How To Get Six Sigma Certification

What do thriving industries like automotive, industrial, and electronics all have in common? They all involve detailed planning that often involves Six Sigma methodology.

Companies today are taking a more detailed approach to everything that they do, which includes having their leaders and professionals achieve Six Sigma certification.

It’s a type of certification that can take your career to the next level when you study the benefits.

The tips below will help you learn how to get Six Sigma certification and understand it to the fullest.

Understand the Six Sigma Certification

Before you get Six Sigma certification, you have some questions that need answers. First, what is Six Sigma and why is it important?

Six Sigma is a detailed set of methodologies that improve business, manufacturing, and collaboration. The formation of this methodology dates back to the 80s, and today, professionals in all industries are able to get their certification in it.

Knowing what it can do for you will help you take the steps to get certified.

Set Your Goals

Before getting six sigma certification, you should have your own set of goals carved out. Think about your area of interest and the benefits of the certification so that you have a clearer idea.

Consider the following perks:

You’ll Enjoy Career Advancement

You open yourself up to more career opportunities when you start achieving certifications.

Mastering Six Sigma concepts is a show of competency, and the certification will speak for you before you even walk in the door for the interview. Having a Six Sigma certification on your resume can open you up to opportunities in your current field of choice, or can pique your interest in industries that you might not have considered.

It Can Improve Your Net Worth

Professionals that are Six Sigma certified can ultimately command a higher salary. Since hirers will know that you’re equipped for the job and better able to take on leadership roles, it’s easier for you to negotiate the salary that you desire.

With an increased net worth, you can also improve your quality of life in terms of buying property and raising a family.

You’ll Become a Better Thinker and Leader

More than anything, the Six Sigma certification will shape the way that you think. These methodologies build leaders and will equip you to oversee teams of different sizes.

Some of the principles that it teaches include:

Defining and designing your goals and objectives with clarity
Measuring your goals and identifying potential hangups
Analyzing any alternatives to your original plan
Verifying and testing your results

When you shape your thinking in this manner, you’ll have a better handle on what it takes to move projects from point A to point B, while keeping everyone on track.

Figure Out What Field and Industry You Want to Explore

Before testing for your certifications, get an idea about what field you’d like to explore. Find out what states of the Six Sigma certification will land you the position that you want.

This certification is particularly helpful if you’re an entrepreneur that is looking to start your own company or take it to new heights.

Learn the Stages

If you’re going to achieve your Six Sigma certification, it’s important to note that there are different stages. These are broken down into color ranks, similar to the belt system found in different types of martial arts.

Here are some of the stages that you should consider:

White belt – This is where you learn the basic concepts of Six Sigma. It sets the foundation that you will build upon
Yellow belt – You have built on the concepts of the white belt after a year or two and participated as a project team member
Green belt – You advance to this stage after having a few years of experience and learning under black belts
Black belt – These are professionals who have developed mastery over Six Sigma and have served as team leaders to solve a plethora of problems

Once you know the stages and requirements, you can get your hands on a Six Sigma guide and figure out what level you are ready to test for.

Study and Take Your Six Sigma Exam

In order to get certified, you have to complete coursework and sit for the exam. Take full advantage of your course materials and give yourself plenty of time to study so that you have a full grasp of the information.

It’s best to take several practice exams and undergo different modules so that you’re in the best position to pass your exam the first time. After you pay your fees and show yourself proficient at the level that you’re looking into, you will be officially Six Sigma certified and can begin charting out your path as a professional.

Make sure that you market yourself as such, starting with putting this certification on your resume. You can also take advantage of job portals that are open to professionals with this designation so that you can build your dream career step by step.