Top 10 Customer Service Specialist Certifications

Certifications are important for a customer service specialist in the job market because they demonstrate knowledge and expertise in the field. They show employers that the candidate has taken the time to learn more about customer service, which can lead to better job performance. Certified customer service specialists often have higher salaries than those without certifications, as employers recognize their commitment to learning and improving their skills. Certifications also provide customer service specialists with a sense of pride and accomplishment, as well as help them stand out from other applicants.

This article reviews the top certifications for Customer Service Specialists and explains how they can help develop and advance a customer service specialist's career.

What are Customer Service Specialist Certifications?

Customer service specialist certification is a professional credential that demonstrates an individual’s knowledge and experience in providing exceptional customer service. This certification can help individuals stand out from the competition and demonstrate their commitment to delivering excellent customer service. It can also help employers identify qualified candidates with the necessary skills to excel in customer service positions.

The certification consists of a comprehensive course covering topics such as building customer relationships, communication skills, problem solving and resolution, conflict management, product knowledge, and more. The course also provides students with hands-on training in areas like telephone etiquette, email communication, and live chat support. Upon completion of the program, students are required to take an exam to demonstrate mastery of the material covered in the course.

By earning this certification, individuals are able to demonstrate that they possess the knowledge and expertise needed to provide outstanding customer service. This can be beneficial for career advancement opportunities or when applying for new jobs. Additionally, employers may be more likely to hire certified candidates since they have proven their ability to provide exceptional customer service. As a result, earning this certification can help individuals stand out from other applicants and further their career prospects in this field.

Pro Tip: Consider obtaining customer service specialist certification to demonstrate your commitment to providing excellent customer service. Certification can help you stand out from other candidates and show employers that you have a deep understanding of the field. Additionally, many companies offer on-the-job certification programs that can help you hone your skills and stay up-to-date on the latest trends in customer service.

Related: What does a Customer Service Specialist do?

Top 10 Customer Service Specialist Certifications

Here’s our list of the best certifications available to Customer Service Specialists today.

1. Certified Customer Service Professional (CCSP)

Certified Customer Service Professional (CCSP) is a professional certification designed to recognize individuals who have achieved a high level of proficiency in customer service. It is awarded by the National Customer Service Association (NCSA), an organization dedicated to advancing the customer service profession.

The CCSP certification requires applicants to demonstrate their knowledge and skills in areas such as customer service fundamentals, problem solving, communication, conflict resolution, and management. To be eligible for the CCSP certification, applicants must have at least two years of experience in customer service or related fields.

The cost of obtaining the CCSP certification varies depending on the applicant’s location and other factors. Generally speaking, it costs around $500 to take the exam and receive the certificate.

The process of obtaining the CCSP certification typically takes between four and six weeks. Applicants must first register with NCSA and pay the applicable fees before they can take the exam. After registering, applicants will need to complete an online application form and submit it along with any required supporting documents. Once all requirements are met, applicants can schedule their exam date with NCSA and take the exam at an approved testing center. After passing the exam, applicants will receive their official CCSP certificate within four to six weeks.

2. Certified Customer Service Representative (CCSR)

A Certified Customer Service Representative (CCSR) is a professional certification program that provides individuals with the skills and knowledge to provide exceptional customer service. The CCSR program is designed to help customer service representatives develop their communication, problem-solving, and conflict resolution skills. It also helps them understand the importance of customer loyalty and retention.

The CCSR certification program typically takes about three months to complete. During this time, candidates must complete a series of online courses and exams that cover topics such as customer service fundamentals, customer psychology, communication techniques, problem solving strategies, and more.

To get certified as a CCSR, you must first register for the program through an accredited training provider. Once registered, you will be provided with access to the course material and exams. After completing all of the coursework and exams successfully, you will receive your CCSR certificate.

The cost of getting certified as a CCSR varies depending on which training provider you choose to register with. Generally speaking, it can cost anywhere from $500-$1,000 USD for the entire program.

3. Certified Professional in Customer Service (CPCS)

Certified Professional in Customer Service (CPCS) is a professional certification program designed to recognize individuals who demonstrate a high level of knowledge, skill, and expertise in customer service. The CPCS certification is offered by the International Customer Service Association (ICSA).

The CPCS certification is an online assessment-based program that consists of two parts: an online exam and a project. The online exam covers topics such as customer service fundamentals, communication skills, problem solving, conflict resolution, and customer service management. The project requires candidates to develop and present a customer service plan for their organization.

It takes approximately 8-10 weeks to complete the CPCS certification program. Candidates must first register for the program on the ICSA website and pay the registration fee. Once registered, they will receive access to study materials and practice exams. After studying the materials and taking practice exams, candidates can take the online exam at any time within 6 months of registering for the program. Upon successful completion of the exam, candidates will be asked to submit their project within 2 months of completing the exam.

The cost for registering for the CPCS certification program is $395 USD for non-members or $295 USD for members of ICSA.

4. Certified Customer Care Professional (CCCP)

Certified Customer Care Professional (CCCP) is a professional certification program designed to recognize customer service professionals who have demonstrated a high level of knowledge and skill in providing exceptional customer service. This certification is awarded by the National Customer Service Association (NCSA), an organization dedicated to helping customer service professionals improve their skills and knowledge.

The CCCP certification program consists of two parts: a written exam and a practical application test. The written exam covers topics such as customer service fundamentals, communication skills, problem-solving, conflict resolution, and more. The practical application test evaluates the candidate’s ability to apply the concepts learned during the written exam in real-world scenarios.

The CCCP certification process typically takes about four weeks to complete. Candidates must first submit an application for the program, which includes taking an online assessment and submitting a resume. Once accepted into the program, candidates will be required to attend an in-person training session that covers all aspects of the CCCP curriculum. After completing the training session, candidates will then take both the written exam and practical application test in order to receive their certification.

The cost of obtaining CCCP certification varies depending on location and other factors; however, it typically ranges from $500-$1000 USD.

5. Certified Customer Experience Professional (CXP)

Certified Customer Experience Professional (CXP) is a certification program designed to recognize professionals who have demonstrated expertise in customer experience management. The CXP certification is offered by the Customer Experience Professionals Association (CXPA), an international organization dedicated to advancing the practice of customer experience management.

The CXP certification requires applicants to demonstrate their knowledge, skills, and abilities in the areas of customer experience strategy, design, measurement, and optimization. The certification process includes passing a written exam and completing a portfolio project that demonstrates mastery of the topics covered on the exam.

It typically takes between three and six months to complete all of the requirements for CXP certification. The cost of the program varies depending on whether you are taking it as an individual or through an employer-sponsored program. For individuals, the total cost ranges from $2,000 - $3,500 USD. Employer-sponsored programs may be discounted or free depending on your company's agreement with CXPA.

6. International Customer Service Association Certification Program (ICSA-CP)

The International Customer Service Association (ICSA) Certification Program (ICSA-CP) is an internationally recognized certification program that provides customer service professionals with the knowledge, skills, and abilities needed to effectively manage customer service operations. The ICSA-CP is designed to help customer service professionals develop their skills in areas such as customer relations, problem solving, communication, and interpersonal relations.

The ICSA-CP takes approximately three months to complete. During this time, participants will be required to complete a series of online courses and exams. Upon successful completion of the program, participants will receive a certificate of completion from the ICSA.

To get started on the ICSA-CP program, you must first register on the ICSA website and pay a registration fee. This fee covers all course materials and access to online resources. After registering, you will be able to select the courses you wish to take and begin your studies. As you progress through each course, you will be required to complete assignments and take exams in order to demonstrate your mastery of the material. Once all of your courses have been completed successfully, you will receive your certificate of completion from the ICSA.

The cost for the ICSA-CP program varies depending on which courses are taken and how many credits are earned. Generally speaking, it costs around $500-$1000 USD for the entire program.

7. American Society for Quality Certification in Customer Satisfaction and Loyalty (ASQ CSL)

The American Society for Quality Certification in Customer Satisfaction and Loyalty (ASQ CSL) is a certification program designed to recognize organizations that have achieved excellence in customer satisfaction and loyalty. The certification is awarded to organizations that demonstrate a commitment to providing superior customer service, as well as an ability to measure and improve customer satisfaction.

To obtain the ASQ CSL certification, organizations must first complete an application process, which includes submitting documentation of their customer service practices and processes. Once the application is approved, the organization will be required to take part in a series of assessments conducted by ASQ. These assessments include surveys of customers, interviews with employees, and reviews of customer service policies and procedures. After these assessments are completed, ASQ will issue the organization a score based on their performance. If the score meets or exceeds the minimum requirements set by ASQ, then the organization will receive its ASQ CSL certification.

The cost of obtaining the ASQ CSL certification varies depending on the size of the organization applying for it. Generally speaking, it can range from several hundred dollars up to several thousand dollars. The length of time it takes to obtain the certification also depends on how quickly an organization can complete all necessary steps in order to meet all requirements set by ASQ.

In conclusion, obtaining an ASQ CSL certification requires significant effort from an organization in terms of completing paperwork and undergoing assessments; however, it also provides valuable recognition for those who have successfully met all requirements set by ASQ and demonstrated excellence in customer service practices and processes.

8. Certified Call Center Representative (CCCR)

Certified Call Center Representative (CCCR) is a certification program offered by the International Customer Service Association (ICSA). It is designed to recognize individuals who demonstrate excellence in customer service and call center operations. The CCCR certification requires successful completion of an online assessment, completion of a course on customer service and call center operations, and passing an exam.

The online assessment typically takes about 30 minutes to complete. After completing the assessment, you will receive an email with instructions for enrolling in the course. The course consists of 15 modules that cover topics such as customer service fundamentals, communication skills, problem solving, and call center technology. You must successfully complete all modules before taking the final exam.

The cost for the CCCR certification is $299 USD. This fee covers the cost of enrollment in the course and taking the final exam. Once you have successfully completed all requirements for certification, you will receive a certificate of achievement from ICSA acknowledging your accomplishment.

9. Six Sigma Green Belt for Customer Service Professionals

Six Sigma Green Belt for Customer Service Professionals is a certification program designed to help customer service professionals improve their skills and knowledge in the field of Six Sigma. It is a comprehensive training program that focuses on the principles, tools, and techniques of Six Sigma and how they can be applied to customer service operations.

How long does it take to get it?

The duration of the course varies depending on the type of program chosen, but typically takes 8-10 weeks to complete.

How to get it?

There are various ways to obtain a Six Sigma Green Belt for Customer Service Professionals certification. You can enroll in an online or in-person course offered by accredited organizations such as ASQ (American Society for Quality) or IASSC (International Association for Six Sigma Certification). You may also opt for self-study and take practice exams before taking the final exam.

How much does it cost?

The cost of obtaining a Six Sigma Green Belt for Customer Service Professionals certification depends on the organization offering the course. Generally speaking, you can expect to pay anywhere from $500-$1,000 USD depending on the provider and type of program chosen.

10. Microsoft Office Specialist –Customer Service

Microsoft Office Specialist – Customer Service is a certification program that provides individuals with the skills and knowledge to provide customer service using Microsoft Office applications. The certification covers topics such as creating documents, managing data, formatting text, working with tables, and more. It also covers customer service topics such as understanding customer needs, communication techniques, problem solving, and conflict resolution.

The length of time it takes to get the certification depends on the individual’s level of experience and how quickly they can learn the material. Generally speaking, it can take anywhere from one to three months to complete the training and receive your certification.

To get certified in Microsoft Office Specialist – Customer Service you must first pass an exam administered by Certiport. The exam consists of multiple-choice questions covering all aspects of customer service using Microsoft Office applications. You will need to score at least 700 out of 1000 points on the exam in order to pass.

The cost for taking the exam varies depending on where you take it and what type of testing center you use. Generally speaking, it can cost anywhere from $50-$150 USD for the exam itself.

Do You Really Need a Customer Service Specialist Certificate?

The answer to this question depends on the individual and their career goals. For some, a customer service specialist certificate may be necessary for career advancement in their particular field. For others, a certificate may not be necessary but could still provide them with valuable knowledge and skills that they can use to enhance their job performance.

For those who are looking to advance their careers in the customer service field, a customer service specialist certificate may be essential in order to demonstrate an increased level of expertise and knowledge. Many employers now require such certifications as part of the hiring process and will look more favorably upon applicants who have them. A certificate can also provide individuals with a deeper understanding of customer service principles and techniques which can help them better serve customers.

However, even if one is not seeking to advance their career in the customer service field, a certification could still be beneficial for those interested in increasing their job performance or gaining additional knowledge about customer service principles. Obtaining a specialty certification can help to demonstrate dedication to one’s profession as well as provide individuals with new skills that can help them excel at their job.

In conclusion, whether or not one needs a customer service specialist certificate depends on the individual and what they hope to gain from obtaining it. For some, such a certification is essential for career advancement while for others it may simply offer additional knowledge or skills that can improve job performance or give an edge when applying for jobs in the future.

Related: Customer Service Specialist Resume Examples

FAQs About Customer Service Specialist Certifications

Q1. What is a Customer Service Specialist Certification?

A1. A Customer Service Specialist Certification is a professional certification that validates the knowledge and skills of customer service professionals in areas such as customer service principles, communication styles, problem-solving techniques, and customer relationship management.

Q2. How do I become certified as a Customer Service Specialist?

A2. To become certified as a Customer Service Specialist, you must pass an exam administered by an accredited organization such as the Institute of Certified Professional Managers (ICPM). The exam covers topics such as customer service principles, communication styles, problem-solving techniques, and customer relationship management.

Q3. What are the benefits of becoming certified as a Customer Service Specialist?

A3. Becoming certified as a Customer Service Specialist can help to demonstrate your expertise in this field to employers and customers alike. It also gives you access to exclusive resources from ICPM and other organizations that can help you stay up to date on industry trends and best practices. Additionally, it may open up job opportunities or provide you with leverage for salary negotiation.

Q4. How long does it take to become a Certified Customer Service Specialist?

A4. The length of time it takes to become certified depends on the individual's experience level and preparation for the exam. Generally speaking, most people are able to complete their certification within six months or less if they study diligently and use available resources such as practice exams or study guides provided by ICPM or other accredited organizations.

Q5. Is there an expiration date for my certification?

A5: Yes, certifications typically have an expiration date which must be renewed every two years in order to maintain active status and remain eligible for certain benefits associated with certification programs offered by accredited organizations like ICPM