Written by: Mariham Magdy
When deciding to take a step forward for their international certification, many HR professionals hesitate between choosing the right credential that suits their professional experience and practice; whether the PHRi™ or the SPHRi™?
In this article, we will provide a comprehensive comparison between the two credentials, to help you decide which certification is right for you.
First, we will highlight the eligibility requirements for both:
Let’s elaborate more about what is meant exactly by a “professional-level experience in an HR position”?
HRCI defines a “professional-level” HR position as one that includes:
- The ability to use independent judgment and discretion in performing work duties.
- A level of specialized knowledge in the HR field with some authority for decision-making.
- In-depth work requirements, such as data gathering, analysis, and interpretation.
- Interaction with a broad range of individuals, including key personnel.
- Individual accountability for results.
The Exam Content Outline for both certifications.
While the PHRi builds a professional mindset for the HR professionals on how to manage soundly the different HR functions, standardizing the steps they need to follow for the successful implementation of various HR processes; the SPHRi enhances the strategic aspect of HR Management Practices.
In other words, both certifications curriculum complements each other, and it depends on where you are on your professional career ladder to decide whether you are lacking the knowledge on how to professionally manage certain HR functions or are you ready to expand your strategic views and practices in the HR field?
The Certification Renewal:
- You must earn 1 ethics credit during your three-year certification cycle.
- This is a part, not in addition to your 60 required recertification credits.
I believe that the “Recertification” condition mandated by the HRCI increases the value of the certification itself since it ensures the continuous learning of the certified professionals.
One of the valuable slogans of the HRCI Certifications, is that it is “Earned not Given”, and thus the eligibility and merit of earning, must be continuously evaluated and confirmed.
Recertification is one of the many reasons that HRCI certifications are the most recognized and trusted by HR professionals and the organizations they serve. And now, recertification credits are easier than ever for you to access and earn.
And now let us know more about the Exam Format & Length:
The Exam Questions are either multiple choice, fill-in-the-blank, drag and drop, or scenarios.
The scenario questions present typical HR situations, followed by a series of exam items based on the scenario. These scenarios require you to integrate facts from different subject areas.
The HRCI website provides extremely useful bundles for the exam preparation material along with trial tests to assist you to get familiar with the certification exam questions and exercise them widely prior the exam itself.
In addition, the HRCI offers a “Second Chance Insurance” which is a pre-paid and non-refundable fee allowing you to take the exam for a second time in case of failing your first time.
Whether being certified as PHRi or SPHRi, the certification has three main advantages for you:
- Requires specific work experience, competency, and education.
- Requires recertification, which makes sure that you stay current in the HR profession through continuing education.
- Allows you to put the letters after your name.
Through the HRCI valuable certifications, you get connected to an exclusive network of motivated HR professionals around the globe – Nearly 145,000 certified HR thought leaders working in more than 100 countries and territories.