Not sure who is telling you PHR exam material is outdated, but I’d argue that that’s not an accurate statement. HRCI updates the exam contents to ensure it stays consistent with current practices in the HR field.
I’ve taken the PHR, SPHR and SHRM-SCP exams (also taught prep courses for the HRCI exams) and I felt the HRCI exams were more rigorous. Outside of what you’re qualified/eligible to test for, PHR is best for those who think more transactionally, and prefer to get into the nuts and bolts of things. The SPHR is best for those who think more strategically and tend to see bigger picture rather than individual brush strokes. Notice I mentioned how one thinks, not the type of job one holds. First, it’s more about how your brain works naturally and then, it can be about the level you’re aiming to achieve professionally. I’ve seen bright HR professionals struggle with both exams because of how they’re wired to think about things, not because they lack HR knowledge. Good luck to you as you pursue your certification!
Shrm if you have leadership experience and common sense. PHr if you have lots of generalist transactional experience. Both will also reflect the roles they are advertised under
Not sure who is telling you PHR exam material is outdated, but I’d argue that that’s not an accurate statement. HRCI updates the exam contents to ensure it stays consistent with current practices in the HR field.
I’ve taken the PHR, SPHR and SHRM-SCP exams (also taught prep courses for the HRCI exams) and I felt the HRCI exams were more rigorous. Outside of what you’re qualified/eligible to test for, PHR is best for those who think more transactionally, and prefer to get into the nuts and bolts of things. The SPHR is best for those who think more strategically and tend to see bigger picture rather than individual brush strokes. Notice I mentioned how one thinks, not the type of job one holds. First, it’s more about how your brain works naturally and then, it can be about the level you’re aiming to achieve professionally. I’ve seen bright HR professionals struggle with both exams because of how they’re wired to think about things, not because they lack HR knowledge. Good luck to you as you pursue your certification!
This is the best possible reply. It is truly about the person, what they are good at, and how their brain works best. Well put.
SRMH is always a good one
I studied for PHR only and took both tests within a week of each other. SHRM is a cake walk compared to PHR.
Shrm if you have leadership experience and common sense. PHr if you have lots of generalist transactional experience. Both will also reflect the roles they are advertised under