Top 11 Service Desk Manager Certifications

Certifications are important for Service Desk Managers because they demonstrate technical competency and a broad knowledge of the industry. They also provide evidence that the individual is up-to-date on current trends in the field and has taken the initiative to stay informed. Furthermore, certifications can enhance an individual's credibility when applying for jobs or promotions, as well as open doors to new opportunities. Finally, certifications may be required by employers in order to qualify for certain positions.

The purpose of this article is to provide an overview of the top certifications for Service Desk Managers and explain how they can help to advance their career.

What are Service Desk Manager Certifications?

Service Desk Manager Certification is a certification program that helps prepare individuals for a successful career in service desk management. It provides an understanding of the roles and responsibilities of service desk managers, as well as the tools and techniques used to manage service desks. The certification covers topics such as customer service, problem solving, ITIL processes, incident management, change management, asset management, and more. With this certification, individuals can demonstrate their knowledge and expertise in service desk management and be better equipped to effectively lead teams and manage service desks. This certification can help individuals advance their careers by providing them with the skills necessary to become successful service desk managers. Additionally, it can help organizations ensure they have qualified professionals managing their service desks by verifying an individual's knowledge and experience in this field.

Pro Tip: When considering service desk manager certification, it is important to research the various certifications available and determine which one best fits your career goals. Additionally, it is helpful to attend seminars or read books on the topic in order to gain a better understanding of the material and prepare for the exam.

Related: What does a Service Desk Manager do?

Top 11 Service Desk Manager Certifications

Here’s our list of the best certifications available to Service Desk Managers today.

1. ITIL Foundation Certification

ITIL Foundation Certification is a globally recognized qualification that provides an understanding of the key elements, concepts, and terminology used in the IT Infrastructure Library (ITIL). It is designed to help individuals understand how to use ITIL best practices in order to improve their organization’s service management processes.

The certification consists of a two-hour exam consisting of 40 multiple choice questions. To pass the exam, candidates must score at least 65% or 26 out of 40 questions correctly. The exam can be taken online or in person at an accredited testing center.

The cost for taking the ITIL Foundation Certification Exam varies depending on the provider, but typically ranges from $200-$300 USD.

In terms of time commitment, it is recommended that individuals spend at least 15 hours studying before taking the exam. This includes reading through the official study guide and other materials provided by the certification body as well as completing practice exams and studying any additional material relevant to their industry or job role.

2. HDI Support Center Manager Certification

HDI Support Center Manager Certification is an industry-recognized certification designed to validate the skills and knowledge of support center managers. It is offered by HDI, a global professional association for IT service and technical support professionals. The certification focuses on the core competencies required to effectively manage a support center, including customer service, problem solving, communication, team building, and process improvement.

The certification process consists of two parts: a written exam and a practical assessment. The written exam covers topics such as customer service principles, problem solving techniques, communication strategies, team building methods, and process improvement tools. The practical assessment involves completing real-world tasks related to managing a support center. Both components must be completed in order to receive the certification.

The certification typically takes 6-8 weeks to complete from start to finish. The cost of the program varies depending on the country where you are taking it; however, it typically ranges from $500-$1000 USD. To get started with the HDI Support Center Manager Certification program you will need to register online at hdi-certification.com or contact HDI directly for more information about their programs and services.

3. CompTIA A+ Certification

CompTIA A+ certification is an industry-recognized credential for entry-level computer service technicians. It verifies the knowledge and skills necessary to install, configure, maintain, and troubleshoot basic hardware and software technologies. The certification is vendor-neutral, meaning it applies to a wide range of products from multiple vendors.

It typically takes about three months to prepare for the CompTIA A+ exam. This includes studying the material in the official CompTIA A+ study guide, taking practice tests, attending instructor-led training courses or online webinars, and gaining hands-on experience with computers.

To obtain the CompTIA A+ certification, you must pass two exams: 220-1001 (Core 1) and 220-1002 (Core 2). Both exams are 90 minutes long and consist of 90 multiple choice questions. You must score at least 750 out of 900 points on each exam to pass.

The cost of the CompTIA A+ certification varies depending on where you take the exams. Generally speaking, it costs around $320 USD for both exams, plus any additional fees associated with registration or training materials.

4. Microsoft Certified Solutions Expert (MCSE)

Microsoft Certified Solutions Expert (MCSE) is a certification offered by Microsoft that demonstrates an individual’s expertise in designing, implementing and managing solutions based on the Microsoft platform. This certification is designed for IT professionals who want to demonstrate their ability to build innovative solutions across multiple technologies, both on-premises and cloud-based.

In order to obtain the MCSE certification, individuals must pass one or more exams that focus on specific technology areas. These exams cover topics such as Windows Server, Exchange Server, SQL Server, SharePoint Server, System Center Configuration Manager and Office 365. Each exam typically takes between two and four hours to complete.

Individuals can prepare for the MCSE exams through self-study using books or online resources such as practice tests, video tutorials and webinars. Alternatively, they can attend instructor-led training courses offered by Microsoft Learning Partners or other approved providers.

The cost of taking an MCSE exam varies depending on the location but typically ranges from $100 - $200 per exam. In addition to the cost of the exam itself, individuals may need to purchase additional study materials or attend a training course which will incur additional costs.

5. Certified Service Desk Professional (CSDP)

Certified Service Desk Professional (CSDP) is an industry-recognized certification that validates the skills and knowledge of service desk professionals. It is offered by HDI, a global membership organization for IT service and support professionals.

The CSDP certification program consists of two parts: a written exam and a practical exam. The written exam covers topics such as customer service, problem solving, communication, and process management. The practical exam evaluates the candidate’s ability to apply their knowledge in real-world scenarios.

The entire program takes approximately 8 hours to complete. Candidates must first register for the exams through HDI’s website or by calling their customer service center. After registering, candidates can choose to take either the written or practical exam first; however, both exams must be completed within 12 months of registration in order to receive the certification.

The cost of the CSDP certification program varies depending on whether you are an HDI member or not. For non-members, it costs $495 USD for both exams; for members, it costs $395 USD for both exams.

6. Six Sigma Green Belt Certification

Six Sigma Green Belt Certification is a professional certification program designed to help individuals become proficient in the Six Sigma methodology and its tools. It is based on the DMAIC (Define, Measure, Analyze, Improve, Control) process and focuses on problem solving and process improvement.

The certification requires a minimum of three years of experience in a full-time role involving Six Sigma projects or initiatives. To become certified, individuals must pass an exam administered by an accredited certifying body such as the American Society for Quality (ASQ). The exam consists of multiple choice questions and covers topics such as project management, data analysis, design of experiments, and process improvement techniques.

The duration of the certification varies depending on the individual's level of knowledge and experience. Generally speaking, it takes around three months to complete all the necessary requirements for certification.

To get certified, individuals must first complete a training course that covers all aspects of Six Sigma methodology. After completing the training course, they must then take and pass the certification exam administered by an accredited certifying body such as ASQ.

The cost of getting certified depends on the type of training course taken and other factors such as location. Generally speaking, it can range from $500 to $2,000 or more depending on these factors.

7. Project Management Professional (PMP)

Project Management Professional (PMP) is a certification offered by the Project Management Institute (PMI). It is the most recognized and respected credential in project management. The PMP certification demonstrates that an individual has the knowledge, experience, and skills to lead and direct projects successfully.

In order to become certified, one must have a minimum of three years of professional project management experience with 4500 hours leading and directing projects, 35 hours of formal project management education or training, and pass the PMP Exam.

The PMP Exam consists of 200 multiple-choice questions covering five process groups: Initiating, Planning, Executing, Monitoring & Controlling, Closing. It takes approximately four hours to complete the exam.

The cost for taking the exam varies depending on whether you are a PMI member or non-member. For members it costs $405 USD while non-members pay $555 USD. In addition to this fee there may be additional costs associated with obtaining formal project management education or training courses.

8. Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP)

Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP) is an internationally recognized certification that validates a professional's knowledge and experience in the field of information security. It is administered by the International Information Systems Security Certification Consortium (ISC2).

The CISSP exam consists of 250 multiple-choice questions and takes about 6 hours to complete. To become certified, candidates must have at least five years of cumulative paid work experience in two or more of the eight domains of the CISSP Common Body of Knowledge (CBK).

To get the CISSP certification, candidates must first pass the exam. After passing the exam, they must submit an application to ISC2 which will then review their qualifications. Once approved, they can become a certified CISSP member.

The cost for taking the CISSP exam varies depending on location but typically ranges from $699-$1,199 USD.

9. Lean Six Sigma Black Belt Certification

Lean Six Sigma Black Belt Certification is a professional certification that recognizes an individual's expertise in the Lean Six Sigma methodology. It is designed to help individuals develop and demonstrate their knowledge of the principles, tools, and techniques of Lean Six Sigma. The certification is typically earned through a rigorous training program, which can take anywhere from four to eight weeks depending on the provider.

To become certified as a Lean Six Sigma Black Belt, an individual must complete a series of courses and exams administered by an accredited organization. These courses cover topics such as process improvement, project management, data analysis, and problem-solving methods. After completing the coursework and passing all required exams, individuals are awarded the certification.

The cost of becoming certified varies depending on the provider and can range from $2,000-$4,000 USD for the full program.

10. IT Service Management Foundation Certificate

The IT Service Management Foundation Certificate is a globally recognized certification that provides a comprehensive understanding of the best practices and processes used in IT service management. This certification is designed for those who are new to the IT service management field or those who want to improve their knowledge and skills in this area.

It typically takes between three and six months to complete the course material and pass the exam. The course material covers topics such as ITIL (Information Technology Infrastructure Library) framework, service lifecycle, service strategy, service design, service transition, service operations, continual service improvement, problem management, incident management, change management and more.

To get certified you must first purchase an accredited training program from an approved provider such as AXELOS or PeopleCert. After completing the training program you will be able to take the exam which is administered by either AXELOS or PeopleCert. The cost of the training program varies depending on your chosen provider but typically ranges from $1,000-$2,000 USD. The cost of taking the exam also varies depending on your chosen provider but typically ranges from $200-$400 USD.

11. HDI Customer Service Representative Training and Certification

HDI Customer Service Representative (CSR) Training and Certification is a program designed to help customer service representatives learn the skills needed to provide excellent customer service. The program is offered by HDI, an international organization that provides training and certification in customer service and other related topics.

The HDI CSR Training and Certification consists of two components: the HDI CSR Fundamentals course, which covers the basics of customer service, and the HDI CSR Expertise course, which focuses on more advanced topics such as problem solving and communication skills. Both courses are self-paced and can be completed online or in-person.

The length of time it takes to complete the training depends on how much time you are able to dedicate to it. Generally, it takes about 12 weeks for someone who is studying full-time to complete both courses. However, if you have a busy schedule or need more flexibility, you can also take the courses part-time over a longer period of time.

To get certified as an HDI CSR, you must first complete both courses successfully and then pass an online certification exam with a score of 80% or higher. You can register for the exam online through the HDI website.

The cost of the HDI CSR Training and Certification varies depending on where you take it and what type of certification you are seeking. Generally speaking, it costs around $1,000 USD for both courses plus the cost of taking the certification exam ($150 USD).

Do You Really Need a Service Desk Manager Certificate?

The short answer is no, you do not need a Service Desk Manager Certificate to be a successful service desk manager. However, having a certificate may give you an edge in the job market and help demonstrate your knowledge and commitment to the profession.

A Service Desk Manager Certificate can provide evidence of your expertise in the field, which is especially important if you are applying for a management-level position. It can also demonstrate that you have taken the time to learn about the latest trends in service desk management and best practices for managing IT services. Additionally, having a certificate can show potential employers that you are dedicated to continuous learning and improvement in your career.

While it is possible to become a successful service desk manager without a certificate, there are certain advantages to having one. A certificate may open doors for advancement within your organization or make you more attractive to potential employers when searching for new opportunities outside of your current role. It will also give you greater credibility with customers, peers, and other stakeholders who may be looking at your qualifications before making decisions about service delivery.

In conclusion, while having a Service Desk Manager Certificate is not necessary to be successful as a service desk manager, it can certainly help give you an edge in today's competitive job market.

Related: Service Desk Manager Resume Examples

FAQs About Service Desk Manager Certifications

Q1: What is a Service Desk Manager Certification?

A1: Service Desk Manager certifications are offered by many organizations and are designed to recognize and validate the skills of professionals who manage service desks. These certifications demonstrate knowledge of best practices and processes for managing service desk operations, such as incident management, problem management, change management, IT service continuity planning, and customer support.

Q2: What are the benefits of obtaining a Service Desk Manager certification?

A2: A Service Desk Manager certification provides an individual with the opportunity to demonstrate their expertise in managing service desks. It also gives them an edge in the job market by providing recognition from employers that they have the right skillset to effectively manage a service desk. Additionally, it can help individuals stand out during job interviews, as well as open up new opportunities for career advancement.

Q3: What type of exams should I expect when obtaining a Service Desk Manager certification?

A3: The exam requirements vary depending on the organization offering the certification but typically include topics such as ITIL foundations, incident management, problem management, change management, customer support and IT service continuity planning.

Q4: How long does it take to get certified as a Service Desk Manager?

A4: The amount of time it takes to obtain a Service Desk Manager certification will depend on the organization offering it and individual experience level. Generally speaking, most people take around 6 months to complete all necessary exams and obtain their certification.

Q5: Are there any prerequisites for getting certified as a Service Desk Manager?

A5: Most organizations require that applicants have at least two years of experience in managing service desks or related areas before they can apply for certifications. Additionally, some may require applicants to have prior ITIL Foundation-level training or knowledge before they can sit for their exams.