CPT “Suffix” Ridiculed

Several years ago, the International Society for Performance Improvement (ISPI) -a group I truly respect and enjoy - came up with a plan to certify practitioners of performance improvement. After much planning the organization implemented a qualification process that led to the credential of Certified Performance Technologist. The explanation on the ISPI web site states:

For years, employers and clients have been asking for standards and criteria to help them distinguish practitioners who have proven they can produce results through a systematic process. Until the development of the CPT designation, anyone could claim that they are professionals in performance improvement and training. At the same time, practitioners have been asking for a credential that would help them assess their ability, better focus their professional development efforts, and recognize their capability. In response to this need, the International Society for Performance Improvement (ISPI) developed a program through which individuals can apply to receive the designation of Certified Performance Technologist (CPT).

You can read more about the requirements to qualify on the ISPI web site.

Now Dudley D. Dawson gives us the view from outside the profession: It’s fine to get the credential but don’t feel compelled to put it after your name in your email signature. It’s looks ridiculous- Joe Shmoe, CPT. Is it really that important to clients or is it more a case of ego-enhancement. It’s not as if the certification is the same as being licensed, like an MD, says the columnist.

“HR ‘professionals’ take the cake on adding an unnecessary suffix after their name,” he says.

CPT is on the list of credentials that he claims look ridiculous. I don’t know. I’ll bet that when C-level managers see these certifications after someone’s name, they immediately take them off any lay-off list. Here’s Dawson’s list:

    * PHR – Professional in Human Resources
    * SPHR – Sr. Professional in Human Resources
    * GPHR – Global Professional in Human Resources
    * CCP – Certified Compensation Professional
    * GRP – Global Remuneration Professional
    * CPP – Certified Payroll Professional
    * CBP – Certified Benefits Professional
    * CEBS – Certified Employee Benefits Specialist
    * CPLP – Certified Professional in Learning and Performance
    * CPT – Certified Performance Technologist
    * QKA – Qualified 401(k) Administrator

What do you think? Blistering attack or sensible critique?

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