Pursuing an advanced certification, such as a certified management accountant (CMA) or certified in financial management (CFM) credential can help you build your skills and experience in these areas and capitalize on changes and trends affecting the industry. In the process, you'll gain expertise that enhances your long-term career prospects. Ongoing professional development will also place you in a better position to develop creative solutions to both new and traditional challenges.

Completing a certification program demonstrates to your employer (and prospective employers) that you have a lifelong commitment to your profession, and the value of these credentials also has financial returns. According to Robert Half International research, having a professional certification can increase your starting salary range for a new position by 10 percent or more.

For long-term job satisfaction, you need more than financial rewards alone. Flexing your intellectual muscles by keeping current on financial trends is equally important. Enhancing your expertise by obtaining an advanced certification might add more hours to your work week, but it will bring tremendous value to your career.