As the hospitality industry grows and evolves, so does the need for professionals to demonstrate their skills and competencies and stand out. One way of doing this is through industry-recognized certifications. Start a search to learn more and start your certification journey!
The Value of Certifications
Certifications can provide hospitality professionals with an edge in a competitive job market. They validate one’s expertise in a particular domain and demonstrate commitment to professional development. They also tend to result in higher earnings when compared to their non-certified counterparts.
Moreover, employers view certifications as a verification of a candidate’s skills and knowledge. They can foster a sense of trust and reliability. In many cases, they might also serve as a requirement for certain job roles or promotions.
Popular Hospitality Certifications
There are numerous hospitality certifications available, each catering to different aspects of the industry.
Certified Hospitality Supervisor (CHS)
The Certified Hospitality Supervisor (CHS) certification is designed for professionals who oversee the day-to-day operations in hospitality establishments. This certification covers topics such as leadership, communication, financial management, and human resources.
Certified Hospitality Revenue Manager (CHRM)
The Certified Hospitality Revenue Manager (CHRM) is targeted towards professionals who work in revenue management and forecasting. The certification validates a professional’s ability to strategically price and manage rooms to maximize profitability.
Certified Hotel Administrator (CHA)
The Certified Hotel Administrator (CHA) is one of the most prestigious certifications in the hotel management industry. It is designed for hotel general managers, owners, and COOs, focusing on areas like hotel operations, finance, marketing, and leadership.
Certified Food and Beverage Executive (CFBE)
The Certified Food and Beverage Executive (CFBE) is a certification is designed for food and beverage professionals, validating their expertise in managing food and beverage operations in a hospitality environment. The certification covers key areas such as cost control, marketing and sales, production, and service.
Certified Special Events Professional (CSEP)
The Certified Special Events Professional (CSEP) certification is designed for professionals who specialize in planning and managing events such as conferences, meetings, and special events. The certification indicates a professional’s knowledge and skill in all elements of event planning, including project management, logistics, and design.
The Certification Process
The process to obtain a hospitality certification typically involves meeting certain eligibility criteria related to education and experience, followed by preparing for and passing a comprehensive examination. Many organizations provide study materials and preparatory courses to help candidates succeed. After earning a certification, professionals often need to maintain it by fulfilling continuing education requirements and certifications require periodic renewal. The certification process, though demanding, is designed to validate and recognize an individual’s expertise, commitment, and professionalism in the hospitality sector.
The Future of Hospitality Certifications
Hospitality certifications will continue to play a vital role in the industry. According to a report from Deloitte, the global travel and hospitality industry grew by 5.4% in 2021, indicating a flourishing industry that demands capable professionals. As the sector bounces back post-pandemic with a projected growth of 16.13% between 2023 and 2028, the demand for certified professionals will rise.
As the industry shifts towards more sustainable and technology-driven operations, new certifications are likely to emerge. For example, there may be certifications related to sustainable hospitality management or digital transformation in the hospitality industry. You can get started in this exciting and fast-paced industry today!