Risk losing job within 6 months or less.

10 Comments

1. AnonymousMarch 11,2023 at 6:12PM UTC

   It sounds like your job is at risk, but you knew that already since this certification is part of the requirement to remain in this position. You can wait for this info about severance or applying to other positions that don’t require this certification to be served up on a silver platter or you can become proactive in managing your own career. If the generic email doesn’t answer your questions, go back to HR with what you posted here. If their response isn’t sufficient, go back again and ask more questions. If items are still unanswered, schedule an in-person meeting. I think your employment will eventually end without this certification. Get aggressive and start being an active participant in your career trajectory. Whether this is with your current employer or somewhere else will ultimately be up to you. Best of luck in your next steps.

2. AnonymousMarch 11,2023 at 6:52PM UTC

   Sounds frustrating for sure, working towards that certification needs to be your main focus. If it's required to keep the position, it's no different than Continued Education requirements for teachers or nurses. I don't know if a severance would be warranted to be offered. Doesn't sound like it's the company's issue. It feels you know the weight of the risk of your current position. I would think the only viable option to stay at your company is to take on a different role that doesn't require this certification. It may come with a pay adjustment but if you're weighing your odds vs job searching, you may feel better taking on a lesser role. BUT, IMO I would encourage you to study for that certification like THAT'S your job!! Get the extension. Approach this studying in a different way. I really think you got this. I really do. Good luck!

3. AnonymousMarch 11,2023 at 7:58PM UTC

   They will not volunteer a comprehensive explanation if a hypothetical dismissal is the result.
   Why would they?
   So you might try calling them instead. Be specific with the details so that you receive useful information. This is entirely up to you.

   List out the various details so you don't forget anything.

   Because the guidelines and policies include discretion on the part of your manager you may not be given hardline answers but it's a start. Since you are not able to pass your boards you may need to consider worst case scenario and develop a plan B for your career move when you are dismissed. I would question why you can't pass your boards and whether this is the right role for you.

4. Kimberly AnneMarch 12,2023 at 12:21AM UTC

   Could you apply to another job within the same company?

5. AnonymousMarch 12,2023 at 4:53PM UTC

   Yes, the choices are limited but I have applied for a different position.

6. AnonymousMarch 12,2023 at 1:24PM UTC

   I am in need of more information. It sounds like you have given up on the possibility of passing the exam for certification. Have you made multiple attempts? If yes, and if the certificate requirement was written into your job description (they usually are), why would you be eligible for severance? Was a separation package outlined in writing when you took the job as an analyst? If not, you may simply be viewed as an employee who is not meeting the terms of their job description.

   If you want actual answers about what your options for next steps are, you should start with your manager. They are ultimately going to be deciding if you stay or go.

7. AnonymousMarch 12,2023 at 4:52PM UTC

   Thanks for the response. Yes I took the exam 4 times. No such information wasn’t discussed when I took the job up. When I was hired certification was preferred not sure that makes a difference.

8. AnonymousMarch 13,2023 at 2:00PM UTC

   It absolutely does. Has your job description been updated and did you agree to and sign the update? If no, they can’t let you go for lack of certification.

   In the meantime, have you explored other certification agencies? It’s worth checking for another format of the same training. It’s also worth networking with someone who already has the certification or experience. You could ask them to mentor you or even just help you study and retain the information you need. I would suggest outlining any of these non-required steps you might choose to take when you approach your manager to discuss your options. Managers really like when employees bring solutions, not just problems to their desk.

9. AnonymousMarch 13,2023 at 6:34AM UTC

   Are you able to review your prior exams? If you keep studying the same way, you will continue to fail. I've tutored many repeat test takers (some who have failed the bar 7 times and passed on the 8th try). Oftentimes they've failed because they haven't mastered the exam. Passing the exam is much more than having substantiative knowledge, it's also understanding the structure of the test and its patterns. If you are able to obtain several practice exams do so immediately. Get a composition notebook and for every answer you got wrong WRITE out WHY you got it wrong. Eventually after taking many practice tests you will start to recognize the patterns and that coupled with using the notebook to understand why you arrived at the incorrect answer will eventually lead to successfully past the exam. Good luck!

10. Lisa ApolisMarch 13,2023 at 1:56PM UTC

    I recommend checking industry blogs, professional groups and forums. You can ask for help there. Often participants will organize virtual study groups - getting insight and viewpoints from others' experiences can be extremely helpful.

    I agree with the other posters in that you need to change your approach to studying. In my industry (pharma reg affairs), the certification exams focus on implementing what you've learned and applying it to scenarios, not just regurgitating facts.

    Also, if certification is part of the job requirement, then I would assume the company would have no obligation to offer severance.

    Find a study group and make this a priority - your job depends on it.