Top 10 customer service certifications to elevate your skills

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Recent studies show that excellent customer support is a key driver of customer satisfaction. Enhancing your knowledge to better serve customers is, therefore, a smart move. One way you can do that is by enrolling in customer service certification programs.

Whether you’re after free customer service certifications or diving into intensive multi-week training, there is a course for everyone.

In this article, we delve into the perks of customer service certifications while highlighting the top 10 programs that can boost your career.

Why consider customer service certifications?

Customer service certifications confirm that you have gained certain skills used in diverse customer interaction scenarios.

Let’s explore the benefits of certification training programs.

• Stand out from the crowd: Certifications act as tangible proof of the holder’s knowledge and expertise.
• Highly targeted training: Certification training programs deliver lessons and tests on a specific niche.
• Enhanced personal aptitudes: Customer service training programs can improve your communication and problem-solving abilities.
• Better career opportunities: Obtaining customer service certifications can open doors to high-level customer service positions.

Be mindful of the type of customer service certification you would like to study for. Choose the one that best fits your career advancement needs.

• Basic customer service agent certification programs will train reps on the hard and soft skills needed to handle customer interactions.
• Helpdesk certification is intended for reps. The training teaches them how to use helpdesk software effectively.
• Call center certification covers the basics of phone-based customer support and focuses on the skills required for conversations in real time.
• Customer service business management certification is tailored for support leaders. The courses help them to align customer service goals with the business strategy.
• Customer experience certification training is about giving support professionals a deeper understanding of what clients need throughout their journey with a brand.
• Client service certification is for those in various customer-facing positions and is focused on fostering positive interactions.

How to select the right customer service certification

Once you have decided on the type of course you would like to take, it is important to choose the right course provider. Various criteria can help you choose:

• Accreditation and industry recognition: Choose a certified customer service training program endorsed by respected organizations.
• Curriculum relevance: Craft a personalized roadmap for yourself and check whether your career goals match the certificate’s curriculum.
• Skills covered: Look for courses that cover both soft and hard skills. Such skills include empathy and expertise in relevant AI tools.
• Flexibility and accessibility: Look for options with adaptable schedules that allow you to learn at your own pace.
• Cost vs. value: Assess the cost of the certification against its value. Although budgeting is crucial, consider your certification as an investment in your future.

Top 10 customer service certifications

Here are the ten best certifications that can make you a standout in the competitive environment of support.

1. Customer Service Skills — Alison

• Overview: Alison’s training begins with an introductory course on the principles of support. The customer service trainer then teaches how to handle tough customer interactions and to understand why they happen.
• Channel: Online
• Best fit for: Newcomers to customer service
• Skills and knowledge areas covered: Fundamental customer service concepts
• Certification requirements: Candidates need to show how they use customer service concepts in real-life scenarios.
• Cost: Free
• Registration link

2. Customer Service Excellence — Mount Royal University

Image source: ce.mtroyal.ca

• Overview: Mount Royal University’s course is designed to enhance candidates’ capabilities to deliver outstanding customer service. The program is flexible, as candidates can finish in one semester or within two years.
• Channel: Onsite or online
• Best fit for: Reps in customer-centric roles
• Skills and knowledge areas covered: Identifying and satisfying customer needs, effective communication, conflict resolution
• Certification requirements: Candidates must complete two mandatory courses and can opt for an extra one.
• Cost: $747
• Registration link

3. Dealing with Difficult Customers — EdApp

Image source: training.safetyculture.com

• Overview: EdApp provides a customer service course that focuses on turning challenging customer situations into contexts for improvement. The course is highly accessible, allowing students to complete it on mobile devices.
•   Channel: Online
• Best fit for: Customer service professionals wanting to improve their skills in handling customer complaints
• Skills and knowledge areas covered: Identifying customer pain points, strategies for dealing with angry customers
• Certification requirements: There are four lessons, each lasting 5–10 minutes.
• Cost: Free
• Registration link

4. Effective Communication in Customer Service — Safety Culture Training

Image source: training.safetyculture.com

• Overview: Another of EdApp’s customer service certification programs — “Effective Communication in Customer Service” — teaches students how to communicate better for more effective support.
• Channel: Online
• Best fit for: Customer service representatives wanting to improve their communication skills
• Skills and knowledge areas covered: Enunciation, active listening, problem-solving
• Certification requirements: There are no specific certification requirements.
• Cost: Free
• Registration link

5. COPC Best Practices for Customer Experience Operations

• Overview: COPC certification is a thorough contact center training program. It has been enhancing customer experience (CX) operations globally for 27+ years.
• Channel: Online
• Best fit for: Customer service professionals wanting to become certified CX professionals
• Skills and knowledge areas covered: Data collection and integrity, CX operation management
• Certification requirements: Candidates must take an exam, but there are no specific prerequisites for it.
• Cost: $3,800
• Registration link

6. 7 Essentials of Excellent Customer Service — GoSkills

• Overview: This customer service course covers the ins and outs of exceptional customer service. It consists of 22 tutorials on verbal and non-verbal cues.
• Channel: Online
• Best fit for: Industry professionals seeking to build a foundation in customer service
• Skills and knowledge areas covered: Insights into the psychological aspects of customer service
• Certification requirements: There are no specific certification requirements.
• Cost: Free
• Registration link

7. CVS Health Call Center Customer Service Professional Certificate

Image source: coursera.org

• Overview: This course satisfies the high demand for qualified customer service representatives. It is offered by CVS Health Corporation, an American healthcare company.
• Channel: Online
• Best fit for: Call center professionals in the healthcare industry
• Skills and knowledge areas covered: Favorable customer engagement, conflict de-escalation, problem-solving resolutions
• Certification requirements: There are no specific certification requirements.
• Cost: Free
• Registration link

8. Maximizing the Customer Experience — CSIA

Image source: facebook.com

• Overview: “Maximizing the Customer Experience” is a complete CX course. It aims at helping candidates improve the CX within their organization. Training consists of eight narrated modules.
• Channel: Online
• Best fit for: Support agents serving customers in real time
• Skills and knowledge areas covered: Comprehensive understanding of customer-focused service
• Certification requirements: Candidates must take an exam, but there are no specific prerequisites for it.
• Cost: $285
• Registration link

9. Customer Service Manager Course — CSIA

Image source: serviceinstitute.com

• Overview: CSIA also offers a Customer Service Manager Course. It addresses the leadership side of support management.
• Channel: Online
• Best fit for: Support managers, customer success managers, CX managers
• Skills and knowledge areas covered: Effective team training, strategic thinking, operations
• Certification requirements: There are no specific certification requirements.
• Cost: $2,250 USD
• Registration link

10. The Certified Customer Experience Professional (CCXP) program — CXPA

• Overview: The CCXP program teaches candidates how to create memorable customer experiences. It is a professional credential granted by the CXPA, an independent non-profit association.
• Channel: Online
• Best fit for: CX professionals seeking formal recognition in the field
• Skills and knowledge areas covered: CX strategy, implementation, and innovation
• Certification requirements: Candidates must take an exam which assesses their deeper understanding of customers. It contains 100 computer-based questions.
• Cost: $645
• Registration link

Preparing for a customer service certification

Take a strategic approach to ensure the success of your preparation. These tactics will help you navigate the preparation process:

Self-study vs. formal training

Deciding whether to study on your own or take a formal course is key to getting a customer service certification. To help you make an informed choice, consider the following suggestions:

• Reflect on your past exam preparations to identify your most effective learning style
• Seek out sample exams or practice questions related to the certification
• Explore webinars or forums that offer flexibility and can supplement your preparation

Study materials and resources

The quality of your study materials impacts your preparation. Consider using a combination of relevant resources:

• Invest in official training manuals tailored to your certification’s specific requirements
• Read relevant books, textbooks, articles, and case studies
• Listen to customer service podcasts as part of your learning process

Advice from certified professionals

Learning from those who have already earned customer service certifications can also help your preparation. Consider these tips:

• Connect with certified professionals in the field for mentorship and guidance
• Attend industry conferences or seminars to gain insights from successful individuals
• Participate in customer service social media groups to discuss related topics

Time management for preparation

Efficient time management is essential for maintaining a balanced study routine. Here are three ways to help you manage your time:

• Craft a well-organized study timetable that aligns with your daily commitments
• Avoid procrastination by setting specific tasks for each study session
• Use a productivity app like Todoist to keep track of your deadlines

How to advance your career with a certification

The following suggestions enhance the value of your certification.

1. Add the certification to your resume and LinkedIn profile: Ensure your hard-earned certification doesn’t go unnoticed. Update your LinkedIn profile to reflect your newfound expertise.
2. Network within the certified professional groups: Engaging within certified professional groups is a pathway to finding valuable opportunities. Take part in discussions and share your experiences with your peers.
3. Seek promotions and new opportunities: Use your customer service certification as a catalyst for career growth. Seek a promotion within your current organization or explore new opportunities.
4. Continue your professional development: Think of your customer service certification as a stepping stone, not the finish line. Commit to continuous professional development by keeping up to date on industry trends.

Customer service learning never stops

Customer service certifications are key for shaping skilled professionals. Elevate your ambitions by seeking out further advanced certifications. Let them pave the way for your progress.

However, the quest for proficiency extends beyond certifications. Embrace all opportunities to improve your customer service expertise. Engage with podcasts, workshops, and networking activities.