What is a CMP event?

Would you like to earn nearly $10,000 more than you currently earn?

The average difference in salary between CMPs (certified planners) and non-certified planners is $85,00. Certified planners earned an average of $85,00 per year. Non-certified planners earned $76,500 per year.

This statistic might be enough to convince you to get a formal meeting planner certificate. Let’s review some basics before we jump into planning classes.

How do you become a certified meeting professional?

CMP is one of few industry certifications. It is administered by Meeting Professionals Internation and Events Industry Council.

You must have at least five years of experience to earn the certification of a meeting planner.

This program is the only route to being a certified meeting planner. It’s not the only way to enhance your credentials. You can also learn more about the industry through other programs. These letters are not yours.

Certifications for event planning specific to your industry

Industry-specific certifications are offered by independent governing bodies, such as the Convention Industry Council or other associations. A more specific certification may be better if you are planning a particular type of event, such as trade shows or weddings.

One example is the Digital Event Strategist certification that you can get from the Digital Experience Institute. Candidates must pass an exam after completing a rigorous period of study.

Certificates of professional expertise in meeting planning

Many industry associations offer courses that can award additional professional certificates such as the Certified Meeting Management designation. There are many requirements for different certificates in event planning.

To earn the CMM, for example, you will need to:

• To learn executive leadership skills, you will need to complete 25 hours of MBA-level courses with university faculty
• Finalize a project
• More than seven years industry experience

Not all professional certificate programs are as intense. To earn the Healthcare Meeting Compliance Certificate, for example, you will only need to spend four hours studying.

These certificates have some limitations. Some certificates don’t allow letters to be added after your name. Others require that you renew your credentials every few decades.

Certificates of continuing education for event planners

Many colleges and universities offer continuing education certificates. These programs require that you complete your homework and pass the exams. You will also need to attend classes either online or in person.

You can audit courses free of charge through some online portals like EX. However, you will need to pay a small fee for an official certificate. This fee can be used to transfer college credits towards an undergraduate or graduate degree.

Many colleges and universities offer certificate programs for hospitality and event planning. You’ll find many options by doing a Google search.