Become a Certified Sales Professional (CSP)®

How would you like to have the title CSP® at the end of your name in your business card?

The Certified Sales Professional (CSP®) program is a sales certification for professionals who are employed as sales representatives, account managers, distributor representatives, and business development personnel. The CSP® program enables candidates to achieve the coveted CSP® designation, which the certified professional can place on their business cards and resume. This designation is a great door-opener and conversation starter during prospecting or sales calls.  Effective use of the designation on business cards, email signatures, and websites is a great way to let your employer, customers, prospects, and peers know that you are a true professional and that your business activities are guided by SMI.

Why Get Certified?

For the credibility of the profession, it is important to recognize sales professionals who have met and surpassed high standards of education, experience, knowledge, and ethical conduct. Sales and Marketing Institute International (SMI) established a sales certification for professionals to complete in order to be able to use its professional designations. This sales certification provides a standardized structure to assure maximized sales and profitability performance.

When you take the CSP® program to earn the CSP® designation, you’ll have more than a few letter to put after your name, you’ll have validation of your expertise and knowledge of key sales competencies.

The CSP®designation:

• Distinguishes you as a person any buyer would want as a partner
• Enhances your professional image
• Recognizes you as someone who is committed to professional development
• Announces your expertise to your employers, peers, principals, and customers
• Ensures greater sales success for you and your company

Once you have completed this program, you’ll be able to:

• Identify challenges facing today’s sales professionals and acquire the selling skills required to meet those challenges
• Demonstrate the tactical, strategic, and self-management skills required to succeed in the sales profession
• Produce tangible returns by increasing your skill level and becoming a top producer

Who Can Become a CSP®?

Sales people in every industry and segment of the sales process can attend the CSP® program. These include sales representatives, brokers, direct sales, distributors, and even sales managers who manage sales representatives. Anyone who calls on customers and who aims to increase the productivity and profitability of their company should attend the CSP® program.

These individuals can become the CSP®: 

• Entrepreneurs
• Sales Agents
• Medical Representatives
• Healthcare Sales Professionals
• Account Managers and Executives
• Business Development Officers
• Marketing Professionals
• Store Managers
• Telemarketers
• Operations Managers
• Sales Engineers
• Customer Service Representatives/Associates

Benefits of Being a CSP®

When the CSP® marks follow your name, they pack a powerful message, validate your expertise, reap the tangible rewards of a positive attitude, bolster your professional image, and feel the pride and recognition associated with being one of the best.

As a CSP®,

• You are identified as a highly competent professional who has gained the experience, knowledge, and skills of the Sales and Marketing Institute International (SMI).
• You improve your career growth opportunities, advancement, and earning potential.
• Employers know you have solid selling skills and the credentials to prove it.
• Customers know that you meet a set of standards and adhere to a strict code of ethics.
• Colleagues know you are committed to personal career development and lifelong learning.

What are the benefits for my organization?

• Set a measurable benchmark within your sales team
• Differentiate your sales team by increasing their credibility
• Decrease turnover by setting a hiring standard for new staff
• Assist with ongoing training and career development
• Demonstrate your commitment to the profession

Certification Process

To qualify for certification:

• The candidate must have at least one year proven sales experience. At least two professional references are also required.
• The candidate must attend SMI accredited seminars and accumulate up to 36 Credit Points.*
• The candidate must also pass the CSP® validation exam in sales competency.
• The candidate must apply for SMI Membership to become a Certified Sales Professional (CSP®).
• The candidate must abide by the SMI Professional Code of Ethics.
• The candidate must adhere to the Maintenance of Certification requirement. Maintenance of Certification requires that all CSPs engage in at least 20 hours of continuing professional education annually and remain a member in good standing of the Sales and Marketing Institute International.

*Fast Track to Becoming a CSP®

How would you like to get on the fast track to becoming a CSP®? You can! Attend the 2nd National Sales Congress on April 11, 2013, featuring 6 top sales experts and earn the required credit points for certification! And then, take the CSP® validation exam, and once passed, apply for membership to get your CSP® title!