Top 10 Front Desk Attendant Certifications

Certifications for a front desk attendant are important for several reasons. First, they demonstrate to potential employers that the individual has the knowledge and skills necessary to perform the job effectively. Second, certifications can help an individual stand out from other applicants in a competitive job market. Third, certifications provide recognition of an individual’s expertise and commitment to professional development. Finally, certifications provide credibility to an individual’s resume or CV and can open up new opportunities for advancement within the industry.

This article reviews some of the top certifications for Front Desk Attendants and explains how they can help to advance a front desk attendant's career.

What are Front Desk Attendant Certifications?

Front desk attendant certification is a type of certification that is designed to help professionals in the hospitality industry gain the skills and knowledge necessary to provide exceptional customer service. This certification typically covers topics such as hotel policies, customer service techniques, problem-solving strategies, and other essential hospitality skills. By obtaining a front desk attendant certification, individuals are better equipped to handle the demands of their job, which can lead to improved performance and customer satisfaction. Furthermore, having this type of certification can make individuals more attractive to employers in the hospitality industry by demonstrating a commitment to professional development.

Pro Tip: When considering front desk attendant certification, make sure to research the requirements for the type of certification you are seeking. Different certifications may have different prerequisites and educational requirements, so it is important to make sure you are meeting all of the necessary criteria before committing to a program.

Related: What does a Front Desk Attendant do?

Top 10 Front Desk Attendant Certifications

Here’s our list of the best certifications available to Front Desk Attendants today.

1. Certified Hotel Administrator (CHA)

Certified Hotel Administrator (CHA) is a professional certification offered by the American Hotel & Lodging Educational Institute (AHLEI). The CHA certification is designed to recognize and promote excellence in hotel management. It is a way for employers to identify qualified candidates who have the knowledge and skills necessary to manage a successful hotel.

The CHA certification requires applicants to pass an exam that covers topics such as hospitality law, human resources, marketing, operations, finance, and technology. The exam consists of multiple-choice questions and takes approximately three hours to complete.

In order to apply for the CHA certification, applicants must have at least two years of experience in hotel management or related fields. They must also submit an application form, pay the required fee, and provide proof of their work experience.

The cost of the CHA certification varies depending on whether you are taking the online or paper-based version of the exam. The online version costs $395 USD while the paper version costs $495 USD.

2. Certified Guest Service Professional (CGSP)

Certified Guest Service Professional (CGSP) is a certification program designed to help hospitality professionals improve their customer service skills. The CGSP program was developed by the American Hotel & Lodging Educational Institute (AHLEI). It provides hospitality professionals with the knowledge and skills necessary to create an exceptional guest experience.

The CGSP program consists of two parts: an online course and an exam. The online course covers topics such as customer service fundamentals, communication techniques, problem-solving strategies, and more. The course typically takes about 10 hours to complete. Once the course is finished, students can take the exam, which is administered at AHLEI testing centers or online through ProctorU.

The cost of the CGSP program varies depending on whether you take the course or just take the exam. If you take both the course and exam, it will cost around $200 USD. If you only take the exam, it will cost around $150 USD.

To get certified as a Certified Guest Service Professional (CGSP), you must successfully complete both parts of the program – taking and passing both the online course and exam with a score of 80% or higher.

3. Certified Hospitality Supervisor (CHS)

Certified Hospitality Supervisor (CHS) is a professional certification program designed to validate the knowledge and skills of hospitality supervisors. The certification is offered by the American Hotel & Lodging Educational Institute (AHLEI).

The CHS program provides supervisors with the tools and resources they need to effectively manage their teams, improve customer service, and increase profitability. It covers topics such as customer service, leadership, communication, problem-solving, and conflict resolution.

The CHS certification program consists of an online course and an exam. The online course takes between 8-10 hours to complete. After successfully completing the course, candidates must pass a proctored exam in order to receive their certification.

The cost of the CHS program varies depending on whether you are an AHLEI member or non-member. For members, the cost is $299; for non-members it is $399. Additionally, there may be additional costs associated with taking the proctored exam at a testing center.

4. Certified Hospitality Educator (CHE)

Certified Hospitality Educator (CHE) is a professional certification program offered by the Educational Institute of the American Hotel & Lodging Association (AH&LA). The CHE credential is designed to recognize hospitality educators who have demonstrated mastery of the knowledge, skills, and abilities necessary to teach in the hospitality industry.

To become certified, applicants must have a minimum of three years' teaching experience in hospitality-related fields, including lodging management, food and beverage operations, or tourism. Applicants must also submit an application form and provide evidence of their teaching experience. Once approved, they will be required to take a comprehensive exam that covers topics such as hospitality law, human resources management, marketing principles and strategies, financial analysis and control systems for hotels and restaurants.

The CHE certification process typically takes between four to six months from start to finish. The cost of the program varies depending on the applicant's location; however, it typically ranges from $400 - $600 USD.

5. Certified Hospitality Technology Professional (CHTP)

Certified Hospitality Technology Professional (CHTP) is a certification program offered by the Hospitality Financial and Technology Professionals (HFTP). The CHTP certification is designed to recognize hospitality technology professionals who have achieved a high level of knowledge, skills and experience in the field. It is an internationally recognized credential that demonstrates mastery of hospitality technology concepts and best practices.

The CHTP certification requires a minimum of three years of full-time work experience in hospitality technology, as well as successful completion of a comprehensive exam. Candidates must also demonstrate their commitment to continuing education in the field.

The exam consists of 150 multiple-choice questions covering topics such as hospitality industry operations, information systems management, software applications, network infrastructure, security and privacy regulations, data analytics, customer service technologies and more. Candidates have up to four hours to complete the exam.

The cost for the CHTP certification exam varies depending on the country where you are taking it. In the United States it costs $495 USD; in Canada it costs $595 CAD; and in Europe it costs €395 EURO.

In order to become certified, candidates must pass the CHTP exam with a score of 80% or higher. Once certified, individuals must maintain their credentials by completing at least 12 hours of continuing education every three years.

6. International Association of Administrative Professionals (IAAP) Certification

The International Association of Administrative Professionals (IAAP) is a professional organization that provides certification for administrative professionals. The IAAP Certification Program is designed to recognize and validate the knowledge, skills, and abilities of administrative professionals. It is an industry-recognized credential that demonstrates a commitment to professional development and excellence in the field of administrative support.

The IAAP Certification Program consists of two levels: Certified Administrative Professional (CAP) and Master Administrative Professional (MAP). To become certified at either level, applicants must pass a comprehensive exam that covers topics such as office technology, project management, customer service, communications, business writing, problem-solving, and more.

It typically takes six months to one year to complete the CAP or MAP program. The amount of time it takes depends on how much time the applicant can dedicate to studying each week. Applicants should plan on spending 10-15 hours per week studying for the exams.

To get started with the IAAP Certification Program, applicants must first become members of IAAP by paying an annual membership fee. Once they are members, they can register for the CAP or MAP program online through the IAAP website. After registering for the program, applicants will receive study materials and access to practice tests which they can use to prepare for the exam.

The cost of becoming certified varies depending on whether you are a member or nonmember of IAAP and which level you are pursuing (CAP or MAP). For nonmembers, it costs $399 for CAP certification and $499 for MAP certification; for members, it costs $299 for CAP certification and $399 for MAP certification.

7. Professional in Guest Services (PGS)

Professional in Guest Services (PGS) is a certification program offered by the International Association of Professional in Guest Services (IAPGS). This certification is designed to recognize and validate the skills and knowledge of professionals in the hospitality industry who are responsible for providing exceptional guest services.

The PGS certification requires applicants to complete a series of courses, pass a written exam, and demonstrate their commitment to excellence through a portfolio review. The program takes approximately six months to complete, but this timeline can vary depending on an individual's prior experience and background.

The cost of the PGS certification program varies depending on the type of coursework taken and the length of time required to complete it. Generally speaking, applicants can expect to pay anywhere from $500 - $2,000 for their PGS certification.

In order to apply for PGS certification, applicants must first meet certain eligibility requirements. These include having at least two years of experience in guest services or customer service roles as well as completing an approved training course or workshop related to guest services. Additionally, applicants must submit an application form along with proof of their professional experience and qualifications.

8. Customer Service Representative Certification

Customer Service Representative Certification is a professional certification that demonstrates a person's knowledge and skills in providing excellent customer service. The certification is offered by the International Customer Service Association (ICSA) and it typically takes about six months to complete the program.

To get certified, individuals must first complete an online application, which includes a background check. After the application is approved, applicants must then pass an exam that covers topics such as customer service principles, communication techniques, problem-solving strategies, and conflict resolution. Additionally, applicants must also demonstrate their knowledge of customer service software applications such as CRM systems.

The cost of the certification varies depending on the provider; however, it usually ranges from $200 to $400 USD. Additionally, there may be additional costs associated with taking the exam such as registration fees or proctoring fees.

9. Front Desk Receptionist Certification

Front Desk Receptionist Certification is an industry-recognized credential that demonstrates a professional’s knowledge and competence in the field of front desk reception. It is designed to provide employers with assurance that the individual has the skills necessary to successfully perform the duties of a front desk receptionist.

It typically takes between four and eight weeks to complete the certification process, depending on the program chosen. To get certified, individuals must complete a series of courses and exams related to customer service, office procedures, telephone etiquette, and other topics relevant to front desk reception.

The cost of certification varies depending on the program chosen but usually ranges from $100-$500. Additionally, some programs may require additional fees for books or materials used during training.

10. Hospitality Management Certificate

Hospitality Management Certificate is a certificate program that provides students with the knowledge and skills needed to manage hospitality operations. It typically includes courses in business management, hospitality law, food service management, customer service, and human resources. The program usually takes between one and two years to complete depending on the institution offering it.

To get a Hospitality Management Certificate, you must first enroll in an accredited program at a college or university. You will then need to complete all of the required courses, which may include classes such as accounting, marketing, economics, and hospitality law. After completing the coursework, you will need to pass a final exam to receive your certificate.

The cost of obtaining a Hospitality Management Certificate varies depending on the institution offering it and whether you are taking online or in-person classes. Generally speaking, online programs tend to be more affordable than in-person programs. Additionally, some institutions may offer financial aid options for those who qualify.

Do You Really Need a Front Desk Attendant Certificate?

No, you do not need a front desk attendant certificate to work as a front desk attendant. The type of training and certification that is required for a job as a front desk attendant will vary from employer to employer. Some employers may require formal training or a certification, while others may simply prefer someone with experience in customer service or hospitality.

That said, having some kind of certification or training can be beneficial for anyone looking to become a front desk attendant. It can demonstrate that you have the knowledge and skills necessary to provide excellent customer service and hospitality, which is essential for this role. Having additional certifications also shows potential employers that you are dedicated to your career and willing to invest in yourself by furthering your education.

Ultimately, whether or not you need a front desk attendant certificate will depend on the specific requirements of the job you are applying for. If it is listed as an absolute requirement, then it would be wise to pursue one if possible. However, if it is not explicitly stated as a requirement, then having experience in customer service or hospitality could make up for lack of formal training or certification.

Related: Front Desk Attendant Resume Examples

FAQs About Front Desk Attendant Certifications

FAQ #1: What is a Front Desk Attendant Certification?

Answer: A Front Desk Attendant Certification is a professional certification that recognizes individuals who have completed specialized training to work in the hospitality industry as a front desk attendant. This certification typically includes courses in customer service, computer skills, and hotel operations.

FAQ #2: How long does it take to get certified as a Front Desk Attendant?

Answer: The amount of time it takes to become certified as a Front Desk Attendant can vary depending on the certifying organization and the type of coursework required. Generally, it takes between 6-12 months to complete all necessary training and exams.

FAQ #3: What are the benefits of becoming certified as a Front Desk Attendant?

Answer: Becoming certified as a Front Desk Attendant can provide numerous benefits, including increased job security and advancement opportunities, enhanced credibility with customers, greater knowledge of hotel operations, and improved customer service skills.

FAQ #4: Is there an exam I need to take for my Front Desk Attendant Certification?

Answer: Yes, most certifying organizations require applicants to pass an exam in order to be awarded their certification. The exam typically covers topics related to customer service, computer skills, and hotel operations.

FAQ #5: Can I obtain my Front Desk Attendant Certification online?

Answer: Yes, many certifying organizations offer online courses and exams that allow individuals to obtain their certification without having to attend in-person classes. However, these courses may require additional requirements such as hands-on experience or proof of work experience in order to qualify for the certification.