Six Sigma was founded on the principles of due diligence, discipline, and aspirations for constant improvement. For decades, companies continue to witness the success Six Sigma brings to their corporate structure, operations, and business processes. Additionally, most Six Sigma companies ensure their employees are qualified to manage specific jobs and projects through routine training and practice. However, what counts as a “certified” Six Sigma accreditor slowly began to evolve over the past few years. Previously, achieving certifications and completing specific projects proved the “weight” of a Six Sigma employee. Yet, fake Six Sigma accreditors have begun to show their face and certify individuals based on almost no proof of their qualifications.
What Do We Consider “Fake”?
Unlike earning a Bachelor’s Degree from an acclaimed university, there’s no governance of Six Sigma certification levels. Because the methodology depends solely on your skills and understanding, most professionals use past experiences, projects, and training courses to verify accreditations. Additionally, Six Sigma employees routinely partake in training courses, workshops, and manage projects that increase their knowledge of the methodology. However, this lack of a “governing body” over Six Sigma certification has led to fake accreditors providing inadequate training to individuals.
The Signs
Chances are throughout your life, you have received a spam email claiming to give you $1,000,000 if you respond with your bank account information. Or maybe you have read into a business model that tried convincing you it was not a pyramid scheme. No doubt, these examples are nothing more than a scam. Yet, how do you seek out a fake Six Sigma accreditor from the rest?
First, the basics.
Check their website for a phone number, physical address, or an email address. These simple contact details can tell you right away if an accreditor is legitimate or not. You’d be surprised how many fake accreditors list inaccurate addresses or non-working contact numbers online!
Second, the reviews.
All Six Sigma certification and training programs should be willing to provide you with references who have used their services. Additionally, if an accreditor “claims” to be an official accreditor, they should proudly display reviews from successful professionals.
Third, the sources.
Before embarking on your Six Sigma journey, you must first ask why you want a certification. For professionals, employers either encourage (or demand) they become x-Belt Certified and will offset the costs of the training program. Likewise, most employers will use a verified, proven certification program that has a history of delivering quality education to their students. Third-party accreditors typically want one thing: your money. Furthermore, they will have little interest in providing you the hands-on experience you will need to be an official Six Sigma professional.
What to Do If Encountering a Fake Accreditation?
However, what should you do if you find yourself enrolled in a fake accreditor? Depending on how much time and money you have invested in the program, the easiest option would be to simply walk away. If you have just begun your certification training, notify your employer or other prospective students of the fake accreditor.
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