Top 11 Business Coordinator Certifications

Certifications are important for business coordinators in the job market because they demonstrate a level of expertise and proficiency in their field. They signal to employers that the individual has taken the time to develop their skills and knowledge, as well as prove their commitment to their profession. Certifications can also give an applicant a competitive edge when applying for jobs, as they show potential employers that the individual has been professionally trained and is capable of performing specific tasks related to the position. Additionally, certifications can help increase earning potential, as employers may be willing to pay more for certified professionals than those without them.

The purpose of this article is to review the top certifications for Business Coordinators and illustrate how these certifications can help to advance their career.

What are Business Coordinator Certifications?

Business Coordinator Certification is a certification program designed to help individuals become more proficient in their ability to coordinate and manage business operations. This certification helps individuals improve their skills in project management, customer service, office administration, risk management, and other aspects of managing a business. With this certification, an individual can increase their knowledge of how to effectively oversee the coordination of day-to-day operations within any type of business.

By obtaining Business Coordinator Certification, individuals learn how to create and maintain efficient systems for running a successful business. They are able to identify areas where improvements need to be made and develop strategies for implementing them. Additionally, they gain insight into financial management principles that can help them better manage budgets and resources. Furthermore, the certification helps individuals develop effective communication skills necessary for coordinating multiple tasks with different stakeholders.

Overall, Business Coordinator Certification provides an individual with the knowledge and skills needed to become an effective coordinator within any type of business organization. By having this certification, professionals are better equipped to make informed decisions about how best to coordinate tasks in order to maximize efficiency and productivity within their respective organizations.

Pro Tip: When pursuing business coordinator certification, look for programs that offer a combination of classroom instruction, hands-on experience, and online learning opportunities. This will give you the best chance of gaining a comprehensive understanding of the topics covered in the certification program and ensure you are prepared to handle any challenges that may arise in your role as a business coordinator.

Related: What does a Business Coordinator do?

Top 11 Business Coordinator Certifications

Here’s our list of the best certifications available to Business Coordinators today.

1. Certified Business Coordinator (CBC)

Certified Business Coordinator (CBC) is a professional certification program designed to provide business professionals with the knowledge and skills necessary to become successful coordinators. The program provides essential training in areas such as project management, customer service, communication, problem solving, and organizational development.

The CBC program typically takes between 6-12 months to complete depending on the individual's learning style and commitment. It can be completed online or through a combination of online and in-person courses. The cost of the program varies depending on the provider but is typically around $3,000 - $5,000.

To get certified as a CBC, individuals must first complete all required coursework and pass an exam administered by an accredited organization such as the International Association of Business Coordinators (IABC). After passing the exam, individuals will receive their official certification and be eligible for jobs in business coordination.

2. Certified Professional Coordinator (CPC)

Certified Professional Coordinator (CPC) is a professional certification program designed to recognize the highest standards of excellence in event coordination. The program is offered by the International Special Events Society (ISES), and is recognized by event professionals worldwide.

The CPC certification requires applicants to have at least five years of experience in event planning and management, and to pass an exam that covers topics such as budgeting, marketing, contract negotiation, risk management, and more. The exam consists of 50 multiple choice questions and takes about two hours to complete.

To apply for the CPC certification, you must first join ISES as a member. Membership fees vary depending on your country or region and range from $75 to $210 annually. After joining ISES, you can then register for the CPC exam with a fee of $225 USD.

Once you have passed the exam, you will be awarded the Certified Professional Coordinator designation and receive a certificate from ISES confirming your status as a certified professional coordinator.

3. Certified Meeting Planner (CMP)

Certified Meeting Planner (CMP) is an industry-recognized certification program that provides meeting and event planners with the knowledge, skills, and abilities necessary to plan and execute successful events. The CMP program is administered by the Events Industry Council (EIC).

The CMP certification requires applicants to have a minimum of three years of professional experience in the meetings and events industry. To become certified, applicants must pass a comprehensive exam that covers topics such as meeting planning principles, risk management, budgeting and finance, marketing and communications, legal considerations, technology, sustainability practices, and destination management.

It typically takes between six months to one year to complete the CMP certification process. During this time period, applicants are required to submit an application form along with supporting documents such as transcripts or work experience letters. They must also attend two days of in-person training or take an online course offered by EIC. Finally, they must pass the comprehensive exam which consists of 200 multiple-choice questions.

The cost for the CMP program varies depending on whether you choose to attend in-person training or take an online course. The fee for attending in-person training ranges from $1,500-$2,000 USD while taking an online course costs around $800 USD. In addition to these fees, there is also a one-time application fee of $125 USD and a $50 USD annual maintenance fee after you become certified.

4. Certified Event Manager (CEM)

Certified Event Manager (CEM) is a professional certification program offered by the International Live Events Association (ILEA). It is designed to recognize professionals who have achieved a high level of expertise in the event management field. CEM certification demonstrates a commitment to excellence and proficiency in the planning, execution, and evaluation of events.

To become certified, applicants must meet certain requirements including having at least three years of experience in the event industry, passing an exam, and completing continuing education credits. The exam consists of 200 multiple-choice questions covering topics such as event budgeting, risk management, marketing, and customer service. The exam can be taken online or in person at designated testing centers.

The cost of the CEM certification program varies depending on the type of membership you have with ILEA. For non-members, it costs $495 USD for the application fee and exam fee combined. For members, it costs $395 USD for both fees combined.

It typically takes about 6 weeks from when you submit your application to receive your results from ILEA. Once you pass the exam and fulfill all other requirements for certification, you will receive your official CEM certificate via mail within 8 weeks after passing the exam.

5. Certified Project Management Professional (PMP)

Certified Project Management Professional (PMP) is a professional certification offered by the Project Management Institute (PMI). PMP certification demonstrates a professional’s ability to lead and manage projects effectively, and is recognized worldwide as an industry standard.

To become certified, applicants must complete an application process that includes proof of their educational background, experience in managing projects, and passing an exam. The PMP exam consists of 200 multiple-choice questions that cover the five project management process groups: initiating, planning, executing, monitoring & controlling, and closing.

It typically takes between four to six months to prepare for the exam. This preparation time includes studying for the exam and completing the required application process. To get started on your journey towards becoming a PMP certified professional you will need to join PMI as a member ($139 USD) and then apply for the certification ($405 USD).

Once you have completed your application process and passed the exam you will be officially certified as a PMP. You will then need to maintain your certification every three years by earning 60 PDUs (Professional Development Units) through activities such as attending conferences or taking courses related to project management.

6. Certified Administrative Professional (CAP)

Certified Administrative Professional (CAP) is a professional certification program designed to recognize and validate the knowledge, skills, and abilities of administrative professionals. The CAP program is offered by the International Association of Administrative Professionals (IAAP), a professional organization that promotes the advancement of administrative professionals.

To become a Certified Administrative Professional, individuals must pass an exam administered by IAAP. The exam consists of six sections: Office Administration; Business Communication; Technology Applications; Project Management; Leadership & Management; and Financial Analysis & Decision Making. Each section includes multiple-choice questions as well as short answer questions.

The exam takes approximately three hours to complete, and applicants must score at least 70% on each section in order to pass. The cost for taking the exam is $395 for IAAP members, or $495 for non-members. Additionally, applicants must have at least two years of work experience in an administrative role in order to qualify for the CAP certification.

Once certified, individuals are required to recertify every three years by completing at least 30 hours of approved continuing education credits or passing a recertification exam. The cost for recertification is $195 for IAAP members, or $295 for non-members.

7. Certified Executive Assistant (CEA)

Certified Executive Assistant (CEA) is a professional certification program designed to recognize and validate the skills, knowledge, and abilities of executive assistants. It is an internationally recognized designation that demonstrates a commitment to excellence in the field of administrative support.

The CEA program is administered by the International Association of Administrative Professionals (IAAP), which has been providing training and certification programs for administrative professionals since 1942. The CEA program consists of two parts: a written exam and a practical exam. The written exam covers topics such as office management, communication, technology, customer service, problem solving, project management, and business writing. The practical exam tests the applicant’s ability to apply their knowledge in real-world scenarios.

It typically takes about six months to complete the CEA program. To get started on your CEA journey, you must first become an IAAP member and then register for the certification program online. You will be required to pay a fee for each part of the program; this fee varies based on your IAAP membership status. Once you have completed both exams successfully, you will receive your official CEA certificate from IAAP.

The cost of the CEA program varies depending on whether or not you are an IAAP member and if you are taking advantage of any discounts or promotions offered by IAAP at the time of registration. Generally speaking, it can cost anywhere from $400-$800 USD to complete the entire CEA program.

8. Certified Business Analyst Professional (CBAP)

Certified Business Analyst Professional (CBAP) is a professional certification program offered by the International Institute of Business Analysis (IIBA). The CBAP certification is designed to recognize business analysis professionals who have achieved a level of expertise in the field. It is one of the most sought-after certifications for business analysts and provides them with an edge in the competitive job market.

The CBAP certification requires applicants to have a minimum of 7,500 hours of business analysis experience within the last 10 years, as well as 35 hours of professional development activities related to business analysis. In addition, applicants must pass a comprehensive exam that covers six knowledge areas: Business Analysis Planning and Monitoring; Elicitation and Collaboration; Requirements Life Cycle Management; Strategy Analysis; Solution Evaluation; and Underlying Competencies.

It typically takes between 6 months to 1 year to prepare for the CBAP exam, depending on your existing experience and knowledge in the field. To get started, you should review the IIBA’s Body of Knowledge (BOK), which outlines all topics covered on the exam. You can also take online courses or attend workshops to help you prepare for the exam.

The cost for taking the CBAP exam varies depending on where you live, but typically ranges from $325 - $400 USD.

9. Certified Office Manager (COM)

Certified Office Manager (COM) is a professional certification program designed to recognize individuals who demonstrate mastery of the core competencies required for successful office management. The COM certification is offered through the International Association of Administrative Professionals (IAAP).

The COM certification requires applicants to complete an online application, submit their resume and cover letter, and pass a comprehensive exam. The exam covers topics such as office administration, communication, technology, customer service, and financial management. The exam consists of 200 multiple-choice questions that must be completed within three hours.

To get certified, applicants must have at least two years of experience in an administrative role or have completed a related degree program from an accredited college or university. Applicants must also be members of the IAAP in order to take the exam.

The cost for the COM certification varies depending on whether you are a member or non-member of IAAP. For members, the cost is $295 USD; for non-members it is $395 USD. This fee includes access to study materials and practice tests as well as the official exam fee.

10. Certified Human Resources Coordinator (CHRC)

Certified Human Resources Coordinator (CHRC) is a professional certification that demonstrates an individual’s knowledge and proficiency in the field of human resources management. It is offered by the International Association for Human Resource Information Management (IHRIM). The CHRC certification is designed to recognize individuals who have demonstrated expertise in the areas of recruiting, training, employee relations, compensation and benefits, and other related HR topics.

In order to obtain the CHRC certification, applicants must demonstrate their knowledge of HR management principles through a comprehensive exam. The exam consists of multiple-choice questions covering topics such as recruitment, training, employee relations, compensation and benefits, labor laws and regulations, organizational development, and more. Candidates must also submit a portfolio demonstrating their experience in the field.

The CHRC certification process typically takes between six months to one year to complete. During this time period, candidates must complete all required coursework and pass the comprehensive exam with a minimum score of 70%.

The cost for obtaining the CHRC certification varies depending on factors such as location and whether or not you are a member of IHRIM. Generally speaking, it costs around $1,500 USD to become certified. This includes fees for registration and examination fees as well as any additional materials or services needed for completion of the program.

11. Six Sigma Green Belt Certification

Six Sigma Green Belt Certification is a professional certification that recognizes individuals who have achieved a certain level of competency in the Six Sigma methodology. The certification is designed to provide professionals with the knowledge and skills necessary to successfully lead and manage projects using the Six Sigma approach.

The Six Sigma Green Belt Certification program typically takes about two weeks to complete, depending on the provider. During this time, participants will learn about the principles of Six Sigma, including DMAIC (Define, Measure, Analyze, Improve, and Control). They will also gain an understanding of how to apply these principles in real-world situations through case studies and hands-on exercises.

To obtain the Six Sigma Green Belt Certification, individuals must first pass an exam administered by a third-party organization such as ASQ or IASSC. The exam covers topics such as project management, problem solving, data analysis, process improvement techniques, and more. After passing the exam, individuals must submit proof of their experience working on projects utilizing the Six Sigma methodology in order to receive their certification.

The cost of obtaining a Six Sigma Green Belt Certification can vary depending on the provider. Generally speaking however, it can range from around $500 up to several thousand dollars for more comprehensive programs.

Do You Really Need a Business Coordinator Certificate?

The short answer is yes, if you plan on working as a business coordinator. A certificate in this field will give you an advantage over other job applicants and help you stand out from the competition. It will also demonstrate your commitment to the profession, which employers value.

Having a certificate in business coordination can open up new career opportunities for you. You can work as a project manager or operations manager, or even become a consultant to small businesses or government agencies. With the right credentials, you can also gain access to certain advanced positions that may not be available without certification.

In addition to providing career advancement opportunities, having a certificate in business coordination can also make it easier for you to understand the complexities of business operations and management. You’ll learn about different organizational structures and how they fit together, develop an understanding of budgeting and financial management principles, and gain knowledge of marketing and customer service strategies. All of these skills are essential for anyone looking to succeed in the business world.

Finally, earning a certificate in business coordination will give you more confidence when applying for jobs or approaching potential clients or customers. It shows that you have taken the time to invest in yourself and your professional development, which many employers appreciate. Ultimately, having a certificate can help set you apart from other applicants and ultimately increase your chances of success.

Related: Business Coordinator Resume Examples

FAQs About Business Coordinator Certifications

Q1. What is a Business Coordinator Certification?

A1. A Business Coordinator Certification is a professional credential that demonstrates an individual's knowledge and expertise in the field of business coordination. This certification helps employers recognize applicants who have the skills and qualifications needed to efficiently coordinate business operations, such as planning, organizing, budgeting, scheduling, and coordinating activities with other departments or personnel.

Q2. Who should pursue a Business Coordinator Certification?

A2. People who are interested in working in the field of business coordination should consider pursuing a Business Coordinator Certification. Individuals who have experience managing projects or teams, as well as those who have strong organizational skills, may find this certification beneficial for their career prospects.

Q3. What are the requirements for obtaining a Business Coordinator Certification?

A3. Generally speaking, most certifying organizations require applicants to pass an exam that tests their knowledge and understanding of business coordination concepts and techniques. In addition to passing the exam, applicants may need to provide proof of relevant work experience or educational qualifications depending on the certifying organization’s guidelines.

Q4. How long does it take to obtain a Business Coordinator Certification?

A4: The time it takes to obtain a Business Coordinator Certification varies depending on the certifying organization and individual applicant’s circumstances but typically ranges from 6-12 months from start to finish once all requirements are met.

Q5. Are there any online resources available to help candidates prepare for their Business Coordinator Certification exams?

A5: Yes! There are many online resources available for individuals preparing for their Business Coordinator Certification exams such as practice tests, study guides, tutorials and more that can help them become better prepared for success on their exams!