Top 11 Hotel Concierge Certifications

Certifications are important for a hotel concierge in the job market because they demonstrate knowledge and expertise in the hospitality industry. In addition to demonstrating their knowledge and abilities, certifications also provide employers with assurance that a concierge is up-to-date on the latest trends and practices in the field. Certifications can give an edge to a concierge when it comes to getting hired, as employers can be confident that they are hiring someone who knows how to best serve their guests. Furthermore, certifications may open doors for career advancement opportunities within the hotel or other hospitality settings.

The purpose of this article is to review top certifications for Hotel Concierges and discuss how they can help advance a concierge's career.

What are Hotel Concierge Certifications?

Hotel concierge certification is a program designed to recognize and reward hospitality professionals who demonstrate a high level of expertise and knowledge in the hotel concierge profession. The program certifies that an individual has met the highest standards of performance, professionalism, and customer service in the field. Certification is achieved through a comprehensive exam that tests a person’s knowledge of customer service, product knowledge, problem solving skills, and other important topics related to the job.

Having hotel concierge certification can be beneficial for both employers and employees. For employers, it provides them with an assurance that their staff is knowledgeable about their profession and are prepared to provide customers with excellent service. It also gives employers peace of mind knowing that they have invested in a qualified employee who can help increase customer satisfaction and loyalty.

For employees, having this certification can be beneficial as it can signal to potential employers that they are dedicated professionals who take pride in their work. Additionally, it can serve as a great way for employees to differentiate themselves from other applicants when applying for jobs or seeking promotions within their current organization. Finally, having this certification may open up more career opportunities since many hotels prefer hiring certified personnel who possess the necessary skills required for the job.

Pro Tip: If you are looking to become a certified hotel concierge, be sure to research the specific requirements for certification in your area. Many certifications require formal training and experience in customer service, hospitality, and/or tourism. Additionally, some certifications may require knowledge of local attractions and establishments that are popular with tourists.

Related: What does a Hotel Concierge do?

Top 11 Hotel Concierge Certifications

Here’s our list of the best certifications available to Hotel Concierges today.

1. Certified Hotel Concierge (CHC)

Certified Hotel Concierge (CHC) is a professional certification program for hotel concierges. The program is offered by the International Hotel & Restaurant Association (IH&RA) and provides hotel concierges with an opportunity to demonstrate their knowledge, skills and abilities in providing exceptional customer service.

The CHC certification process involves completing an online application, passing a written exam, and attending a two-day workshop. The written exam consists of multiple choice questions on topics such as customer service, hospitality management, and hotel operations. The workshop covers topics such as communication strategies, problem solving techniques, and customer relations management.

The cost of the CHC certification program varies based on the country in which you are taking the course. In the United States, it typically costs between $500-$1000 USD.

It typically takes about 3-4 months to complete the entire process from start to finish.

2. Certified Guest Services Professional (CGSP)

Certified Guest Services Professional (CGSP) is a professional certification program designed to recognize hospitality professionals who demonstrate the knowledge and skills necessary to provide exceptional customer service. This certification is offered by the International Association of Hospitality Professionals (IAHP).

The CGSP course takes approximately 30 hours to complete and consists of four modules: Customer Service, Communication Skills, Problem Solving, and Professionalism. Upon completion of the course, you must pass an exam in order to become certified.

To get certified, you must first register for the program on the IAHP website. You will then be provided with access to the online course material and will be able to take the exam once you have completed all four modules.

The cost of becoming a Certified Guest Services Professional is $295 USD. This fee covers access to all course materials as well as the exam fee.

3. Certified Hospitality Supervisor (CHS)

Certified Hospitality Supervisor (CHS) is a professional certification program offered by the American Hotel & Lodging Educational Institute (AHLEI). It is designed to equip hospitality professionals with the knowledge and skills needed to effectively manage front-line staff, ensure guest satisfaction, and increase profitability. The CHS program covers topics such as customer service, leadership, communication, problem solving, and conflict resolution.

The CHS program consists of two components: an online course and a proctored exam. The online course takes approximately 16 hours to complete and can be completed at your own pace. The proctored exam is a three-hour test that must be taken in person at an approved testing center.

To get certified as a CHS, you must first register for the program on the AHLEI website. You will then need to purchase the online course for $375 and take the proctored exam for $250. Once you have successfully completed both components of the program, you will receive your official Certified Hospitality Supervisor certificate from AHLEI.

4. Certified Hotel Administrator (CHA)

Certified Hotel Administrator (CHA) is a professional certification program designed to recognize and validate the expertise of hotel professionals. It is offered by the American Hotel & Lodging Educational Institute (AHLEI). The CHA designation is a symbol of excellence that recognizes an individual's commitment to the hospitality industry and their knowledge of hotel operations.

The CHA program consists of four courses: Hotel Operations, Human Resources, Financial Management, and Marketing & Sales. Each course requires approximately 30 hours of study time. Upon successful completion of all four courses, individuals will receive their CHA certification.

To become certified as a CHA, individuals must have at least two years' experience in hotel management or related hospitality fields. They must also pass an online exam for each course with a score of 80% or higher. Additionally, they must complete the online application form and pay the required fees.

The cost for the entire CHA program is $1,195 USD which includes all four courses and the exam fee.

5. Certified Hospitality Manager (CHM)

Certified Hospitality Manager (CHM) is a professional certification program offered by the American Hotel & Lodging Educational Institute (AHLEI). This certification is designed to recognize hospitality professionals who have demonstrated knowledge and skill in managing hotel operations. It is intended for individuals working in or aspiring to management positions within the hospitality industry.

The CHM program consists of two parts: an online course and a proctored exam. The online course covers topics such as customer service, human resources, financial management, and operational efficiency. The proctored exam tests the candidate’s knowledge of the course material and their ability to apply it in real-world scenarios.

It typically takes between 6-8 weeks to complete the CHM program, depending on how quickly you are able to complete the online coursework and study for the exam.

To get certified, you must register with AHLEI and pay a fee that includes both the cost of the online course and the cost of taking the proctored exam. The total cost of getting certified varies depending on your membership status with AHLEI, but typically ranges from $350-$400 USD.

6. Certified Hospitality Educator (CHE)

Certified Hospitality Educator (CHE) is a professional certification program designed to recognize and reward excellence in hospitality education. It is the highest level of recognition available for educators in the hospitality industry. The CHE program is administered by the American Hotel & Lodging Educational Institute (AHLEI).

The CHE program requires applicants to complete an extensive application process that includes submitting evidence of their educational qualifications, teaching experience, and professional accomplishments. Applicants must also demonstrate their commitment to professional development and continuing education in the hospitality field. Once approved, applicants become Certified Hospitality Educators.

The CHE program takes approximately three months to complete from start to finish. To get started, applicants must first submit an online application and pay a non-refundable fee of $150 USD. After submitting the application, applicants will be contacted by AHLEI for further instructions on completing the process.

Once accepted into the program, applicants will receive access to exclusive resources such as webinars, online courses, and other materials designed to help them prepare for the final exam. The cost of these resources varies depending on which ones are chosen but typically range between $100-$300 USD.

Once all requirements have been met and passed, applicants will be awarded with their official CHE certification. This certificate is valid for five years and can be renewed after that period if necessary.

7. Certified Hospitality Sales Professional (CHSP)

Certified Hospitality Sales Professional (CHSP) is a certification program offered by the American Hotel & Lodging Educational Institute (AHLEI). It is designed to help hospitality professionals advance their sales and marketing skills. The CHSP certification provides recognition of the knowledge and skills necessary to effectively sell and market hotels, resorts, and other hospitality services.

The CHSP certification requires completion of an online course that covers topics such as customer service, sales strategies, pricing structures, and marketing plans. The course takes approximately 10-15 hours to complete. After completing the course, applicants must pass an exam to earn the CHSP designation.

The cost for the CHSP certification is $295 USD for AHLEI members or $345 USD for non-members. This fee includes access to the online course materials and one attempt at the certification exam. If you need additional attempts at the exam, there is an additional fee of $75 USD per attempt.

8. International Concierge and Guest Services Institute Certification

The International Concierge and Guest Services Institute (ICGSI) Certification is a professional certification program designed to recognize the highest level of service excellence in the hospitality industry. The ICGSI Certification is awarded to individuals who demonstrate a high level of knowledge and skills in providing exceptional guest services.

The ICGSI Certification requires applicants to complete an online course, which typically takes about 8-10 hours to complete. The course covers topics such as customer service, communication, problem solving, conflict resolution, and more. Upon successful completion of the course, applicants are required to take an exam that tests their knowledge and understanding of the material covered in the course.

To get certified by ICGSI, applicants must first register for the certification program. This can be done by visiting their website or contacting them directly. Once registered, applicants will receive access to the online course and exam. After completing both components successfully, applicants will receive their ICGSI Certification.

The cost of getting certified by ICGSI varies depending on how you decide to register for the program. If you register through their website, it costs $299 USD; however if you contact them directly they may offer discounted rates or other payment options such as installment plans or group discounts.

9. American Hotel & Lodging Educational Institute Certification

The American Hotel & Lodging Educational Institute (AHLEI) is a leading provider of hospitality industry certifications and educational programs. AHLEI provides certification programs for all levels of hospitality professionals, from entry-level to executive-level.

AHLEI offers a range of certifications that are designed to help hospitality professionals stand out in the industry and gain recognition for their skills and knowledge. Certifications are available in areas such as hotel operations, food and beverage management, sales and marketing, human resources, customer service, and more.

The length of time it takes to get an AHLEI certification depends on the type of certification you are seeking. Most certifications require completion of an online course or exam within a specific time frame. Some courses may take up to six months or more to complete depending on the level of difficulty.

To get an AHLEI certification, you must first meet the eligibility requirements for the specific certification you are seeking. Once you have met these requirements, you can register for the appropriate course or exam through the AHLEI website or contact your local AHLEI representative for assistance with registration. You will then need to complete the course or exam within the specified timeframe in order to receive your certification.

The cost of an AHLEI certification varies depending on which type of certification you are seeking and whether or not you choose to purchase additional study materials or enroll in a preparatory course prior to taking the exam. Generally speaking, most AHLEI certifications range between $200 - $500 USD per person depending on which type of program you choose.

10. International Association of Professional Concierges Certification

The International Association of Professional Concierges (IAPC) Certification is a professional certification program that recognizes the highest standards of service and professionalism in the concierge industry. It is designed to provide recognition to those who have achieved a level of excellence in the field and to help ensure high-quality service for clients.

In order to obtain IAPC certification, candidates must pass an exam that covers topics such as customer service, hospitality management, communication skills, problem solving, and more. The exam consists of multiple-choice questions and takes approximately two hours to complete. Candidates must also submit a portfolio demonstrating their knowledge and experience in the field.

The cost for IAPC certification is $200 USD for members of IAPC or $250 USD for non-members. The fee includes access to study materials, practice exams, and a one-year membership with IAPC upon successful completion of the exam.

Once certified, professionals are required to renew their certification every three years by submitting evidence of continuing education credits. This can be done through attending conferences or workshops related to concierge services or by taking online courses related to the profession.

11. National Concierge Association Certification

The National Concierge Association (NCA) Certification is a professional certification program for the concierge industry. It is designed to recognize those who have achieved a high level of expertise in the field of concierge services. The NCA Certification Program is open to all individuals who have at least two years of experience in the field and demonstrate a commitment to providing exceptional customer service.

It typically takes approximately six months to complete the NCA Certification Program, depending on the individual's experience and knowledge. To begin, applicants must submit an application form and provide proof of their employment history as well as references from previous employers or clients. Once accepted into the program, candidates will be required to complete an online course that covers topics such as customer service, communication skills, problem-solving techniques, and hospitality management. Upon successful completion of the course, applicants must pass a written examination in order to receive their certification.

The cost for the NCA Certification Program varies depending on the applicant's experience and location. In general, it costs around $500-$1,000 for application fees and course materials. Additionally, there may be additional fees for taking the written exam or attending any seminars or workshops related to concierge services.

Overall, obtaining an NCA Certification is a great way for individuals to demonstrate their commitment to providing excellent customer service in the concierge industry. It also provides them with recognition from peers and potential employers that they are knowledgeable about this field and can provide quality services to clients.

Do You Really Need a Hotel Concierge Certificate?

The decision to pursue a hotel concierge certificate is ultimately up to the individual. A certificate in this field may help to enhance your job prospects and provide you with an added edge when competing for jobs in the hospitality industry. Although it is not necessary to have a hotel concierge certificate, there are certain advantages that come with having one.

First and foremost, a hotel concierge certificate provides evidence of specialized knowledge related to the field. By completing a program such as this, you will gain the skills necessary to successfully provide guests with excellent customer service and meet their needs in a professional manner. Additionally, having a certificate can demonstrate to potential employers that you are dedicated to your career path and have taken the initiative to further your education.

Furthermore, having a hotel concierge certificate can also qualify you for higher-level positions within the hospitality industry. As such, earning this type of certification may enable you to advance in your career more quickly than someone without one. In addition, if you are looking for employment opportunities outside of the hospitality sector, having this certification may be beneficial as well since employers value candidates who show they have taken steps towards self-improvement and continuing their education.

In conclusion, while it is not necessary to have a hotel concierge certificate in order to work in the hospitality industry, it can certainly be beneficial in terms of enhancing your job prospects and furthering your career goals. Ultimately, whether or not you decide to pursue this type of certification should depend on your individual goals and objectives as well as any other qualifications that may be required by potential employers.

Related: Hotel Concierge Resume Examples

FAQs About Hotel Concierge Certifications

Q1. What is a hotel concierge certification?

A1. A hotel concierge certification is an official recognition by the Hotel and Lodging Association (HLA) that demonstrates a professional's knowledge of providing high-quality service to guests in the hospitality industry. This certification is held by individuals who have completed a specialized training program and have passed an examination demonstrating their knowledge and understanding of customer service, hospitality law, and other related topics.

Q2. What are the benefits of having a hotel concierge certification?

A2. Having a hotel concierge certification shows employers that you possess the necessary skills, knowledge, and experience to provide excellent customer service in the hospitality industry. It also gives you an edge over other job applicants with similar qualifications because employers know that you have taken the extra step to demonstrate your commitment to customer service excellence. Additionally, having this certification can open up more career opportunities in the hospitality field due to employers’ preference for certified professionals.

Q3. How do I get a hotel concierge certification?

A3. To become certified as a hotel concierge, you must complete an approved training program and pass an exam administered by the Hotel and Lodging Association (HLA). The training program typically covers topics such as customer service, hospitality law, safety regulations, communication skills, problem solving techniques, and more. Once you successfully pass the exam, you will receive your official HLA certificate of completion which will allow you to work as a certified hotel concierge in any accredited establishment worldwide.

Q4. How long does it take to get certified as a hotel concierge?

A4. Depending on your level of experience and training background, it can take anywhere from 6-12 months to complete all requirements for becoming certified as a hotel concierge through HLA’s program. This includes completing all required coursework and passing the final exam with at least 80% accuracy or higher in order to earn your certificate of completion from HLA.

Q5. Is there any ongoing education or professional development required after getting my hotel concierge certification?

A5: Yes! All certified hotel concierges must complete continuing education every two years in order to maintain their credentials with HLA Certification Program standards for best practices within the hospitality industry. Continuing education ensures that professionals stay up-to-date on new trends in customer service excellence so they can continue providing exceptional levels of service for their guests throughout their careers in this field