Top 11 National Sales Manager Certifications

Certifications are important for a national sales manager in the job market because they demonstrate a certain level of expertise and knowledge that employers look for when hiring. Certifications show that the individual has taken the time to learn and understand the necessary skillset required to be successful in their role. They also provide proof that the individual is committed to staying up-to-date on industry trends, which is critical for any sales manager. Furthermore, certifications can help candidates stand out from other applicants and give them an edge in competitive job markets.

This article reviews some of the top certifications for National Sales Managers and explains how they can help to further a national sales manager's career.

What are National Sales Manager Certifications?

National Sales Manager Certification is a professional certification that recognizes individuals who have achieved a level of excellence in sales management. This certification demonstrates to employers and peers that an individual has the knowledge and skills necessary to effectively lead a sales team. The certification is offered by various organizations, including the American Management Association and the Professional Sales Management Association.

The National Sales Manager Certification program provides individuals with an opportunity to learn more about sales management, from both theoretical and practical perspectives. This includes topics such as managing customer relationships, developing sales strategies, understanding customer needs and trends, budgeting for sales teams, and recruiting and training new employees. In addition to providing knowledge about sales management topics, the program also offers practical skills such as coaching techniques for motivating team members, problem-solving strategies for resolving conflicts between team members or customers, and methods for tracking results.

Having a National Sales Manager Certification can help individuals stand out in the job market by showing prospective employers that they possess the necessary skills to be successful in a leadership role. The certification also helps professionals stay up-to-date on industry trends by requiring them to take continuing education courses every year in order to maintain their certification status. Finally, having this credential can help open doors to new career opportunities that may not have been available otherwise due to lack of experience or qualifications.

Pro Tip: Pursuing national sales manager certification can help you stay up to date with the latest trends in sales and marketing, as well as give you the skills to become a more successful sales manager. It can also open up job opportunities that may not have been available without the certification.

Related: What does a National Sales Manager do?

Top 11 National Sales Manager Certifications

Here’s our list of the best certifications available to National Sales Managers today.

1. Certified Professional Sales Manager (CPSM)

Certified Professional Sales Manager (CPSM) is a professional certification program offered by the Sales Management Association (SMA). The CPSM is designed to recognize sales managers who have demonstrated excellence in sales management. It is the only certification of its kind that focuses on the unique skills and knowledge required for successful sales management.

The CPSM Program consists of three levels: Level I, II, and III. Each level requires passing an exam and meeting certain criteria set forth by the SMA. To be eligible for Level I, applicants must have at least two years of full-time sales management experience or equivalent part-time experience. For Levels II and III, applicants must have at least five years of full-time sales management experience or equivalent part-time experience.

To earn the CPSM designation, applicants must pass all three exams within five years from when they first passed their first exam. Applicants can take as much time as they need to prepare for each exam; however, if they do not pass all three exams within five years, they will need to start over from the beginning.

The cost for each level of the CPSM program varies depending on how many exams you are taking and whether you are taking them online or in person. Generally speaking, it costs around $500 per exam plus an additional fee for materials such as study guides and practice exams.

Overall, earning the Certified Professional Sales Manager (CPSM) designation can take anywhere from six months to two years depending on how much time you dedicate to studying and preparing for each exam.

2. Certified Professional in Sales and Marketing (CPSM)

Certified Professional in Sales and Marketing (CPSM) is a professional certification program offered by the Institute for Professional Excellence in Selling (IPES). The program is designed to help sales and marketing professionals develop their skills, knowledge, and expertise in order to become more effective leaders in their respective fields.

The CPSM program consists of three levels: Certified Professional in Sales Management (CPSM), Certified Professional in Sales Leadership (CPSL), and Certified Professional in Marketing Management (CPMM). Each level requires participants to complete a series of courses, exams, and assessments.

It typically takes about two years to complete the entire CPSM program. However, it is possible to complete the program faster depending on the individual's commitment and dedication.

To get certified as a CPSM, you must first register for an IPES membership. After registering, you can then choose which level you would like to pursue. Once you have chosen your desired level, you can purchase the appropriate course materials from IPES. After purchasing the course materials, you will then need to pass all required exams and assessments before becoming certified.

The cost of getting certified as a CPSM varies depending on which level you are pursuing. Generally speaking, it costs around $2,000-$3,000 USD for each level of certification.

3. Certified Sales Executive (CSE)

Certified Sales Executive (CSE) is an industry-recognized certification for sales professionals. It is a comprehensive program that covers the fundamentals of selling, from prospecting and qualifying to closing and account management. The CSE certification program is designed to help salespeople become more effective in their jobs by providing them with the knowledge and skills necessary to succeed in today’s competitive market.

The CSE certification program consists of three parts: an online course, a field exam, and a final exam. The online course includes topics such as prospecting, qualifying leads, building relationships, understanding customer needs, presenting solutions, negotiating deals, and closing sales. The field exam consists of hands-on activities that test the candidate’s ability to apply what they have learned in the online course. Finally, the final exam tests the candidate’s knowledge of all aspects of the CSE curriculum.

It typically takes around 6 months to complete all three components of the CSE certification program. During this time period, candidates must attend classes or workshops offered by accredited institutions or organizations approved by the National Association of Sales Professionals (NASP).

The cost for completing the CSE certification program varies depending on which organization or institution you choose to take it through. Generally speaking, you can expect to pay anywhere from $500-$2,000 for tuition fees and materials.

In order to receive your CSE certification after completing all three components successfully, you will need to submit an application form along with any supporting documents required by NASP. Once your application has been approved and processed by NASP, you will receive your official certificate in the mail within 4-6 weeks.

4. Certified Sales Management Professional (CSMP)

Certified Sales Management Professional (CSMP) is a professional certification program designed to recognize individuals who have demonstrated the knowledge, skills and abilities necessary to be successful in sales management. The CSMP designation is awarded by the Professional Association of Sales Managers (PASM), which is an international organization dedicated to advancing the profession of sales management.

To become a Certified Sales Management Professional, applicants must meet the following criteria:

• Have at least five years of sales management experience
• Possess a bachelor's degree or higher from an accredited college or university
• Pass an exam that tests their knowledge and skills in areas such as sales strategy, customer relationship management, market analysis, and business development
• Submit references from three current or former employers attesting to their sales success
• Agree to abide by PASM’s Code of Ethics and Standards of Practice

The process of becoming a Certified Sales Management Professional typically takes several months. Applicants must first complete an application form and submit it along with all required documents. Once approved, they will be invited to take the CSMP exam. The exam consists of multiple-choice questions covering topics such as sales strategy, customer relationship management, market analysis, and business development. After passing the exam, applicants will receive their official CSMP certificate.

The cost for becoming a Certified Sales Management Professional varies depending on the country in which you are applying. In general, applicants should expect to pay an application fee plus any additional fees associated with taking the exam.

5. Certified Strategic Selling Professional (CSSP)

Certified Strategic Selling Professional (CSSP) is a certification program offered by the American Association of Professional Sales (AAPS). It is designed to help sales professionals develop and refine their skills in strategic selling. The CSSP focuses on developing an understanding of customer needs, developing strategies to meet those needs, and leveraging relationships to close deals.

The CSSP certification requires completion of a two-day workshop and passing an exam. The workshop covers topics such as understanding customer needs, creating value propositions, building relationships with customers, negotiating effectively, and closing deals. The exam consists of multiple-choice questions and case studies.

To get the CSSP certification, you must first complete the two-day workshop and pass the exam. You can find workshops offered by AAPS or other organizations in your area. The cost for the workshop varies depending on the provider but typically ranges from $500-$1,000 USD. After completing the workshop and passing the exam, you will receive your CSSP certification from AAPS.

The cost for taking the exam is $250 USD for members of AAPS or $350 USD for non-members.

6. Certified Account Manager (CAM)

Certified Account Manager (CAM) is a professional certification program designed to help account managers develop their skills and knowledge in order to better serve their clients. The program focuses on topics such as customer service, relationship building, sales strategies, and more. It is offered by the Professional Association of Account Managers (PAAM).

The CAM program consists of two parts: an online course and an exam. The online course takes approximately 8-10 hours to complete and covers topics such as customer service, relationship building, sales strategies, and more. After completing the course, participants must pass an exam in order to receive their certification.

To get certified as a Certified Account Manager (CAM), applicants must meet certain eligibility requirements including having at least 2 years of experience in account management or related fields. In addition, applicants must have completed the online course and passed the exam with a score of 70% or higher.

The cost for becoming a Certified Account Manager (CAM) varies depending on the provider but typically ranges from $500-$1000 USD.

7. Certified Business Development Manager (CBDCM)

Certified Business Development Manager (CBDCM) is a professional certification program designed to recognize the knowledge and skills of experienced business development professionals. It is an internationally recognized certification that provides recognition for those who have demonstrated their expertise in the field of business development.

The CBDCM certification program was developed by the International Association of Business Development Professionals (IABDP). The program requires applicants to demonstrate their knowledge and experience in the areas of sales, marketing, finance, operations, strategy, customer service, and technology. Applicants must also pass a comprehensive exam to receive their certification.

The CBDCM certification program typically takes between six months and one year to complete depending on the individual's experience level. To become certified, applicants must first submit an application for review by IABDP. Once approved, they will be required to complete a series of courses and exams before receiving their certification. The cost of the CBDCM certification program can vary depending on the individual's experience level and location but typically ranges from $2,000-$4,000 USD.

In order to maintain their CBDCM certification status, individuals must participate in continuing education programs or attend conferences related to business development every two years. This ensures that they are up-to-date with industry trends and best practices.

8. Certified Business Relationship Manager (CBRM)

Certified Business Relationship Manager (CBRM) is a professional certification program designed to equip professionals with the knowledge and skills needed to effectively manage business relationships in a corporate setting. The CBRM certification program focuses on developing the core competencies required to build and maintain successful business relationships, such as communication, negotiation, problem solving, conflict resolution, and customer service.

The CBRM certification program typically takes between 12-18 months to complete. It consists of three levels: Foundation Level (which covers the basics of business relationship management), Intermediate Level (which covers more advanced topics such as stakeholder analysis, project management, and team dynamics), and Advanced Level (which covers topics such as strategic planning and organizational change).

In order to get certified as a CBRM, you must first pass an exam administered by an accredited certifying body. There are several organizations that offer CBRM certification exams, including the International Association of Business Relationship Managers (IABRM), the American Council for Business Relationships Management (ACBRM), and the Global Institute for Business Relationship Management (GIBRM).

The cost of getting certified as a CBRM varies depending on which certifying body you choose. Generally speaking, it can cost anywhere from $500-$2,000 USD to take the exam and receive your certification.

9. Certified Channel Partner Manager (CCPM)

Certified Channel Partner Manager (CCPM) is a certification program offered by the Channel Partners Association (CPA). It is designed to help channel partners and vendors better manage their relationships and increase sales performance. The CCPM certification is a comprehensive program that covers topics such as channel partner management, customer relationship management, sales process optimization, marketing strategies, and more.

It typically takes approximately three months to complete the CCPM certification program. During this time, participants will learn about the different aspects of channel partner management including how to develop and maintain relationships with vendors, how to create effective sales plans and strategies, how to optimize customer service processes, and how to use technology for maximum efficiency.

To get certified in CCPM you must first become a member of the CPA. Once you have become a member, you can then apply for the certification program. The application process includes submitting an online application form as well as providing proof of professional experience in channel partner management or related fields. After your application has been approved by the CPA board of directors, you will then be required to attend an in-person training session at one of their locations.

The cost of getting certified in CCPM varies depending on which package you choose. The basic package costs around $1,500 USD while the premium package costs around $2,500 USD. This fee includes access to all course materials and resources needed for completion of the certification program as well as access to ongoing support from CPA staff members throughout your journey towards becoming a Certified Channel Partner Manager.

10. Certified International Sales Professional (CISP)

The Certified International Sales Professional (CISP) is a certification program offered by the National Association of Sales Professionals (NASP). It is designed to recognize and reward individuals who have achieved a high level of excellence in international sales. The CISP certification is awarded to those who demonstrate an understanding of international sales practices, including market research, customer service, negotiation and closing techniques, cultural awareness, and global logistics.

The CISP program consists of a series of courses that must be completed in order to qualify for the certification. These courses cover topics such as international business law, global trade regulations, export/import procedures, and international marketing. The total course time required to complete the CISP program is approximately 40 hours.

To become certified as a CISP professional, you must first complete the required coursework and then pass an exam administered by NASP. The exam covers all aspects of international sales and is designed to test your knowledge and skills in this field. Once you have successfully passed the exam, you will receive your official CISP certification from NASP.

The cost for the entire CISP program varies depending on which courses you choose to take and how long it takes you to complete them. In general, however, it typically costs around $1,500-$2,000 USD for all required courses and exams.

11. Certified Solution Selling Professional (CSSP).

Certified Solution Selling Professional (CSSP) is a professional certification program designed to help sales professionals develop the skills and knowledge necessary to successfully sell complex solutions. The CSSP program is offered by the Sales Performance Institute (SPI), an industry leader in sales training and development.

The CSSP program consists of six core modules, each focusing on a different aspect of solution selling:

1. Understanding the Buyer’s Journey

2. Building Credibility with Prospects

3. Crafting Solutions for Your Customers

4. Creating Value Propositions That Resonate

5. Leveraging Technology for Maximum Impact

6. Driving Results Through Execution

The program typically takes about 12-18 months to complete, depending on how quickly you are able to work through the material and complete all of the assessments associated with each module. Upon completion of all six modules, you will receive your official CSSP certification from SPI.

The cost of the CSSP program varies based on several factors, including whether or not you are an SPI member and if you choose to take part in any additional workshops or coaching sessions offered by SPI as part of the program. Generally speaking, however, it can range anywhere from $2,000-$4,000 USD depending on these factors and other variables such as discounts or special offers available at any given time.

Do You Really Need a National Sales Manager Certificate?

The answer to this question depends on the individual's career goals and aspirations. For some people, a National Sales Manager Certificate may be necessary in order to achieve their desired level of success within the sales industry. A National Sales Manager Certificate provides individuals with the knowledge and skills needed to effectively manage a sales team, as well as develop effective strategies for increasing sales and profits.

For those who have already achieved success in their current sales roles, a National Sales Manager Certificate may not be necessary. However, obtaining such a certificate can provide potential employers with further proof of an individual’s dedication to their profession and commitment to excellence. It also demonstrates that an individual has taken it upon themselves to stay up-to-date on the latest trends in sales management and is willing to invest in their own professional development.

Ultimately, whether or not someone needs a National Sales Manager Certificate will depend on their individual goals and ambitions. For those looking to take their careers in sales management to the next level, obtaining such a certification could prove invaluable.

Related: National Sales Manager Resume Examples

FAQs About National Sales Manager Certifications

Q1. What is a National Sales Manager Certification?

A1. A National Sales Manager Certification is a professional certification program that demonstrates proficiency in sales management and leadership skills. It is designed to recognize individuals who have achieved advanced knowledge and experience in the field of sales management.

Q2. What are the requirements for obtaining a National Sales Manager Certification?

A2. The requirements vary depending on the certifying organization, but typically include having at least five years of sales management experience, completing an approved training course, and passing an exam.

Q3. How long does it take to obtain a National Sales Manager Certification?

A3. It usually takes 6-12 months to complete the certification process, depending on the certifying organization's requirements and how quickly you can meet them.

Q4. What are the benefits of obtaining a National Sales Manager Certification?

A4. Benefits include recognition for your expertise in sales management, improved job prospects and potential salary increases, as well as increased credibility with customers, colleagues and employers alike.

Q5. Is there an expiration date on my National Sales Manager Certification?

A5. Most certifications do not have an expiration date but may require periodic renewal or continuing education credits to maintain certification status.