Skill versus Certification: Which is more important?

 It is possible to fly without motors, but not without knowledge and skill. ~ Wilbur Wright

There has been debate about which is more important when seeking a job.  Some say its “skill” while others say its “certification”.  What exactly is “skill” and how does it differ from “certification”? Are they mutually exclusive or equally important? Should you acquire “certification” before “skill” or “skill” before “certification”? To address this issue burning in the mind of seekers, let’s dive into the discussion by determining the difference between “skill” and “certification”.

I love the way the Business Dictionary defines both terms.  Skill is defined as “an ability and capacity acquired through deliberate, systematic, and sustained effort to smoothly and adaptively carryout complex activities or job functions involving ideas (cognitive skills), things (technical skills), and/or people (interpersonal skills).”  The same dictionary defines Certification as “formal procedure by which an accredited or authorized person or agency assesses and verifies (and attests in writing by issuing a certificate) the attributes, characteristics, quality, qualification, or status of individuals or organizations, goods or services, procedures or processes, or events or situations, in accordance with established requirements or standards.”

In summary, a “skill” could be said to be a trade that you have learned, while “certification” is a public attestation by an independent body that indeed you have mastered that skill.

Skill is considered relevant in every job role, formal or informal.  Skill sometimes could be referred to as competencies that candidates are expected to possess to be successful at a role. Skill is what determines if a candidate is a fit for the role being filled. Interviewers would want to assess each candidate against the skill set for the job role in order to determine if the candidate can actually carry out the tasks required in the role being filled. Some examples of general skills that candidates are required to posses are:

Communication – Are you good at writing, listening and speaking?

Problem solving – Are you good at troubleshooting? Do you think ‘outside the box’ when analysing problems?

Team work – How well do you work with others? Do you listen and accept other people’s ideas? Remember that the people you work with are your team mates; you’re all working towards the same goal and team work will help you to get the best possible results.

Planning and organising – Are you good at managing your time? How do you cope when you’re busy? Are you capable of juggling through several tasks?

Interpersonal skills - Are you a people person? Think about how you have built relationships in the past, because getting on with your team is key to career success, happiness and achievement.

Certification without skill will get you nowhere. Skill is required at all levels, as this is evidence that one is a perfect fit for the role being considered for. As you gain experience, and grow in your career, certification becomes equally important as a public evidence of your competence.

For instance, when starting your career, skills will get you to the door step, however, certification will enhance your chance.  I have come across people who possess some certification and at the end of the day do not have the right skills. When it comes to certification, my advice would be to search out reputable and recognized professional bodies that assess skills or sometimes called competencies, as this will ensure that when you secure the certification, it will be a true test of your capacity to deliver on the job role.

Acquire the skill required for your career progression, then get certified!