Top 5 Mistakes to Avoid When Applying for PMP Certification
If you are planning to enter PMP certification programs or renew your credentials, it’s important to know how the platform works. Most importantly, the renewal process requires rigorous training and constant learning.
However, if you fail to approach the program the right way, it can cause several pitfalls. Read on to explore different mistakes you must avoid to successfully go through with a renewal process for PMP certification programs.
Neglecting the Renewal Date
Why it’s a Problem: you have to renew your PMP certificate every three years. Ignoring it isn’t the best solution. In fact, ignoring to do so can cause a lapse in the certification process.
Before you go for the renewal, you must know all the tips. But, if you’re missing the window due to any reason, you may have to take the PMP exam once more — and it’ll require a lot more effort to prepare for one.
How to Avoid It:
The best way to avoid this mistake is by staying mindful of your PMP program timeline.
Track Expiry Date – You must keep a calendar reminder to keep track of the certification expiry date.
Start Early – it’s best to take note of your certification expiry date and start preparing three to six months before the date.
When you track the expiry date and start early to take necessary actions, it becomes easier to tackle different issues you may face throughout the process.
2. Not Gathering PDUs
Mistake: There are continual education requirements for renewal of the PMP certificate. Failing to earn enough of the Professional Development Units or PDUs has adverse effects. Similarly, failing to report them accurately can also become problematic.
Why It’s a Problem:
When you renew your PMP certificate, you have to earn 60 PDUs throughout the last three-year cycle. When you misreport or fail to get the necessary number of PDUs, you may have to face rejection on your renewal application.
How to Avoid It:
Understand PDU requirements: The best practice here would be to learn about all the different types of PDUs you can gather. For example, it can include self-learning ( through webinars, courses, and workshops), giving back ( mentoring and teaching), and working as a Project Manager.
Document them Properly: Once you know and have gathered the different types of PDUs required, you have to document them well. Ensure that you’re attaching proper certificates, course descriptions, and proof of attendance.
Use the CCRS System of PMI: Once ready, you have to report the PDUs through the Continuing Certification Requirements System (CCRS) and verify the accuracy of the entries.
3. Avoiding to Verify Certification Requirements
Mistake: you may have gone through the renewal process before. However, the requirement for certification changed. Avoiding verifying the new requirements for PMP Certification Programs is a mistake.
Why it’s a Problem: PMI keeps changing and updating the renewal requirements. It can become an obstacle in your path if you fail to verify the current requirements for PMP certification and submit an incorrect renewal application.
How to Avoid It:
Well, it’s not difficult to avoid this mistake.
Check the PMI Platform: before you start your application process, go ahead and visit the website to check for new renewal process updates. Collect data regarding certification requirements.
Pay Attention: go ahead and subscribe to the email notifications they send to users. Turn on the notification alert and keep visiting the platform for the latest notifications regarding changes.
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4. Don’t Overlook Payment Process
Mistake: Here’s another mistake you mustn’t make to renew PMP Certification Programs. Missing payment deadlines can cause real blunders.
Why it’s a Problem: You’ll have to pay renewal fees to process the renewal application. When you overlook those costs, you can avoid the payment deadline or completely stop the renewal process.
How to Avoid it:
Know how the renewal fee structures are divided. PMI members usually get discounts. So you can ensure that the membership is current when you are eligible.
Prepare Payment – Abide by the necessary payment method allowed on the platform.
Avoiding to Prepare for Potential Audits
Mistake: Here’s another mistake you must avoid throughout the PMP Certification Program. Don’t fail to prepare for a necessary audit. Also, if it requires you to understand specific audit parameters, you must pay attention to them.
Why It’s a Problem: PMI audits different portions of renewal applications. When you select them, you have to provide evidence related to PDUs and adhere to the renewal requirements. Failing to comply with an audit can also make you lose your certification.
Ways to Avoid It:
Maintain proper records and documentation of all PDUs along with consistent learning.
Know about your Audit Procedures: Learn the importance of the PMI audit process and all the requirements. Also, stay ready to submit your supporting documents when audited.
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