Top 11 Corporate Recruiter Certifications

Certifications are important for corporate recruiters in the job market because they demonstrate a level of expertise and knowledge that is required to source, assess, and hire top talent. Certifications provide recruiters with the necessary skills they need to be successful in their roles, such as understanding how to identify potential candidates, how to evaluate resumes, and how to conduct effective interviews. With certifications, recruiters can demonstrate their commitment to staying current on best practices and trends in the industry. Additionally, having certifications can give recruiters an advantage when competing for positions against other qualified candidates.

The purpose of this article is to provide an overview of the key certifications that can help Corporate Recruiters advance their careers.

What are Corporate Recruiter Certifications?

Corporate Recruiter Certification is a certification program designed to provide recruiters with the knowledge and skills they need to successfully recruit and select qualified candidates for corporate positions. This certification program is offered by many professional organizations, such as the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM) or the National Association of Colleges and Employers (NACE).

By obtaining corporate recruiter certification, recruiters can demonstrate their expertise in recruiting and selection processes, which will give them an edge over other applicants for recruiter positions. The certification also provides employers with assurance that their recruiters have the necessary knowledge and skills to effectively fill job openings.

The certification process typically includes coursework on topics such as job analysis, sourcing techniques, interviewing techniques, legal issues in recruitment, background checks, employment testing, applicant tracking systems, onboarding new hires, and developing effective recruitment strategies. It may also include a practicum or internship component where the candidate must demonstrate their recruiting skills through a hands-on experience.

Having corporate recruiter certification can help recruiters stand out from other applicants when applying for jobs. It also gives employers peace of mind that they are hiring someone who has been properly trained in all aspects of recruiting and selecting qualified candidates. Additionally, it can be beneficial to those looking to advance their careers within recruitment because it demonstrates commitment to professional development and mastery of best practices in the field.

Pro Tip: Before deciding to pursue corporate recruiter certification, make sure you research the different certifications available and their requirements. Depending on the industry or organization you are targeting, some certifications may be more beneficial for your career than others. Additionally, consider how you can use the certification to further your professional development and advance your career.

Related: What does a Corporate Recruiter do?

Top 11 Corporate Recruiter Certifications

Here’s our list of the best certifications available to Corporate Recruiters today.

1. Professional in Human Resources (PHR)

Professional in Human Resources (PHR) is a certification offered by the Human Resource Certification Institute (HRCI) that recognizes individuals who have achieved a high level of expertise and knowledge in the field of human resources. The PHR certification is designed for those who are already working in HR or those who want to advance their career in the field.

How long does it take to get it?

The time frame for obtaining the PHR certification depends on an individual’s experience and education level. Generally, it takes about 3-4 months to prepare for the exam, depending on how much time you can dedicate to studying.

How to get it?

To become certified as a Professional in Human Resources, individuals must first meet eligibility requirements set by HRCI. These include having at least one year of professional-level HR experience within the past three years, or two years of professional-level HR experience within the last five years. Additionally, applicants must have either a bachelor's degree or higher from an accredited college or university, or four years of professional-level HR experience within the past seven years. Once these requirements are met, individuals can register for the exam through HRCI’s website.

How much does it cost?

The cost for taking the PHR exam is $395 USD for HRCI members and $495 USD for non-members. In addition to this fee, there may be additional costs associated with study materials and other preparation resources.

2. Senior Professional in Human Resources (SPHR)

Senior Professional in Human Resources (SPHR) is a professional certification granted by the Human Resource Certification Institute (HRCI). It is designed to recognize individuals who have achieved a high level of mastery in the field of human resources management. To obtain the SPHR certification, individuals must demonstrate their knowledge and expertise in all areas of HR, including but not limited to: talent acquisition and retention, compensation and benefits, labor relations, employee development and training, and risk management.

It typically takes around one year to prepare for the SPHR exam. The HRCI recommends that applicants have at least five years of professional-level HR experience before taking the exam. Candidates should also be familiar with current laws and regulations related to employment practices, as well as HR best practices.

To get started on the path to obtaining your SPHR certification, you will need to register with HRCI and pay a fee for the exam application. The fee varies depending on when you register; however, it typically ranges from $400-$600 USD. Once registered, you will then need to study for the exam using HRCI-approved materials such as books or online courses. When ready, you can take the exam at an approved testing center. After passing the exam, you will receive your official SPHR certificate from HRCI within 6-8 weeks.

The cost of obtaining your SPHR certification includes both registration fees and study materials. The total cost can range anywhere from $500-$1,000 USD depending on how much time you spend studying for the exam and which materials you choose to use.

3. Certified Recruiting Professional (CRP)

Certified Recruiting Professional (CRP) is a professional certification program designed to recognize individuals who have demonstrated the knowledge, skills, and abilities necessary to be successful in the recruiting profession. The CRP program was created by the National Association of Personnel Services (NAPS).

The CRP program consists of three levels: Certified Recruiting Associate (CRA), Certified Recruiting Professional (CRP), and Senior Certified Recruiting Professional (SCRP). Each level requires completion of an online course and passing an exam. The CRA level is the entry-level certification, while the CRP and SCRP levels are more advanced certifications that require additional experience in recruiting.

It typically takes approximately 6 months to complete all three levels of the CRP program. This includes completing the online courses, studying for and passing the exams, and gaining experience in recruiting.

In order to get certified as a CRP, you must first become a member of NAPS. Once you are a member, you can register for the online courses and exams required for each level of certification. You will also need to provide proof of your work experience in recruiting or related fields in order to qualify for the higher levels of certification.

The cost for becoming a member of NAPS is $125 per year. In addition, there are fees associated with registering for each course and exam required for each level of certification which range from $50-$200 depending on which level you are pursuing.

4. Society for Human Resource Management Senior Certified Professional (SHRM-SCP)

The Society for Human Resource Management Senior Certified Professional (SHRM-SCP) is a professional certification program for senior HR professionals. It is designed to recognize the expertise of those who have achieved mastery in the field of human resource management. The SHRM-SCP credential demonstrates an individual’s ability to effectively lead, manage and develop their organization’s human capital.

In order to qualify for the SHRM-SCP certification, an individual must have a minimum of four years of experience in human resources management or related fields, as well as a bachelor’s degree from an accredited university. Additionally, applicants must pass two exams: the SHRM Learning System Exam and the SHRM Senior Certified Professional Exam.

The SHRM Learning System Exam consists of multiple choice questions that assess an applicant’s knowledge of the topics covered in the SHRM Learning System courses. The exam takes approximately three hours to complete and costs $300 USD.

The SHRM Senior Certified Professional Exam tests an applicant’s understanding of advanced HR concepts such as organizational development, performance management, compensation and benefits, labor relations and employment law. This exam takes approximately four hours to complete and costs $400 USD.

Once both exams are passed, applicants will be awarded with the SHRM-SCP credential which is valid for three years from the date it was issued. To maintain their certification status, individuals must participate in continuing education activities every three years and pay a renewal fee of $100 USD each time they renew their certification.

5. Certified Employment Interview Professional (CEIP)

Certified Employment Interview Professional (CEIP) is a professional certification program designed to provide individuals with the knowledge and skills necessary to conduct successful employment interviews. The CEIP program was developed by the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM) in partnership with the National Association of Colleges and Employers (NACE). It is designed to ensure that interviewers are knowledgeable about best practices, legal requirements, and ethical considerations when conducting employment interviews.

The CEIP program consists of two parts: an online course and a certification exam. The online course covers topics such as interviewing techniques, legal considerations, cultural awareness, and more. The course takes approximately 8-10 hours to complete. Once the online course is completed, candidates must pass an 80-question multiple-choice exam in order to become certified.

The cost of the CEIP program varies depending on whether you are a member or non-member of SHRM or NACE. For members of either organization, the cost is $150; for non-members it is $225.

Overall, becoming a Certified Employment Interview Professional can be beneficial for those who want to demonstrate their expertise in conducting effective job interviews and stay up-to-date on best practices and legal requirements in this field.

6. Talent Acquisition Certification Institute (TACI)

The Talent Acquisition Certification Institute (TACI) is an online certification program that provides talent acquisition professionals with the skills and knowledge they need to be successful in their roles. The program consists of four levels of certification, ranging from Level 1 (Foundational) to Level 4 (Expert). Each level requires a certain number of hours of study and completion of an assessment.

Level 1: Foundational – This level provides a basic understanding of talent acquisition processes, techniques, and best practices. It takes approximately 8-10 hours to complete this level.

Level 2: Professional – This level builds on the foundational knowledge gained in Level 1, providing more advanced techniques for recruiting and selecting top talent. It takes approximately 16-20 hours to complete this level.

Level 3: Advanced – This level focuses on developing more sophisticated strategies for talent acquisition, including workforce planning, candidate engagement, and employer branding. It takes approximately 24-30 hours to complete this level.

Level 4: Expert – This is the highest level of TACI certification and requires mastery of all topics covered in the previous three levels as well as additional advanced topics such as data analysis and predictive analytics. It takes approximately 32-40 hours to complete this level.

To get certified through TACI, you will need to register for the program online at www.taciinstitute.org and pay a one-time fee of $249 USD for each certification level you wish to pursue. Once registered, you will have access to all course materials required for each certification level as well as assessments that must be completed in order to receive your certificate upon successful completion of the program.

7. National Association of Colleges and Employers Certified Recruiter Program (NACE CRP)

The National Association of Colleges and Employers (NACE) Certified Recruiter Program (CRP) is a professional certification program that recognizes recruiters who demonstrate knowledge, skills, and abilities in the recruitment profession. The CRP is designed to provide recruiters with the tools they need to become more effective in their roles.

To obtain the CRP certification, applicants must complete an online application and submit it along with a $150 non-refundable fee. Applicants must also have at least two years of experience in recruiting or related fields. Once the application has been approved, applicants will be required to take an exam that covers topics such as job analysis, interviewing techniques, legal issues, sourcing strategies, and technology. The exam is offered twice a year and takes about four hours to complete.

Once applicants pass the exam, they will receive their official NACE CRP certification. This certification is valid for three years and can be renewed by taking continuing education courses or retaking the exam every three years.

The cost of obtaining the NACE CRP certification is $150 for the initial application fee plus any additional fees associated with taking the exam or completing continuing education courses.

8. International Association of Corporate Recruiters Certification Program (IACRCP)

The International Association of Corporate Recruiters Certification Program (IACRCP) is a professional certification program designed to recognize individuals who demonstrate expertise in the field of corporate recruitment. The program is administered by the International Association of Corporate Recruiters (IACR), an organization dedicated to advancing the practice of corporate recruitment and providing resources to recruiters worldwide.

The IACRCP certification requires applicants to pass a comprehensive exam that covers topics such as job analysis, candidate sourcing, interviewing, selection, onboarding and retention. Applicants must also have at least two years of experience in corporate recruitment and must demonstrate their commitment to ethical practices within the profession.

The IACRCP certification process typically takes up to six months from start to finish. Applicants must first submit an application form and pay a non-refundable fee of $125 USD before they can take the exam. Once their application is approved, applicants will receive an email with instructions on how to register for the exam. After taking the exam, applicants will receive their results within four weeks. If successful, they will be certified as an IACRCP Professional Recruiter and receive a certificate of completion.

The cost for the IACRCP certification program varies depending on location; however, it typically ranges from $250-$500 USD for all associated fees including registration, examination fees and any other applicable charges.

9. Certified Talent Acquisition Specialist (CTAS)

Certified Talent Acquisition Specialist (CTAS) is a professional certification program designed to equip talent acquisition professionals with the knowledge and skills necessary to effectively recruit, select, and hire top talent. The certification is offered by the National Association of Talent Acquisition Professionals (NATAP).

The CTAS program consists of three levels: Certified Talent Acquisition Professional (CTAP), Certified Talent Acquisition Manager (CTAM), and Certified Talent Acquisition Executive (CTAE). To become certified at any level, applicants must pass exams that cover topics such as recruitment strategy, candidate sourcing and selection, interviewing techniques, onboarding processes, and legal compliance.

It typically takes between 6-12 months to complete the CTAS program depending on how quickly you can study for and pass the exams. The cost of the program varies depending on which level you are seeking certification in. The cost for each level ranges from $395 - $595 USD.

To get started with the CTAS program you will need to register with NATAP and pay the applicable fee. Once registered you will be provided access to an online learning platform where you can begin your studies for the exams.

10. Global Recruiter Certification Program (GRCP)

The Global Recruiter Certification Program (GRCP) is a professional certification program designed to recognize the skills and knowledge of recruiters in the global recruitment industry. The program is offered by the International Association of Professional Recruiters (IAPR).

The GRCP consists of three levels: Certified Global Recruiter (CGR), Senior Certified Global Recruiter (SCGR) and Master Certified Global Recruiter (MCGR). Each level requires completion of an online course, passing an exam, and demonstrating at least two years of professional experience in the recruitment field.

The CGR certification requires completing an online training course, passing a written exam, and demonstrating at least two years of professional experience in the recruitment field. The SCGR certification requires completing an advanced online training course, passing a written exam, and demonstrating at least five years of professional experience in the recruitment field. The MCGR certification requires completing a comprehensive online training course, passing a written exam, and demonstrating at least ten years of professional experience in the recruitment field.

It typically takes between one to three months to complete each level depending on how quickly you can complete the courses and exams.

To get certified for each level you must first register with IAPR and pay for your course materials which cost $150 USD for CGR, $250 USD for SCGR, and $350 USD for MCGR. Once registered you will be given access to your online course materials which includes instructional videos, practice exams and other resources to help you prepare for your exams. After successfully completing all requirements you will receive your certificate from IAPR that is valid for three years after which time you must renew it by taking additional courses or exams as required by IAPR.

11. Certified Diversity Recruiting Professional (CDRP).

Certified Diversity Recruiting Professional (CDRP) is a certification program designed to help recruiters and hiring managers develop the knowledge and skills needed to effectively source, recruit, and hire diverse talent. The CDRP program is offered by the National Association of African Americans in Human Resources (NAAAHR) and provides a comprehensive curriculum that covers topics such as diversity recruitment strategies, cultural competency, unconscious bias, legal compliance, and more.

The CDRP program requires completion of an online course and a written exam. The online course consists of five modules that cover the fundamentals of diversity recruiting. It takes approximately 8-10 hours to complete the coursework. After completing the coursework, candidates must pass a written exam with a score of 70% or higher in order to earn their certification.

To get certified as a CDRP, you must first register for the program through NAAAHR’s website. There is an application fee of $150 which includes access to the online course materials and study guide. Once you have completed the coursework and passed the written exam, you will receive your official CDRP certification from NAAAHR.

In addition to receiving your official certification, you will also gain access to exclusive networking opportunities with other certified professionals in the field as well as discounts on professional development courses offered through NAAAHR.

Do You Really Need a Corporate Recruiter Certificate?

If you are considering a career as a corporate recruiter, then the answer to this question is yes. A corporate recruiter certificate can provide you with the knowledge and skills needed to become a successful recruiter. It can also be used as an important credential when applying for jobs in the field.

A corporate recruiter certificate program will typically cover topics such as job analysis, recruiting techniques, interviewing strategies, employment law, compensation and benefits, and more. These courses will give you an understanding of the recruitment process and help you develop the skills necessary to become a successful corporate recruiter. You will also learn how to evaluate applicants, create job descriptions, negotiate salary packages, and manage relationships with employers.

Having a corporate recruiter certificate will demonstrate your commitment to the profession and show potential employers that you have taken the time to invest in yourself by learning about the industry. Additionally, having this certification may open up opportunities for advancement or additional responsibilities within your organization. It could also make it easier for you to find employment in other industries that require recruiters since having this certificate shows that you have specialized knowledge in the field of recruitment.

In conclusion, obtaining a corporate recruiter certificate can be beneficial for those who are looking to enter into this profession or advance their careers in it. This certification not only shows potential employers that you have invested in yourself but also provides valuable knowledge about recruitment processes which could help set you apart from other applicants when applying for jobs.

Related: Corporate Recruiter Resume Examples

FAQs About Corporate Recruiter Certifications

1. What types of certifications are available for corporate recruiters?

Answer: Professional certifications available to corporate recruiters include Certified Professional in Talent Acquisition (CPTA) from the National Association of Talent Acquisition Professionals, and SHRM’s Certified Professional in Human Resources (SHRM-CP).

2. How long does it take to become certified?

Answer: The length of time required to become certified varies depending on the type of certification and the amount of experience you have in the field. Generally, it takes between 6 months and 2 years to complete a certification program, including any required coursework or testing.

3. How much does it cost to get certified?

Answer: The cost of becoming certified can vary depending on the organization offering the certification and the level of certification being sought. Generally speaking, costs range from a few hundred dollars up to several thousand dollars.

4. What are the benefits of becoming certified?

Answer: Becoming certified shows employers that you have taken steps to acquire knowledge and skills related to corporate recruitment, which can make you a more attractive job candidate. It also demonstrates your commitment to your profession and helps you stay up-to-date with best practices in recruiting and hiring processes.

5. How do I maintain my certification?

Answer: To maintain your certification, you must complete continuing education requirements every two years as specified by the organization offering the certification program. You may also be required to pay an annual renewal fee or take additional tests or courses as part of your recertification process.