Six Sigma Certification on Resume

What Is Six Sigma Certification

Six Sigma Certification is a highly valued credential issued by various organizations, such as the American Society for Quality (ASQ) and the International Association of Six Sigma Certification (IASSC). This certification validates an individual's expertise in process improvement methodologies aimed at reducing defects and increasing efficiency. IT signifies a significant commitment to quality management and project management skills within organizations, making IT a valuable asset across various industries.

Prerequisites for Six Sigma Certification typically include a bachelor's degree or relevant work experience, though requirements may vary depending on the specific level of certification (Yellow Belt, Green Belt, Black Belt, Master Black Belt). The validity period for Six Sigma certifications can range from one to three years, with renewal requirements involving continuous education and project experience. Preparing for a Six Sigma Certification may take several months, depending on the candidate's existing knowledge of the subject matter, and IT is considered moderately difficult due to its depth and rigor.

Should I Include Six Sigma Certification on Resume?

Including a Six Sigma Certification on your resume can add significant value, especially if you are targeting industries that heavily rely on process improvement methodologies, such as manufacturing, healthcare, finance, or information technology. The relevance of this certification increases when IT directly corresponds to the job requirements, and its value may diminish for roles outside these sectors.

If you have recently obtained a Six Sigma Certification, consider highlighting IT in your resume as IT demonstrates your commitment to professional development and adaptability. However, if your certification is outdated or no longer relevant to the role you are applying for, IT might be more appropriate to exclude IT from your resume.

When deciding whether to include a Six Sigma Certification, consider the geographical context. In regions where Six Sigma methodologies are highly valued, such as North America and Asia, this certification can offer a competitive edge. However, in areas where its adoption is less prevalent, IT may not hold the same weight.

Hiring Managers And Six Sigma Certification on Resume

For hiring managers, a Six Sigma Certification signals that a candidate has a strong understanding of process improvement methodologies and a commitment to quality management principles. Some specific skills and qualities they associate with this credential include:

• Data analysis and statistical analysis skills
• Problem-solving abilities
• Project management expertise
• Leadership and teamwork competencies

In certain industries, such as manufacturing and healthcare, Six Sigma Certification can set candidates apart from their competitors due to the tangible benefits IT offers in terms of cost reduction, waste elimination, and efficiency improvements. However, hiring managers may view a Six Sigma Certification with skepticism if they perceive that the candidate has not applied the principles learned in practical settings or if the certification is outdated.

How to List Six Sigma Certification on Resume

When listing your Six Sigma Certification on your resume, follow these guidelines:

• Include the title of the certification (e.g., ASQ Six Sigma Green Belt) and the level achieved (e.g., Lean Six Sigma Yellow Belt).
• Do not include your certification number or ID.
• Note any expiration or renewal dates, if applicable (e.g., Certified Six Sigma Black Belt, Expiration: 2025).
• Include the name of the certifying organization (e.g., American Society for Quality).
• If you are currently pursuing an in-progress certification, note this as well (e.g., Enrolled in ASQ Six Sigma Green Belt training).

Examples:

• Six Sigma Green Belt Certification, International Association of Six Sigma Certification
• Lean Six Sigma Black Belt, American Society for Quality, Expiration: 2023
• Enrolled in ASQ Six Sigma Yellow Belt training

Where to List Six Sigma Certification on Resume

When deciding where to list your Six Sigma Certification on your resume, consider these recommendations:

• Create a dedicated section for certifications if you have multiple credentials.
• If you are recently out of school and don't have extensive work experience, include your Six Sigma Certification in the education section.
• Incorporate your Six Sigma Certification into your summary statement as a relevant skill or achievement.
• Only list your Six Sigma Certification multiple times if you have obtained various levels of certification (e.g., Green Belt, Black Belt, Master Black Belt).
• Prioritize the placement and hierarchy of your certifications based on their relevance to the job you are applying for. For example, if you are applying for a Six Sigma-focused role, list your Six Sigma Certification at the top of your resume or in a dedicated section. If IT is less relevant to the position, place IT lower down or within the certifications section.

Examples of How to List Six Sigma Certification on Resume

Example 1 - For a Technical Resume

Certification: Six Sigma Certification Issuing Organization: American Society for Quality (ASQ) Date Issued: January 2020, Expiration: January 2023

In this technical resume format, the Six Sigma certification is listed under the "Professional Certifications" section along with other relevant technical certifications. This approach is useful for candidates who have several certifications and want to provide a clear overview of their credentials.

Technical Skills

Six Sigma Certification (American Society for Quality, 2020-2023) Project Management Professional (PMP, Project Management Institute, 2018-2022) Certified Quality Improvement Associate (CQIA, American Society for Quality, 2016-2019)

Example 2 - For a Recent Graduate

Certification: Six Sigma Green Belt (SSGB) Issuing Organization: The International Association for Six Sigma Certification (IASSC) Date Issued: August 2021

For recent graduates, IT may be more appropriate to list the certification in the "Education" section. This format showcases the candidate's dedication to continuous learning and their valuable skills right out of college.

Education

University XYZ, Bachelor of Science in Industrial Engineering (2017-2021) Six Sigma Green Belt Certification (International Association for Six Sigma Certification, 2021)

Example 3 - In a Dedicated Certifications Section

Certification: Six Sigma Black Belt (SSBB) Issuing Organization: American Society for Quality (ASQ) Date Issued: March 2018, Expiration: March 2021

Candidates with several certifications may opt to create a dedicated section for their credentials. This approach allows them to showcase all their relevant certifications in one easy-to-find location.

Certifications

Six Sigma Black Belt (American Society for Quality, 2018-2021) Lean Enterprise Certification (Lean Enterprise Institute, 2016-2020) ISO 9001 Lead Auditor (American National Standards Institute, 2015-2018)

Example 4 - In a Skills-First Resume Format

Skill: Six Sigma Certification (SSC) Issuing Organization: The Lean Six Sigma Company Date Issued: June 2020, Expiration: June 2023

In a skills-first format, the focus is on showcasing the candidate's abilities and their relevant certifications are integrated into the skill descriptions. This approach can be useful for candidates with transferable skills who want to highlight their versatility.

Skills

Six Sigma Certification (The Lean Six Sigma Company, 2020-2023) – Utilized Green and Black Belt methodologies in process improvement initiatives, resulting in cost savings of $500k annually. Project Management (PMI, 2018-2022) – Led multiple projects to successful completion on time and within budget, using best practices from Agile, Waterfall, and Six Sigma methodologies. Lean Manufacturing (The Lean Enterprise Institute, 2017-2020) – Reduced waste and improved efficiency in manufacturing processes by up to 35% through the implementation of lean principles.