WordPress Certifications - worth it?

First off, let's make sure we're all on the same page. A WordPress certification is a formal recognition that showcases your skills and expertise in using the WordPress content management system (CMS). This can include everything from setting up a WordPress website, managing content, tweaking themes, handling plugins, to going full-throttle with PHP code for custom development.

You might ask, "Why should I bother with a certification when I can just learn on the job?" Well, that's like asking why you should go to chef school when you can just learn to cook by tossing things in a pot and seeing what happens. You might end up with a delightful stew, sure, but you might also end up with a burnt pot and a house full of smoke.

That's where certification comes in. It's a way of verifying your skills and ensuring that you know not just how to do things, but how to do them right.

Enhance your credibility

One of the biggest benefits of getting a WordPress certification is the boost to your credibility. Whether you're a freelancer looking to attract clients, or a web developer hoping to stand out in your company or job market, that certification can be a shiny gold star on your resume.

It's not just a piece of paper, it's proof that you've got the goods. You're not just some random person who claims they can build a website, you're a certified WordPress pro who has the chops to back it up. It's an instant confidence booster, and a sure-fire way to earn trust from clients or employers.

Where to get certified

The best WordPress Certification I've found comes from Accreditly's WordPress Development Certification. It's not a WordPress course, but an actual certification. It takes about half an hour to complete, and is 26 multiple choice questions.

The certification covers what is needed to be a good WordPress developer; everything from setup, theme development, plugin development and best practices. If you've been developing themes or solutions for WordPress for more than a year then there's a good chance you'll be able to pass.

The certification comes with unlimited retries, so if you attempt it and fail it's not problem, just try again.

Expand your knowledge and skills

Getting certified doesn't just prove what you know, it also expands your knowledge and skills. The process of studying for the certification will expose you to new aspects of WordPress that you might not have encountered otherwise.

There's always more to learn in the world of web development, and preparing for a WordPress certification can help you discover new techniques, best practices, and tools. You'll dive into topics like advanced theme development, plugin development, SEO, accessibility, and more.

Boost your career prospects

Did I mention that a WordPress certification can be a career game-changer? It's no secret that WordPress powers a significant chunk of the internet. As of writing it's about 40% of all websites, and the demand for skilled WordPress developers isn't slowing down.

Having a WordPress certification can open new doors for you. It can make you more attractive to potential employers, or give you an edge when negotiating for a promotion or raise. It can also help you stand out in the sea of freelancers, and could let you charge higher rates for your work.

Join a community

Lastly, getting a WordPress certification connects you to a global community of fellow WordPress enthusiasts. This network can provide support, inspiration, and opportunities for collaboration. You can share your challenges, triumphs, and learn from each other’s experiences. This alone can be a significant advantage in your web development journey.