When crafting a professional CV, understanding the distinction between qualifications and designations is crucial. Each serves a different purpose in your career narrative and can influence how potential employers perceive your skills and expertise. Here’s what you need to know about both, and why an MBA is considered a qualification, not a designation.
What is a Qualification?
A qualification refers to an academic or professional achievement that proves you have completed certain training or education, such as a degree or certification. Common qualifications include:
- MBA (Master of Business Administration)
- BSc or BA (Bachelor of Science/Arts)
- PMP (Project Management Professional certification)
Qualifications indicate that you have gained specific knowledge or skills through formal education or training. They form the foundation of your expertise but don’t automatically position you in a particular job role or status.
What is a Designation?
A designation, on the other hand, refers to a professional title or role that typically indicates your level of experience and authority within an industry. Common designations include:
- CPA (Certified Public Accountant)
- CFA (Chartered Financial Analyst)
- MD (Medical Doctor)
Designations reflect both your qualification and your recognized standing in a profession. They often require ongoing professional development and adherence to certain standards or codes of conduct within the industry.
Which Should You Headline?
- Designations are typically headlined on your CV and LinkedIn profile because they signal your professional authority and status within an industry. They immediately communicate your role and professional standing.
- Qualifications, while important, should generally be featured in your education or certification sections unless you’re in academia or an early-career professional where the degree (like an MBA) is central to your value proposition.
Why Not to Headline an MBA?
While an MBA is an impressive qualification, it is not a designation. It signals that you’ve received advanced business training, but it does not automatically place you into a recognized professional role. Unlike designations such as CPA or CFA, an MBA does not equate to a specific standing within an industry that would be universally understood as a title.
By headlining an MBA, you risk misrepresenting your professional level. It’s better to headline a designation (if you have one) or a clear job title that reflects your current or target role, followed by your qualification. For example:
“Senior Product Manager | MBA” is stronger than simply headlining “MBA” because it ties your educational achievements to a professional standing.
Why It’s Important
Employers are looking for clarity and precision when scanning CVs. They want to quickly understand your professional role and qualifications to assess whether you are a fit for their open positions. Leading with a designation or a job title provides that clarity, while leaving the details of your qualifications for later in the CV ensures your educational background is still highlighted, without overshadowing your professional identity.
In Summary:
- Use designations to headline your CV as they indicate professional standing.
- Place qualifications in the education section to showcase your academic achievements.
- Avoid headlining with an MBA, as it is a qualification and not a professional title or designation.
By understanding this distinction, you can present yourself more clearly and professionally, increasing your chances of catching an employer’s attention.
