ReCertification
Recertification Made Easier
By Les Gagner
Over the years, I have reviewed many recertification applications and have noticed that some applications are simple and potentially did not require much effort, while other applications obviously took a lot of effort to complete. From these extremes and in discussing the application process with many applicants, I offer the following suggestions to make the recertification application process easier. If you have other suggestions you’d like to share with our members, send them to me and I can publish them in future editions of The BenchmarQ. The suggestions are:
- Collect credit documentation as it is earned; then journal it.
I recommend placing a hang file in your file cabinet with several folders for typical recertification categories, such as: 1) Professional Development, 2) Education and Seminars, 3) Meetings, and 4) Committees. Place a copy of the journal for that category in the folder. Then as credit is earned, simply drop the documentation into the file and update the journal.
- Keep the documentation for credits simple.
Adequate documentation is often a single receipt, certificate or other document that links your attendance to the event and indicates the duration (credit) of the event. Documentation beyond that is extra work for the applicant and the reviewer. Remember that ASQ gives credit for training related to the Body of Knowledge regardless of the sponsor (even if its not an ASQ sponsored event)
- Observe the maximum limit of credit for each category.
Some recertification credit categories have limits as to the number of credits that can be claimed in that category. But also some activities can be claimed as credit in different categories. Suppose you attend a professional development seminar. The credit can be claimed as Professional Development or as Education and Seminars (but not both). If you already are at the maximum in one of the categories, claim the credit in the other category.
- Stop documenting when you reach the necessary credit.
Many of us store credits like squirrels storing nuts for the winter, but it’s unnecessary and adds more work for the applicant and the reviewer. When you have secured eighteen credits, it’s enough.
- Synchronize multiple recertifications.
By synchronizing the expiration dates of your certifications, you’ll only recertify once per three years. It’s easy to do and the Recertification Coordinator can assist you.
- Complete the application completely.
Most of the recertification application "rejects" are for incomplete applications. List the certificates you are recertifying with their expiration dates in the upper left hand portion. Include correct payment according to the schedule in the center of the left side of the application. Summarize the credits you’re claiming, and supporting with documentation, on the right side of the application. And finally, sign the application at the bottom left of the form.
The Recertification Coordinator is available to answer questions about the recertification process.
For more information:
Contact Les Gagner at gagnerfamily@comcast.net or 651-633-5435 or go to http://www.asq.org/certification/recertification/index.html
Send Re-certification packages to:
- Les Gagner
- 1218 Ashley Lane
- Mahtomedi, MN 55115