Top 11 Showroom Manager Certifications

Certifications are important for a showroom manager in the job market because they demonstrate to employers that the candidate has the knowledge and experience required to manage a showroom. Certifications can also provide recognition and credibility within the industry, as well as prove to employers that the candidate is committed to their profession. Additionally, certifications often come with access to professional networks and resources which can help a showroom manager stay up-to-date on industry trends, best practices, and new technologies. Finally, certifications can give a competitive edge over other candidates who do not possess them.

This article reviews and explains the value of some of the top certifications for Showroom Managers, which can help them to advance their careers.

What are Showroom Manager Certifications?

Showroom Manager Certification is a professional development program designed to help retail showroom managers increase their effectiveness in managing personnel, inventory, customer service, and other aspects of the retail showroom environment. This certification is beneficial for those looking to advance within the retail industry, as it provides a comprehensive overview of best practices and strategies related to showroom management. It also offers practical guidance on topics such as managing staff, understanding customer needs, forecasting trends and sales analytics, and marketing strategies. By gaining this certification, showroom managers can demonstrate their commitment to excellence in their field and have an edge over their peers when seeking promotion or advancement opportunities.

Pro Tip: Make sure to check the credentials of any showroom manager certification program you are considering. Look for programs that are accredited by a reputable organization, such as the National Retail Federation or the International Council of Shopping Centers. Also, make sure to read reviews and feedback from other showroom managers who have gone through the program before making your final decision.

Related: What does a Showroom Manager do?

Top 11 Showroom Manager Certifications

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

1. Certified Automotive Showroom Manager (CASM)

Certified Automotive Showroom Manager (CASM) is a certification program designed to provide automotive showroom managers with the knowledge and skills necessary to effectively manage a successful showroom. The program focuses on topics such as customer service, sales strategies, product knowledge, inventory management, and financial management.

The program takes approximately 18 months to complete and consists of three courses: Introduction to Automotive Showrooms, Automotive Showroom Management, and Advanced Automotive Showroom Management. Each course includes online learning modules and an in-person workshop.

To get certified as a CASM, you must first complete all three courses and pass the final exam with a score of 80% or higher. Once you have completed the program, you will receive your official certification from the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE).

The cost of the CASM program varies depending on where you take it. Generally speaking, most programs cost around $1,500-$2,000 for all three courses.

2. Certified Professional Showroom Manager (CPSM)

Certified Professional Showroom Manager (CPSM) is a professional certification program designed to help showroom professionals increase their knowledge and skills. It is the only certification program specifically tailored to showroom managers, sales associates, and other retail professionals.

The CPSM program consists of three courses: Showroom Management, Sales and Marketing, and Leadership. Each course is designed to provide participants with the tools they need to create a successful showroom environment. The courses are offered online or in-person at various locations throughout the United States.

It typically takes about 12 months to complete all three courses and earn the CPSM certification. To get started, you must first register for the program through an approved provider such as the National Retail Federation or International Council of Shopping Centers. Once registered, you will be assigned a mentor who will guide you through the process of completing each course.

The cost of earning the CPSM certification varies depending on which provider you choose and how many courses you take. Generally speaking, it can cost anywhere from $1,000-$2,500 for all three courses plus any additional fees associated with registration or testing materials.

3. Certified Sales Manager (CSM)

A Certified Sales Manager (CSM) is a professional certification that demonstrates an individual’s knowledge and expertise in the field of sales management. It is administered by the American Management Association (AMA) and is recognized as a benchmark for excellence in sales management.

The CSM certification process typically takes about six months to complete, depending on how much time you are able to dedicate to studying and preparing for the exams. To become certified, you must pass two exams: the Fundamentals of Sales Management exam and the Advanced Sales Management exam. The Fundamentals exam covers topics such as customer service, marketing, selling techniques, product knowledge, communication skills, and more. The Advanced exam covers topics such as strategic planning, budgeting, team building, negotiation tactics, and more.

To get started on your CSM journey, you will need to register with AMA and pay a fee of $1,395 USD. This fee includes access to all study materials needed for both exams as well as registration fees for both exams. After registering with AMA you will have six months to complete both exams before your registration expires. Once you have passed both exams you will receive your official CSM certificate from AMA.

4. Certified Automotive Retail Manager (CARM)

Certified Automotive Retail Manager (CARM) is an industry-recognized certification program designed to help automotive dealerships improve their operational performance. CARM is administered by the National Automobile Dealers Association (NADA) and is available to all dealership personnel, including sales managers, service advisors, parts managers, finance and insurance managers, and general managers.

The certification process requires candidates to complete a series of online courses that cover topics such as customer service, sales management, financial analysis, and operations management. Upon successful completion of the courses and passing a final exam, candidates receive their CARM certification.

The entire CARM certification process takes approximately six months to complete. During this time period, candidates must complete all required coursework and pass the final exam with a score of at least 70%.

The cost for the CARM certification program varies depending on the type of dealership personnel taking the course. For example, sales managers may pay up to $1,000 for the program while service advisors may pay up to $500. The cost also includes any additional materials needed for completing the coursework such as textbooks or study guides.

5. Certified Showroom Management Professional (CSMP)

Certified Showroom Management Professional (CSMP) is a professional certification program designed to provide individuals with the knowledge and skills necessary to manage a showroom. The CSMP program is administered by the National Retail Federation (NRF).

The CSMP program consists of five courses that cover topics such as showroom layout, customer service, marketing and sales, inventory management, and operations management. The courses are offered online or in-person. Each course takes approximately 8-10 hours to complete.

To become certified as a CSMP, an individual must successfully complete all five courses within one year and pass the final exam with a score of 80% or higher. Upon successful completion of the program, individuals receive a certificate from NRF recognizing their achievement.

The cost for the CSMP program varies depending on whether you take the courses online or in-person. Online courses typically cost between $200-$400 per course while in-person courses typically cost between $500-$1000 per course.

6. Automotive Dealership Management Certification (ADMC)

Automotive Dealership Management Certification (ADMC) is a certification program that recognizes dealership professionals who have achieved a high level of expertise in the management of automotive dealerships. This certification is offered through the National Automobile Dealers Association (NADA).

The ADMC program consists of three courses that cover topics such as dealership operations, financial management, and sales and marketing. Each course takes approximately eight weeks to complete and must be completed within two years of enrollment. The cost for each course is $495, for a total cost of $1,485 for all three courses.

To qualify for the ADMC certification, applicants must have at least five years' experience in automobile dealership management or equivalent experience in another field. Applicants must also pass an examination administered by NADA to demonstrate their knowledge and understanding of dealership operations. Once certified, individuals must maintain their certification by completing continuing education credits every two years.

The ADMC certification can help individuals gain recognition as experts in the field of automotive dealership management and provide them with valuable career opportunities. It also demonstrates an individual's commitment to professional development and excellence in their chosen field.

7. Certified Automotive Leadership Professional (CALP)

Certified Automotive Leadership Professional (CALP) is a professional certification program offered by the Automotive Aftermarket Industry Association (AAIA). This program is designed to equip automotive professionals with the skills and knowledge they need to lead their teams and organizations in an ever-changing business environment.

The CALP program consists of three courses: Automotive Leadership Foundations, Automotive Leadership Strategies, and Automotive Leadership Practices. The courses are delivered online through a series of modules that cover topics such as customer service, sales management, operations management, financial management, marketing, and team building. Participants must complete all three courses within two years to earn the CALP designation.

To get started on your CALP certification journey, you will need to register with AAIA and pay the associated fees. The cost for the entire program is $2,600 USD. Once you have registered and paid for the program, you will be given access to the online modules which can be completed at your own pace. You will also receive support from AAIA’s expert faculty who will provide guidance throughout your learning journey.

Upon completion of all three courses within two years, you will be eligible to take the final examination which is administered by AAIA. Upon successful completion of this exam, you will receive your official CALP designation certificate from AAIA.

8. National Automobile Dealers Association Showroom Management Program (NADA SMP)

The National Automobile Dealers Association Showroom Management Program (NADA SMP) is an online training program that provides automotive dealerships with the tools and resources to improve their showroom operations. The program includes a comprehensive curriculum of topics such as customer service, sales process management, inventory management, financials, and marketing. It also provides access to industry experts and best practices for successful dealership operations.

The NADA SMP is available in three versions: Basic, Intermediate, and Advanced. Each version includes different levels of instruction and content depending on the needs of the dealership. The Basic version is designed for entry-level dealership staff who are just getting started in the business. The Intermediate version is designed for more experienced staff members who need to increase their knowledge base and refine their skillset. The Advanced version is designed for senior managers who need to stay current on industry trends and regulations.

To get the NADA SMP program, you must first become a member of NADA by signing up online or contacting your local dealer association office. Once you have become a member, you can purchase the program from NADA’s website or through your local dealer association office.

The cost of the NADA SMP varies depending on which version you choose. The Basic version costs $99 per year; the Intermediate version costs $199 per year; and the Advanced version costs $299 per year. All versions come with unlimited access to the program's content and resources for one full year from date of purchase.

9. Automotive Service Excellence Certification (ASE Certification)

Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) Certification is a nationally recognized certification program for automotive service technicians. It is designed to ensure that automotive service professionals have the knowledge and skills necessary to properly diagnose, repair, and maintain vehicles. ASE Certification is administered by the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE), a non-profit organization dedicated to improving the quality of vehicle repair and maintenance through the testing and certification of automotive service professionals.

To become ASE certified, an individual must pass one or more ASE tests. There are currently 40 different tests available in eight specialty areas: Automobile, Light Truck, Medium/Heavy Truck, Collision Repair & Refinish, Parts Specialist, School Bus, Transit Bus and Alternative Fuels. The tests are offered year-round at over 300 test centers throughout the United States. Each test takes approximately two hours to complete and costs $36 per attempt.

In order to become ASE certified, an individual must successfully pass all required tests within a five-year period. After passing all required tests, an individual will receive their ASE Certification card in the mail within four weeks of completing their last test. The cost of becoming ASE certified varies depending on how many tests are taken but typically ranges from $360-$720 for most certifications.

10. International Council of Shopping Centers Certification in Shopping Center Management

The International Council of Shopping Centers (ICSC) Certification in Shopping Center Management is a professional certification program that recognizes the knowledge and experience of shopping center professionals. This certification is designed to provide a comprehensive understanding of the principles, practices, and strategies used in the management of shopping centers.

It takes approximately six months to complete all requirements for ICSC Certification in Shopping Center Management. The program consists of four courses: Shopping Center Administration & Management, Retail Real Estate Leasing, Retail Real Estate Finance, and Retail Real Estate Development. Each course requires completion of an online exam at the end.

To get ICSC Certification in Shopping Center Management, you must first register with ICSC and pay the registration fee. Once registered, you can begin taking courses from an approved provider or through self-study. After completing all four courses and passing the exams associated with them, you will be eligible to receive your certification.

The cost for ICSC Certification in Shopping Center Management varies depending on how you choose to take the courses (through an approved provider or through self-study). Generally speaking, it costs around $2,000–$3,000 USD for tuition and exam fees when taking the courses through an approved provider. If you choose to pursue self-study, it may cost less since there are no tuition fees associated with this option; however, exam fees still apply.

11. American Society of Professional Showroom Managers Certification Program

The American Society of Professional Showroom Managers (ASPSM) Certification Program is a professional development program designed to recognize and promote excellence in the showroom management field. The program provides a comprehensive set of standards, processes, and resources for showroom managers to develop their skills and knowledge. The certification is awarded to individuals who demonstrate mastery of the ASPSM body of knowledge.

The program consists of an online training course and a written exam. The online course takes approximately 8-10 hours to complete, depending on the individual's learning speed and experience level. Upon completion of the course, participants must pass a written exam with a score of 80% or higher in order to receive their certification. The exam consists of multiple-choice questions covering topics such as customer service, sales techniques, inventory management, marketing strategies, budgeting and financial management, personnel management, and more.

The cost for the ASPSM Certification Program is $395 USD. This fee includes access to the online course materials as well as one attempt at the written exam. Additional attempts at the exam can be purchased for an additional fee.

Upon successful completion of the program, participants will receive an official ASPSM Certificate of Completion along with digital badges that can be displayed on websites or social media profiles. The certification is valid for three years from date of issue and may be renewed by retaking the written exam or completing continuing education courses offered by ASPSM.

Do You Really Need a Showroom Manager Certificate?

No, you do not need a showroom manager certificate to become a showroom manager. While having a certificate may be helpful in some cases, it is not necessary for success in this role. The most important factor for a successful showroom manager is experience and knowledge of the industry. Showroom managers must have strong organizational skills, excellent customer service abilities, and an understanding of the product lines they are managing. They must also be able to manage staff, set goals and objectives, and work within tight budgets.

In addition to experience and knowledge, many employers look for certain qualities in potential showroom managers. These include leadership skills, problem-solving abilities, creativity, communication skills, and flexibility. While having a certificate in showroom management may demonstrate your commitment to the field and provide evidence of some of these qualities, it is not essential for success as a showroom manager. Ultimately what matters most is your qualifications, experience, and ability to perform the job duties effectively.

Related: Showroom Manager Resume Examples

FAQs About Showroom Manager Certifications

Q1: What are showroom manager certifications?

A1: Showroom manager certifications are professional qualifications that demonstrate proficiency in managing a showroom. These certifications may include topics such as customer service, sales techniques, budgeting and inventory management, store layout and design, and marketing strategies.

Q2: How do I become certified as a showroom manager?

A2: The path to becoming certified as a showroom manager depends on the specific certification being pursued. Generally speaking, you will need to complete an accredited program or course related to showroom management and pass any required exams. Additionally, some certifications may require relevant experience or continuing education in order to maintain the certification.

Q3: What is the difference between a certificate and a certification?

A3: A certificate is typically awarded after completing an educational program or course related to showroom management. A certification is a professional qualification that demonstrates proficiency in managing a showroom and may require additional exams or experience in order to obtain the certification.

Q4: What are some of the benefits of becoming certified as a showroom manager?

A4: Becoming certified as a showroom manager can help you stand out from other candidates when applying for jobs in this field. It can also provide more opportunities for career advancement by demonstrating your knowledge and skills related to managing a successful retail environment. Additionally, having this certification proves that you are committed to staying up-to-date with industry trends and best practices.

Q5: How long does it take to get certified as a showroom manager?

A5: The amount of time it takes to get certified as a showroom manager varies depending on the specific certification being pursued, including any required courses or exams that must be completed before obtaining the certification. Generally speaking, most certifications can be obtained within 1-2 years if all requirements are met.