Top 10 Technical Sales Manager Certifications

Certifications are important for a technical sales manager in the job market because they demonstrate a level of expertise and can be used to differentiate yourself from other applicants. Certification programs provide formal recognition that you have taken the time to learn a specific skill set and are knowledgeable about certain products or services. They can also help employers quickly identify qualified candidates and show that you’re motivated to stay up-to-date on industry trends. Certifications can also give you an edge when negotiating salary, as they demonstrate that you have the skills employers are looking for.

The purpose of this article is to review the top certifications for Technical Sales Managers and explain how they can help further their career.

What are Technical Sales Manager Certifications?

Technical sales manager certification is a professional credential that validates an individual’s knowledge and proficiency in selling technical products, services, and solutions. The certification provides a comprehensive understanding of the key principles and processes involved in successfully selling technical products and services. It also provides valuable insights into the latest trends and techniques used by top sales professionals.

The certification can help individuals advance their career in the field of technical sales management by demonstrating their expertise to employers. It also helps demonstrate their commitment to the profession, which can open up opportunities for career advancement or higher-paying positions. Additionally, having a technical sales manager certification may provide access to exclusive job postings or special hiring programs from leading companies in the industry.

Having this certification could also give an individual an edge over other applicants when it comes to negotiating salary or benefits packages with potential employers. Furthermore, having a technical sales manager certification could also qualify an individual for specialized training programs offered by various organizations that specialize in developing and enhancing the skills of technical sales professionals.

Overall, obtaining a technical sales manager certification can be beneficial for those looking to enter or further develop their careers in the field of technical sales management. It is important to note, however, that this certification does not guarantee success; rather, it serves as proof that an individual has studied and understands the core concepts associated with successful technical product and service sales.

Pro Tip: Consider taking an online technical sales manager certification course to improve your skills and knowledge in the field. These courses can provide you with valuable insights on how to effectively manage a sales team, as well as best practices for developing customer relationships and driving sales success.

Related: What does a Technical Sales Manager do?

Top 10 Technical Sales Manager Certifications

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

1. Certified Professional Sales Manager (CPSM)

Certified Professional Sales Manager (CPSM) is a certification program offered by the Sales Management Association (SMA). It is designed to recognize and validate the knowledge and skills of sales managers. The certification is based on a comprehensive exam that covers topics such as sales management, customer relationship management, sales process optimization, and sales analytics.

The CPSM certification process takes approximately six to eight months to complete. To get certified, you must first register for the exam and submit an application form with supporting documents. Once your application has been approved, you can take the exam at an authorized testing center. After passing the exam, you will receive your official certificate from SMA.

The cost of getting certified varies depending on how you choose to take the exam. If you opt for self-study, it will cost around $500-$1000; if you choose to attend an in-person training program or online course it will cost around $2000-$3000; if you decide to take a bootcamp or intensive workshop it will cost around $4000-$5000.

Overall, becoming a Certified Professional Sales Manager is an excellent way to demonstrate your expertise in sales management and increase your marketability as a job candidate or consultant.

2. Certified Sales Professional (CSP)

Certified Sales Professional (CSP) is a professional certification program offered by the American Association of Inside Sales Professionals (AA-ISP). It is designed to recognize sales professionals who have demonstrated a commitment to excellence in inside sales. The CSP certification provides evidence that an individual has achieved a level of knowledge and experience that is recognized as being above and beyond the average inside salesperson.

The CSP certification requires applicants to pass an exam that covers topics such as customer service, sales process, communication, negotiation, and closing techniques. The exam consists of 100 multiple-choice questions and must be completed within two hours. Applicants must also demonstrate at least two years of experience in inside sales or related fields.

In order to obtain the CSP certification, applicants must first register for the exam through the AA-ISP website. After registering, applicants will receive an email with instructions on how to complete the application process and pay the associated fees. Once approved, applicants will receive their study materials and can begin preparing for the exam.

The cost of obtaining the CSP certification varies depending on whether you are an AA-ISP member or non-member. For members, it costs $495 USD; for non-members it costs $595 USD. This fee includes all study materials and access to additional resources such as practice exams and webinars.

3. Certified Sales Manager (CSM)

Certified Sales Manager (CSM) is a professional certification program designed to help sales professionals develop the skills and knowledge required for successful sales management. The CSM certification program is offered by the American Management Association (AMA).

The CSM certification program consists of two courses: Sales Management Fundamentals and Advanced Sales Management. The courses are offered online or in-person, with an estimated completion time of 12 weeks.

To get certified, you must complete both courses and pass the final exam with a score of 70% or higher. You must also have at least three years of sales management experience to be eligible for the certification.

The cost of the CSM certification program varies depending on the type of course you choose and whether you take it online or in-person. Generally, online courses cost between $1,500 and $2,000 USD, while in-person classes can range from $3,000 to $4,000 USD.

4. Certified Professional in Technical Sales (CPTS)

Certified Professional in Technical Sales (CPTS) is a certification program that provides individuals with the skills and knowledge necessary to become successful technical sales professionals. The CPTS certification program is designed to help sales professionals understand the technical aspects of products, services, and solutions. It also provides them with the ability to effectively communicate technical information to customers, prospects, and colleagues.

The CPTS certification program consists of four modules: Core Concepts, Sales Processes & Strategies, Product Knowledge & Application, and Leadership & Management. Each module consists of a series of courses that cover topics such as customer service, sales techniques, product knowledge, communication skills, and more. Upon completion of all four modules, individuals will be awarded the CPTS certification.

The CPTS certification program typically takes between six months and one year to complete depending on the individual’s level of commitment and dedication. In order to obtain the CPTS certification, individuals must attend all four modules and pass an exam at the end of each module.

The cost for obtaining a CPTS certification varies depending on which provider you choose to go through for your training materials and exams. Generally speaking though it can range anywhere from $1,500 - $3,000 USD.

5. Certified Technical Sales Representative (CTSR)

Certified Technical Sales Representative (CTSR) is a professional certification program offered by the American Marketing Association (AMA). It is designed to help sales professionals develop their skills and knowledge in technical sales. The CTSR certification requires that applicants demonstrate a mastery of key concepts, such as customer service, product knowledge, and sales strategy.

It typically takes about 6-12 months to complete the CTSR certification program. To get certified, you must pass an exam that covers topics such as customer service, product knowledge, and sales strategy. You must also complete a portfolio of projects demonstrating your ability to apply the concepts learned during the program.

The cost of the CTSR certification varies depending on where you take it. In general, it costs around $2,000-$3,000 for the entire program. This includes course materials and exam fees.

6. Certified Technical Account Manager (CTAM)

Certified Technical Account Manager (CTAM) is a professional certification program designed to recognize and reward individuals who have demonstrated the knowledge and skills necessary to manage complex customer technical accounts. The certification is offered by the International Association of Technical Account Managers (IATAM).

The CTAM certification requires applicants to demonstrate their knowledge, skills, and abilities in areas such as customer service, problem solving, project management, communication, and technical account management. Applicants must also pass an exam that covers topics such as customer service best practices, technical account management principles, and project management techniques.

It typically takes about six months to complete the CTAM certification process. This includes completing the application process, studying for the exam, taking the exam, and submitting all required documents.

To get certified as a CTAM professional, you must first submit an application that includes your educational background and work experience. Once your application has been approved by IATAM, you will be required to register for the exam. You will then need to study for the exam using IATAM’s recommended study materials. After passing the exam with a score of 70% or higher, you will be awarded your CTAM certification.

The cost of becoming a Certified Technical Account Manager varies depending on whether you are an individual or a company looking to certify multiple employees at once. For individuals looking to become certified as a CTAM professional, the cost is $495 USD which includes access to online study materials and one attempt at taking the exam. Companies looking to certify multiple employees can contact IATAM directly for discounted rates on bulk certifications.

7. Certified Technical Solutions Specialist (CTSS)

Certified Technical Solutions Specialist (CTSS) is a certification program designed to help IT professionals demonstrate their technical skills and knowledge. This certification is offered through the Computing Technology Industry Association (CompTIA). The CTSS certification validates the ability of IT professionals to design, implement, and troubleshoot complex technical solutions.

The CTSS certification requires passing two exams: CompTIA A+ and CompTIA Network+. It typically takes about six months to complete the training necessary for these exams. The cost of the exams varies depending on where you take them, but it generally ranges from $200-$400 per exam.

To get certified as a CTSS, you must first pass both CompTIA A+ and CompTIA Network+ exams. Once you have passed these exams, you will be eligible to receive your CTSS certification. You can then apply for jobs that require this certification or use it as a way to demonstrate your technical skills in an interview.

8. Advanced Technical Sales Certification Program (ATS-CPP)

The Advanced Technical Sales Certification Program (ATS-CPP) is a comprehensive certification program designed to help sales professionals become more knowledgeable and successful in the technical sales field. It is offered by the Association of Technical Sales Professionals (ATSP), an international organization dedicated to advancing the profession of technical sales.

The ATS-CPP consists of three levels: Foundation, Intermediate, and Advanced. Each level requires a minimum number of hours of study and completion of an exam. The Foundation level covers basic concepts such as customer service, product knowledge, communication skills, and problem solving. The Intermediate level focuses on advanced topics such as negotiation tactics, marketing strategies, and competitive analysis. The Advanced level covers topics such as pricing strategies, product positioning, and sales forecasting.

In order to obtain the ATS-CPP certification, individuals must complete all three levels within two years. After completing each level successfully, individuals will receive a certificate from ATSP that recognizes their accomplishment.

The cost for the ATS-CPP certification varies depending on the number of levels completed. For example, if an individual completes all three levels within two years it would cost approximately $2,000 USD total for all three levels combined.

To get started with the ATS-CPP certification program individuals should contact ATSP directly or visit their website for more information about registration fees and deadlines.

9. Microsoft Dynamics 365 for Sales Functional Consultant Associate

Microsoft Dynamics 365 for Sales Functional Consultant Associate is a certification program that provides an in-depth knowledge of the Microsoft Dynamics 365 for Sales platform. It is designed to help individuals become more proficient in using the software and its features to improve sales performance. The certification requires passing two exams: MB-200 and MB-210.

The MB-200 exam covers topics such as understanding core concepts of Dynamics 365, configuring and managing Dynamics 365, managing sales processes, managing customer service, and integrating with other applications. The MB-210 exam covers topics such as understanding sales automation, managing customer relationships, creating customer engagement plans, and setting up analytics.

It usually takes around 3 months to complete the certification program depending on how much time you can dedicate to studying. To get the certification you need to register for both exams online through Microsoft’s website or through a third party testing center. Once you have passed both exams you will be awarded the Microsoft Dynamics 365 for Sales Functional Consultant Associate certification.

The cost of the program varies depending on your location and whether or not you are taking the exams through Microsoft or a third party testing center. Generally speaking, it costs around $500-$600 USD for both exams combined.

10. Oracle Cloud Infrastructure 2020 Architect Associate

Oracle Cloud Infrastructure 2020 Architect Associate is a certification program designed for experienced IT professionals who are looking to validate their expertise in designing and deploying cloud solutions using Oracle Cloud Infrastructure. It is the highest-level of Oracle’s cloud certifications and requires knowledge of Oracle Cloud Infrastructure services, such as compute, storage, networking, security, and identity.

The Oracle Cloud Infrastructure 2020 Architect Associate certification exam consists of 60 multiple-choice questions that must be completed within 120 minutes. The topics covered include design principles, architecture best practices, deployment strategies, and troubleshooting techniques.

To become an Oracle Cloud Infrastructure 2020 Architect Associate certified professional you must pass the 1Z0-1072-20 exam with a score of at least 68%. You can register for the exam online through the Oracle Certification website. The cost of the exam varies depending on your location but typically ranges from $300 to $400 USD.

Once you have successfully passed the 1Z0-1072-20 exam you will receive an email confirming your certification status along with a digital badge that you can display on your LinkedIn profile or other social media platforms. You will also receive an official certificate from Oracle which can be used for job applications or other professional purposes.

Do You Really Need a Technical Sales Manager Certificate?

The short answer is no. A Technical Sales Manager Certificate isn’t an absolute requirement for a successful career in technical sales management, however, it can certainly give you an edge over other candidates when competing for positions. While many employers recognize the value of a formal education, they also recognize that experience and knowledge are essential in this field.

Having a Technical Sales Manager Certificate can provide you with additional opportunities to showcase your expertise and demonstrate your commitment to the profession. It may help you stand out from other applicants because it shows that you have taken the initiative to learn more about the industry and develop relevant skills. The certificate also serves as evidence that you possess the necessary qualifications to fulfill the duties of a technical sales manager.

In addition, having a Technical Sales Manager Certificate can enhance your professional credibility among peers, colleagues, and potential employers. It shows that you have taken the time and effort to gain specialized knowledge of the industry, which helps build trust in your abilities as a leader and decision-maker. It may also provide access to new networks and resources within the industry which can be invaluable for advancing your career goals.

Ultimately, whether or not you decide to pursue a Technical Sales Manager Certificate is up to you; however, if you are serious about succeeding in this field then having one could give you an advantage over other applicants who lack such credentials.

Related: Technical Sales Manager Resume Examples

FAQs About Technical Sales Manager Certifications

Q1: What is a Technical Sales Manager Certification?

A1: A Technical Sales Manager Certification is a professional certification that demonstrates an individual's knowledge and skills in the field of technical sales. It is designed to help individuals increase their understanding of the sales process, create more effective strategies for customer acquisition and retention, and improve their overall effectiveness as a sales manager.

Q2: Who should get a Technical Sales Manager Certification?

A2: A Technical Sales Manager Certification is beneficial for anyone interested in furthering their career in sales management. This includes professionals who are already working in the sales industry or those looking to break into it. The certification can also be helpful for those seeking managerial positions within technical fields such as IT or engineering.

Q3: What are the benefits of getting a Technical Sales Manager Certification?

A3: The benefits of getting a Technical Sales Manager Certification include increased job opportunities, better salary prospects, improved credibility with customers and employers, and more confidence when managing teams. Additionally, having this certification may open up new pathways to higher-level positions within the company or industry.

Q4: How long does it take to get a Technical Sales Manager Certification?

A4: The amount of time it takes to get a Technical Sales Manager Certification depends on the specific program you choose to pursue. Generally speaking, programs range from six months to two years depending on whether you opt for an online or traditional program.

Q5: Are there any prerequisites for getting a Technical Sales Manager Certification?

A5: While there are no strict prerequisites for getting a Technical Sales Manager Certification, some programs may require applicants to have prior experience in sales or management roles before enrolling in the program. Additionally, some programs may require applicants to pass an entry exam before being accepted into the program.