The simple answer is yes and no. Of course, you already know that you do not have to be certified to enter the field of meeting and incentive travel planning. While some employers might require a certification in order to qualify for positions with that particular firm, there are plenty of uncertified incentive travel and meeting planners doing quite well in the industry. That being said, industry certifications are almost always a good idea, regardless of your field. Meeting planning is no different.

When you become certified, you will receive recognition of your skills and professionalism from your peers and the meeting and incentive travel planning industry, and will also enhance the first impression potential clients receive when you hand them your business card or they visit your website. People love to see letters after any professionals name when they are considering procuring their services. This alone could be reason enough to seek certification. On top of increased recognition and an improved perception of your abilities, industry research carried out by Meeting Professionals International shows that certified planners earn more than their uncertified counterparts.

Industry certifications include:

• Certified Meeting Professional (CMP) offered through the Convention Industry Council
• Global Certification for Meeting Management (CMM) offered by Meeting Professionals International
• Certified Incentive Travel Executive (CITE) offered by the Society of Incentive & Travel Executives
• Certified Special Event Professional (CSEP) offered by the International Special Events Society
• Destination Management Certified Professional (DMCP) offered by the Association of Destination Management Executives
• Certified Destination Management Executive (CDME) offered by the Destination Marketing Association International