How do you know if you’re ready to become a black belt?
One of the most important factors in deciding if you are ready to become a black belt is to think about whether it should be the next natural step in your career.
Here are 3 essential questions to consider in order to understand whether a six sigma black belt is right for you at this point in time..
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Do you already have experience with lean six sigma?
The role of black belt is reserved for those who are confident, capable, and educated in the use of process improvement tools and techniques.
If you are new to the concept of lean six sigma and process improvement, it may be wiser to begin with a yellow belt or green belt certification.
Our article, “Are You New to Lean Six Sigma?” can offer guidance here.
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Six Sigma Black Belt & Your Career
The next thing to think about is the impact this can have on your career.
Certified six sigma black belts are in demand in almost every sector right now. They are known as change-makers with the ability to transform the culture and profitability of an organisation.
For these reasons, being a certified six sigma black belt can also increase your earning power.
If achievements like this are on your wish list and you would like to really focus on process improvement, then a six sigma black belt is a must for your next step.
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Six Sigma Black Belt & Your Job Satisfaction
Money and praise aren’t everything (although they are certainly something!). The one thing that will keep you engaged and thriving within a career path is job satisfaction.
The role of six sigma black belt is a challenging, yet rewarding one.
If you’re someone who likes fresh puzzles to solve and goals to reach, then becoming a black belt will certainly tick both boxes.
Is it an achievable goal right now?
If you have decided that…
- you possess the right kind of experience
- you would like the fresh challenges that come with working as a black belt
- you are ready for this kind of cross-functional role
… the last point to consider is whether it is the right time.
Time Commitment
Achieving a six sigma black belt qualification takes time.
There are short, online courses, but unless you’re extremely experienced and simply seeking to formalise that experience with certification, you may feel a little lost with this self-led approach.
More practical programmes will take several months to complete.
They will help you to get to grips with the theoretical side of a black belt syllabus and have a practical element that enables you to become confident in your abilities.
Consider whether you have the time and funds to invest in a credible six sigma black belt training and certification right now.
Making Your Choice
From reading the factors that can influence your decision about whether a six sigma black belt is a worthwhile choice for you this year, you may have already come to some conclusions.
If now doesn’t seem like the right time, but the high-achieving aspect of the black belt role sounds appealing, perhaps it’s time to work this lean six sigma certification into your 5-year plan?
Tools for Getting Started
If your choice is to go for black belt certification now, here are 3 resources you can draw on to take the next step:
1. Learn about our Lean Six Sigma Black Belt Course
Our 14-day programme is an excellent choice for anyone who wants to master both a practical and theoretical understanding of the black belt role.
- It is delivered live online in short, focused modules (3 days or 2 days) over 5 months.
- This programme runs twice a year and is available for anyone to attend.
- Programme tutors are engaging, experienced, and black belt certified.
- You will achieve two black belt credentials.
2. Download a PDF Guide to Black Belts
You can instantly download our PDF guide using the button below. This 16-page guide is a fantastic introduction to the black belt role and whether it’s right for you.
The guide also includes tips and advice on getting started and an overview of our course and its certifications.
Get a Guide3. Get Qualified Advice
Contact us to discuss your training and development options in lean six sigma.
Our qualified consultants can provide advice specific to your background, goals, and current situation.
We will go through the black belt programme details and discuss whether it’s a good fit for your next steps.
You can call us directly (Freephone 1800 910 810) or use the button below to send us your question by email.