Top 11 Customer Account Manager Certifications

Certifications are important for a customer account manager in the job market for several reasons. First, certifications demonstrate a level of knowledge and experience that can set an applicant apart from other candidates. They show employers that the applicant has taken the initiative to learn more about the profession and is qualified to handle the duties of a customer account manager. Second, certifications can give an applicant an edge over their competition by providing them with tangible evidence of their skillset and expertise. Finally, certifications can open up new opportunities for advancement as they often lead to higher salaries and greater job security.

This article reviews some of the top certifications for Customer Account Managers and explains how they can help further a customer account manager's career.

What are Customer Account Manager Certifications?

Customer Account Manager Certification is a specialized certification program designed to help customer service professionals gain the skills and knowledge needed to become successful account managers. This certification focuses on developing the interpersonal, communication, and technical skills necessary to manage customer accounts effectively. By obtaining this certification, customer service professionals can demonstrate their commitment to providing excellent customer service while also strengthening their ability to effectively manage customer accounts.

The certification program covers topics such as understanding customer needs and expectations, developing strong relationships with customers, creating effective account management strategies, and resolving customer complaints in a professional manner. It also emphasizes the importance of building trust with customers and how best to handle difficult conversations. In addition, the certification covers the use of data analysis and other methods for improving customer experience with products or services.

By obtaining Customer Account Manager Certification, professionals can demonstrate their dedication to providing exceptional customer service while also increasing their value as an employee or contractor within their organization. This certification provides proof that they have the necessary skills required for managing various types of customer accounts successfully and efficiently. Additionally, having this certification may give these professionals a competitive edge when applying for jobs or promotions in their current positions.

Pro Tip: Take advantage of online customer account manager certification courses to gain a better understanding of the customer journey and how to effectively manage client accounts. This will help you stay up-to-date with industry trends, increase your value as an employee, and give you the skills to provide exceptional service to your customers.

Related: What does a Customer Account Manager do?

Top 11 Customer Account Manager Certifications

Here’s our list of the best certifications available to Customer Account Managers today.

1. Certified Customer Account Manager (CCAM)

Certified Customer Account Manager (CCAM) is an industry-recognized certification program designed to equip customer account managers with the knowledge and skills needed to successfully manage customer accounts. The program focuses on developing a comprehensive understanding of the customer relationship management process, including how to build trust, develop relationships, and ensure long-term success.

The CCAM program consists of three levels: Certified Associate Customer Account Manager (CACAM), Certified Professional Customer Account Manager (CPCAM), and Certified Master Customer Account Manager (CMPCAM). Each level requires a different amount of coursework and experience. The CACAM is the entry-level certification, while the CPCAM is more advanced and requires more in-depth knowledge. The CMPCAM is the highest level of certification available and requires extensive experience in customer account management.

The time it takes to get certified depends on which level you are pursuing. For example, it typically takes 3-6 months to complete the CACAM certification, 6-12 months for the CPCAM certification, and 12+ months for the CMPCAM certification.

To get certified, you must first complete an application form that includes your professional background information as well as any relevant certifications or qualifications you may have earned previously. You will then need to take an online assessment that tests your knowledge of customer account management principles. Once you pass this assessment, you will be eligible for certification at whichever level you applied for.

The cost of getting certified varies depending on which level you are pursuing. Generally speaking, CACAM costs around $200-$400 USD; CPCAM costs around $500-$1000 USD; and CMPCAM costs around $1500-$2000 USD.

2. Certified Professional Account Manager (CPAM)

Certified Professional Account Manager (CPAM) is a professional designation that recognizes individuals who have achieved a high level of expertise in the field of account management. CPAM certification is offered by the American Institute of Certified Professional Account Managers (AICPAM). The certification is designed to demonstrate an individual’s knowledge and skills in managing accounts, as well as their commitment to ethical business practices.

The CPAM certification requires a minimum of two years of experience in account management, although some organizations may require more experience. In addition, applicants must pass an exam administered by AICPAM. The exam covers topics such as financial analysis, customer service, marketing strategies, and risk management.

In order to obtain the CPAM certification, applicants must submit an application to AICPAM along with their resume and proof of experience. Once approved for the exam, applicants must register for it at least one month prior to the scheduled date. The fee for the exam is $395 USD. Upon successful completion of the exam, applicants will receive their CPAM certificate from AICPAM within six weeks.

3. Certified Customer Relationship Manager (CCRM)

Certified Customer Relationship Manager (CCRM) is a professional certification program designed to recognize individuals who have demonstrated the knowledge and skills necessary to manage customer relationships effectively. It is offered by the American Management Association (AMA).

The CCRM certification program consists of four courses: Introduction to Customer Relationship Management, Account Management, Relationship Development, and Customer Service. Each course is designed to help participants develop an understanding of customer relationship management principles and best practices. The program also includes a final exam that tests the participant’s knowledge of the material covered in the courses.

The CCRM certification can be completed in as little as two months if you are able to dedicate enough time to study for the exams. However, it is recommended that you allow yourself three months or more to complete the program.

To get certified, you must first register with AMA and pay a fee of $2,495. This fee includes all four courses and the final exam. Once registered, you will receive access to all course materials and instructions on how to complete each course. After completing all four courses and passing the final exam, you will receive your CCRM certification from AMA.

The cost of getting certified as a CCRM is $2,495 which covers all four courses and the final exam.

4. Certified Customer Service Professional (CCSP)

Certified Customer Service Professional (CCSP) is a professional certification that recognizes customer service professionals who have achieved the highest level of customer service excellence. The CCSP is offered by the International Customer Service Association (ICSA).

The CCSP certification requires applicants to pass an exam, which covers topics such as customer service principles, communication skills, problem solving and conflict resolution. The exam also includes a practical component where applicants must demonstrate their ability to apply customer service concepts in real-world scenarios.

The CCSP certification process typically takes between six and nine months to complete. Applicants must first register with ICSA and submit an application form along with supporting documents such as references and proof of experience. Once approved, applicants will be required to attend a training seminar or workshop focused on customer service principles before taking the exam.

The cost of the CCSP certification varies depending on the country in which you are located and whether you choose to take the exam online or in-person. In most cases, it costs around $400-$600 USD for registration fees, training materials, and exam fees.

5. Certified Professional in Customer Relationship Management (CPCRM)

Certified Professional in Customer Relationship Management (CPCRM) is a professional certification program designed to recognize individuals with expertise in customer relationship management (CRM). The certification is offered by the Customer Relationship Management Association (CRMA), an international organization dedicated to promoting the development and use of CRM best practices.

The CPCRM certification requires successful completion of a comprehensive exam that tests knowledge and skills related to CRM concepts, principles, and techniques. To be eligible for the exam, candidates must have at least two years of professional experience in CRM or related fields.

The CPCRM exam takes approximately three hours to complete and consists of multiple-choice questions covering topics such as customer segmentation, customer loyalty programs, data analysis, and CRM software implementation. The exam fee is $295 USD.

Upon successful completion of the exam, candidates are awarded the Certified Professional in Customer Relationship Management designation. This credential is valid for three years from the date of issuance and can be renewed by taking additional courses or passing another examination.

6. Certified Salesforce Administrator (CSA)

A Certified Salesforce Administrator (CSA) is an individual who has completed the Salesforce Administrator Certification Program and is recognized as having a comprehensive understanding of Salesforce products and services. The certification program consists of a series of courses and exams that cover topics such as sales process, automation, reporting, security, data management, and more.

It typically takes around 4-6 months to complete the certification program. To get started, you must first register for the certification program on Salesforce's website. Once registered, you can access the course material and begin studying for the exams. You will need to pass all four exams in order to become certified: Sales Cloud Consultant Exam, Service Cloud Consultant Exam, Platform App Builder Exam, and Sharing & Visibility Designer Exam.

The cost of the certification program varies depending on your location but typically ranges from $200-$400 USD per exam. Additionally, there may be additional fees associated with registering for the program or taking practice tests prior to taking the actual exams.

7. Certified Professional in Client Relations (CPCR)

Certified Professional in Client Relations (CPCR) is a certification program designed to recognize professionals who have demonstrated excellence in the field of client relations. The program is administered by the Institute for Professional Excellence in Client Relations (IPECR), and was created to help professionals stay up-to-date on best practices, techniques, and strategies for providing superior customer service.

The CPCR exam consists of 200 multiple choice questions that cover topics such as customer service principles, communication skills, problem solving and resolution, client relationship management, and developing customer loyalty. To become certified, applicants must pass the exam with a score of at least 70%.

The cost of the CPCR exam is $395 USD. The exam can be taken at any Pearson VUE testing center worldwide. It takes about two hours to complete the exam.

In order to maintain certification status, CPCRs must complete 12 continuing education credits every three years. These credits can be earned through attending conferences or workshops related to client relations or taking online courses through IPECR's website.

8. Microsoft Dynamics 365 for Customer Engagement Administrator Associate Certification

Microsoft Dynamics 365 for Customer Engagement Administrator Associate Certification is a certification that validates a professional’s knowledge and skills in administering Microsoft Dynamics 365 for Customer Engagement (CRM). It covers topics such as configuring, managing, and troubleshooting the application.

The certification exam consists of 40-60 questions and takes approximately two hours to complete. The exam is available online through Pearson VUE or at a local testing center. The cost of the exam varies by region, but typically ranges from $120-150 USD.

In order to obtain this certification, you must pass the Microsoft Dynamics 365 for Customer Engagement Administrator Associate Exam (MB2-717). This exam tests your knowledge of the features and capabilities of the CRM application. You should have experience with user management, security roles, system configuration, data management, customizations, and reporting before attempting this exam.

You can prepare for this exam by taking training courses offered by Microsoft or third parties. Additionally, there are several study guides and practice exams available online that can help you prepare for the MB2-717 exam.

9. Oracle CRM On Demand Certified Implementation Specialist

Oracle CRM On Demand Certified Implementation Specialist is a certification program offered by Oracle to demonstrate an individual’s expertise in the implementation and configuration of Oracle CRM On Demand. The certification validates an individual’s ability to successfully configure and implement the software, as well as troubleshoot and maintain it.

The certification process typically takes around two weeks to complete, depending on the individual's experience level. To become certified, individuals must first pass a knowledge-based exam that covers topics such as system architecture, customization, security, integration, and reporting. After passing the exam, individuals will be required to complete a hands-on lab assessment where they will demonstrate their ability to configure and use Oracle CRM On Demand.

The cost of the certification varies depending on the country of residence but typically ranges between $500-$1000 USD.

10. SAP Hybris Cloud for Customer Implementation Consultant Certification

SAP Hybris Cloud for Customer Implementation Consultant Certification is an official certification program from SAP that validates the knowledge and skills of professionals in implementing the SAP Hybris Cloud for Customer solution. This certification is designed to help individuals demonstrate their expertise in the areas of customer engagement, customer service, sales, and marketing.

The certification process typically takes about three months to complete and includes a combination of online training courses, hands-on labs, and a final exam. To get certified, you must first register with SAP Learning Hub and purchase the appropriate course materials. Once you have completed all of the required training modules and passed the final exam, you will be awarded your certification.

The cost of this certification varies based on the type of learning materials purchased (e.g., e-books or videos). Generally speaking, it can range anywhere from $500-$1,000 USD depending on which materials are selected.

11. Salesforce Platform App Builder Certification

Salesforce Platform App Builder Certification is a professional-level certification that demonstrates your knowledge and skills in developing custom applications on the Salesforce platform. It is designed for developers, administrators, and business analysts who want to become proficient in building apps on the Salesforce platform.

The exam consists of 60 multiple-choice questions and takes up to 90 minutes to complete. The exam covers topics such as designing solutions, data modeling, user experience design, security, integration, and testing. You must score at least 65% to pass the exam.

To get the certification you must register with Salesforce and purchase an exam voucher from their website. The cost of the voucher is $200 USD plus applicable taxes. After purchasing your voucher you can schedule your exam through Pearson VUE or Prometric Testing Centers.

Once you have passed your exam you will be issued a digital certificate that can be used to demonstrate your expertise in developing custom applications on the Salesforce platform. You will also receive a badge that can be displayed on your LinkedIn profile or other social media sites to showcase your accomplishment.

Do You Really Need a Customer Account Manager Certificate?

A Customer Account Manager Certificate can be a valuable asset for those seeking to advance their career in customer service. This type of certificate is usually awarded by a college or university after completing a program that focuses on the skills and knowledge required to effectively manage customer accounts.

The primary benefit of having a Customer Account Manager Certificate is that it will demonstrate to employers that you have the necessary skills and knowledge to successfully manage customer accounts. Many businesses require employees to have this type of certification in order to work in their customer service department. Having this type of certification may also open up opportunities for advancement within the company, as well as providing recognition from other organizations that recognize the value of such credentials.

Whether or not you need a Customer Account Manager Certificate depends largely on your current job role and career aspirations. If you are currently working in customer service but would like to move into an account management position, then having this certification may help you stand out from other candidates and give you an edge when it comes to securing a new job. On the other hand, if you are already working in an account management role, then having this certification may not provide much additional benefit since you should already possess the necessary skills and knowledge needed for success in this field.

In summary, whether or not you need a Customer Account Manager Certificate depends largely on your current career goals and current job role. If you are looking to move into an account management role or want recognition from other organizations for your professional qualifications, then obtaining such a certificate could be beneficial for your career prospects. However, if you already possess the necessary skills for success in this field, then there may be little additional value gained from obtaining such certification.

Related: Customer Account Manager Resume Examples

FAQs About Customer Account Manager Certifications

1. What is a Customer Account Manager Certification?

Answer: A Customer Account Manager Certification is a professional certification that demonstrates an individual’s ability to manage customer accounts and develop strategies for increased customer satisfaction. It is designed for professionals in the field of customer service, sales, or marketing who have experience working with customers and managing their accounts.

2. How do I become certified as a Customer Account Manager?

Answer: To become certified as a Customer Account Manager, individuals must complete a comprehensive program offered by an accredited institution such as a college or university. This program typically includes courses in customer service, sales, and marketing, as well as specialized courses in account management.

3. What are the benefits of becoming certified as a Customer Account Manager?

Answer: Becoming certified as a Customer Account Manager can lead to higher salaries and improved job opportunities. Additionally, it demonstrates an individual’s commitment to excellence in customer service and their ability to develop effective strategies for improving customer relationships and satisfaction.

4. Is there any continuing education required after obtaining my certification?

Answer: Yes, most certifications require ongoing continuing education credits to maintain the certification status. This may include attending seminars or workshops related to account management or completing online courses on topics such as customer service best practices or sales techniques.

5. Are there any prerequisites for taking the certification exam?

Answer: Yes, some certifying organizations may require candidates to have prior experience working with customers or in account management before taking the exam. Additionally, candidates may need to submit proof of completion of relevant coursework prior to being allowed to take the exam.