Top 11 Sales Account Executive Certifications

Certifications are important for sales account executives in the job market because they act as a stamp of approval that demonstrates their knowledge, skills, and abilities. They provide employers with the assurance that the person they are hiring is qualified to do the job and will be able to meet the demands of the role. Certifications also demonstrate to employers that the individual has gone through an organized process of learning and testing and can apply this knowledge to their work. Additionally, certifications can give sales account executives an edge over other applicants when it comes to securing a job.

This article reviews some of the top certifications for Sales Account Executives and explains how they can help to advance a sales account executive's career.

What are Sales Account Executive Certifications?

Sales Account Executive certification is a professional designation that is designed to help sales professionals develop the skills and knowledge necessary to excel in their roles. The certification program typically consists of an online course, or a series of courses, which cover topics such as customer service, communication strategies, sales process management, and product knowledge. The program also includes hands-on training and mentorship from experienced sales professionals.

The certification can provide many benefits to those working in sales. By completing the program, individuals will have a better understanding of customer needs and expectations and be able to develop effective strategies for meeting them. Additionally, they will be better equipped to manage the sales process from prospecting through closing and become more adept at using various tools such as CRM systems. Finally, the certification will provide recognition of an individual's commitment to their profession, which can be beneficial when applying for new jobs or promotions within their current organization.

Pro Tip: When considering a sales account executive certification, make sure to look for one that is accredited by a reputable organization and offers continuing education or recertification options. This will ensure you have the most current knowledge and skills necessary to excel in your role.

Related: What does a Sales Account Executive do?

Top 11 Sales Account Executive Certifications

Here’s our list of the best certifications available to Sales Account Executives today.

1. Certified Professional Sales Executive (CPSE)

Certified Professional Sales Executive (CPSE) is a professional certification program designed to recognize sales professionals who have achieved a high level of proficiency in the field. It is offered by the American Association of Professional Salespeople (AAPSP). The CPSE program is designed to assess and validate the knowledge, skills, and abilities of experienced sales professionals.

The CPSE program consists of two parts: an online self-assessment and an in-person written examination. The self-assessment evaluates the candidate’s knowledge of sales theory, strategy, and practice. The written exam tests the candidate’s ability to apply this knowledge to real-world situations.

The entire process typically takes about six months from start to finish. Candidates must first register for the self-assessment online at the AAPSP website. Once they have completed the self-assessment, they can then register for the written exam. After passing both parts of the exam, candidates will receive their official CPSE certification.

The cost of taking the CPSE program varies depending on which version you choose. For example, if you take both parts of the exam at once it will cost $495 USD; however, if you take them separately it will cost $295 USD for each part.

2. Certified Sales Professional (CSP)

Certified Sales Professional (CSP) is a professional certification program designed to recognize sales professionals who demonstrate excellence in the field of sales. It is administered by the National Association of Sales Professionals (NASP). The CSP designation is an industry-recognized credential that provides a competitive edge in the job market and can help advance one’s career.

The CSP program consists of four core courses in sales fundamentals, customer service, communication skills, and business ethics. To receive the CSP designation, candidates must successfully complete all four courses within a two-year period.

In order to be eligible for the CSP program, applicants must have at least two years of professional sales experience or have completed a college degree in business or related field. Candidates must also pass an online assessment prior to enrolling in the program.

The cost for the CSP program varies depending on which course bundle you choose. The full course bundle costs $1,299 USD and includes all four courses plus access to additional resources such as webinars and forums. Alternatively, you can purchase each course individually for $349 USD each.

Once you’ve successfully completed all four courses and passed the assessment, you will receive your official Certified Sales Professional certificate from NASP.

3. Certified Professional Account Executive (CPAE)

Certified Professional Account Executive (CPAE) is a professional certification program designed to recognize and reward accounting professionals who demonstrate excellence in their field. The CPAE credential is awarded by the Institute of Certified Professional Accountants (ICPA).

To obtain the CPAE certification, applicants must meet certain requirements, such as having at least five years of experience in the accounting profession, passing an exam, and completing a minimum number of hours of continuing education. Applicants must also submit a portfolio that demonstrates their knowledge and expertise in accounting.

The CPAE certification process typically takes several months to complete. The cost to obtain the CPAE certification varies depending on the applicant's location, but typically ranges from $500 to $1,000.

4. Certified Sales Manager (CSM)

Certified Sales Manager (CSM) is a professional certification program designed to recognize and validate the knowledge, skills, and abilities of sales managers. The CSM certification is offered by the American Management Association (AMA).

The CSM program consists of two courses: Principles of Professional Selling and Advanced Professional Selling. The Principles course covers topics such as customer service, sales process management, ethical selling practices, and communication strategies. The Advanced course focuses on advanced selling techniques, negotiations, strategic planning, and team leadership.

It typically takes about six months to complete both courses in order to become certified. In order to get certified, you must first pass an online assessment that tests your knowledge of the principles and concepts covered in both courses. Once you have passed the assessment, you will then be eligible to take the final exam for each course. You must pass both exams with a score of 80% or higher in order to become certified.

The cost for the CSM program varies depending on where you take it. Generally speaking, it costs around $2,000-$3,000 for the entire program including both courses and exams.

5. Certified Business Development Executive (CBDE)

Certified Business Development Executive (CBDE) is a professional certification program designed to help business professionals develop the skills and knowledge necessary to become successful in business development. The CBDE certification is offered by the International Association of Business Development Professionals (IABDP).

It takes approximately 8-12 months to complete the CBDE certification program. The program consists of three levels: Level I, Level II, and Level III. Each level builds upon the previous one and requires a certain number of hours of study and practice. At each level, you must pass an exam in order to move onto the next level.

To get started with the CBDE certification program, you must first join IABDP and pay an annual membership fee. After joining, you can register for any of the courses offered by IABDP or purchase study materials from their website. Once you have completed all three levels of the program, you will be eligible to take the final exam and receive your CBDE certification.

The cost of obtaining a CBDE certification varies depending on which courses or materials you choose to use for your studies. Generally speaking, it will cost between $500-$1000 USD for all three levels of study materials plus any applicable fees associated with taking exams or registering for courses.

6. Certified Strategic Selling Professional (CSSP)

Certified Strategic Selling Professional (CSSP) is a professional certification program designed to help sales professionals develop the skills and knowledge to effectively sell products and services in today’s competitive market. The program is offered by the Strategic Selling Institute, an organization dedicated to providing training and resources for sales professionals.

The CSSP program consists of three courses: Strategic Selling Foundations, Advanced Strategic Selling, and Sales Management. Each course requires approximately 30 hours of study time, with the total program taking around 90 hours to complete. The courses are self-paced and can be taken online or in person.

To get certified as a CSSP, you must pass all three courses with a score of 80% or higher. Upon successful completion of the program, you will receive a certificate that is valid for two years. You can renew your certification by completing the required continuing education credits each year.

The cost of the CSSP program varies depending on which format you choose (online or in-person). Generally speaking, the cost ranges from $1,000-$2,000 USD for all three courses combined.

7. Certified Consultative Selling Professional (CCSP)

Certified Consultative Selling Professional (CCSP) is an accreditation program offered by the International Association of Sales Professionals (IASP). It is designed to recognize and validate the skills and knowledge of sales professionals in consultative selling.

The CCSP certification requires a minimum of two years of sales experience, as well as passing an exam. The exam consists of 100 multiple-choice questions, covering topics such as customer needs assessment, solution development, negotiation, and closing.

To get certified, you must first complete an online application form and pay a registration fee. Once your application is approved, you can then register for the exam and pay the associated fee. After passing the exam, you will receive your official CCSP certificate.

The cost for becoming certified varies depending on where you take the exam. Generally speaking, it costs around $400 USD to become certified in the US or Canada.

8. Certified Solution Selling Professional (CSSP)

Certified Solution Selling Professional (CSSP) is a certification program designed to help sales professionals develop the skills necessary to become successful solution sellers. The program focuses on teaching sales professionals how to identify customer needs, develop effective solutions, and close profitable deals.

The CSSP certification program consists of an online course and a final exam. The online course takes approximately 20 hours to complete and covers topics such as developing customer relationships, understanding customer needs, creating value propositions, building effective solutions, and closing deals. After completing the online course, participants must pass a final exam in order to become certified.

To obtain the CSSP certification, individuals must first register for the program through the official website. Registration fees vary depending on whether or not you are a member of the Solution Selling Institute (SSI). Non-members pay $1,495 while members pay $995. Once registered, individuals can begin working through the online course at their own pace. Upon completion of the course and passing of the final exam, individuals will receive their CSSP certificate and be eligible for membership in SSI.

Overall, obtaining the Certified Solution Selling Professional (CSSP) certification requires approximately 20 hours of study time and costs $995-$1,495 depending on membership status with SSI.

9. Certified Negotiation Expert (CNE)

Certified Negotiation Expert (CNE) is a professional designation offered by the Real Estate Negotiation Institute (RENI). It is designed to help real estate professionals and other negotiators hone their skills in order to better serve their clients. The CNE program provides comprehensive training and testing on negotiation strategies, tactics, and techniques.

The CNE program consists of two parts: an online course and an in-person workshop. The online course covers topics such as negotiation theory, communication strategies, and ethical considerations. The in-person workshop focuses on applying the knowledge gained from the online course through role-playing exercises and simulations.

It typically takes about 8 weeks to complete the CNE program, depending on how quickly you work through the material. In order to receive your certification, you must pass both the online course exam and the in-person workshop assessment with a score of 80% or higher.

The cost of the CNE program varies depending on where you take it. Generally speaking, it costs around $2,000-$3,000 for tuition plus any additional fees associated with taking the exams or attending workshops.

10. Certified Customer Relationship Management Professional (CCRMP)

Certified Customer Relationship Management Professional (CCRMP) is a professional certification that recognizes expertise in customer relationship management (CRM). It is designed to demonstrate the knowledge and skills required to effectively manage customer relationships. The CCRMP certification is awarded by the International Association of Customer Relationship Management Professionals (IACRM).

To qualify for the CCRMP certification, applicants must have at least two years of experience in customer relationship management, or equivalent education and/or training. They must also pass a comprehensive exam that covers topics such as customer segmentation, loyalty programs, CRM systems and processes, data analysis, and customer service.

The CCRMP certification process typically takes between four to six weeks to complete. To get started, applicants must submit an application form along with the required documentation such as proof of experience or education. Once approved, they can then register for the exam and pay the associated fee.

The cost of obtaining the CCRMP certification varies depending on the country where you are taking the exam. In general, it costs around $400-$600 USD to take the exam and receive your certification.

11. Advanced Sales Certification Program (ASCP).

The Advanced Sales Certification Program (ASCP) is a comprehensive training program designed to help sales professionals develop and refine their skills. It is offered by the American Association of Professional Salespeople (AAPSP). The program consists of four levels of certification, each with its own set of requirements and objectives.

Level 1: This level focuses on basic sales principles, such as customer service, communication, negotiation, and product knowledge. It takes approximately 10 hours to complete this level.

Level 2: This level covers more advanced topics in sales, such as marketing strategies and tactics, customer segmentation, problem solving, and team building. It takes approximately 20 hours to complete this level.

Level 3: This level focuses on leadership development and management skills for sales professionals. It takes approximately 30 hours to complete this level.

Level 4: This is the highest level of certification available through the ASCP program. It covers topics such as strategic planning, business analysis, financial management, and organizational development. It takes approximately 40 hours to complete this level.

To get certified at any of these levels you must pass an exam administered by the AAPSP. The cost of taking the exam varies depending on which level you are attempting; however it generally ranges from $100-$200 per exam attempt.

Do You Really Need a Sales Account Executive Certificate?

The short answer is no, you do not need a sales account executive certificate to become a successful sales professional. However, if you are looking to advance in the field and stand out from other applicants, then having a certificate can be beneficial.

Having a certificate shows that you have taken the time to learn about the industry and understand what it takes to be successful in the role. It also demonstrates your commitment to advancing your career and improving yourself as an employee. The coursework will cover topics such as customer service, negotiation tactics, communication skills, and how to develop relationships with clients. These skills are essential for any successful salesperson and can help you stand out from other applicants when applying for positions.

In addition, having a certification on your resume may make you more attractive to potential employers since it shows that you have gone above and beyond in order to improve your skillset. Furthermore, depending on the program you choose, the courses may include hands-on experience or even internships which can give you an edge over other candidates who lack real-world experience in the field.

Ultimately, while having a sales account executive certificate is not necessary for success in sales, it can certainly be beneficial if it’s something that interests you or is required by employers in your area. The knowledge gained from these programs could give you an edge over other job applicants and help set yourself apart from the competition.

Related: Sales Account Executive Resume Examples

FAQs About Sales Account Executive Certifications

1. What qualifications do I need to become a Sales Account Executive?

Answer: To become a Sales Account Executive, you will typically need an undergraduate degree in business, marketing, or a related field. You may also need experience in sales or account management. Some employers may require certifications in sales and account management as well.

2. Are there any professional certifications available for Sales Account Executives?

Answer: Yes, there are a number of professional certifications available for Sales Account Executives. These include the Certified Professional Salesperson (CPS) certification from the National Association of Sales Professionals (NASP), the Professional Certified Marketer (PCM) certification from the American Marketing Association (AMA), and the Certified Business Development Professional (CBDP) certification from the International Association of Business Development Professionals (IABDP).

3. What is the benefit of obtaining a Sales Account Executive Certification?

Answer: Obtaining a professional certification can help demonstrate your knowledge and skills as a Sales Account Executive to potential employers and clients, which can lead to more job opportunities and higher salaries. It can also help you stay up-to-date on industry trends and best practices.

4. How long does it take to complete a Sales Account Executive Certification?

Answer: The length of time it takes to complete a certification varies depending on the program and individual learning pace, but most certifications can be completed within six months or less with full-time study.

5. Is there any cost associated with obtaining a Sales Account Executive Certification?

Answer: Yes, there are typically costs associated with obtaining a professional certification such as exam fees and course materials fees. However, these costs vary depending on the program provider and type of certification being obtained.