Become a CEnv with these 6 top tips
We know that some aspiring Chartered Environmentalists worry that the application process will be complex and lengthy. To put to rest these concerns, in this article we bring together advice from a group of registered CEnvs to share their top tips for succeeding in your application…
1. Get to know the competencies
Familiarise yourself with the competencies – and have these in mind when planning your personal and professional development journey.
Amanda Williams CEnv
The CEnv competencies are split into four sections:
- Application of Knowledge
- Leadership
- Effective Communication
- Personal Commitment
2. Track your CPD activity
Undertake and then log your continued professional development certifications – an integral part of becoming a Chartered Environmentalist.
Keep good records of your CPD activity so that you have to hand when putting together your application.
Amanda Williams CEnv
Have a comprehensive log of CPD activity as this was very helpful in demonstrating the required competencies.
Martin Parsons CEnv
3. Ask for guidance from others
Current Chartered Environmentalists, the SocEnv team and our Licensed Members are here to help – they are knowledgeable, friendly and willing to help you in your journey to professional registration.
Make sure to reach out to other IEMA members for advice before you submit.
Becky Toal CEnv
Being mentored by a CEnv was definitely a factor in giving me confidence in the strength of my application.
Amanda Williams CEnv
CABE has always been known as the ‘Friendly Association’ and members will have no difficulty seeking out advice and guidance from their fellow Building Engineers during their journey to achieving CEnv.
Richard Flynn CEnv
Don’t be shy to reach out to other individuals in the network who work in completely different spheres and see what they’re doing.
Lara Young CEnv
4. Don’t wait – just do it and get it done
The benefits of becoming a CEnv has lots of advantages to you as an environmental professional, so don’t delay your application!
I worked on and off [on my application] for about 3 years. Just get on with it and get it done. The rewards once you’re in and you’ve got that sign off is the best feeling and it is invaluable, so back yourself and complete the process.
Georgina Stickles CEnv
5. Embrace varied learning and experiences
Learn and gain as many experiences as you can to build up your skills base, so that you have lots of examples to provide and are confident in your knowledge.
Get a wide a range of experiences…You will then be able to apply that and bring that knowledge you have built to problem solving.
Georgina Stickles CEnv
Don’t be shy to branch out into other disciplines as well – it plays a massive part in you being able to drive change and influence people.
Lara Young CEnv
6. Break down your application
Discussing your application step-by-step with others can help your ideas come together and ensure you’re hitting the criteria.
Don’t get overwhelmed – I found the hardest part was trying to find what I thought would be relevant competencies. Have a conversation with friends, line managers and explain the competencies and what you do on a day to day [basis]. Just talking to someone and talking it through really helped me to pull things onto a page. Branch out as much as possible.
Lara Young CEnv
Benefits of CEnv – in their own words
Feeling inspired by all those top tips? A quick reminder of the benefits of being CEnv registered – find out what our CEnvs are saying.
I would encourage any IEMA member to apply to become a CEnv, as it is a highly credible and recognisable qualification and the next logical step on your professional journey.
Becky Toal CEnv
Having chartered status to fall back [on] and make reference to has been really helpful, because it’s very clear we are talking about scientific method and making decisions based on really good data… being a CEnv enhanced the credibility of my advice.
Georgina Stickles CEnv
It gives you the confidence to deliver a message. We live in a world where there is lots of opinions…but if I have that CEnv behind me it gives my opinion more value … [and] opens doors into different contacts by linking different aspects of environmental registration together.
Will Oliver CEnv
Your next steps
On the 28th September, we are running the very first ‘Registration 101: CEnv Q&A’ drop-in session, which will help to answer any of your queries about becoming a CEnv. Register to attend the session via the link below.
If you would like to find out more about any of the Chartered Environmentalists featured in this blog and hear more about their sustainability journey, take a look at our registrant profiles and our monthly EnvCast podcast. Direct links are listed below:
