NetSuite has emerged as a leading cloud-based solution for businesses looking to streamline operations, improve visibility, and drive growth. With the platform’s widespread adoption, the demand for skilled NetSuite professionals has skyrocketed. However, not all candidates are created equal. Those who possess the right mix of certifications and skills distinguish themselves in a highly competitive job market.
Whether you’re an employer evaluating talent or a professional seeking to sharpen your edge, understanding what makes a NetSuite candidate truly stand out is essential. Below is an in-depth look at the certifications and skills that set top-tier NetSuite professionals apart.
1. NetSuite Certifications: Validating Expertise
Certifications play a crucial role in demonstrating a candidate’s proficiency and commitment to mastering the NetSuite platform. Here are the key certifications that matter:
a. NetSuite SuiteFoundation Certification
This is the foundational credential that all aspiring NetSuite professionals should acquire. It covers the core NetSuite features, including:
- User interface and navigation
- Standard record types and relationships
- Dashboards and reports
- Permissions and roles
- Basic transaction flows
Why it matters: Employers view this certification as a baseline indicator of platform literacy. It shows the candidate understands NetSuite’s structure and can navigate the system with confidence.
b. NetSuite Certified Administrator
This certification is for professionals who manage the day-to-day operations of NetSuite environments. It covers:
- Managing users and roles
- System setup and configuration
- Customizing forms and fields
- Workflow and automation basics
Why it matters: NetSuite Administrators are the backbone of any deployment. A certified administrator brings value by optimizing system performance and ensuring the platform meets business needs.
c. NetSuite Certified ERP Consultant
A more advanced certification, this credential is ideal for consultants and implementation specialists. It tests skills in:
- Business process mapping
- Requirements gathering
- ERP configuration and implementation
- Order-to-Cash, Procure-to-Pay, and Record-to-Report cycles
Why it matters: Certified consultants are instrumental in guiding businesses through successful ERP rollouts and enhancements. Employers look for this when hiring for project-based or implementation roles.
d. NetSuite Certified SuiteCloud Developer
This certification focuses on technical proficiency using SuiteScript and SuiteCloud tools. It includes:
- SuiteScript 2.1 (JavaScript-based scripting)
- SuiteFlow, SuiteTalk, and SuiteBuilder
- Customizations and integrations
Why it matters: In-house and consulting development roles often require candidates to build and maintain custom functionality. This certification validates a developer’s technical skill and ability to extend NetSuite beyond its out-of-the-box capabilities.
2. Technical Skills That Impress Employers
Beyond certifications, employers are looking for candidates who can practically apply their knowledge to solve real business problems. Here are technical skills that give NetSuite professionals a competitive advantage:
a. SuiteScript Development
SuiteScript is the primary scripting language used to customize and automate processes in NetSuite. Familiarity with SuiteScript 2.1 (based on JavaScript) is especially critical.
Why it matters: Professionals who can write and troubleshoot SuiteScript are in high demand for workflow automation, custom validations, and third-party integrations.
b. SuiteFlow (Workflow Automation)
Understanding how to use SuiteFlow to create and manage workflows allows candidates to streamline business processes without code.
Why it matters: This is a powerful skill for roles requiring process optimization, such as business analysts and functional consultants.
c. Integration Tools and APIs
Experience with SuiteTalk (SOAP and REST APIs), Dell Boomi, Celigo, MuleSoft, or other integration platforms shows a candidate can connect NetSuite with other business systems.
Why it matters: Integration skills are especially important in multi-application environments where data flow between systems is critical.
d. Saved Searches and Reporting
Advanced capabilities in building saved searches, reports, and dashboards are essential for delivering real-time business insights.
Why it matters: Data-driven decision-making relies on timely, relevant information. Professionals who can design effective reports add strategic value to any organization.
e. NetSuite Sandbox and Release Management
Experience working in sandbox environments, managing version upgrades, and testing customizations shows a candidate is aware of NetSuite’s change management protocols.
Why it matters: It ensures smooth transitions during platform updates and reduces the risk of system disruption.
3. Soft Skills That Make a Difference
Technical knowledge alone isn’t enough. NetSuite professionals must possess strong interpersonal and strategic thinking skills to excel.
a. Analytical Thinking
NetSuite is all about improving business efficiency. Candidates who demonstrate the ability to analyze processes and recommend optimizations stand out.
b. Communication and Collaboration
Professionals must be able to explain complex solutions in simple terms to stakeholders, collaborate with cross-functional teams, and document processes clearly.
c. Project Management
Knowledge of project management methodologies (Agile, Scrum, or PMP) is a plus for consultants and administrators involved in deployments or large-scale enhancements.
d. Problem-Solving Mindset
NetSuite implementations and customizations often involve unexpected challenges. Adaptability and creative thinking are crucial traits.
4. Industry and Business Process Knowledge
Candidates with a deep understanding of business processes in finance, supply chain, eCommerce, manufacturing, or professional services bring added value. Some examples include:
- Finance Professionals: Understanding GAAP, revenue recognition, and financial reporting makes candidates ideal for roles involving NetSuite Financials.
- eCommerce Specialists: Familiarity with SuiteCommerce or Shopify integration helps support online businesses.
- Manufacturing Experts: Knowledge of inventory management, work orders, and supply chain logistics is critical in manufacturing-heavy industries.
Why it matters: Candidates who speak the language of the business can better tailor NetSuite to organizational goals.
5. Continuous Learning and Community Involvement
NetSuite, like any technology, is always evolving. Top candidates often:
- Follow NetSuite release notes and participate in early adopter programs
- Attend SuiteWorld and NetSuite User Group (NSUG) events
- Engage with online forums like NetSuite Professionals Slack, LinkedIn groups, or Reddit threads
- Complete NetSuite Learning Cloud Support (LCS) training
Why it matters: Proactive learners stay ahead of changes, adapt quickly, and often bring innovative ideas to their roles.
Conclusion
Standing out in the NetSuite talent pool requires more than just surface-level experience. Employers look for certified, technically proficient, and business-savvy professionals who can hit the ground running. Whether you’re a candidate seeking advancement or a hiring manager trying to find the right talent, prioritizing certifications, technical capabilities, soft skills, and domain knowledge is the key to success.
By combining the right certifications—such as SuiteFoundation, Administrator, ERP Consultant, or SuiteCloud Developer—with relevant skills like SuiteScript, integration, analytics, and project management, a NetSuite candidate can confidently step into high-impact roles and drive ERP success for any organization.