And Devon, much love. Your CPR training is always welcome here. :)) Actually, it sounds like a few articles….

Susan, I think that's a great idea! In fact, perhaps these certifications, which are more general, are just what we need to impress upon the clients our dedication to our careers. I'm going to look into that. Thanks for the idea!

Sid, from what I've experienced, fewer people know how to network than you'd believe. It's unbelievably easy – talk to, and listen to, the person in front of you. Connect like you would with a friend. Yet how many "networkers" walk into a room, assess the room, and then "sell" to the first person they see. No listening – only, "Hi, my name is… and I can balance your books/set up your servers/offer you consulting services." GET TO KNOW PEOPLE. Sheesh, huh? 🙂

Thank you, Kimberly, Gabriella, and Amie. I appreciate your camraderie. :))

B) I'm a staunch advocate of continuing education in any form as long as you can afford it. If we don't stretch our minds to our craft, it will atrophy and become inbred with ideas. That said, always be aware that…

C) Cash Is King. You have to weigh the cost of certification to the business it generates.

Sometimes freelance can be an somewhat isolated practice. I would therefor encourage writers to include Networking into the benefits derived category.

Let me qualify that – Real Networking. Saying "Hi my name is" really amounts to nothing more than a pretty good Eminem track. Real Networking involves stepping out, being bold, asking questions, offering help, connecting at the personal level, and finding a way to give before asking to receive.

Seems simple right? It's not, but some people do it naturally. The good news is everyone can learn how to network.

Step out & try to connect with others during your certification. Those connections will soon turn into your primary source for work if you do it right. Not to mention the close friendships soon to follow.

As always IMHO,
Sid.

I'm starting a certificate in professional communication (emphasis on writing) in a couple of weeks. I know that sounds broad and it is, but a lot of the classes sound really interesting (social media writing, newsletter writing, audience analysis).

I don't feel the need to spend the time and money on a master's degree, but everyone has a Bachelor's degree these days, so I wanted to have something beyond an undergraduate degree. It's hard to say if I'll benefit most from interacting with the students and professors, doing the coursework, or being able to claim a certificate after the fact, but I think it will be worthwhile to brush up on my skills, since freelancers so seldomly have someone critiquing their work (aside from clients who aren't sure what they want!).

I'm thrilled that you were named one of the Best 25 — you know I think you're the best, period!