Top 10 Sales & Business Development Certifications

Certifications are important for sales and business development professionals in the job market for several reasons. First, certifications demonstrate a commitment to professional development and mastery of industry-specific knowledge. This can make potential employers more confident that a candidate has the skills they need to succeed in a sales or business development role. Second, certifications can help candidates stand out from other applicants in the job market. Employers may be more likely to hire someone with an industry certification than someone without one, as it shows that the candidate has taken the initiative to develop their skills and stay up-to-date on best practices. Finally, certifications may also give candidates access to exclusive networking opportunities, which can lead to new job opportunities or career advancement.

This article reviews the top certifications for Sales & Business Development and explains how they can help advance a sales & business development professional's career.

What are Sales & Business Development Certifications?

Sales & Business Development Certification is a type of professional certification that provides individuals with the knowledge and skills needed to succeed in the sales and business development field. It can help individuals increase their marketability and gain an edge in a competitive job market. Sales & Business Development Certification courses cover topics such as sales strategy, customer relationship management, business development best practices, and negotiation skills.

The certification helps individuals develop the essential skills needed for success in sales and business development roles. With these skills, individuals are able to better identify opportunities for growth, build relationships with customers, negotiate effectively, and close deals more efficiently. Furthermore, having a Sales & Business Development Certification can give employers confidence that an individual is knowledgeable about the latest trends in the industry and has the necessary skill set to be successful in their role. Additionally, it can provide individuals with access to exclusive resources such as webinars, conferences, or other forms of online learning materials that can help them stay ahead of their competition. Finally, having a Sales & Business Development Certification also demonstrates an individual’s commitment to their professional development which is highly valued by employers.

Pro Tip: Invest in sales and business development certification programs to increase your knowledge base and stay up to date with industry trends. This can help you develop the skills needed to be successful in these roles, as well as give you a competitive edge over other candidates vying for the same roles.

Related: What does a Sales & Business Development do?

Top 10 Sales & Business Development Certifications

Here’s our list of the best certifications available to Sales & Business Developments today.

1. Certified Professional in Sales and Marketing (CPSM)

Certified Professional in Sales and Marketing (CPSM) is a professional certification for sales and marketing professionals. It is offered by the Institute for Professional Excellence in Selling (IPES), a non-profit organization dedicated to advancing the profession of selling. CPSM certification is designed to demonstrate mastery of the knowledge, skills, and abilities required to be an effective sales and marketing professional.

The CPSM program consists of three exams: Foundations of Selling, Strategic Selling, and Advanced Selling Strategies. To earn the CPSM certification, you must pass all three exams within five years. Each exam consists of multiple-choice questions covering topics such as customer relationship management, sales process management, pricing strategies, product positioning and promotion, market research, and more.

To get started with your CPSM certification journey you will need to register on IPES's website. You can then purchase study materials or enroll in an online course to prepare for the exams. Once you have completed your studies and are ready to take the exams, you can register through IPES's website or at a local testing center.

The cost of the CPSM program varies depending on whether you choose to purchase study materials or enroll in an online course. The cost of taking all three exams is $1,495 USD ($495 per exam).

2. Certified Professional in Business Development (CPBD)

Certified Professional in Business Development (CPBD) is a professional certification program offered by the International Association of Business Development Professionals (IABDP). It is designed to recognize individuals who have demonstrated a comprehensive understanding of business development principles and practices.

The CPBD program is divided into three levels: Associate, Professional and Master. Each level requires the completion of a series of courses and exams. To become certified at the Associate level, applicants must complete four courses and pass two exams. The Professional level requires eight courses and two exams, while the Master level requires twelve courses and three exams.

In order to receive certification, applicants must also demonstrate their experience in business development through an online portfolio or resume. This process typically takes six to eight weeks to complete.

The cost for each level varies depending on the number of courses taken and exams passed. Generally speaking, it costs approximately $2,000 per course plus exam fees for each level of certification.

3. Certified Sales Executive (CSE)

Certified Sales Executive (CSE) is a professional certification program designed to help sales professionals develop the skills and knowledge necessary to become successful sales executives. The CSE program is offered by the Sales Management Association, a non-profit organization dedicated to helping sales professionals advance their careers.

The CSE program consists of four courses that cover topics such as customer relationship management, sales process management, strategic selling techniques, and sales leadership. Each course takes approximately 8-10 hours to complete and can be taken online or in person at one of the Sales Management Association’s regional centers. Upon completion of all four courses, participants will receive a certificate of completion from the Sales Management Association.

To get certified as a CSE, you must register with the Sales Management Association and pay a fee of $400 USD. Once registered, you will have access to the four courses which must be completed within 12 months in order to receive your certification. After completing all four courses and passing the final exam with a score of 80% or higher, you will receive your Certified Sales Executive (CSE) certificate from the Sales Management Association.

4. Certified Business Development Manager (CBDC)

Certified Business Development Manager (CBDC) is a professional certification program designed to help individuals develop and demonstrate the knowledge, skills, and abilities needed to effectively manage business development activities. This certification is offered by the International Association of Business Development Professionals (IABDP).

To get the CBDC certification, applicants must have at least 5 years of relevant experience in business development or related fields. They must also pass an exam that covers topics such as strategic planning, marketing and sales techniques, financial management, and project management. The exam consists of multiple-choice questions and takes approximately 3 hours to complete.

The cost of the CBDC certification varies depending on the country you are applying from. For example, in the United States it costs $495 for members of IABDP and $595 for non-members.

Once you have completed all requirements for the CBDC certification, you will receive a certificate recognizing your achievement. You will also be listed in IABDP’s directory of certified professionals which can be accessed by potential employers or clients.

5. Certified Sales and Marketing Professional (CSMP)

Certified Sales and Marketing Professional (CSMP) is a professional certification program offered by the American Marketing Association (AMA). The CSMP certification is designed to recognize sales and marketing professionals who have demonstrated mastery of the core knowledge, skills, and abilities required to excel in their field.

The CSMP certification process involves passing a comprehensive exam that covers the fundamentals of sales and marketing. The exam consists of 150 multiple-choice questions covering topics such as customer service, product knowledge, pricing strategies, market analysis, and digital marketing. The exam also includes case studies to assess problem-solving skills.

The CSMP certification is valid for three years and can be renewed by taking an online refresher course or passing the recertification exam.

To get certified as a CSMP, you must meet the following requirements:

• Have at least two years of experience in sales or marketing roles;
• Possess a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution;
• Pass the CSMP Certification Exam with a score of 70% or higher;
• Agree to abide by AMA’s Code of Ethics.

The cost for the CSMP certification program varies depending on whether you are an AMA member or non-member. For AMA members, it costs $395 for the initial application fee and $99 for the annual renewal fee. For non-members, it costs $495 for the initial application fee and $149 for the annual renewal fee.

6. Certified Business Development Professional (CBDP)

Certified Business Development Professional (CBDP) is a professional certification that demonstrates an individual’s knowledge and skills in the areas of business development, marketing, sales, customer service and operations. The CBDP credential is offered by the Institute for Business Development (IBD). It is designed to help professionals demonstrate their expertise and advance their careers.

To become certified as a CBDP, individuals must pass a comprehensive exam that covers topics such as strategy development, market analysis, sales techniques, customer service management and operations management. The exam consists of multiple-choice questions and requires approximately three hours to complete.

The cost of the CBDP certification exam varies depending on the country where it is taken. Generally speaking, it costs between $400 and $500 USD to take the exam.

In order to be eligible for the CBDP certification program, applicants must have at least two years of experience working in business development or related fields. Additionally, applicants must have completed at least 10 hours of approved training courses within the past five years or demonstrate current knowledge in business development principles through an approved assessment tool.

Once an individual has passed the CBDP certification exam they will receive their official certificate from IBD. This certificate will serve as proof that they have met all requirements necessary to be recognized as a Certified Business Development Professional (CBDP).

7. Professional Certificate in Sales and Marketing Management (PCSMM)

The Professional Certificate in Sales and Marketing Management (PCSMM) is an online program designed to help professionals understand the fundamentals of sales and marketing management. It is offered by the American Marketing Association (AMA). The program consists of four courses, each focusing on a different aspect of sales and marketing management: Introduction to Sales and Marketing Management, Strategic Planning for Sales and Marketing Management, Analyzing Markets for Sales and Marketing Management, and Managing Customers for Sales and Marketing Management.

The program takes approximately four months to complete. Each course is self-paced, so you can work at your own pace. You will be required to complete assignments, quizzes, and exams throughout the program.

You can get the PCSMM certificate by enrolling in the online program through AMA's website or by calling their customer service line. Once you have completed all four courses with a passing grade, you will receive your certificate via email.

The cost of the PCSMM varies depending on if you are an AMA member or not. For non-members, it costs $799; for members it costs $599. Additionally, there may be additional fees associated with some courses such as textbooks or other materials needed for completion of the coursework.

8. Advanced Certificate in Business Development (ACBD)

The Advanced Certificate in Business Development (ACBD) is a professional certification program designed to help business professionals develop the skills and knowledge needed to become successful business development leaders. The program focuses on the fundamentals of business development, including strategy, marketing, sales, and operations. It also covers topics such as negotiation, finance, and leadership.

The ACBD program typically takes 12-18 months to complete. During this time, participants will complete coursework that includes lectures, case studies, simulations, and hands-on projects. Upon completion of the program, participants will receive a certificate from an accredited institution.

To get the ACBD certification, you must first meet certain prerequisites such as having a bachelor’s degree in business or a related field and at least three years of experience in business development or related roles. You must also pass an exam administered by the International Association for Business Development (IABD).

The cost of the ACBD certification varies depending on the institution offering it. Generally speaking, you can expect to pay between $2,000 and $3,000 for tuition fees. Additional costs may include books and materials as well as travel expenses if you choose to attend classes in person rather than online.

9. Master of Science in Sales and Marketing Management (MS-SMM)

The Master of Science in Sales and Marketing Management (MS-SMM) is a specialized degree program designed to prepare students for successful careers in sales and marketing management. The program focuses on developing the skills necessary to effectively manage sales and marketing operations, while also providing an understanding of the principles and practices that are essential for success in this field.

The MS-SMM typically takes two years to complete, depending on the institution offering the program. Most programs require applicants to have a bachelor’s degree in business or a related field, though some may accept other degrees. Additionally, some schools may require applicants to take certain prerequisite courses prior to admission.

In order to get an MS-SMM, students must apply to an accredited university or college offering the degree program. Once accepted into the program, students will be required to complete coursework that covers topics such as consumer behavior, market research, strategic planning, sales management and more. Students must also complete a capstone project or thesis in order to graduate from the program.

The cost of obtaining an MS-SMM can vary significantly depending on the school chosen and whether it is a public or private institution. Generally speaking, tuition costs range from $20,000-$50,000 for two years of study at most universities offering this degree program.

10. Diploma in Business Development Management (DBDM).

Diploma in Business Development Management (DBDM) is a professional qualification designed to equip students with the knowledge and skills needed to develop and manage businesses. It is an intensive program that focuses on the fundamentals of business development, marketing, finance, operations management, and strategy. The program typically takes one year to complete and can be taken either full-time or part-time.

To get a DBDM, you must first have a bachelor’s degree in any field from an accredited college or university. You must also have at least two years of work experience in business development or related fields. Once you meet these requirements, you can apply for admission into the program.

The cost of the diploma depends on the institution offering it. Generally, it costs between $5,000 - $10,000 depending on the school and the length of the program. Some schools may offer discounts or scholarships for those who qualify.

The diploma includes courses such as project management, financial management, marketing strategies, customer service management, operations management and more. Upon completion of the diploma program, students will have gained a comprehensive understanding of business development principles and practices that they can use to help their organizations grow and succeed.

Do You Really Need a Sales & Business Development Certificate?

The answer to this question depends on your individual career goals. If you are looking to break into sales and business development, a Sales & Business Development Certificate can be very helpful in demonstrating your knowledge of core concepts and best practices in the field. A certificate can also be beneficial if you are looking to advance in your current role or move up within an organization. It can give you an edge over other applicants for a new position, as it will demonstrate that you have taken the initiative to learn about the field and stay up-to-date with the latest trends.

However, it is important to note that a Sales & Business Development Certificate does not guarantee success in your chosen career path. It is simply one tool among many that can help you stand out from other candidates and prove that you have what it takes to excel in sales and business development. Ultimately, success in this field will depend on your own hard work, dedication, and passion for the job.

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FAQs About Sales & Business Development Certifications

Q1. What is a Sales & Business Development Certification?

A1. A Sales & Business Development Certification is a formal recognition of an individual's knowledge, skills and abilities in sales and business development. It typically involves completing a course or program that covers topics such as sales techniques, customer service, marketing, strategic planning and more.

Q2. What are the benefits of getting a Sales & Business Development Certification?

A2. Getting a Sales & Business Development Certification can help you stand out among your peers, build credibility within the industry, and demonstrate to employers that you have the necessary skills for success in sales and business development roles. Additionally, it can open up new career opportunities and increase your earning potential.

Q3. How do I get certified in Sales & Business Development?

A3. To get certified in Sales & Business Development, you will need to complete an accredited program or course that covers topics such as sales techniques, customer service, marketing, strategic planning and more. You may also be required to pass an exam or assessment to obtain certification.

Q4. Is there any cost associated with getting Sales & Business Development Certification?

A4. Yes, there may be some cost associated with obtaining certification depending on the program or course you choose to take. Costs may include tuition fees, exam fees or materials costs for studying for the exam or assessment required to obtain certification.

Q5 How long does it take to get Sales & Business Development Certified?

A5 The amount of time it takes to become certified in Sales & Business Development depends on the type of program you choose to take and how quickly you are able to learn the material covered in the courses or exams required for certification. Generally speaking it could take anywhere from a few months up to a year depending on various factors such as your pace of learning and availability of courses/exams needed for certification