Is the Microsoft Office Specialist Exam Worth It for Your Career?

Many professionals wonder whether taking the Microsoft Office Specialist (MOS) exam and obtaining the MOS certificate is worth the effort. As an experienced SEO, I can attest to the value this certification adds to your resume and overall career efficacy.

Ultimately, having this certification won't harm your job prospects. Consider the scenario where you and another candidate are vying for the same position. If all other qualifications are identical, the candidate with the certification often gets the job. However, the story has evolved over time, and a certification alone is not enough. It should be complemented with relevant experience. Nevertheless, together they form a compelling combination.

From my personal experience, when applying for roles and being able to say, 'I’m a certified Microsoft Word 2016 expert with 24 years of experience and have helped Fortune 500 companies...' this sets my application apart from most others. This certification not only validates my expertise but also demonstrates a commitment to ongoing professional development.

Client Testimonial

Just two weeks ago, a client shared with me that they offered me a contract because they knew I could do the job. Hires want to make easy decisions and ensure they’ve made the right choice from the outset. They also want to be able to give you a brief and then leave you to it, minimizing their involvement as much as possible. My quote was 160% of the client's specified budget. I received it because they knew I could handle the job. The price of peace-of-mind is worth the investment. Would it have been the same without the certificate? Sleeve ±, certainly not. Experience and proof alone would have been sufficient, but a certification can be the deciding factor.

Benefits and Considerations

Deciding whether to take the Microsoft Office Specialist exam depends on your career stage and goals. If you are actively job hunting or looking for a career advancement, showing evidence of continual learning and improvement through this certification can be advantageous. While the exam is not overly expensive, the logistics of obtaining it and adding value require thoughtful consideration.

You may already possess the necessary skills, in which case it might be more efficient to expand your resume with relevant experience or knowledge gained from books and videos. Learning through various mediums can provide a comprehensive understanding of the software. However, regardless of your current skill set, the MOS certification can serve as a valuable badge of honor and a clear indicator of your expertise to potential employers.

Key Takeaways: The MOS certification adds significant weight to your resume, particularly for experienced professionals. A combination of certification and relevant experience is the best approach in most cases. The exam is not expensive, making it a worthwhile investment if you’re job hunting or looking for a promotion. Experience and proof of skills can be equally valuable, especially if you already possess the relevant expertise.

Conclusion

The Microsoft Office Specialist exam and the resulting MOS certificate can be a valuable tool in your career arsenal. Whether you’re applying for a job or looking for that next promotion, it’s worth considering. Understanding your career goals and your current skill set will help you make an informed decision. In the end, the value of this certification may just be the edge you need to stand out in a competitive job market.