The Easiest Way to Recertify Your SHRM-CP Certification
The SHRM-CP (Society for Human Resource Management-Certified Professional) certification is one of the most recognized credentials in the HR field, signaling expertise and commitment to professional development. Achieving this certification is a milestone, but maintaining it through recertification is just as critical to staying competitive in the ever-evolving HR landscape.
Recertification ensures that HR professionals remain up-to-date with the latest industry trends, compliance requirements, and strategic approaches that keep organizations thriving. While the process of earning 60 Professional Development Credits (PDCs) over a three-year period might initially seem daunting, there’s a streamlined and stress-free way to achieve it: by watching SHRM webcasts.
SHRM webcasts provide HR professionals with an accessible, time-efficient, and cost-effective path to recertification. These sessions cover a wide array of HR topics, ranging from talent management strategies to legal compliance and leadership development. Not only do they deliver actionable insights, but they also align directly with SHRM's competency framework, ensuring relevance and applicability to your role.
In this guide, we’ll break down why SHRM webcasts are the most effective option for recertifying your SHRM-CP and how you can maximize their benefits within your recertification cycle. Whether you’re new to the process or simply looking for a better way to manage your credits, this approach will save you time, reduce stress, and keep your certification status in good standing.
Let’s dive into the details and explore how you can simplify your recertification journey!
Understanding the SHRM Recertification Process
Recertification is an essential aspect of maintaining your SHRM-CP certification and demonstrating your ongoing commitment to professional growth and excellence in the HR field. It ensures that your knowledge, skills, and competencies remain relevant and up-to-date in a rapidly changing workplace environment. Here’s a detailed breakdown of how the SHRM recertification process works and what you need to know to stay on track.
How the Recertification Cycle Works
The SHRM recertification cycle is designed to give you ample time to earn the required 60 Professional Development Credits (PDCs). Here's how it operates:
Start Date
Your recertification cycle begins the day you pass the SHRM-CP exam. This means that if you pass the exam on May 3, 2024, your initial cycle officially starts on that day.
End Date
Your cycle ends on the last day of your birth month three years after passing the exam. For example, if your birth month is July, your cycle will end on July 31, 2027.
Grace Period
SHRM provides a two-month grace period after the cycle end date. In the example above, your certification would be revoked if you haven’t completed your PDCs by September 30, 2027.
This structure gives you over three years to plan and earn credits, making it manageable if you stay organized and proactive.
What Are PDCs?
PDCs are the currency of SHRM recertification. You need 60 PDCs within your cycle, which you can earn through activities that fall into three categories:
Advance Your Education (e.g., SHRM webcasts, workshops, or HR conferences).
Advance Your Organization (e.g., workplace projects or HR-related problem-solving).
Advance Your Profession (e.g., volunteering, mentoring, or research contributions).
Each activity you complete must be approved by SHRM and logged into your SHRM certification portal to count toward recertification.
Why Planning Ahead Matters
Although you have three years to earn 60 PDCs, procrastination can make the process unnecessarily stressful. Breaking the requirements into smaller, manageable goals can help:
Year 1: Aim to complete 15–20 PDCs to establish a strong start.
Year 2: Continue steady progress, focusing on topics that align with your interests and role.
Year 3: Use this year to finalize your credits, allowing time for unexpected delays or new opportunities.
By spreading out your efforts, you reduce last-minute panic and ensure you can choose meaningful and impactful activities.
Tracking Your Credits
SHRM makes it easy to track your PDCs through its certification portal:
Log in to your account and navigate to the certification section.
Input details of completed activities, including activity IDs for SHRM-approved webcasts or events.
Monitor your total credits to ensure you’re meeting the requirements.
Staying on top of your progress ensures you’re never caught off guard as the cycle end date approaches.
The Importance of Staying Certified
Failing to recertify doesn’t just mean losing your SHRM-CP credential—it also means losing the hard work and dedication you invested in earning it. Certification validates your expertise to employers and clients, making it a crucial asset in your career. Additionally, maintaining your certification demonstrates your commitment to professional development and positions you as a leader in your field.
Understanding the recertification process and planning accordingly ensures you’ll meet your requirements without stress. In the next section, we’ll discuss why SHRM webcasts are the most effective and convenient way to earn your 60 PDCs.
Why SHRM Webcasts Are the Best Option
Recertifying your SHRM-CP certification doesn’t have to be a complicated or time-consuming process. Among the many ways to earn Professional Development Credits (PDCs), SHRM webcasts stand out as the most efficient, flexible, and cost-effective option. Whether you’re managing a busy schedule, trying to save money, or simply looking for convenience, SHRM webcasts provide an unmatched solution. Here’s why they are the best option for recertification.
1. Accessibility Anytime, Anywhere
One of the biggest advantages of SHRM webcasts is their on-demand availability. These webcasts are hosted on the SHRM website and can be accessed from any device with an internet connection. Whether you’re at home, in the office, or on the go, you can log in and start earning PDCs at a time that works for you.
Key benefits include:
Flexibility: Watch sessions at your own pace without having to adhere to a rigid schedule.
Convenience: No need to travel or attend in-person events, saving you time and money.
Repeat Viewing: Revisit content if you need a refresher or missed a key point.
2. Wide Range of Relevant Topics
SHRM webcasts cover a variety of HR-related topics, ensuring there’s something for every professional. These sessions align directly with SHRM’s competency framework, meaning the knowledge you gain is not only applicable to your role but also recognized by SHRM for recertification purposes.
Examples of available topics:
Talent Management: Strategies for recruiting, retaining, and engaging top talent.
Compliance and Risk Management: Updates on labor laws, workplace policies, and regulations.
Leadership Development: Enhancing leadership skills to drive organizational success.
Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI): Building inclusive workplaces.
With such a broad range of subjects, you can choose webcasts that align with your career goals and interests.
3. Cost-Effective Solution
Earning PDCs through SHRM webcasts is one of the most affordable options for recertification. While attending conferences or enrolling in workshops can be expensive, SHRM members often gain free or discounted access to these webcasts.
Additional Cost-Saving Tips:
Utilize Free Member Benefits: Many SHRM webcasts are included in your membership fee.
Take Advantage of Sales: SHRM frequently offers deals on professional development packages.
Bundle Options: Invest in webcast bundles to access multiple sessions at a lower price point.
By relying on webcasts, you can recertify without incurring significant out-of-pocket expenses.
4. Easy Credit Tracking and Reporting
SHRM webcasts simplify the credit-earning process because they are already pre-approved for PDCs. After completing a webcast, you’ll receive an activity code to input directly into your SHRM certification portal. This eliminates the hassle of figuring out whether an activity qualifies or how many credits it’s worth.
How It Works:
Watch the webcast.
Receive your activity code.
Log into your SHRM account and enter the code to claim your PDCs.
With instant tracking, you’ll always know where you stand in your recertification journey.
5. Highly Engaging and Actionable Content
SHRM webcasts are designed to keep you engaged and provide actionable insights you can apply immediately in your role. They often feature industry experts, HR thought leaders, and real-world case studies, making the content practical and inspiring.
Examples of engagement features:
Live Q&A sessions with presenters (for live webcasts).
Downloadable materials and resources to enhance learning.
Opportunities to connect with other HR professionals during live broadcasts.
This interactivity makes the learning experience more enriching and ensures you stay motivated to complete your recertification requirements.
6. Time-Efficient Learning
Compared to other methods of earning PDCs, such as attending conferences or enrolling in semester-long courses, SHRM webcasts are far more time-efficient. Most sessions last between 30 minutes and 1 hour, allowing you to quickly accumulate credits without disrupting your schedule.
Example Plan:
One Hour a Week: Watch a single webcast weekly to earn 1–1.5 PDCs.
Three-Year Timeline: By dedicating one hour per week, you can easily surpass the 60 PDC requirement well before your cycle ends.
This incremental approach ensures steady progress while keeping your workload manageable.
The Best Option for Busy HR Professionals
Ultimately, SHRM webcasts are tailored to meet the needs of busy HR professionals who value convenience, relevance, and efficiency. By leveraging this resource, you can stay on top of your recertification requirements without unnecessary stress or expense.
In the next section, we’ll provide a step-by-step guide to help you integrate SHRM webcasts into your recertification plan and maximize their benefits.
Step-by-Step Guide to Recertify with SHRM Webcasts
Recertifying your SHRM-CP certification can be straightforward when you have a clear plan in place. SHRM webcasts offer a convenient way to earn the 60 Professional Development Credits (PDCs) required within your three-year recertification cycle. Follow this detailed step-by-step guide to maximize the benefits of SHRM webcasts and ensure a smooth recertification process.
Step 1: Log in to the SHRM Website
Start by accessing the SHRM Learning System and webcast portal:
Visit the SHRM Website
Navigate to the official SHRM site at shrm.org.
Log in using your SHRM account credentials. If you’re not a member, consider joining to take advantage of discounted or free webcast access.
Access the Learning Portal
From the homepage, click on the "Events & Education" section.
Then select “Webcasts” from the drop down menu.
Step 2: Choose Relevant Topics
SHRM webcasts cover a diverse range of topics that align with SHRM’s competencies. Use these tips to select sessions that benefit your career development while earning PDCs:
Prioritize Core Competencies
Focus on webcasts that enhance your knowledge in SHRM’s behavioral and technical competency areas, such as leadership, HR strategy, and compliance.Align with Your Role and Goals
Choose topics that address challenges you face in your role or areas where you want to grow. For example:If you’re a recruiter, explore sessions on talent acquisition and employer branding.
If you’re a benefits specialist, focus on compliance updates and employee well-being.
Look for Emerging Trends
Stay ahead of industry developments by selecting webcasts on new HR technologies, DEI strategies, or hybrid work models.
Step 3: Track Your Progress in the SHRM Portal
To ensure you stay organized and meet your recertification requirements, make use of the SHRM portal for tracking PDCs:
Complete a Webcast
After viewing, you’ll receive an activity code.
Take note of this code and save it for reporting purposes.
Log Credits Immediately
Log in to your SHRM account.
Navigate to the certification portal and input the activity code for the webcast.
Your total PDCs will automatically update, giving you real-time insight into your progress.
Set Milestones
Establish yearly goals to evenly distribute your efforts over the three-year cycle. For example, aim to complete 20 PDCs per year.
Step 4: Plan Your Viewing Schedule
Staying consistent is key to making steady progress without feeling overwhelmed. Here’s how to effectively integrate webcasts into your routine:
Set Weekly or Monthly Goals
Schedule time for 1–2 webcasts per month. Each webcast typically lasts 30 minutes to an hour, so it’s easy to fit into your schedule.
Example: Watch one webcast every other Friday during your lunch break.
Batch Webcasts During Downtime
Use quieter periods, such as holidays or slow workweeks, to catch up on multiple sessions.
Example: Dedicate a Saturday afternoon to watch 4–5 webcasts and earn a significant portion of your PDCs.
Step 5: Diversify Your Learning
While SHRM webcasts are highly effective, you can also diversify your recertification activities to keep things engaging:
Pair Webcasts with Other Approved Activities
For example, attend a live SHRM conference or volunteer with an HR-related organization to earn additional PDCs.
Use webcasts to fill in any gaps in your required credits.
Explore Series or Bundles
SHRM offers webcast series on specific topics, such as compliance or leadership. Completing a series can help you earn multiple credits while deepening your knowledge in a key area.
Step 6: Review Your Progress Annually
Avoid last-minute scrambles by checking your PDC progress at least once a year:
Annual Check-In
Log in to your SHRM account and review your total credits.
Identify any gaps and adjust your viewing schedule accordingly.
End-of-Cycle Audit
About six months before your recertification cycle ends, confirm that all your PDCs have been logged and approved.
Address any discrepancies or incomplete activities well before the deadline.
Step 7: Submit Your Recertification Application
Once you’ve earned the required 60 PDCs, complete the recertification process:
Access the SHRM Portal
Go to the recertification section and confirm that your credits meet the 60-PDC requirement.
Submit Your Application
Follow the on-screen instructions to submit your recertification application.
Pay the recertification fee, if applicable.
Receive Confirmation
Once SHRM processes your application, you’ll receive confirmation of your recertification status.
By following these steps, you’ll not only simplify the recertification process but also ensure you gain valuable knowledge and skills to advance your HR career. Up next, we’ll explore some tips and tricks to make your recertification journey even smoother!
Pro Tips for Smooth Recertification
Recertifying your SHRM-CP certification doesn’t have to be a last-minute scramble or an overwhelming task. With strategic planning and a few insider tips, you can make the process seamless and stress-free. These pro tips will help you stay on track, maximize your learning, and ensure you meet your recertification requirements with ease.
1. Break Down the Process into Manageable Steps
Instead of viewing the 60-PDC requirement as a massive hurdle, break it into smaller, achievable goals:
Set Annual Milestones
Divide the 60 PDCs evenly across your three-year recertification cycle. Aim for 20 PDCs per year to maintain a steady pace.
Example: Watch two SHRM webcasts per month, each worth 1 PDC.
Establish Monthly or Weekly Targets
Dedicate 1–2 hours per week or month to professional development activities. Consistency makes the process manageable and prevents last-minute stress.
2. Create a Recertification Calendar
Time management is key to a smooth recertification journey. Use a calendar to keep track of your progress and plan ahead:
Mark Important Dates
Add your cycle start and end dates to your calendar, along with reminders six months and three months before the deadline.
Include the two-month grace period to give yourself a buffer in case of delays.
Schedule Learning Sessions
Block out dedicated time in your calendar for watching SHRM webcasts or completing other PDC-earning activities. Treat these appointments as non-negotiable.
3. Choose Activities That Double as Professional Development
Maximize the value of your recertification activities by selecting those that contribute to your career growth:
Focus on Current Challenges
Choose SHRM webcasts or other activities that address issues you’re facing in your role, such as compliance updates, DEI initiatives, or leadership development.
This approach makes your recertification efforts immediately beneficial to your job performance.
Align with Long-Term Goals
Explore topics that support your career aspirations, such as preparing for a leadership role or gaining expertise in a specialized area like HR analytics.
4. Take Advantage of Free or Discounted Resources
Recertifying doesn’t have to be expensive. Use cost-effective strategies to minimize out-of-pocket expenses:
SHRM Member Benefits
Many SHRM webcasts are free or discounted for members. If you’re not a member, consider joining to access these perks.
Employer Support
Check if your organization reimburses professional development expenses or offers access to SHRM Learning System resources.
Local SHRM Chapters
Participate in local chapter events, which often include PDC-eligible activities like workshops or networking sessions.
5. Track Your PDCs in Real-Time
Avoid the panic of scrambling to document your activities by keeping your PDC log up to date:
Log Credits Immediately
After completing a SHRM webcast or any other approved activity, input the activity code into your SHRM certification portal right away.
Double-check that the activity is correctly recorded and the PDC count updates.
Keep a Backup
Maintain a separate spreadsheet or document with details of all completed activities, including dates, topics, and PDCs earned. This can serve as a backup if needed.
6. Mix and Match Recertification Activities
While SHRM webcasts are a fantastic primary option, diversify your recertification efforts for variety and broader learning:
Workplace Projects
Earn PDCs by documenting and submitting significant projects that align with SHRM competencies, such as implementing a new HRIS system or revising workplace policies.
Volunteer Opportunities
Activities like mentoring HR professionals, serving on a local SHRM board, or leading a workplace training program can also earn credits.
7. Stay Updated on SHRM’s Resources and Deadlines
Keep an eye on SHRM’s announcements and updates to take advantage of new opportunities:
Sign Up for Email Alerts
Receive notifications about new webcasts, PDC opportunities, and recertification reminders.
Check SHRM’s Resource Library
Regularly explore SHRM’s resource library for newly added webcasts, courses, or other activities that align with your interests.
8. Leverage Downtime Wisely
Use quiet periods in your work or personal life to make significant progress:
Plan Ahead for Vacations
Download materials or pre-select SHRM webcasts to complete during travel or downtime.
End-of-Year Catch-Up
Use slower periods at the end of the year to focus on earning PDCs, especially if your workload lightens during this time.
9. Network with Other HR Professionals
Collaborating with colleagues or attending HR events can inspire you and expose you to additional recertification opportunities:
Join HR Communities
Participate in online forums, local SHRM chapters, or HR-focused LinkedIn groups. Members often share tips and resources for earning PDCs.
Attend Conferences or Webinars Together
Encourage coworkers to join you for SHRM webcasts or other activities. Sharing insights can enhance the learning experience.
10. Audit Your Progress Regularly
Perform periodic reviews of your recertification status to ensure you’re on track:
Quarterly Reviews
Every three months, check your PDC total and identify any gaps in your progress.
End-of-Cycle Audit
Six months before your cycle ends, verify that all credits are logged and approved in your SHRM portal. Use this time to address any discrepancies or finish any pending activities.
By following these pro tips, you can make the recertification process a seamless and rewarding part of your professional development. Remember, the goal isn’t just to retain your certification—it’s to continue growing as an HR professional and enhancing the value you bring to your organization.
Common Recertification Mistakes to Avoid
While the SHRM recertification process is designed to be flexible and manageable, overlooking key details or making simple mistakes can create unnecessary stress and even put your certification status at risk. By being aware of these common pitfalls, you can proactively avoid them and ensure a smooth path to recertification.
1. Procrastinating Until the Last Minute
Waiting until the final months of your recertification cycle to start earning PDCs is one of the most common mistakes. Procrastination can lead to unnecessary stress and limit your options for earning credits.
Why It Happens:
Underestimating the time required to accumulate 60 PDCs.
Failing to prioritize recertification amidst other responsibilities.
How to Avoid It:
Create a timeline at the beginning of your cycle, breaking the 60 PDCs into yearly or monthly goals.
Schedule regular check-ins (e.g., quarterly) to monitor your progress.
2. Not Logging PDCs Immediately
Forgetting to record completed activities can result in lost or uncredited PDCs, making it difficult to meet the 60-credit requirement.
Why It Happens:
Overconfidence in memory: assuming you’ll log credits later and then forgetting.
Misplacing activity codes or documentation.
How to Avoid It:
Log PDCs into your SHRM portal immediately after completing an activity.
Keep a backup file (e.g., a spreadsheet or notebook) with activity details like dates, topics, and PDC values.
3. Misunderstanding What Qualifies for PDCs
Not all professional development activities are eligible for SHRM PDCs. Relying on unapproved activities can leave you short of the required credits.
Why It Happens:
Assuming all HR-related activities automatically qualify.
Neglecting to verify eligibility before participating in an activity.
How to Avoid It:
Use SHRM-approved resources, such as webcasts, workshops, and conferences.
Always check for SHRM activity IDs or PDC values before committing to an event or course.
4. Ignoring the Recertification Deadlines
Failing to complete your credits or submit your application before the cycle end date can lead to certification revocation.
Why It Happens:
Losing track of time or forgetting the deadline.
Misunderstanding the cycle timeline and grace period.
How to Avoid It:
Know your exact recertification cycle dates (start, end, and grace period).
Set multiple reminders in your calendar leading up to the deadline.
5. Overlooking Free or Low-Cost Opportunities
Many HR professionals assume recertification requires expensive courses or conferences, leading them to overspend or delay earning credits.
Why It Happens:
Lack of awareness about free resources like SHRM webcasts included in membership.
Overemphasis on high-cost activities like in-person events.
How to Avoid It:
Explore SHRM’s free or discounted resources, especially if you’re a member.
Leverage workplace projects, volunteering, or mentoring as cost-free ways to earn PDCs.
6. Failing to Keep Documentation
If SHRM audits your recertification application, you’ll need to provide proof of completed activities. Not having proper documentation can lead to rejected credits.
Why It Happens:
Assuming SHRM automatically tracks all activities.
Discarding confirmation emails or certificates of completion.
How to Avoid It:
Save all documentation for completed activities, including certificates, receipts, and activity codes.
Store records in a designated folder or cloud-based platform for easy access.
7. Neglecting to Utilize Employer Resources
Many employers offer support for professional development, but failing to take advantage of these benefits can mean missing out on free or subsidized opportunities.
Why It Happens:
Not inquiring about available professional development funds or resources.
Assuming employer-provided training doesn’t qualify for PDCs.
How to Avoid It:
Check with your HR or learning and development team about professional development reimbursement or support.
Verify if employer-sponsored training aligns with SHRM’s PDC requirements.
8. Assuming the Grace Period Is a Safety Net
The two-month grace period following the cycle end date is not an extension of your recertification timeline but a buffer for submitting documentation. Assuming it’s extra time to earn PDCs can jeopardize your certification.
Why It Happens:
Misunderstanding the purpose of the grace period.
How to Avoid It:
Complete all activities before the cycle end date.
Use the grace period only for administrative tasks, such as finalizing your application or addressing errors.
9. Overlooking the Value of Strategic Planning
Treating recertification as a last-minute obligation rather than an ongoing professional development opportunity can reduce its value and effectiveness.
Why It Happens:
Viewing recertification as a compliance task rather than a growth opportunity.
How to Avoid It:
Approach recertification as a chance to grow your expertise and career.
Align your PDC activities with your professional goals to maximize their impact.
By avoiding these common mistakes, you’ll not only make the recertification process more efficient but also ensure that it enhances your career growth. In the next section, we’ll wrap up with actionable strategies to stay motivated and finish your recertification journey strong.
Final Thoughts
Recertifying your SHRM-CP certification doesn’t have to be a daunting process. By taking advantage of SHRM webcasts, you can streamline your efforts, stay organized, and gain valuable knowledge that enhances your HR expertise. Certification renewal is more than just maintaining a credential—it’s an investment in your career, credibility, and personal growth as an HR professional.
The key to a smooth recertification journey lies in planning, consistency, and leveraging the right resources. SHRM webcasts stand out as the easiest and most efficient option, offering flexibility, accessibility, and a direct link to earning the 60 PDCs required for renewal. With a variety of topics and formats, they allow you to tailor your learning experience to your schedule and career goals.
Through this guide, we’ve covered every aspect of the recertification process—from understanding the timeline to avoiding common mistakes, and from maximizing SHRM webcasts to diversifying your learning methods. By applying these strategies, you can confidently navigate the recertification process and ensure your certification remains active and valuable.
The Bigger Picture
Recertification is not just about compliance—it’s about staying ahead in an ever-evolving field. As HR professionals, we are tasked with shaping the future of work, driving organizational success, and creating meaningful employee experiences. Maintaining your SHRM-CP certification ensures you stay equipped with the skills, knowledge, and credibility to meet these challenges head-on.
Now is the time to take control of your recertification process. Log into your SHRM portal, explore the wealth of webcasts available, and start earning your PDCs today. Remember, with a consistent approach, proactive planning, and the right tools, you can achieve recertification without stress.
Are you ready to recertify? Let SHRM webcasts be your guide to success!
