Laid off – want to get certified BB…what to do…

Post your email address and you will likely get some good input. Try to play this out in the forum and it will immediately detriorate into a slugfest. Too many vested interests and self-appointed watchdogs.

It isn’t just theory. I did it several years ago. Yes, of course
confidentiality can be an issue. Clearance, signing a NDA, and even
security restrictions may apply, depending upon the size and
sophistication of the organization.
I will admit, though, that knowing someone on the inside and having
an established connection will greatly improve the odds. But there’s
nothing new about that, eh?
David

Pretty simple (rhetorical) question: why in the world should there be a BB “certification” that does not require completing a “real world” project. As quality professionals, we can, and should, do better. Otherwise, hard-working, well-intentioned individuals like Jason will continue to seek certifications (at significant personal expense) only to find that “real world” capability and a portfolio of experience is all that matters. It’s shameful; and simply leads to sham operators taking advantage. O.K. – I’ll get off the soap box now. Who’s next?

So john, how about suggesting a solution?
Apparently it’s your belief that Jason should attend an open enrollment BB class with a known training firm, cost around $5000 +/-, then find multiple projects to conduct with non-profits or consenting companies. This will take, what, 14 to 20 months. Then he’ll be a competent BB and can get a good job. Is this what you’re suggesting? Is this really the path you believe he should take?

Jason,
1st off, I’m so sorry that you and your dept lost your jobs…It is
unimaginable…In your case, I would go ahead and pursue through a 3rd party
Vendor, by then go seek out a local town, city, or county gov’t and
offer to help them with a project in exchange for experience. I’d
take it one step further and approach a local church, or synagogue
and do the same. They’ll get improvements, you’ll get experience
and some good networking opportunities.

I don’t think the education analogy holds here. When you get a bachelor’s degree, you’re expected to be a newbie – you know the basics of your field, but have no experience or advanced knowledge. A certification should indicate expertise, not beginner-level knowledge. Well-regarded certifications require proof of experience (years in position and/or documented accomplishments) as well as a difficult exam to prove you know more than the basics. Unfortunately, certification is too often taken to mean mini-degree, as demonstrated by the influx of “paper certs” into the Six Sigma and IT fields.Several long-experienced BBs and MBBs on this forum have stated that certification means nothing to them when considering job applicants; experience is the ONLY important factor. Getting a certification with no project will not impress a hiring manager, so you risk wasting thousands of dollars for nothing. Perhaps you should save your money on a certification and just learn the basics yourself (there are lots of books out there that cover the basics of DMAIC, DOE, and useful statistical tools). If you’re going to approach churches/small businesses/non-profits, I doubt they’ll care if you’re certified – either they’ll want your help or they won’t. Just a thought.

Not really.  I have seen little correlation between training/certification programs and the ability to execute projects in an operational environment.  Give me someone with strong project experience and a history of getting things done.  All else is secondary, including someone’s score on a certification exam.