When it comes to including certifications on your resume, it is essential to only list current and valid ones. Including expired certifications can give the impression that you are not up to date with the latest knowledge and skills in your field. Employers want to see that you are continuously investing in your professional development and staying relevant.
Expired certifications not only indicate that you may not possess the latest knowledge and skills, but they can also raise questions about your commitment to professional growth. Employers want to hire candidates who are proactive in keeping their skills up to date and who are committed to ongoing learning.
Listing expired certifications can also be misleading to potential employers. They may assume that you still hold the certification and have the necessary expertise, only to find out later that it is no longer valid. This can lead to a loss of trust and credibility.
However, there may be some exceptions to this rule. In certain industries or roles where the certification is no longer available or has been replaced by a newer version, it may be acceptable to include the expired certification to demonstrate your experience and competence in that area. In such cases, it is important to clearly indicate that the certification is expired and provide an explanation for its inclusion.
If you have an expired certification that is still highly relevant and you plan to renew it in the near future, you can mention this in your resume. For example, you can include a note stating “Certification expired (renewal in progress)” or “Certification expired (scheduled for renewal in X months).” This shows your intention to stay current and demonstrates your commitment to professional development.
It is not advisable to include expired certifications on your resume. Employers want to see that you are up to date with the latest knowledge and skills in your field. However, there may be exceptions in certain cases where the certification is no longer available or has been replaced. In those instances, it is crucial to clearly indicate that the certification is expired and provide an explanation for its inclusion.