Meet Anthony P. Howard | HR Influencer & Certification Coach
We had the good fortune of connecting with Anthony P. Howard and we’ve shared our conversation below.
Hi Anthony P., we’d love to hear more about how you thought about starting your own business?
My journey towards starting my own business evolved over time. Initially, it began as a part-time endeavor to provide tax benefits and to express my passion for teaching and thought leadership, stemming from my original aspiration to become an elementary school teacher. However, a significant turning point occurred after my Grandmother’s passing in January 2022, which led me through months of clinical depression.
During this challenging period, I found a higher purpose: addressing the lack of diversity within the U.S. Human Resources industry. In July 2022, I revised the vision statement for the business to focus on “increasing diversity within Corporate HR Departments nationwide through attraction and upskilling efforts.” I firmly believe that a more diverse HR team can foster better workplaces for everyone, ultimately benefiting businesses. I am dedicated to honoring my Grandmother’s values by striving to ensure that young individuals from underrepresented backgrounds, like myself, have the opportunity to pursue rewarding careers in HR and never feel alone in their journey.
Alright, so for those in our community who might not be familiar with your business, can you tell us more?
HR Certified, LLC, was founded in December 2019 and specializes in providing comprehensive test preparatory courses for individuals aspiring to earn Human Resources credentials from HRCI (Human Resources Certification Institution) and SHRM (Society of HR Management). Our offerings cover a range of certifications, including aPHR, PHR, SPHR, SHRM-CP, and SHRM-SCP.
What sets HR Certified apart is that we are values based and purpose driven.
We are committed to activating the highest potential in our students. We’ve developed a signature learning journey that not only imparts knowledge but also equips individuals with practical solutions and strategies applicable in real-world HR scenarios, all while preparing them for their certification exams. Our team provides dedicated support, including a test coach who offers guidance throughout the course.
To date, we’ve successfully facilitated preparatory classes for over 800 students and have earned official test prep provider status from HRCI. We’ve also established valuable partnerships with organizations like HRCP, LC, HR Education Network, and Wanido.
Our journey hasn’t been without its challenges. Transitioning from W-2 employment to running a business demands resilience, determination, and bootstrapping. However, what fuels us is our purpose-driven approach, focusing on promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion (#DEI) within the U.S. HR industry. This mission has allowed us to make a meaningful impact and engage in transformative work.
None of this would have been possible without the exceptional HR Certified team, including business advisors, relationship managers, community leaders, facilitators, and coaches. Their dedication and collaboration have been instrumental in our shared success.
As an HR thought leader and practitioner, I’ve initiated media campaigns and bootstrapped initiatives to advance #DEIB. Together, we are reshaping the HR landscape and sparking crucial conversations that will shape the future of HR and organizations.
Recognizing the importance of continuous growth, we’ve sought strategic partnerships with organizations like HR Education Network, Wanido, Russell Innovation Center for Entrepreneurs, HR Mavericks, MindEdge Learning, and NAAAHR. These partnerships enable us to amplify our impact.
In summary, HR Certified, LLC, is not just a test prep provider; we are champions of change in the HR industry. We take pride in our values-driven approach, our commitment to diversity and inclusion, and the collaborative efforts that have brought us to where we are today. Our journey has had its challenges, but we’ve learned that perseverance and a clear sense of purpose are key to overcoming obstacles and achieving our goals. We want the world to know that we are here to make a difference in HR and beyond, shaping a more inclusive and equitable future for all.
Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
Wow!! There are many things to do and see in Atlanta but here are some places I would take my best friend:
Day 1;
– They would have a choice of Fat Matts Rib Shack (cause I don’t BBQ) or Killer Burgers (as a vegan alternative that’s right across the street)
– Afterwards we would visit Edgewood and kick back at Joystick Gamebar for old-school games
Day 2:
– Your Atlanta via the Beltine. So many different places to see, eat and drink. Probably use a scooter to get back to the car.
– End the night at Sweet Georgia Juke Joint
Day 3:
– CityPass Day to officially be a tourist and see Georgia Aquarium, World of Coca-Cola and Zoo Atlanta.
– End the night at grown and sexy Painted Pin at Miamis Circle.
Day 4:
– Go to the Comet Trail for a bike ride.
– Chill at Houstons on Piedmont.
Day 5:
– Shopping at Lenox.
– Brunch at South City Kitchen
– Walk talk and reflect at Piedmont Park
– Dinner at Two Urban Licks
– Wrap up night at Underground Atlanta with culture (arts, music, fashion and food)
What an expensive week!
The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
Mother Defined: A woman that plays a significant role in shaping their child’s personality, values, and beliefs, and are often associated with qualities such as love, selflessness, and sacrifice.
And there is nothing like the love, selflessness and sacrifice of a grandmother. She taught me life skills that no other person or textbook could teach me as inner-city black kid.
Her values, including her work ethic, are embedded in me and my businesses with HR Certified in navigating our respective industries.
And it is her spirit that guides me in leading important change with diversity, equity, inclusion and belonging principles through my platforms. When you meet me, you meet her.
Website: https://gethrcertified.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gethrcertified
Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/hr-certified/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/get_hrcertified
Youtube: https://youtube.com/@hrcertifiedllc6335
Other: Support diversity in HR in style and support scholarships for high-potential talent to enter and grow in HR: https://hr-certified.square.site/
Nominate Someone: ShoutoutAtlanta is built on recommendations and shoutouts from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.
