How can you qualify for a change management career?

1 Assess your skills and interests

When starting out in change management, it's important to evaluate your current skills and interests and how they align with the competencies required of a change management practitioner. According to the Association of Change Management Professionals (ACMP), this includes communication, collaboration, leadership, problem-solving, and emotional intelligence. Additionally, you should consider your interests and passions, such as the type of change projects you would like to work on, the industry or sector you prefer working in, and any cultural or geographical preferences. This will help you determine which type of changes you are best suited for.

2 Get educated and certified

The next step in acquiring the relevant knowledge and credentials for change management is to explore the various educational and certification options available. Short-term programs, such as the Prosci Change Management Certification Program, ACMP Certified Change Management Professional (CCMP) Program, and APMG International Change Management Foundation and Practitioner Program, are useful for covering the basics of change management theory, models, tools, and best practices. For a comprehensive and in-depth education on change management and related disciplines such as leadership, psychology, sociology, and business, longer-term programs like the Bachelor of Science in Change and Innovation Management from Arizona State University, Master of Science in Organizational Change Management from The New School, or Doctor of Philosophy in Organizational Change and Leadership from the University of Southern California are available at the undergraduate or graduate level. Additionally, certifications or designations such as CCMP from the ACMP, Certified Change Leader (CCL) from the Change Leadership Institute, or Certified Professional in Change Management (CPCM) from the Institute of Change Management Professionals can validate your knowledge, skills, and experience in change management.

3 Gain experience and network

The final step to gain practical experience and build your network in the change management field is to volunteer for change projects, join professional associations, seek mentorship and coaching, and update your resume and portfolio. When volunteering, you can offer your services as a change agent, team member, or leader for change initiatives in your current or previous organization, or in your community. Joining professional associations such as the ACMP, the Change Management Institute, or the International Association of Change Management Professionals will help you access resources, events, and opportunities, and connect with other change management professionals. Seeking guidance from experienced and successful change management practitioners can help you get feedback and advice. You should also update your resume and portfolio to reflect your change management education, certification, and experience. Additionally, creating an online presence such as a website, blog, or LinkedIn profile can help showcase your work and brand. By following these steps, you can qualify for a change management career and pursue your passion for helping people and organizations thrive in a changing world.

4 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?