Top 10 Client Services Manager Certifications

Certifications are an important way for a client services manager to demonstrate their knowledge and experience in the job market. They provide evidence of a professional’s competency in areas such as customer service, project management, and communication. Certifications can help a client services manager stand out from the competition and show potential employers that they have the necessary skills to do the job well. Furthermore, certifications can also add credibility to a resume and may lead to higher salaries or better job opportunities.

This article reviews some of the top certifications for Client Services Managers and explains how they can help advance a client services manager's career.

What are Client Services Manager Certifications?

Client Services Manager Certification is a professional certification program designed to help individuals improve their knowledge and skills in client services management. The certification focuses on the core competencies required for successful client service management, including communication, customer service, problem solving, and conflict resolution. Through this certification, individuals can develop the necessary skills to manage client relationships effectively and ensure customer satisfaction. The certification also provides an opportunity for professionals to demonstrate their commitment to excellence in client services management by obtaining a formal credential that reflects their expertise. By gaining this certification, professionals can increase their marketability and career prospects as well as gain greater respect from employers and clients.

Pro Tip: When considering certification for a Client Services Manager, look for certifications that focus on customer service and communication skills. These are essential to being an effective manager in this role, so it is important to find certifications that will help you develop these skills. Additionally, look for certifications that provide the most current information regarding best practices in client services management.

Related: What does a Client Services Manager do?

Top 10 Client Services Manager Certifications

Here’s our list of the best certifications available to Client Services Managers today.

1. Certified Client Services Manager (CCSM)

Certified Client Services Manager (CCSM) is a certification program designed to recognize the knowledge and skills of experienced client service professionals. It is administered by the International Customer Service Association (ICSA).

The CCSM certification consists of two parts: an online assessment and a face-to-face interview. The online assessment tests your knowledge of customer service concepts, principles, and practices. The face-to-face interview is conducted by an ICSA Certified Professional Examiner and assesses your ability to apply customer service principles in real-world scenarios.

It typically takes about three months to complete the CCSM program from start to finish. You must first register for the program on the ICSA website and pay a fee of $395 USD. Once you have registered, you will receive access to the online assessment and instructions on how to prepare for the face-to-face interview. After completing both parts of the program, you will be awarded your CCSM certification.

The CCSM certification demonstrates that you have acquired advanced knowledge and skills in customer service management, making you more competitive in today’s job market. It also serves as a valuable resource for employers who are looking for qualified candidates with strong customer service backgrounds.

2. Certified Professional Services Manager (CPSM)

Certified Professional Services Manager (CPSM) is a certification program designed to recognize professionals who have achieved excellence in the management of professional services. The certification is administered by the Institute for Professional Service Management (IPSM), which is an independent, not-for-profit organization dedicated to advancing the practice of professional services management.

To become certified as a CPSM, you must complete three core courses and pass two exams. The core courses cover topics such as project management, financial management, business development, customer service and communication. The exams are designed to test your knowledge of the material covered in the courses.

It typically takes between six months and one year to complete all of the requirements for certification. During this time, you will need to study for and pass both exams, attend classes or workshops related to professional services management, and submit your application materials to IPSM.

The cost of becoming certified as a CPSM varies depending on where you live and how much you choose to invest in preparation materials and other resources. In general, it can cost anywhere from $500-$3,000 USD to become certified.

3. Certified Customer Service Manager (CCSM)

Certified Customer Service Manager (CCSM) is a certification program designed to help customer service professionals understand and implement best practices in customer service. The program is offered by the International Customer Service Association (ICSA).

The CCSM certification program consists of three courses: Foundations of Customer Service, Advanced Customer Service Strategies, and Leadership in Customer Service. Each course takes approximately 10 hours to complete. Upon successful completion of all three courses, participants will receive their CCSM certification.

The cost of the CCSM certification program varies depending on the type of membership you have with ICSA. For non-members, the cost is $1,295 USD for all three courses. Members receive discounted rates starting at $895 USD for all three courses.

To get certified as a CCSM, you must first register for the program through ICSA's website or by phone. Once registered, you will be given access to the online course materials and will be able to start your journey towards becoming a Certified Customer Service Manager. After completing all three courses, you will need to pass an online assessment before receiving your certification from ICSA.

4. Certified Client Relationship Manager (CCRM)

Certified Client Relationship Manager (CCRM) is a certification program designed to recognize professionals who have achieved a high level of expertise in managing customer relationships. The CCRM designation is offered by the Institute for Professional Excellence in Customer Relationship Management (IPECRM).

The CCRM certification requires applicants to have at least five years of experience in customer relationship management, and they must pass an exam that covers topics such as customer service, sales, marketing, communication, and technology. The exam consists of 150 multiple-choice questions and takes approximately three hours to complete.

To get the CCRM certification, applicants must first submit an application form along with their resume and a copy of their diploma or other proof of education. Once approved, applicants will receive a registration number that will allow them to register for the exam. After passing the exam, applicants will receive their CCRM certificate.

The cost of the CCRM certification varies depending on where you take the exam. Generally speaking, it can range from $500-$1,000 USD.

5. Certified Project Management Professional (PMP)

Certified Project Management Professional (PMP) is a professional certification offered by the Project Management Institute (PMI). It is a globally recognized credential that demonstrates an individual's knowledge and experience in project management. The PMP certification is designed to assess the competence of project managers in leading and directing projects.

It typically takes between four to six months to get the PMP certification, depending on how much time you have to devote to studying for the exam. To be eligible for the PMP exam, you must have either a secondary degree (high school diploma, associate’s degree or global equivalent) with at least five years of project management experience or a four-year degree with at least three years of project management experience. You must also complete 35 contact hours of formal education in project management before taking the exam.

To get your PMP certification, you must first apply for it through the PMI website and pay the application fee. Once your application has been accepted, you can register for the exam through their website and pay the examination fee. After registering for the exam, you will need to study and prepare for it using resources such as books, online courses, practice tests, etc. Once you have successfully passed the exam, you will receive your PMP certification from PMI.

The cost of getting your PMP certification varies depending on whether or not you are already a member of PMI. For non-members, it costs $555 USD plus applicable taxes; however if you are already a member of PMI then it costs $405 USD plus applicable taxes.

6. Certified Public Accountant (CPA)

A Certified Public Accountant (CPA) is a professional designation granted by the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA). CPAs are licensed by their state boards of accountancy and must adhere to the AICPA's Code of Professional Conduct. They are subject to ongoing continuing education requirements and must pass a rigorous exam to become certified.

The CPA exam consists of four sections: Auditing & Attestation, Business Environment & Concepts, Financial Accounting & Reporting, and Regulation. The exam takes approximately 18 months to complete, depending on how quickly you can study for it.

To become a CPA, you must have at least 150 semester hours of college credit in accounting and related subjects. This usually requires an additional year or two beyond a traditional four-year bachelor’s degree program. You must also pass the Uniform CPA Examination administered by the AICPA and meet any other requirements set forth by your state board of accountancy.

The cost for taking the CPA exam varies from state to state but typically ranges from $800-$2,000. This includes application fees, registration fees, and fees for each section of the exam that you take.

7. Certified Quality Manager (CQM)

Certified Quality Manager (CQM) is a professional certification that recognizes individuals who have demonstrated their knowledge and expertise in the area of quality management. The certification is offered by the American Society for Quality (ASQ), a non-profit organization dedicated to advancing quality principles, practices, and tools.

To become certified as a CQM, applicants must meet certain educational and experience requirements. Applicants must have at least four years of experience in quality management or related fields, and they must also hold a bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university. Additionally, applicants must pass an exam administered by ASQ that tests their knowledge of quality management principles and practices.

The exam typically takes about three hours to complete and consists of multiple-choice questions. It covers topics such as quality assurance, process improvement, customer satisfaction, statistical analysis, problem solving techniques, and other related topics.

The cost for taking the exam varies depending on whether you are an ASQ member or not. For non-members, the cost is $399 USD; for members it is $349 USD. After passing the exam you will receive your official CQM certificate from ASQ.

8. Six Sigma Black Belt Certification

Six Sigma Black Belt Certification is a professional certification program designed to equip individuals with the knowledge and skills necessary to lead Six Sigma projects. It is a highly sought-after certification which demonstrates an individual’s expertise in the field of process improvement and quality management.

The Six Sigma Black Belt Certification program typically takes three to four months to complete, depending on the provider. The program consists of a combination of classroom instruction, online learning, and hands-on project work. During the course, participants will learn about Six Sigma principles and tools, as well as how to apply them in various business settings.

In order to get certified as a Six Sigma Black Belt, individuals must pass an exam administered by an accredited organization such as American Society for Quality (ASQ) or International Association for Six Sigma Certification (IASSC). The exam fee varies depending on the provider but typically ranges from $300-$500 USD.

Additionally, individuals must have at least three years of experience leading or managing projects in order to be eligible for certification. Once certified, individuals can expect to earn higher salaries and gain access to more job opportunities in their field.

9. ITIL Foundation Certification

ITIL Foundation Certification is a globally recognized entry-level certification for IT Service Management (ITSM). It is designed to provide an understanding of the ITIL framework and how it can be used to improve the quality of IT service management. The certification is based on the core concepts and terminology of ITIL, which provides guidance for organizations in aligning their IT services with their business objectives.

The certification requires a minimum of 21 hours of study time, including self-study and instructor-led training. To obtain the certification, candidates must pass an exam consisting of 40 multiple choice questions. The exam can be taken online or at a testing center.

The cost of taking the exam varies depending on where you take it and who administers it. Generally, the cost ranges from $200-$300 USD. Additionally, there may be additional costs associated with taking instructor-led training courses or purchasing study materials such as books or practice tests.

Overall, obtaining an ITIL Foundation Certification can provide a great foundation for those looking to gain knowledge in IT Service Management and demonstrate their commitment to best practices in this field.

10. Lean Six Sigma Green Belt Certification

Lean Six Sigma Green Belt Certification is a professional certification program designed to help individuals understand and implement the Lean Six Sigma methodology. The Lean Six Sigma Green Belt certification is an internationally recognized credential that demonstrates an individual’s expertise in the principles and practices of Lean Six Sigma.

The Lean Six Sigma Green Belt Certification program typically takes between 8-12 weeks to complete, depending on the provider and the individual’s level of experience. During this time, individuals will learn about the key concepts of Lean Six Sigma, including process improvement, data analysis, problem solving, and project management. They will also gain hands-on experience with tools such as DMAIC (Define, Measure, Analyze, Improve, Control), SIPOC (Suppliers Inputs Process Outputs Customers), and FMEA (Failure Mode and Effects Analysis).

To get certified as a Lean Six Sigma Green Belt, individuals must first pass a written exam administered by an accredited provider. There are many providers offering online or in-person courses that prepare students for the exam. Once they have passed the exam, they must then complete a practical project demonstrating their understanding of the methodology. This can be done either through a formal training course or through self-study.

The cost of obtaining a Lean Six Sigma Green Belt certification varies depending on the provider and type of course taken. Generally speaking, it can range from $1,500 - $3,000 USD for online courses or up to $5,000 USD for in-person courses.

Do You Really Need a Client Services Manager Certificate?

A Client Services Manager Certificate is an important credential for anyone looking to pursue a career in client services. This certification demonstrates that the individual has the knowledge and skills necessary to effectively manage client relationships and provide excellent customer service.

The answer to whether or not you need a Client Services Manager Certificate depends on your goals. If you are looking to gain entry-level employment in client services, then it is likely that you would benefit from obtaining this certificate. This credential will demonstrate to potential employers that you have the basic knowledge and skills necessary to succeed in this field. It can also help set you apart from other job applicants who do not have the same level of training or experience.

However, if you already have some experience in client services, then it may be beneficial to pursue additional certifications or specialized training, such as those offered by professional organizations or universities. These courses can give you an edge over other candidates and provide you with more advanced skills and knowledge that may be required for higher-level positions within the field. Additionally, having a more advanced level of certification may open up opportunities for promotion or increased responsibilities within your current position.

Ultimately, deciding whether or not to obtain a Client Services Manager Certificate will depend on your specific career goals and objectives. Taking the time to assess your current skill set and determine what additional training or education might be beneficial will help ensure that any investments into further education are worthwhile.

Related: Client Services Manager Resume Examples

FAQs About Client Services Manager Certifications

1. What qualifications do I need to become a Client Services Manager?

Answer: To become a Client Services Manager, you will typically need at least a Bachelor's degree in business administration or related field, and prior experience in customer service or client relations.

2. How long does it take to get certified as a Client Services Manager?

Answer: The length of time required to obtain certification varies depending on the certifying organization and the type of certification sought. Generally, it can take anywhere from three months to two years to complete the necessary requirements for certification.

3. Is there an exam I must pass to become certified as a Client Services Manager?

Answer: Yes, you will typically be required to pass an exam administered by the certifying organization in order to receive your certification. This exam may include topics such as customer service principles and best practices, problem-solving techniques, communication strategies, and more.

4. Are there any continuing education requirements for maintaining my Client Services Manager certification?

Answer: Yes, most certifying organizations require that members maintain their certifications by completing periodic continuing education courses or attending conferences related to client services management best practices.

5. What are some of the benefits of becoming certified as a Client Services Manager?

Answer: Benefits of becoming certified as a Client Services Manager include increased job opportunities and higher earning potential due to recognition of specialized knowledge and skills; access to exclusive resources; improved credibility with employers; and increased job satisfaction due to increased confidence in one’s abilities.