Do I Need to Get Certified to Get an Event Planning Job?
There is a huge misunderstanding about what event planning certification is, who needs it, and what it can do for you.
The biggest misconception is that certification is a short-cut to education; that you can take a course, learn about event planning, and then suddenly be "certified." While many online courses make such promises, the reality is that there aren't any reputable "certifications" for beginners or anyone hoping to start their career in event planning.
Event planning certification is a measure of what you already know about the industry; it's a badge of honor to show that you do know the field and you are an expert. Once you become certified, it is a designation you can put after your name and title to show your expertise.
Therefore, most event planning certifications require that you have at least three to five years of experience before taking the test to become certified.
Then How are Beginners Supposed to Learn the Industry and Get Certified to Begin Their Careers?
See, that's the point. That's part of the misunderstanding. You don't need to be "certified" to start a career in event planning. Yes, you need to learn the basics. Yes, you need to get some hands-on experience. Yes, you need to network like crazy. But don't confuse those with the need for event planning certification. Don't think that a certification is a short-cut to learning, getting experience, and networking.
This page helps you determine whether you need further education at your particular point in life. It also helps give advice to those who are just starting college but aren't sure what courses to take.
Event Planning Certification
However: if you do have some experience and are looking ahead at a long career in event planning, I recommend attaining at least one or two certifications.
Here are a few (not all) of the certification programs that are available:
Certified Event Professional (CEIP) US Event Guide's CEP is one of the few certifications you can pursue without having any prior experience in the event or meeting industry. This Certification Program is your chance to learn about this lucrative field and how to begin your new career within a few months.
Certified Meeting Professional (CMP) The CMP is perhaps one of the most recognized certifications in the event and meeting planning industry. If you plan on a lifelong career in event planning, this event planning certification is an added bonus. Candidates must have three years' experience and a full-time job in the industry in order to apply for the program.
Certified Special Events Professional The CSEP designation is the hallmark of professional achievement in the special events industry. It is earned through education, performance, experience, and service to the industry, and reflects a commitment to professional conduct and ethics. Just as with the CMP, candidates must have three years’ of experience in the special events industry and be currently employed (or employed within the last twelve months) in a special events job.
Certified International Meeting Professionals Association (CIMPA) CIMPA offers three certifications; as with the others, there is a minimum of 2–5 years of experience in the field (depending on which event planning certification you are interested in) or a minimum of 3-5 years of volunteering with events.
CPPM – Certified Planner of Professional Meetings
CGMP – Certified Global Meeting Professional
CIMP – Certified Internet Meeting Professional
As always (am I starting to sound like a broken record? Because IT WORKS!) follow the steps on the "Career Planning" page: read and learn, volunteer for experience, and network and do informational interviews. Find a mentor or ask around; you will learn, eventually, which steps, if any, toward event planning certification and/or education are right for you.
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