I've got my Scrum certification, so now what?

​If you’re like many of our course participants, you may have been compelled to get your CSM or CSPO certification to advance your career or even change careers altogether. You found the right class, put in your time, and (if you're a CSM) passed the exam. But now what? Leveraging your agile certification effectively can help you maximize its value and open up opportunities in your career. 

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Here are some ways to leverage your agile certification:
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Update Your Resume and LinkedIn Profile

Highlight your agile certification prominently on your resume and LinkedIn profile. Clearly mention the certification you have achieved, the issuing organization, and any relevant details such as the date of certification. This will make your agile expertise more visible to potential employers or clients.
 
Showcase Projects and Results

When discussing your experience and accomplishments, emphasize how you applied agile principles and methodologies to deliver successful projects. Highlight specific results, such as improved team collaboration, increased productivity, or successful product launches. This demonstrates the practical application of your agile certification and its impact on real-world scenarios.
 
Network within Agile Communities

Engage with agile communities, both online and offline, to expand your professional network. Participate in agile-focused events, conferences, webinars, or workshops. Connect with fellow agile practitioners, share your insights and experiences, and learn from others. Active participation in these communities can lead to valuable connections, mentorship opportunities, and potential job leads. Looking for a place to start? If you're an Applied Scrum alumni, you automatically have access to our Applied Scrum Coaching Huddle which meets bi-monthly for a facilitated discussion on real topics and challenges faced by alums such as yourself.
 
Stay Updated with Agile Practices

Agile methodologies and practices continue to evolve. Stay current with the latest trends, frameworks, and tools in the agile space. Read books, articles, and blogs related to agile. Follow influential thought leaders and organizations in the field. By staying informed, you can demonstrate your commitment to continuous learning and adaptability, enhancing your credibility as an agile professional. We invite you to attend our Applied Scrum Learning Series, which occurs bi-monthly on the opposite months from our Coaching Huddle. The Learning Series is open to everyone (not just alumni) and ranges from guest speakers to webinars, and everything in between.
 
Seek Agile-Related Opportunities

Actively search for job opportunities or projects that specifically require agile expertise. Many organizations prioritize candidates who understand and can implement agile methodologies. Look for roles like Agile Project Manager, Scrum Master, Agile Coach, or Agile Product Owner. Tailor your job search to focus on companies that have embraced agile practices or are undergoing agile transformations.
 
Continuously Apply Agile Principles

Apply the agile principles you have learned in your current role or on personal projects, even if they are not explicitly agile-focused. Look for opportunities to introduce agile concepts, such as iterative development, adaptive planning, or collaborative decision-making. Demonstrating your ability to apply agile principles beyond designated agile projects can showcase your versatility and contribute to organizational agility.
 
Conclusion

Remember that while agile certification is beneficial, practical experience and the ability to adapt agile practices to specific contexts are equally important. Employers value professionals who can demonstrate a blend of certification knowledge and real-world application.
 
By leveraging your agile certification effectively, you can position yourself as a qualified agile professional, increase your visibility in the job market, and enhance your career prospects in agile-focused roles and organizations.