A question that arises in the mind of any PRM holder or candidate is how having the designation affects his (or her) job prospects. Can it help find a better job, get a promotion, a payrise, or for someone not working in the risk field, can it help them gain an entry into the profession? Well, like everything, it depends.
There isn’t an easy answer to this question. But one thing that can be said about the PRM designation is that it is known to practitioners in the industry, and well respected. If the person interviewing you, or maybe even your boss is a PRM, or a member of PRMIA, then certainly getting the designation can only help. It establishes the fact beyond doubt that you have a minimum level of competence and that your chances of success in a risk management role are greater than similar others who do not have such a certification. Note that I said *similar* others. Of course, if you are just a few years out of college with no experience in the markets, then a PRM is not going to give you more credibility than the math PhD who has spent ten years in the field.
The same goes for career switchers. The PRM designation may help you get a foot in the door, or it may not. It certainly cannot hurt. What it will definitely do is improve your knowledge levels to a point that you will be far more confident dealing with interviewers, or doing a better & more structured job at your workplace. Over time, this can only lead to good things. But at the end of the day, there is no guarantee that a PRM certificate will get you a better job or help you switch careers. It can help, and like so many other things in life, we are children of chance, and a lot would depend upon your individual circumstances and the opportunities that come your way.