the CFA charter is worth it because you heard the CFA Program is expensive and it takes a long time to become a CFA charterholder. Or perhaps you’re considering switching careers and looking for information about what you’d be getting yourself into.

In this blog, we provide the necessary context to help you decide if the CFA is right for you. Our goal is to help you set expectations about the outcomes for CFA charterholders and provide you with options in case you decide that the CFA charter is not right for you at this time.  

Factors To Consider If The CFA Is Worth It

Typically, the CFA Program is finished by people with backgrounds in finance, accounting, economics, or business. Having a financial background is not necessary to pursue the CFA charter; however, you will need 4,000 hours of “professional work experience” completed in a minimum of 36 months in areas like trading, corporate finance, and economics to become a CFA Charterholder.

Each person will have their own set of personal factors to consider when deciding if the CFA charter is right for them. Information about those factors usually requires more context than what is provided in CFA FAQ’s

Career Goals

Upfront, you should understand that the CFA charter can indeed help you in your career, but it’s not the silver bullet for success. You are the secret to your success, and the CFA charter is just one part of that.

We’ve learned an important fact: Charterholders who landed new finance jobs or moved up in their organizations applied passion, dedication, determination, and other common CFA traits to their job search or upward career move. In other words, they didn’t stop working hard after they passed the CFA exams. They also did not set the bar too high in their job search or in their desire for a better position. Instead, they did their homework on the types of jobs where a CFA charter is more likely to be respected and designed a long-term plan for working hard and moving into management.

For example, if you are a student you could use your journey through the CFA Program to get an internship or an entry-level position to start gaining the experience needed to officially become a CFA charterholder

If you’re already working in the financial industry, we’ve seen success come to those who applied for positions or promotions where the charter is seen as advantageous. According to CFA Institute, 22% of CFA charterholders are employed as portfolio managers.

Again, you are the secret to your success. Other things you can do to help your career are:

• Leveraging personal contacts
• Joining a CFA society
• Network on social media
• Attend events related to your career aspirations to meet possible employers
• Sharpen your presentation skills
• Practice interviewing
• Try not to get discouraged along the way

Finding the Time to Pursue the CFA

Honestly thinking about how much free time you have to dedicate to the CFA Program should be a priority for you. Some important information to consider if you don’t have lots of free time should be:

• CFA Level I exams are usually only offered four times per year
• You can only take an exam twice per calendar year
• You can’t fail the Level I exam and then re-enroll into the next immediate exam window
• Average CFA candidates can spend more than 300 hours studying for each CFA exam
• You should expect to spend three to four years completing the CFA program.
 

Salary Expectations

Determining how much money you can expect to earn after passing all three CFA exams is difficult to determine. If you earn the CFA designation as a mid-level analyst, it’s fair to expect a 15-20% increase in salary. In reality, the CFA designation seems to provide more experienced analysts and managers with a larger salary increase. Again there are many factors that determine salary increases but one thing for sure is that the CFA designation is seen as valuable, especially for candidates in senior roles like risk, investment, and portfolio managers.


For example, if your end goal is to become a portfolio manager at a top firm, the CFA Institute determined in a 2019 compensation studythat US$177,000 was a typical total compensation amount.

According to the U.S Bureau of Labor Statistics, the annual median pay for financial analysts in the U.S is 83,660 USD or ₹570,063 in the Bangalore, India Area according to Glassdoor.

Finance professionals who are active CFA charterholder can be rewarded with significant earning benefits such as:
• Performance-based bonuses
• Access to high-net-worth clients
• Consulting and advisory roles
• Opportunities in alternative investments
• Entrepreneurial pursuits
 

Ready to Begin Your CFA Journey?

If you are interested in joining hands with a leading CFA tuition provider to help make your CFA journey easier, then Kaplan Professional Middle East is here to offer you the expertise of having helped students to successfully ace their CFA exams for several years with the industry’s leading trainers, world-class support, CFA’s most trusted study materials – Kaplan Schweser, and digital solutions. If you are looking for CFA training, join us as a student to kickstart your CFA exam preparation.

With the ever-increasing complexity of financial markets and the constant evolution of risk management practices, having a professional certification has become more important than ever for those aspiring to build a successful career in this field. One such certification that stands out among the rest is the Financial Risk Manager (FRM) certification.

What is FRM Certification?

The FRM certification is a globally recognized professional designation for risk managers. It is designed to demonstrate one’s expertise in identifying, measuring, and managing financial risks in various areas, such as credit, market, operational, and liquidity risk. The financial risk manager course covers a wide range of topics including quantitative analysis, financial markets and products, valuation and risk models, as well as risk management practices and regulatory issues.

Advantages of Obtaining the FRM Certification

1. Credibility and Recognition: The FRM certification is highly regarded by employers, regulators, and clients as a mark of excellence in the field of risk management. It provides credibility to your skills and knowledge, making you stand out among other candidates for job opportunities.

2. Career Advancement: Holding the FRM certification can open doors to new career opportunities and help you climb the corporate ladder faster. Many organizations prefer hiring certified risk managers as it reflects their commitment towards maintaining high standards in managing financial risks.

3. Global Recognition: The FRM certification is recognized globally, giving you a competitive edge in the international job market. It proves that you possess a deep understanding of risk management principles and can apply them in various geographical regions.

4. Networking Opportunities: As a certified FRM, you become part of a global community of risk professionals who share similar knowledge and interests. This provides opportunities for networking, exchanging ideas, and staying updated with the latest trends and developments in the field.

5. Prestige: The FRM certification is highly regarded in the financial industry, earning you respect and recognition from your peers, employers, and clients. It showcases your dedication to advancing your skills and knowledge in risk management.

6. Versatility: FRM training covers various topics, making it applicable to multiple industries and sectors. This versatility allows you to explore different career opportunities in risk management, including banking, insurance, consulting, and more.

7. Career Advancement: FRM certification can open doors for career advancement by demonstrating your expertise and commitment to the field of risk management. It could lead to higher job responsibilities, promotions, and even executive-level positions.

Kaplan Professional ME’s FM Training Program

At Kaplan Professional ME, we offer the FRM® Certification training program, which is designed to meet the educational standards set by the KHDA in the UAE. Our candidates must demonstrate mastery in critical areas of risk management by passing two intensive exams, which encompass 10 comprehensive topics, including quantitative analysis, risk management foundations, and current financial market issues.
We deliver training throughout the year in various learning modes, providing flexibility to accommodate our candidates’ schedules. Furthermore, we provide our students with an immersive learning experience, granting access to an extensive array of online resources and bite-sized, tutor-led videos.

CIPD’s influence on HR and L&D best practices resonates globally, including within the vibrant landscape of the United Arab Emirates (UAE). The Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development (CIPD) has been instrumental in setting and elevating industry standards in this region through its comprehensive courses and certifications.

CIPD Courses in the UAE: Elevating Professional Standards

The UAE’s competitive business environment, characterised by its dynamic growth and diverse workforce, has seen an increased emphasis on HR and leadership and development strategies. CIPD’s presence in the UAE through its accredited courses has been pivotal in enhancing the capabilities of professionals within different industries and sectors. Professionals seeking to strengthen their careers in HR or L&D in the UAE can pursue CIPD qualifications tailored to meet the region’s specific industry needs.

Advantages of CIPD Qualification and Certification

Attaining a CIPD qualification stands as a valuable recognition for an individual’s expertise in HR and L&D. The certification process encompasses rigorous training, examinations, and practical assessments, ensuring that professionals are equipped with the knowledge and skills necessary to handle and manage the complexities of modern workplace environment and teams.

CIPD’s influence extends beyond individual certification. It actively shapes industry best practices through collaborations, research initiatives, and ongoing dialogue with HR and L&D leaders in the UAE. By staying well-informed of emerging trends, technological advancements, and the evolving needs of the workforce, CIPD consistently updates its curriculum to ensure relevance and applicability.

The institute’s emphasis on ethical conduct, diversity, and inclusion serves as a benchmark for companies aspiring to create inclusive workplaces in the UAE. CIPD’s impact on HR and L&D practices in the UAE reflects a commitment to excellence and continuous improvement. Its courses, qualifications, and influence on industry standards collectively contribute to shaping a professional landscape that values expertise, innovation, and ethical conduct.

The qualification serves as a gateway to a world of professional opportunities. Once completing your CIPD certification course and qualifications, you will have the privilege to be given with either Foundation or Associate Membership recognised globally which offer myriads of benefits and support. With continuous growth both in knowledge and professional experience, the Chartered Membership or Chartered Fellowship can also be your next career step.

As the UAE’s business environment continues to evolve, CIPD will be a reliable driver of professional standards, nurturing a skilled workforce prepared for the market changes in the future.

CIPD LEVEL 3 Foundation Certification Courses

Kaplan Professional Middle East is one the leading individual and corporate training companies in the UAE and MENA region and is an approved provider of CIPD qualification. Kaplan Professional has added CIPD level 3 foundation certificate to its list of offered programs. Professionals who are seeking to acquire this certification have options to attend in-person or online classes with the support of CIPD-approved trainers and a comprehensive learning approach.

For professionals stepping into 2024, the mantra for success revolves around adaptability and continuous growth. The accelerating pace of technological advancements and industry transformations demands a proactive approach towards upskilling and reskilling.

Embracing Career Agility

Young professionals and mid-managers must possess a diverse skill set to pivot swiftly between roles and industries. Upskilling serves as a gateway to unlocking new opportunities, allowing them to stay ahead of the curve and remain relevant in a competitive job market.

Harnessing Technological Advancements

Technology is the heartbeat of innovation, driving industries forward. Young professionals need to be tech-savvy and adaptable to new tools and platforms. Upskilling in areas like data analytics, cybersecurity and AI empowers them to harness these advancements, amplifying their career prospects.

Reskilling for Career Reinvention

The ability to reskill is a superpower for young professionals. Why is it foucsed only at young professionals? Upgrading skillset is important for all professionals to stay ahead of the curve It enables them to pivot their careers, explore new domains, or upscale their current roles. This flexibility not only ensures career sustainability but also opens doors to exciting opportunities in emerging fields.

Kaplan: Tailored Programs for Young Professionals

Please keep the focus broad and not limited to young professionals. At Kaplan we have a wide range of programs for anyone looking to upskill, from finance and accounting to HR and L&D to Digital transformation and AI. Please refer to our website to know about the different program we offer for B2C and B2B. Make it more personalized, it has a very generic tone right now

Kaplan’s array of professional programs is a beacon for young professionals seeking to amplify their skill sets and career growth.

Youth-Centric Approach

Kaplan understands the aspirations and challenges of young professionals. Their programs are crafted to resonate with this demographic, offering engaging and relevant content that aligns with the fast-paced nature of modern industries.

Cutting-Edge Curriculum

Kaplan’s programs are designed to encompass the latest industry trends and technologies. For young professionals eager to delve into fields like cybersecurity, digital innovation, sustainable business practices, or entrepreneurship, Kaplan’s offerings provide a roadmap for success.

Industry-Relevant Training

The programs at Kaplan aren’t just theoretical; they emphasize practical, hands-on learning. This equips young professionals with real-world skills, making them job-ready and adaptable to the demands of their chosen industries.

Career Advancement Opportunities

Kaplan’s programs aren’t just about skill acquisition; they’re a gateway to career progression. With certifications and qualifications recognized in the industry, young professionals gain a competitive edge, accelerating their journey towards leadership roles.

In the vibrant professional landscape of 2024, upskilling isn’t a mere choice but a strategic move for young professionals to future-proof their careers. Kaplan stands as a partner in this journey, offering tailored programs that empower young minds, fuel their ambitions, and align with the ever-evolving demands of the job market.

By investing in upskilling and leveraging Kaplan’s youth-centric programs, young professionals equip themselves with the tools to navigate the complexities of the modern workplace, unlocking a world of opportunities for their career growth and success.

Clients often ask; what is the impact of Coaching on our leadership team? How can it help our leaders? Does it help our leaders become more effective at what they do? And if so, how or in what ways?

Before answering these questions, we should start by looking at each word and briefly outlining what we mean when we say Leadership, and what we mean when we say Coaching.

Leadership is an evolving journey that requires constant growth, adaptation, and self-reflection. While experience and technical skills are essential for any leader, however, it is the ability to connect with and inspire others that truly defines exceptional leadership. That’s where coaching comes in!

As for Coaching, it’s not just a tool it’s a transformative process that empowers leaders to reach new heights, unleash their full potential, and achieve extraordinary results. Coaching aims to cultivate a unique partnership between coach and leader, creating a safe and supportive environment for self-discovery, introspection, and personal development.

So, how does Coaching improve Leadership? Here are some of the key areas of leadership and the role or impact of coaching in each.

1. Self-Awareness: Coaching allows leaders to gain deep insights into their strengths, weaknesses, and most importantly; their blind spots. By raising self-awareness, leaders can identify their default behaviors, thought patterns, and beliefs that might be limiting their growth. In today’s world, self-awareness is the foundation for personal and professional development.

2. Emotional Intelligence: The best and most effective leaders go beyond technical competence, stepping space of influence and relationship building. And this, requires emotional intelligence—understanding and managing one’s emotions and effectively relating to others. Coaching helps leaders develop their emotional intelligence, enabling them to navigate complex interpersonal dynamics, inspire their teams, and create a positive work culture.

3. Empowering Mindset: Coaching encourages leaders to adopt a growth mindset, embracing challenges as opportunities for learning and development. It helps leaders overcome self-limiting beliefs and replace them with empowering thoughts and beliefs that fuel innovation, resilience, and adaptability.

4. Enhanced Communication: Effective communication is key to positive relationships and in building trust. We don’t only get stuck in our thinking patterns, but also in what we communicate, and how. Coaching helps leaders equip themsleves with powerful communication tools, enabling them to listen actively, ask insightful questions, be more assertive, and provide constructive feedback, allowing for more range and agility.

5. Goal Alignment & Accountability: Coaching supports leaders in setting meaningful goals, aligning them with their organization’s vision, and developing actionable strategies to achieve them. Coaches also serve as accountability partners, ensuring leaders stay focused, motivated, and committed to their objectives.

The benefits of coaching extend beyond the individual leader—it creates a ripple effect throughout the organization. Leaders who embrace coaching inspire and empower their teams, fostering a culture of growth, innovation, and continuous improvement. They become catalysts for positive change, driving organizational success.

According to a study by the Middle East Leadership Initiative, 80% of the executives surveyed who received coaching reported that it had a positive impact on their leadership skills, and 96% said they would recommend coaching to their colleagues.

With all of our clients we continue to witness firsthand how coaching helps unlock untapped potential and propels leaders to surpass their own expectations.If you’re ready to elevate your leadership effectiveness and make a lasting impact, embark on a transformative journey with coaching. It’s a win-win-win for you, your team, and your organization.

To learn more about our coaching programs contact us at info@kaplanme.com