Obtain the Industrial Security Professional (ISP) Certification – Tutoring

So you want to take the next step to be competitive in the field of security. You know others who have successfully gotten their ISP and want to join the ranks of the few professionals with ISPs after their name. Great, I hope this article motivates you. So read on and enjoy the basic information and stay informed about a proven method to study and pass the exam.

The Society of Industrial Security Professionals identified by the acronym NCMS is the main professional organization for security professionals contracting to the Department of Defense. This organization is unique and has a different clientele than other professional security organizations like ASIS International. NCMS is dedicated to equipping, training, and providing this unique group of professionals and their support to the National Industrial Safety Program.

NCMS currently has 2,000 members made up of those who work with the Department of Defense, Department of Energy, contractors, members in NATO countries, and many others. Business challenges are unique, and this organization helps meet them by providing training in operational security, information security, document classification, personnel and facility security clearances, and much more.

Much of the training takes place through the professional network, as well as at annual training events and seminars. These annual events provide opportunities for hands-on demonstrations, the latest industry news, and award ceremonies. The latest addition to the annual seminar is the Industrial Safety Professional Certification test.

Of the 2,000 members, only 6% hold ISP certification. In July 2005 there were only 75 ISPs and in October 2006 the number increased to 117. The test is challenging and the pass rate is 80%. However, this pass rate is expected to improve as a result of the mentoring programs being developed within the organization, as well as the time-saving techniques offered with online testing.

As with most professional organizations, the ISP is recognized as a prestigious title. As mentioned above, there are only 117 people who bring their business cards to job interviews and hang certificates on the wall. In fact, the ISP distinguishes the carrier from others, and as a result, there is currently a push to certify all leaders in the organization.

The ISP demonstrates a high level of knowledge for the holder. It is strictly based on the NISPOM with which the government governs compliance. It also covers electives related to communications security, operations security, and other industry-specific courses. Due to the intense study involved, it demonstrates the will to excel and dedication to the profession. This tells senior management that you are committed to the business, the industry, and the protection of national interests. It puts the company in a stronger bargaining position when bidding for contracts and lends credibility to relationships with the oversight agency, the Defense Security Services (DSS). Above all, it gives the recipient confidence in the knowledge base and the ability to apply the knowledge to make vital decisions.

As this certification program evolves, more and more employers will recognize the bearer during job interviews. According to the book “Now, Discover Your Strengths,” the difference between mediocrity and excellence is a small margin. For example, a horse wins a race by fractions of a second, and employees excel faster by completing just one more small action per day. The ISP is the difference between which applicant gets the Facility Security Officer job offer or which security administrator gets the extra one percent raise.

This is not to say that this is an easy certification. This just shows that a little discipline; 20 to 30 minutes a day can make a world of difference. In my case, I studied about 20 minutes a day during the work week for five months. Since I don’t like to overcrowd, I take it easy. Some people have different philosophies and take a more intense approach. Throughout this book, I’ll give you tips and techniques that other people have used to give you the skills to match your knowledge to help you pass certification.

More and more national program chapters are electing officers with the ISP after their name. The chapter’s national board is challenging all officers present to become certified to set an example for all other professionals and very soon it may be difficult to serve as president without certification.

There are many reasons to go out and take the test. From professional development to the satisfaction of achievement and prestige, ISP certification fulfills many wishes and goals. However, there can be many more excuses not to take it. It’s expensive, time consuming, the shame of failure and just plain fear keep people from setting themselves apart. However, if you follow the principles laid out in my next book, you will improve your chances of moving on and creating your legacy, improving your standing, increasing your salary, and rising to the top in your chosen field.