The Impact of Executive Education on Your CV (And How to List it the Right Way)5 min read

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Ambitious and practical professionals know that executive education is part of any good roadmap for career advancement. Whether you’re looking to get a salary bump with your current employer, start a business yourself or simply boost your skills to make yourself marketable, executive education can help you reach your next milestone.

You might already be aware of executive education’s far-reaching impact, which includes a major boost to your CV. Executive courses, from EMBAs to niche training programs, can have a profound effect on your professional summary – perhaps in more ways than you initially thought. 

Of course, by talking about executive education’s impact on your CV, we certainly don’t mean to be shallow. It’s true that the most important aspects of choosing to continue your education go well beyond a piece of paper. But the exciting truth is that the value of executive education does impact your professional appearance. First impressions are everything, and having that extra program on your CV could be the game-changer that decides your next big professional win. 

If you’re considering executive education, read on to find out:

• How listing a course on your CV can benefit you, and
• The right way to list executive education on your CV

The CV-boosting benefits of an executive education course

Some executive education students end up pleasantly surprised by how their course affects their career. Even those who don’t intend to brandish their education, and who enroll in courses with the goal of furthering a skill set, often find that executive program certificates give them something extra. 

Let’s look at some of the benefits of executive education on your CV.

Earn the trust of employers.

Employers see executive education as a qualification they can value and trust. With an accredited program listed on your CV, you show others that your skill set has been formally trained and developed. Coupled with relevant experience, this education boost is the recipe most employers are looking for in their hires.

Demonstrate your ambition.

Listing continuing education demonstrates that fact that you take pride in your work and professional development. Not everyone takes the opportunity to expand their existing knowledge through programs and courses; it therefore sends clear signals to employers that you are a hard-working asset. It may also communicate to others that you are open to challenges, are capable of balancing education with an existing workload and/or are on top of the latest trends in a specific sector.

Stand out with a certificate. 

If you choose an executive education course that gives you specialization for a role, you effectively put yourself ahead of the pack in terms of qualifications. A certificate gives employers a recognizable badge that signals your capabilities. Next time you’re being considered for a specialized position, you’ll have peace of mind that your CV puts you at the greatest advantage to win the job. 

Have a top school on your CV. 

There’s no doubt that having a name like Harvard or Wharton on your CV turns heads. Executive education courses at top schools give your CV an immediate appeal at a fraction of the cost of standard undergraduate or MBA programs at these universities. 

Achieve alumni status and get access to an influential network.

For some courses, when you complete a certain number of days you will be awarded alumni status on top of your certification. Alumni networks from prestigious schools are often highly valuable to tap into and grow your professional opportunities. 

The right way to list executive education on your CV

If you’re investing in a top-notch program, you should ensure it is utilized to your best advantage. This includes being mindful of how it is positioned and presented on your CV. 

1. Move your credentials to the top

Any important items should always be listed first, and that includes credentials. It’s a good move to list your EMBA degree or any other qualifications beneath your name, or in an executive summary. Don’t be afraid to immediately showcase the value and knowledge you bring to the table. 

2. Unless you’re entry-level in a specific field, list your professional experience ahead of your education. 

Consider the fact that the average EMBA student is about 37 years old and has about ten more years of organizational experience than their counterparts in full-time MBA programs. Degrees and certifications for most executive education students work in tandem with their existing experience. Recruiters will, first and foremost, be happy to know you are a proven bet in getting the job done. Then, once they discover details about your formal executive education from an accredited institution, they’ll have the final puzzle piece to your outstanding profile.

3. Be selective about which courses you include. 

Ensure that you are only listing relevant, reputable courses tailored to the job or promotion at hand. Anything less can end up detracting from your professional profile. Not sure if your desired course will help or hurt you? Make sure to select only from accredited programs by utilizing a reliable program database. If you’re including several courses, or if you really want to highlight your executive programs, you may also choose to create a separate Continuing Education or Professional Development section for this coursework.

4. Be strategic about what you emphasize.

What is your end goal? Be sure to go above and beyond when applying to jobs or going for a promotion. Tailor your personal presentation accordingly. If you’re aiming to receive quite a few certifications or take several courses in order to boost your CV and make advancements, consider how all the programs will work together on paper to create a well-rounded picture of your skill set. We’re not suggesting that program image should be a deciding factor for your program choice, but it’s worth keeping in mind. 

Executive education: Taking your CV from average to outstanding

When it comes to moving into bold new territory in your career, it’s necessary to go the extra mile. That means investing your own knowledge, capabilities and confidence to take on new roles and responsibilities. 

Executive education has been proven to impact recruiter’s decisions and overall perception of professional value when listed on a CV. It is a clear stamp of qualification that also communicates dedication to your work and, depending on the nature of your chosen program, a level of expertise that gives you an undeniable competitive edge.