Expired Certifications And Stale Resume Items

Our continued drive to become a better developer will eventually lead to certifications.  Therefore, it will lead to those certifications expiring.  While some authorities do not expire their certs, there is a useful lifespan for any technology.  In this episode, we look at how to handle those expired certifications on a resume or when applying for a position.

Expired Certifications Have Value

The quick answer would be to drop those expired certifications and ancient skills from your current list.  However, that would be a short-sighted step to take.  The mere fact that you studied for and passed an exam shows value to an employer.  It is proof that you took the initiative to improve yourself as well as showing a baseline in some technology or skill.  A series of expired qualifications may even show a long-term pattern of going the extra mile and staying current in your abilities.

A Result Of a Search

Of course, we always have the bonus of these older skills, potentially getting us to show up on a search.  You may not want to go back to old expertise or technology, but it never hurts to ask.  The same skills may also tell a story that you are well-rounded in your skills and experience.  That could lead one to think you are better at general development and problem-solving or maybe make you more memorable.

Migration and Upgrade Value

One of the best things that can come from listing those old skills and certs is an "in" for an upgrade or migration project.  Those ancient skills are rarely dead in the professional world; they just become less common among your peers.  That alone can make you a unique find for a prospective employer.

Episode Challenge: Review your listed certifications and verify the information states what is current or expired.  Maybe update those.

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