Member and membership FAQs

It is important that our membership structure reflects the breadth of people practice and is aligned with the Profession Map. Foundation Members have successfully completed the CIPD Foundation Certificate in People Practice. This grade of membership illustrates that you have the knowledge aligned with the foundation level of the Profession Map. The Foundation grade of membership provides a clear route into membership for individuals meeting these standards. This new membership grade does not affect members who have previously studied or are currently studying a CIPD qualifications.

No, only those studying the new CIPD Foundation Certificate in People Practice will become Foundation Members.

Once qualified you can use the designation Foundation CIPD. Yes, employers will recognise skills and behaviours at foundation level of the Profession Map. Foundation Membership is based on the foundation level of our Profession Map, which is established and accepted widely by organisations as the international benchmark of standards and behaviours for the people profession. It identifies four different impact levels and details the knowledge and behaviours required to excel at each of them, foundation being one of them. This means organisations can see exactly what it takes to make a positive contribution, whether you’re a senior leader, a dedicated specialist or just starting out in your field. Your foundation designation will enable you to showcase the knowledge and behaviours you have obtained.

If you are an Associate Member, regardless of route, you should be demonstrating or working towards the Associate level standards.

If you're involved in the people profession, you have a stake in the Profession Map.

Practitioners (whether CIPD members or not) can use it to navigate change, benchmark capabilities and maximise impact, from an individual or organisational perspective.

Meanwhile, employers, educators, line managers, business leaders, policymakers and others will find the Profession Map a valuable tool to gain insight into the changing world of work.

CIPD membership grades are aligned to the impact levels in the Profession Map. Your CIPD membership grade reflects your level of knowledge and impact, as well as your ongoing commitment to best practice and to your own professional development.

As the only professional body for the people profession with the authority to confer Chartered status, it’s our responsibility to lead the way in setting the benchmark for excellence across different career stages, specialisms and geographies.

As the professional body for people professionals, we believe in the power of good people practice.

People professionals, armed with the right knowledge, behaviours, values and purpose, can do amazing things, and have a real impact on workers, organisations and wider society. We need to enable them to continue making that impact into the future, and support them as a career partner along the way.

The Profession Map is an essential, valuable, internationally recognised resource for all people professionals, whether they are a member of the CIPD or not. It can be used to navigate change, benchmark capabilities and maximise impact.

By defining the knowledge, behaviours and inherent values underpinning today’s people profession. It is the most effective way yet for people professionals globally to make sound decisions and embrace change in the modern world of work.

CIPD membership raises your profile and credibility with professional recognition. It demonstrates to employers, clients and peers that you meet the rigorous requirements and professional standards for good practice in the people profession.

Becoming a member of the CIPD enhances your career prospects and shows your commitment to high standards and ethical compliance.