PHR or SPHR? Which one, which one?
Many HR professionals have been stymied by the decision between the PHR and the SPHR exams. HRCI lists some helpful guidelines for choosing between them in the 2007 PHR/SPHR/GPHR Handbook, which is available in print form and on their website. While two years of experience are required for both exams, HRCI recommends 2-4 years of experience for the PHR exam and 6-8 years for the SPHR exam. HRCI further clarifies the difference between PHR and SPHR candidates (from the “Applying for the Exam” section of the Handbook) :
PHR Candidate:
- Focuses on program implementation.
- Has tactical/logistical orientation.
- Has accountability to another HR professional within the organization.
- Has two to four years of exempt-level generalist HR work experience, but because of career length may lack the breadth and depth of a more senior-level generalist.
- Has not had progressive HR work experience by virtue of career length.
- Focuses his or her impact on the organization within the HR department rather than organizationwide.
- Commands respect through the credibility of knowledge and the use of policies and guidelines to make decisions.
SPHR Candidate:
- Designs and plans rather than implements.
- Focuses on the “big picture.”
- Has ultimate accountability in the HR department.
- Has six to eight years of progressive HR experience.
- Has breadth and depth of HR generalist knowledge.
- Uses judgment obtained with time and application of knowledge.
- Has generalist role within organization.
- Understands the effect of decisions made within and outside of the organization.
- Understands the business, not just the HR function.
- Manages relationships; has influence within overall organization.
- Commands credibility within organization, community and field by experience.
- Possesses excellent negotiation skills.
Most people (but not all) believe that the PHR exam is easier, so some HR professionals who are qualified to take the SPHR exam choose to first take the PHR exam as “insurance.” Here’s my opinion on that: Why go through this twice if you don’t have to? If you truly fit the above description of an SPHR candidate, just go ahead and prepare for the SPHR exam. And what if you don’t pass? Take it again. Your other plan was to take two tests anyway. The cost difference between the two exams ($125) would be a reasonable fee for a preview of the exam you ultimately desire to pass. Then again, you might pass on the first try.
I think you probably will.