Top 10 Negotiator Certifications

Certifications offer negotiators a way to demonstrate their competence and expertise in the field. They help potential employers assess the level of expertise and knowledge that a negotiator possesses. In addition, certifications provide evidence that the negotiator has taken steps to continue developing their skills and staying up-to-date on best practices. This can give negotiators an edge over other candidates when it comes to securing a position in a competitive job market. Certification also makes it easier for employers to identify well-qualified negotiators who are able to meet the demands of challenging negotiations.

The purpose of this article is to review the top certifications for Negotiators and explain how they can help advance a negotiator's career.

What are Negotiator Certifications?

Negotiator certification is a type of training and assessment program designed to help individuals hone their negotiation skills. It focuses on both the theoretical and practical aspects of negotiations, with the goal of helping negotiators become more effective in achieving their desired outcomes. The certification process typically involves studying various negotiation strategies, understanding how to assess different types of situations and developing the necessary communication skills to be able to effectively negotiate.

By becoming certified, negotiators are better equipped to handle difficult conversations, create win-win solutions, and develop long-term relationships with counterparts. Certification can also help increase confidence in negotiations, as it provides negotiators with a broader understanding of how to approach different scenarios. This can lead to improved results in terms of obtaining better deals or more favorable terms in agreements. Finally, certification may also help boost career growth opportunities for those looking to gain a competitive edge over others who are not certified.

Pro Tip: To become a certified negotiator, it is important to get trained in the fundamentals of negotiation and conflict resolution. This type of training will help you develop the skills needed to effectively negotiate deals, manage difficult conversations, and resolve conflicts. Additionally, make sure you have experience in the field of negotiation before seeking certification.

Related: What does a Negotiator do?

Top 10 Negotiator Certifications

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

1. Certified Negotiation Expert (CNE)

Certified Negotiation Expert (CNE) is a professional designation that recognizes individuals who have demonstrated expertise in the area of negotiation. The CNE designation is awarded by the Real Estate Negotiation Institute (RENI), an organization dedicated to providing advanced education and training in negotiation.

To become a Certified Negotiation Expert, applicants must complete an intensive three-day program that covers topics such as negotiation theory, communication strategies, ethical considerations, and dispute resolution. Upon completion of the course, applicants must pass a written exam to earn their CNE certification.

The cost for the CNE program varies depending on the location and format of the course. Generally, it costs between $1000-$1500 USD to attend the three-day program. Additionally, there may be additional costs associated with travel and lodging if necessary.

The process of becoming a Certified Negotiation Expert typically takes about three days from start to finish. This includes completing the coursework and passing the written exam at the end of the program.

2. Certified Negotiation Master (CNM)

Certified Negotiation Master (CNM) is a professional certification program designed to help negotiators develop their skills and become more effective in their negotiations. The CNM program is offered by the Negotiations Institute, a leading provider of negotiation training and consulting services.

The CNM program consists of four levels: Foundation, Intermediate, Advanced, and Master. Each level requires the completion of an online course and an in-person workshop or seminar. The length of each level varies depending on the individual's learning style and commitment to completing the coursework.

In order to obtain the Certified Negotiation Master designation, individuals must complete all four levels of the CNM program. This typically takes between six months and one year depending on how quickly they complete each level.

The cost for obtaining the Certified Negotiation Master designation varies depending on which courses are taken and where they are taken from. Generally speaking, it can range anywhere from $2,000 to $10,000 USD depending on location and other factors.

3. Professional Negotiator Certification (PNC)

Professional Negotiator Certification (PNC) is a certification program designed to provide negotiators with the knowledge, skills, and abilities necessary to effectively negotiate in any situation. It is offered by the International Association of Professional Negotiators (IAPN).

The PNC program consists of two parts: an online course and an on-site workshop. The online course provides participants with an in-depth understanding of negotiation theory, strategies, and techniques. The on-site workshop focuses on practical application of these concepts through role play exercises and case studies.

The PNC program takes approximately three months to complete. Participants must first complete the online course before attending the on-site workshop. Upon successful completion of both components, participants will receive their PNC certificate.

The cost for the PNC program varies depending on the provider but typically ranges from $1,500 - $2,000 USD. This cost includes tuition fees for both the online course and the on-site workshop as well as any materials required for the program such as books or handouts.

4. Advanced Negotiation Techniques Certification (ANTC)

Advanced Negotiation Techniques Certification (ANTC) is a certification program designed to help individuals hone their negotiation skills. It is offered by the International Association of Professional Negotiators (IAPN). The program consists of eight modules, each focusing on a different aspect of negotiation. The modules cover topics such as understanding the psychology of negotiation, identifying and managing conflict, developing effective strategies, and more.

The ANTC program takes approximately six months to complete. During this time, participants will learn how to effectively analyze a situation before making decisions, develop strategies for successful negotiations, and practice their newly acquired skills in a variety of simulated scenarios.

To get certified in ANTC, you must first take an online assessment test. This test will assess your knowledge and skills related to negotiation techniques. Once you have passed the assessment test, you will receive an invitation to attend an intensive three-day course at IAPN's headquarters in New York City or at one of its regional training centers around the world. After completing the course and passing the final exam with a score of 80% or higher, you will be awarded your ANTC certificate.

The cost for the ANTC program varies depending on where you take it and which payment option you choose. Generally speaking, it costs between $1,500-$2,000 USD for tuition plus any additional fees associated with travel or accommodations if necessary.

5. International Association of Professional Negotiators Certification (IAPN)

The International Association of Professional Negotiators (IAPN) is an international professional organization that provides certification for negotiators. The IAPN Certification is designed to recognize and promote the highest standards of professional negotiation practice.

The IAPN Certification program consists of three levels: Certified Negotiation Professional (CNP), Senior Certified Negotiation Professional (SCNP), and Master Certified Negotiation Professional (MCNP). Each level requires a certain number of hours of training, as well as passing an exam.

To become certified at the CNP level, applicants must complete a minimum of 40 hours of negotiation skills training, pass a written examination, and submit a completed application form with references. To become certified at the SCNP level, applicants must complete a minimum of 80 hours of negotiation skills training, pass a written examination, and submit a completed application form with references. To become certified at the MCNP level, applicants must complete a minimum of 120 hours of negotiation skills training, pass a written examination, and submit a completed application form with references.

The cost to apply for IAPN certification varies depending on the level being applied for. For the CNP level, it costs $500 USD; for SCNP it costs $750 USD; and for MCNP it costs $1000 USD.

The process from start to finish can take anywhere from two weeks to several months depending on how quickly you can complete your required training and exams.

6. Certified Mediator and Negotiator (CMN)

A Certified Mediator and Negotiator (CMN) is a professional who has been certified to facilitate negotiations between two or more parties. The CMN certification is administered by the International Institute for Conflict Prevention and Resolution (CPR). It is designed to equip mediators with the knowledge and skills necessary to help resolve disputes in a constructive and efficient manner.

To become a Certified Mediator and Negotiator, applicants must complete an online training program that consists of six courses: Introduction to Conflict Resolution; Negotiation Theory; Dispute System Design; Facilitation Skills; Advanced Negotiation Strategies; and Conflict Management. Upon successful completion of the program, applicants will receive their CMN certification.

The online training program typically takes three months to complete. Applicants must also pass a written exam at the end of the program in order to receive their certification.

The cost of obtaining the CMN certification varies depending on the provider, but it generally ranges from $1,000-$2,500 USD.

7. Harvard Program on Negotiation Certificate

The Harvard Program on Negotiation (HPN) Certificate is a professional development program designed to help individuals develop their negotiation skills. The certificate is offered in two formats: an online format and an in-person format.

The online format consists of four courses that can be completed at your own pace, over the course of four months. The courses are designed to provide participants with the knowledge and skills needed to become effective negotiators. They cover topics such as communication, problem solving, decision making, and conflict resolution. Participants will also learn how to create win-win solutions and use negotiation strategies to resolve disputes. Upon completion of the program, participants will receive a digital certificate from HPN.

The in-person format consists of two one-week sessions held at Harvard University's campus in Cambridge, Massachusetts. During these sessions, participants will attend lectures and engage in interactive activities related to negotiation theory and practice. At the end of the program, participants will receive a physical certificate from HPN.

To get either format of the HPN Certificate, applicants must submit an application form along with a resume or CV and a short essay outlining their interest in negotiation theory and practice. Applications are reviewed by HPN faculty members who select candidates based on their qualifications and experience.

The cost for the online version of the HPN Certificate is $1,200 USD while the cost for the in-person version is $4,000 USD (including tuition fees).

8. Conflict Resolution & Mediation Certificate

Conflict Resolution & Mediation Certificate is a professional certification program designed to provide individuals with the skills and knowledge necessary to become effective mediators and conflict resolution professionals. This certificate program is typically offered by universities, colleges, or other educational institutions. It typically takes between one to two years to complete the program, depending on the institution and the type of coursework taken.

The curriculum for Conflict Resolution & Mediation Certificate programs usually includes courses in negotiation, dispute resolution, mediation theory and practice, communication skills, ethics, and other related topics. Students may also be required to take part in internships or field placements during their studies. Upon completion of the program, students can expect to receive a certificate that demonstrates their proficiency in conflict resolution and mediation techniques.

In order to obtain a Conflict Resolution & Mediation Certificate, students must first meet certain prerequisites such as having a high school diploma or equivalent degree. Depending on the institution offering the program, additional requirements may apply such as completing an entrance exam or providing letters of recommendation. Once these requirements are met, students can then apply for admission into the program.

The cost of obtaining a Conflict Resolution & Mediation Certificate will vary depending on the institution offering the program as well as any additional fees associated with it. Generally speaking however, most programs will range from $500-$2000 USD depending on how long it takes to complete the coursework and any additional fees associated with it.

9. International Mediation Institute Certificate

The International Mediation Institute (IMI) Certificate is a professional certification program that recognizes individuals who have achieved a high level of proficiency in the field of mediation. The IMI Certificate is designed to provide recognition for those who have demonstrated their skills and knowledge in the practice of mediation.

The IMI Certificate is a three-level program. Level 1 is an introductory course that provides an overview of the fundamentals of mediation, including its history, theory, process, and legal aspects. Level 2 focuses on developing advanced skills and techniques for effective mediation practice. Level 3 involves an intensive practicum where participants apply their skills to real-life situations.

It takes approximately one year to complete all three levels and receive the IMI Certificate. To get started, applicants must first complete the Level 1 course and pass the associated exam with a score of 70% or higher. Once this has been completed, they can then register for Levels 2 and 3.

The cost of obtaining the IMI Certificate varies depending on which courses are taken and where they are taken from. Generally speaking, each level costs between $500-$1,000 USD depending on location and provider.

10. Strategic Negotiation Certification (SNC)

Strategic Negotiation Certification (SNC) is a professional certification program designed to provide individuals with the skills and knowledge needed to effectively negotiate in a variety of business settings. The program is offered by the International Association for Strategic Negotiators (IASN).

The SNC program consists of three courses: Introduction to Strategic Negotiation, Advanced Strategic Negotiation, and Mastering Strategic Negotiation. Each course is designed to provide participants with an understanding of how to use negotiation strategies in different contexts, as well as how to identify and address potential conflicts. Participants are also taught how to develop effective communication strategies and tactics that can be used in negotiations.

The entire SNC program typically takes about six months to complete, depending on the participant’s schedule and availability. To get certified, participants must successfully complete all three courses and pass a final exam.

The cost of the SNC program varies depending on where it is taken, but typically ranges from $1,500-$2,500 USD.

Do You Really Need a Negotiator Certificate?

Negotiating is a skill that can be acquired through practice and experience, so a negotiator certificate may not be necessary for success. However, having such a certificate may be helpful in some cases.

For one, it provides proof of your ability to negotiate effectively. Certificates are typically awarded after completing a course or program that focuses on the fundamentals of negotiation and its importance in business and other contexts. Such courses allow you to improve your skills by learning from experienced professionals who have used these techniques in their own careers. Additionally, they provide an opportunity to network with other negotiators, which can be invaluable when looking for new business opportunities.

In addition to providing proof of your negotiating abilities, a negotiator certificate can also demonstrate to potential employers that you understand the complexities of negotiation and its importance in many different contexts. This could give you an edge over other job applicants who have not taken the time to learn these skills.

Overall, there is no definitive answer as to whether or not one needs a negotiator certificate to be successful at negotiating; it ultimately depends on the individual's goals and needs. Nevertheless, having such a credential can certainly help increase one's chances of success in this field by demonstrating knowledge and commitment to honing their skills as well as networking with peers and employers alike.

Related: Negotiator Resume Examples

FAQs About Negotiator Certifications

Q1: What is a Negotiator Certification?

A1: A negotiator certification is a professional designation that demonstrates an individual’s expertise in the field of negotiations. It signifies that the individual has completed specialized training and achieved a certain level of proficiency in negotiation techniques, strategies, and practices.

Q2: Who should get a Negotiator Certification?

A2: Negotiator certifications are beneficial for anyone involved in negotiations, such as business professionals, salespeople, lawyers, mediators, and other professionals who need to have strong negotiation skills.

Q3: How do I obtain a Negotiator Certification?

A3: In order to obtain a Negotiator Certification, you must complete either an online course or attend an accredited training program. These programs typically cover topics such as conflict resolution, communication skills, persuasive tactics, and bargaining strategies.

Q4: What are the benefits of having a Negotiator Certification?

A4: Having a Negotiator Certification can help you stand out from the competition by demonstrating your knowledge and expertise in negotiations. It also can provide you with greater confidence when engaging in negotiations as well as improve your ability to effectively communicate with others during the negotiation process.

Q5: Is there any cost associated with obtaining a Negotiator Certification?

A5: Yes, depending on which program you choose to pursue there may be some costs associated with obtaining your certification including tuition fees and materials costs.