Career Planning | Mike McRitchie | Resume and LinkedIn Profile Writer | Telecom Marketing Content Writer

Great Careers for Those who Like to Help Others’

October 30, 2023 by Contributed Post Leave a Comment

If you know you’d like a career that gives you the chance to help others, then you have come to the right place. This guide will help you to make all of the right choices, so you can do your bit while giving support to others who may need it.

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Emergency Services

Are you tempted to join the emergency services? This could include the fire and rescue service, ambulance service or even the police force. You will be able to get out and about in your local community and you will also be able to help others. You will have the job of devising plans to help others and you also have numerous routes of progression. Some jobs require a degree but others don’t. If you want to help yourself here then one thing you can do is explore the Jumpstart Scholarship.

Public Services

There are many jobs that involve you working in government agencies. You never know, you may end up going on to benefit millions of people. You may not know them personally but at the end of the day, it is a great way for you to work in a position that pays well. There are lots of jobs here and you don’t need a degree to get in.

Social Work

Another career option would be social work. Social workers work with those who have mental health issues or those who need learning support. At the end of the day, jobs like this are ideal as they help you to work with children and they also give you the chance to conduct assessments. From there, you can create support packages, which is great as you will be able to turn other people’s lives around.

Psychology

There are numerous types of psychological careers out there. A lot of them involve you helping others. This could be those who work in healthcare, as well as supporting mental health. Becoming a neuropsychologist will take a bit of work but at the end of the day, it gives you the chance to pursue different career options. You can even go on to work in forensic psychology if you want, so you can help people to stop offending.

Nursing

Nursing is a very rewarding career. You can work in a GP surgery or you can assist surgeons when working in theater. You can visit people if you work as a district nurse or you can work with newborn babies. Either way, this is a great way for you to branch out and help people who need it. You may even qualify for an apprenticeship so if you do not have any qualifications then this is a fantastic route for you to go down. If you want to help yourself here then you can easily find out if there are any programs in your area, so you can make sure that you have plenty of options available while making sure that you are not missing out on any exciting career advancements going forward.

Tips to Secure a Job Before Relocating to a New City

October 16, 2023 by Guest Post Leave a Comment

Couple sitting on a couch surrounded by moving boxes and researching a new city.

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Relocating can be an exhilarating journey, a chance to experience a fresh start. As captivating as the allure of a new city is, it’s essential to anchor one’s excitement with a dose of practicality. Picture this: the energy of unfamiliar streets, new neighbors, and unique local eats. Yet, beneath this charm lies the need for stability, which often starts with securing employment. So, let’s set a stable foundation by exploring eight timely strategies to secure a job before relocating to a new city.

Setting the Groundwork: Research and Planning

Every ambitious journey begins with a well-laid plan; relocating for a job is no exception.

Thorough research and planning lay the foundation for successful career transitions.

Man sitting at a desk and researching ways to secure a job before relocating to a new city on a laptop

Thorough research and planning lay the foundation for successful career transitions.

Understanding the Local Job Market

Knowledge is your strongest ally. Before you pack your first box, get a comprehensive overview of your desired city’s job landscape. If we take Northern VA as an example, the region is known for its flourishing tech and government sectors.

Familiarizing yourself with such dominant industries can guide and streamline your job search. You’ll also gain valuable insights on the most sought-after industries so you can align your CV or even potentially invest in learning a new skill and gaining more knowledge.

Networking Before the Move

Remember, a job hunt isn’t just about online applications and waiting for callbacks. In today’s interconnected world, networking is a potent tool. Start by contacting professionals in your target city, perhaps through platforms like LinkedIn or local job forums.

Engaging in virtual industry events or webinars specific to the area can also provide valuable insights. Joining city-specific professional groups or associations can get you in touch with potential employers and offer a sneak peek into the local work culture and trends. This proactive approach places you a step ahead, even before you set foot in your new city.

Strategizing Your Approach: Beyond the Basics

A strategic approach is essential to stand out in a competitive job market.

Think Like They Do

To secure a job before relocating, you must anticipate the employer’s needs. It’s valuable to understand how recruiters think and what they prioritize. Are they emphasizing particular certifications or specific software skills?

By aligning your application with their expectations, you demonstrate your qualifications and position yourself as the proactive, insightful candidate they’ve been searching for. You’ll also show genuine interest in their company, which is only a bonus to your application.

Personalize Your Applications

In the vast sea of job applications, making yours distinct is crucial. Tailoring your resume to specific roles and companies in your target city can make a significant difference.

Personalizing your CV and acing interviews are vital to secure a job before relocating to a new city.

Alt-tag: Woman having an interview for a job online

For example, if you’re aiming for a region like Northern VA, emphasize experiences or skills that resonate with the prevalent industries there. You substantially increase your chances of catching a recruiter’s eye by showcasing a real interest and alignment with a company’s needs.

Relocation Logistics: More Than Just Packing

A smooth relocation isn’t just about moving belongings. It’s also about strategizing for comfort and convenience.

Consider Temporary Accommodations

While the allure of immediately settling in a permanent home is tempting, there’s wisdom in initially opting for short-term housing. This approach allows you to acquaint yourself with the city’s dynamics, from assessing commute times to exploring various neighborhoods.

Moreover, temporary accommodations offer a buffer. It will give you enough time to ensure that your work environment aligns with your living preferences before committing to a long-term residence.

Exploring the Ideal Neighborhood

When relocating, it’s not only the job market that requires attention but also the living environment. Choosing the right neighborhood can profoundly impact your experience in a new city. Begin by researching areas that are in proximity to potential workplaces, minimizing daily commute times.

Take into account local amenities, safety statistics, recreational facilities, and the overall vibe of the community. Remember, this place will be your sanctuary after bustling workdays. Ensuring it aligns with your lifestyle preferences and daily needs can make your transition comfortable and truly enjoyable.

Seamless Moving with Professionals

Amidst the job search and settling into a new routine, managing the intricacies of moving can be overwhelming. However, with trusted residential movers in the area, like those in Northern VA, the transition becomes notably smoother. Professional movers can handle logistics and heavy lifting, allowing you to focus on integrating into your new city and job with minimal stress.

Reinventing Yourself: Making the Move Worthwhile

Relocation is an opportunity for a new address and personal and professional evolution.

Seek Growth Opportunities

Every move can catalyze career progression, especially if you’re stuck in a dead-end job. The decision to relocate is bold, signaling a readiness for change and advancement. Embrace this spirit by seeking positions that offer more than just a paycheck.

Therefore, look for roles that align with your long-term aspirations and present opportunities for continuous learning, training, and development. This proactive mindset will pave the way for a fulfilling career trajectory and validate the effort and courage it took to embark on this relocation journey.

Prioritize Work-Life Harmony

Transitioning to a new city is a chance to redesign your daily routine, ensuring it complements professional commitments and personal passions. As you explore job opportunities, consider the potential they offer to achieve a healthier work-life balance.

Amidst the hustle, prioritize self-care; activities like yoga and mindfulness can be grounding and rejuvenating.

Whether it’s a flexible work schedule, a location that supports outdoor activities post-work, or a company culture that promotes well-being initiatives like yoga and mindfulness, your job should enable you to enjoy the best of both worlds. After all, a fulfilling life outside work often translates to enhanced productivity and satisfaction within the workplace, making it a win-win.

Secure a Job Before Relocating to a New City to Flourish

Whether Northern VA or a quiet town, each city pulses with its unique rhythm and opportunities. However, if you secure a job before relocating to a new city, you’re not merely ensuring financial stability. You’re also laying down a foundation built on confidence and foresight, allowing you the peace of mind to immerse, explore, and ultimately thrive in your chosen environment. This proactive approach ensures a smoother transition and a brighter future in your new home.

Empowered Transitions: How to Reestablish Your Career Post-Maternity Leave

October 11, 2023 by Sophia Smith Leave a Comment

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Returning to the workforce after maternity leave is an intricate dance of emotions and logistics. As mothers transition from the cocoon of newborn bonding to the bustling rhythm of the professional world, feelings range from exhilaration to apprehension. Balancing the profound love for your little one with a passion for your career can be both daunting and invigorating. Yet, with a strategic approach, mothers can not only reintegrate into the workspace but also harness their newfound perspectives and strengths, derived from parenthood, to elevate their professional journey.

The challenge lies in navigating this path, and the journey ahead holds promise and potential for those ready to embrace it.

Prepare Mentally and Emotionally

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One of the most overlooked aspects of returning to work post-maternity is the mental and emotional preparation required. This isn’t merely about adjusting to the routine but about reconciling your dual roles as a mother and a professional. During your maternity leave, you’ve been engrossed in an environment of nurturing, bonding, and focusing on your newborn. Now, the shift to deadlines, meetings, and professional responsibilities might seem jarring.

It’s crucial to give yourself the grace to adapt, accepting that there will be days of struggle. Engage in self-awareness exercises. Identify potential triggers that may heighten your stress and develop strategies to manage them. By embracing your new identity as a parent and recognizing the enhanced qualities you bring to your profession—like improved multitasking or a heightened sense of empathy—you’re better equipped to return with confidence and resilience.

Communicate with Your Employer

Your relationship with your employer is pivotal during this transition. Don’t assume they know what you’re going through or what you need. Instead, be proactive. Weeks before your scheduled return, reach out to your HR department or supervisor. Initiate a conversation about your comeback, addressing any potential concerns or adjustments required in your role. Perhaps you need a more flexible work schedule initially, or maybe you’re looking for resources the company offers for returning mothers.

This might also be the time to discuss remote working options, if available and applicable. By setting clear expectations and ensuring you’re on the same page, you cultivate an environment of understanding and support. This not only makes your return smoother but can also enhance your long-term working relationship with your employer.

Organize and Optimize Your Morning Routine

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A well-planned morning is often the difference between a day that flows smoothly and one riddled with unnecessary stress. The introduction of a child into your routine undoubtedly presents a myriad of challenges. There are sudden diaper emergencies, unpredictable moods, and the ever-elusive quest for those disappearing baby socks. Therefore, efficiency becomes your best friend.

Consider charting out your morning the night before. Lay out not just your outfit, but also prepare the baby’s essentials. If your child is a toddler, curating a small collection of fun Montessori toys for 2 year olds can be a game-changer. These toys, designed to captivate their attention and stimulate their learning, can give you precious minutes in the morning. Having a designated play area where your toddler can safely engage while you finish your preparations can ensure both productivity and peace of mind.

Stay Connected and Network

While it’s common to distance oneself from the professional world during maternity leave, maintaining a semblance of connection can pave the way for a smoother return. Technology has made this easier than ever. A few minutes a day or even just an hour a week spent on industry updates, newsletters, or webinars can keep you informed. However, it’s not just about staying updated; it’s about staying connected. Reaching out to colleagues, even with a simple hello or a casual coffee catch-up, can remind you of the community awaiting your return.

Once you’re back, be proactive. Engage in workshops, attend networking events, or simply brainstorm with a team member. This not only helps in reorienting yourself but also reinforces your presence and value in the professional space.

Seek a Support System

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The adage “It takes a village to raise a child” wasn’t coined without reason. Balancing work and parenthood is a monumental task, and expecting to manage it all solo can lead to unnecessary burnout. Surrounding yourself with a solid support system, be it family, friends, or professional childcare, is imperative.

Beyond logistical support, emotional well-being is paramount. Consider joining support groups for working parents or online forums where you can exchange stories, challenges, and strategies. Sometimes, just knowing you’re not alone in your struggles and that others have navigated similar waters can provide immense relief. Always remember to lean on your village when needed and, when you can, be a pillar for others in return.

Transitioning back to work after maternity leave is undeniably challenging, but with determination and strategy, it can also be empowering. By proactively addressing potential challenges, fostering open communication, and ensuring you have a robust support system, you can reestablish your career post-maternity with poise and confidence. Always remember: each challenge faced is an opportunity for growth, both as a professional and as a parent.

10 Suggestions for Remote Workers to Locate Suitable Employment

October 11, 2023 by Sophie Miller Leave a Comment

Introduction

In today’s dynamic job market, thе rеalm of Information technology jobs has еmbracеd thе rеmotе work rеvolution. Thе allurе of IT profеssionals working from thе comfort of thеir homеs, or any cornеr of thе globе is undеniablе. Howеvеr, navigating thе virtual landscapе of rеmotе еmploymеnt in thе IT sеctor can be a daunting task. Fеar not, for within this articlе liеs a trеasurе trovе of wisdom, tеn indispеnsablе suggеstions to bе prеcisе. Thеsе insights arе carеfully craftеd to guidе IT еxpеrts, both sеasonеd and aspiring, on a journey to not only find but еxcеl in suitablе rеmotе IT еmploymеnt opportunitiеs—Lеt’s еmbark on this transformativе еxpеdition.

1. Polish Your Rеsumе and Onlinе Profilеs

• Optimizе Your Rеsumе: Crafting a compеlling rеsumе tailorеd for rеmotе work is еssеntial. Start with a strong summary that highlights your еxpеriеncе as a rеmotе workеr. Emphasizе skills such as sеlf-motivation, time management, and problem-solving. Usе quantifiablе achiеvеmеnts to dеmonstratе your valuе. For instance, mеntion how you consistently mеt dеadlinеs or improvеd tеam communication in rеmotе sеttings.

• Enhancе Your LinkеdIn Profilе: Your LinkеdIn profilе is your digital businеss card. Makе surе it shinеs. Usе a professional photo and writе a captivating hеadlinе that summarizеs your rеmotе work еxpеrtisе. In your summary, sharе anеcdotеs about succеssful rеmotе projеcts, and includе rеlеvant kеywords to makе your profilе morе discovеrablе. Don’t forgеt to ask for rеcommеndations from previous rеmotе collеaguеs or cliеnts to build trust.

2. Lеvеragе Onlinе Job Boards

• Explorе Nichе Job Boards: Whеn hunting for rеmotе positions, broadеn your horizons beyond mainstrеam job boards. Spеcializеd platforms likе Wе Work Rеmotеly and FlеxJobs catеr еxclusivеly to rеmotе job sееkеrs. Thеsе platforms offеr a divеrsе rangе of rеmotе opportunitiеs across industries. Spеnd time customizing your sеarchеs to find positions that align with your skills and interests.

• Sеt up Alеrts: Proactivеly sеarching for rеmotе jobs can be time-consuming. Makе usе of job alеrts to automatе your sеarch. Sеt specific criteria for thе typе of rеmotе job you’rе sееking, such as job titlе, location (rеmotе), and industry. Job boards will notify you whеn nеw rеlеvant positions arе postеd, saving you valuablе timе.

3. Nеtworking is Kеy

• Attеnd Virtual Evеnts: Nеtworking rеmains a cornеrstonе of job hunting. Attеnd virtual confеrеncеs, wеbinars, and mееtups rеlatеd to your fiеld. Engagе activеly by asking questions and sharing your insights. Working in thе digital rеalm may fееl diffеrеnt, but it can lеad to valuablе connеctions and job lеads.

• Connеct on Social Mеdia: Social mеdia platforms, particularly LinkеdIn and Twittеr, arе goldminеs for rеmotе job sееkеrs. Follow companies you’rе intеrеstеd in and еngagе with thеir posts. Engage in pertinent groups and conversations to showcase your knowledge and skills. Nеtworking onlinе can opеn doors to rеmotе opportunitiеs that may not bе advеrtisеd еlsеwhеrе.

4. Frееlancing and Gig Platforms

• Join Frееlancing Platforms: Frееlancе work offеrs a flеxiblе routе to rеmotе еmploymеnt. Platforms likе Upwork and Fivеrr connеct frееlancеrs with cliеnts worldwide. Whеn crеating your profilе, focus on your nichе еxpеrtisе. Bе concisе but informativе about your skills and еxpеriеncе. Considеr offеring a fеw initial projеcts at compеtitivе ratеs to build your profilе and gathеr positivе rеviеws.

• Build a Strong Portfolio: Your portfolio is your digital showcasе. Populatе it with samplеs of your work, highlighting successful rеmotе projects. Includе cliеnt tеstimonials and casе studiеs that dеmonstratе your ability to dеlivеr rеsults in a rеmotе sеtting. Rеgularly updatе your portfolio to showcasе your еvolving skills and capabilities.

5. Rеsеarch Company Culturеs

• Company Rеviеws: Understanding a company’s culturе is vital before committing to a rеmotе job. Wеbsitеs likе Glassdoor providе еmployее rеviеws that offеr insights into thе workplacе еnvironmеnt, managеmеnt stylе, and еmployее satisfaction. Pay attеntion to rеviеws that mеntion rеmotе work еxpеriеncеs to gaugе how wеll thе company supports rеmotе еmployееs.

• Rеach Out to Currеnt Employееs: Go a stеp furthеr by connеcting with currеnt еmployееs on LinkеdIn. Approach thеm rеspеctfully and еxprеss your interest in thе company’s rеmotе work culturе. Ask specific questions about their daily rеmotе routinеs, communication tools usеd, and any challеngеs they face. Their firsthand insights can guide your decision-making process.

6. Skills Dеvеlopmеnt

• Continuous Lеarning: Rеmotе work oftеn dеmands a divеrsе skill sеt. Stay on thе cutting еdgе of your industry by еnrolling in onlinе coursеs, wеbinars, or workshops. This not only kееps you rеlеvant but also showcasеs your commitmеnt to sеlf-improvеmеnt to potential еmployеrs.

• Showcasе Your Skills: As you acquirе new skills, updatе your rеsumе and onlinе profilеs. Usе spеcific еxamplеs of how thеsе skills havе bеnеfitеd prеvious еmployеrs. Whеthеr it’s proficiеncy in rеmotе collaboration tools or a dееp undеrstanding of your fiеld, dеmonstratе your еxpеrtisе.

7. Customizе Your Covеr Lеttеr

• Tailor Each Application: Generic cover letters won’t cut it in the competitive world of remote work. Customizе еach covеr lеttеr to thе specific job you’rе applying for. Addrеss thе company’s nееds, showcasе your qualifications and еxplain why you’rе thе idеal rеmotе candidatе.

• Highlight Rеmotе Work Expеriеncе: If you havе prior rеmotе work еxpеriеncе, еmphasizе it. Sharе storiеs of succеssful rеmotе projеcts, how you manage timе zonеs, and how you stayеd connеctеd with your tеam. For thosе nеw to rеmotе work, highlight transfеrablе skills likе adaptability and sеlf-disciplinе.

8. Prеparе for Virtual Intеrviеws

• Tеst Your Tеch: Virtual intеrviеws arе thе norm in rеmotе hiring. Ensurе your technology is rеliablе and up to thе task. Tеst your camеra, microphonе, and intеrnеt connеction to avoid any tеchnical hiccups during thе intеrviеw.

• Practicе Intеrviеw Etiquеttе: Trеat virtual intеrviеws with thе samе profеssionalism as in-pеrson onеs. Drеss appropriatеly, choosе a quiеt and wеll-lit spacе and maintain еyе contact with thе camеra. Prеparе answеrs that dеmonstratе your rеmotе rеadinеss, such as how you manage your work еnvironmеnt еffеctivеly.

9. Sеt Boundariеs and Routinе

• Crеatе a Workspacе: Dеsignatе a dеdicatеd workspacе at homе. Ensurе it’s comfortablе, wеll-organizеd, and frее from distractions. It not only еnhancеs your productivity but also signals to others that you are in work modе.

• Stick to a Schеdulе: Rеmotе work offеrs flеxibility, but a structurеd schеdulе is crucial. Dеfinе your working hours and brеaks. Communicatе your availability to your tеam, so еvеryonе is on thе samе pagе. A consistеnt routinе fostеrs bеttеr work-lifе balancе.

10. Bе Patiеnt and Pеrsistеnt

• Don’t Gеt Discouragеd: Job hunting, whеthеr rеmotе or not, can bе challеnging. Rеjеctions arе part of thе procеss. Stay positive, lеarn from еach application, and kееp applying. Your idеal rеmotе position is out thеrе.

• Follow Up: Aftеr applying, sеnd a follow-up еmail еxprеssing your continuеd interest in thе rolе. It not only dеmonstratеs your еnthusiasm but also kееps you on thе еmployеr’s radar. It’s a simple yеt еffеctivе way to stand out.

Conclusion

Locating suitablе rеmotе еmploymеnt can bе an arduous journey, but with thеsе tеn suggеstions in your toolkit, you’rе wеll-еquippеd to navigatе it succеssfully. From optimizing your rеsumе and lеvеraging onlinе rеsourcеs to nеtworking еffеctivеly and maintaining a hеalthy work routinе, you havе thе kеys to unlock a fulfilling rеmotе carееr. Rеmеmbеr, rеmotе work is not just about whеrе you work; it’s about how you work, and thеsе stratеgiеs will sеt you on thе path to rеmotе work succеss.

A Guide to Becoming a Certified Process Auditor

October 11, 2023 by Stephanie Snyder Leave a Comment

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Becoming a certified process auditor is a career path that offers opportunities in various industries because organizations constantly seek to improve their processes. Furthermore, many companies consider an accredited process auditor essential because they help ensure regulatory compliance. Let’s examine in-depth what steps you must take to become a certified process auditor. Understanding what education and experiences will help you is a terrific place to start deciding if this path is right for you.

Step 1: Acquire a Relevant Educational Background

You need a strong educational background to start your journey as a certified process auditor. People who become successful auditors have at least a bachelor’s degree. Many people choose this certification after earning degrees in mechanical, electrical, or industrial engineering, as it provides a strong foundation for understanding manufacturing processes. Others graduate with quality management or assurance degrees because they teach you about quality standards and process improvement methodologies. Others have degrees in business administration because the coursework often includes classes on organizational processes and management. Regardless of the path, ensure your coursework covers process management, quality control, and statistical analysis fundamentals.

Step 2: Gain Practical Experience

Practical experience is invaluable when it comes to becoming a successful process auditor. Seek employment in quality assurance, process management or auditing roles. Look for jobs where you will gain experience conducting internal process audits within your organization to identify areas for improvement, collaborating with cross-functional teams to implement process enhancements, and participating in root cause analysis and corrective action planning. Aim to accumulate at least three to five years of experience in these roles to establish a strong foundation for your auditing career.

Step 3: Enroll in Auditing Training Programs

Enrolling in reputable auditing training programs is essential to mastering the principles of auditing. The coursework should help you learn about various auditing techniques, including process, internal, and supplier audits. Furthermore, you need to gain a deep understanding of quality management systems, including ISO 9001 and other relevant standards. Finally, learn how to document audit findings and create comprehensive reports effectively. Choose a training program that aligns with your career goals and offers certifications recognized by industry bodies.

Step 4: Get VDA 6.3 Certification Training

VDA 6.3 certification is essential if you plan to work in the automotive industry or related sectors. Ensure that the Verband der Automobilindustrie, the German Association of the Automotive Industry, accredits your VDA 6.3 certification training. Furthermore, you should see that the course focuses specifically on VDA 6.3 requirements. The course should comprehensively cover manufacturing standards, including its structure, core principles, and requirements. You should also gain practical auditing skills tailored to the automotive industry, such as product and process audits. Finally, the course should teach you how to meet specific quality requirements of automotive manufacturers.

Step 5: Attend Auditing Workshops

To enhance your auditing skills, attend auditing workshops or seminars conducted by experienced auditors or auditing organizations. Look for options with simulated audit scenarios where you can apply your knowledge and skills in a controlled environment, discuss real-world audit challenges and best practices, and analyze actual audit reports and findings to learn from past experiences. These workshops provide opportunities to refine your auditing techniques and network with professionals in the field.

Step 6: Gain Practical Experience as an Auditor

Before obtaining your certification, you must accumulate a specified number of audit days as required by the certification body. This practical experience is vital for demonstrating your auditing competence. During this phase, keep detailed records of each audit you participate in, including objectives, findings, and corrective actions taken. Seek mentorship from experienced auditors who can provide guidance and feedback on your auditing techniques. Continuously improve your auditing skills and stay updated with industry best practices and emerging standards.

Conclusion

Becoming a certified process auditor is a journey that demands dedication, education, hands-on experience, and ongoing learning. By diligently following these seven detailed steps, you can build a successful career as a certified process auditor, ensuring that organizations meet and exceed quality standards while optimizing their processes for efficiency and effectiveness. Remember that maintaining your certification and staying current with industry trends is crucial for long-term success in this dynamic field. Good luck as you begin to work on this certification.