CPA, CFA, MBA — The Letters Don't Define Your Career

Early in my career I wanted these three letters: CPA, CFA, MBA, behind my name to prove I was competent. I thought having them might be the key to climbing up the corporate ladder. I achieved 2 out of the 3.

But over time, I've learned that those letters don't define your career nearly as much as you think they will.

Sure, they might help you get in the door. But it's your relationships that help you stay in the room and thrive. The certifications are tools, not the whole toolbox.

What's kept me going in my career hasn't been letters behind my name. It's been people: managers, mentors, peers who believed in me. Who gave me a shot to take on meaningful projects. Who trusted me to figure things out.

Don't get me wrong — if your role requires specific certifications to practice (like passing the bar exam or getting your CPA to sign financials or a medical license to practice), absolutely pursue them.

But if you're already in the job you want to thrive in, you might be better off investing in relationships and delivering on your work, rather than another credential you may never use.