The Top 6 Benefits of CIPD Membership

Starting a career in Human Resources (HR) or Learning and Development (L&D) is an exciting time, as both can be fulfilling and rewarding. If you truly want to excel and distinguish yourself in these fields, obtaining a qualification from the Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development (CIPD) is a significant step forward. Beyond the comprehensive knowledge and skills acquired, becoming a CIPD member offers a wealth of benefits that can profoundly enhance your professional journey. 

What is CIPD Membership? 

The CIPD is the professional body for HR and Learning and Development, dedicated to championing better work and working lives. It sets industry standards and provides essential resources for practitioners. 

There are several levels of CIPD membership, all with different costs and eligibility. Anybody can apply for ‘Affiliate Membership’ to access CIPD’s core benefits. Learners enrolled a CIPD course are eligible for Student Membership, offering greater access to CIPD resources and tools. As you gain further qualifications and experience, you can apply for Foundation, Associate, Chartered and Chartered Fellow membership.  

Benefits of CIPD Membership 

Professional Recognition 

CIPD membership is a badge of credibility and professionalism in the HR and L&D sectors around the world. It demonstrates to employers and peers that you adhere to the highest industry standards and are committed to continuous professional development. This recognition can significantly enhance your career prospects and open doors to advanced roles within the profession. 

Consequently, person specifications for HR roles are increasingly requesting that applicants are CIPD members and have a CIPD qualification. 

Access to Comprehensive Resources 

This is where CIPD membership really shines. The UK government is currently implementing its ‘Make Work Pay’ plan, which includes 28 employment law reforms likely to be enacted between the final quarter of 2025 and 2026. There will be myriad changes and CIPD is keeping its members up-to-date with webinars, briefs and guides. 

Members also gain access to an extensive range of resources, including research reports, policy guides, and practical tools. These materials keep you informed about the latest trends, best practices, and developments in the field, enabling you to apply cutting-edge knowledge to your work. Additionally, the CIPD Knowledge Hub offers factsheets, guides, reports, and case studies to support your professional growth. 

Networking Opportunities 

Being part of the CIPD community connects you with a vast network of professionals through local branches, special interest groups, and exclusive industry events, of which CIPD Annual Conference and Exhibition (CIPD ACE) is the jewel in the crown. 

These platforms facilitate knowledge sharing, collaboration, and the exchange of ideas, fostering relationships that can be instrumental in your career advancement. Engaging with this community allows you to stay connected with peers and industry leaders, enhancing your professional network. 

Career Support and Development 

CIPD offers robust career guidance, including job listings, CV advice, and interview preparation resources. They also provide you with practical tools, including The Profession Map, the CV360 tool and the CIPD Career Support Toolkit. 

This support assists you in navigating your career path effectively, whether you're seeking new opportunities, aiming for a promotion, or exploring a career change within the HR and L&D sectors. Furthermore, the commitment to continuous professional development ensures that you remain competitive and competent in your field. 

Legal and Wellbeing Support 

Members have access to employment law support, providing guidance on legal matters pertinent to the workplace. CIPD even has professional indemnity insurance exclusively available for members from just £7 per month. 

Additionally, a wellbeing helpline is available, offering assistance on both professional and personal issues. This comprehensive support system ensures that you have the necessary resources to address challenges and maintain a healthy work-life balance. 

Exclusive Discounts and Rewards 

CIPD membership also grants access to various discounts and rewards, including reduced rates on CIPD events, courses, and publications. These benefits make it more affordable to continue your professional development and stay engaged with the latest industry insights and learning opportunities. 

The current list includes: 

• 10% off CIPD conferences 
• 15% off courses 
• 20% off books 
• 50% off CIPD HR-inform Pro [https://www.cipd.org/uk/membership/member-benefits/cipd-hr-inform] 
• Up to 50% discount to advertise vacancies on People Management Jobs today. 

CIPD Membership and MOL Qualifications 

At MOL, we are dedicated to providing top-tier online learning for professionals pursuing CIPD qualifications in HR and L&D. Completing a CIPD qualification through MOL leads to different levels of CIPD membership: 

CIPD Level 3 Foundation Certificate: Ideal for those starting their career, this qualification provides essential HR skills and knowledge, leading to Foundation Membership 

CIPD Level 5 Associate Diploma: Designed for individuals with some HR experience, this diploma delves into more complex HR subjects and management skills, resulting in Associate Membership 

CIPD Level 7 Advanced Diploma: Targeted at seasoned HR professionals and managers, this advanced diploma focuses on strategic issues and leadership, enabling you to apply for Chartered Membership upon completion. 

Whether you're embarking on a new career or aiming to advance in your current role, CIPD membership is a powerful asset in your professional development toolkit, equipping you with the tools and recognition needed to thrive in the dynamic fields of HR and L&D. 

To start (or accelerate) your journey through CIPD qualification and membership, visit https://www.mollearn.com/human-resources/ (for HR) or https://www.mollearn.com/learning-development/ (for Learning and Development) or call our advisers on 0345 203 2103 today.