Unlike industries like law and medicine, there are no formal certifications or credentials required to work in the hospitality industry. But that doesn’t mean there is no value in pursuing these advanced qualifications.
For those serious about their careers, a hospitality certification proves that you have some industry skills. And just as important—it shows that you’re willing to invest in your future. Whether you’re just starting or have years of experience under your belt, here are some valuable certifications and credentials that you may want to add to your resume and skill set.
Entry-Level Hospitality Certifications
Start your career on the right foot with an entry-level hospitality certification. Most of these credentials don’t require any real-world experience as a prerequisite, so they’re perfect resume-builders for those just starting.
Certificate in Hospitality Management
A hospitality management certificate prepares you for the day-to-day decisions you’ll have to make as a leader in the hospitality industry. This type of certification is offered by several online and in-person schools and industry groups, so you’ll have plenty of options. Look for a program that covers a wide range of topics including customer service, finances, and team building.
Entry-Level Hotel Position Training
Through the American Hotel & Lodging Educational Institute (AHLEI), you can get certification for many specific entry-level hospitality positions, including front desk representatives, guestroom attendants, and maintenance. This training can help you to excel in your first role and may make it easier for you to progress to the next level in your career.
Certificate in Hospitality Marketing
Certificates in hospitality marketing or hospitality digital marketing are available from many schools and certificate programs. This credential shows that you are adept at promoting a hospitality brand, often through social media and other online sources. It also shows that you know what metrics to track to measure a successful marketing strategy.
Mid-Level Hospitality Certifications
After a few years in the industry, you may be ready for additional training. These mid-level hospitality certifications show that you’ve progressed beyond the introductory phase of your career, and are ready to demonstrate greater proficiency in your work.
Certified Hospitality Supervisor
The Certified Hospitality Supervisor designation from AHLEI is available for supervisors and managers who lead departments of two or more people and are responsible for scheduling, training, and other leadership activities. This certification can show that you’re prepared for a larger department or greater responsibility.
Certificate in Leadership for Hospitality Professionals
Mid-level hospitality managers quickly learn that their most important responsibility is leadership. So anyone looking to excel in this role will need to hone their communication and strategic management skills. Leadership certifications are offered by many organizations and post-secondary institutions.
Certified Hospitality Revenue Manager
Certification in hospitality revenue recognizes those experts who can maximize a hotel’s earnings. Through forecasting, analyzing inventories, managing room blocks, and more, these financial experts help a hotel property to stay profitable and successful. Certificates are available through AHLEI (Certified Hospitality Revenue Manager) and Hospitality Sales & Marketing Association International (Certified Hospitality Revenue Management Executive), among others.
Upper-Level Hospitality Certifications
Executives and upper-level managers still have more to learn. Through advanced training and certifications, even the top rungs of the hospitality ladder can improve their leadership and management skills.
Certified Hotel Administrator
The Certified Hotel Administrator certification offered by AHLEI is for general managers, assistant general managers, lodging owners/operators, and corporate executives. The program covers topics like financial management, marketing and sales, and revenue management to help leaders build more financially sound hospitality operations.
Certified Destination Management Executive (CDME)
The Certified Destination Management Executive credential is offered by Destinations International to recognize senior executives in the tourism industry. This advanced program explores the unique challenges and opportunities that come with destination organizations, whether those are city chambers, event and expo groups, or travel boards.
Certificate in Strategic Leadership for Hospitality Management
Strategic leadership is about building a collaborative organization that moves together toward the same goals. With a Certificate in Strategic Leadership for Hospitality Management, senior leaders and executives will work on systems and strategies that lead to more successful hospitality operations. This certification is offered by eCornell, one of the leading providers of online hospitality certifications.
This is by no means a comprehensive list of all of the certifications that you can earn along your hospitality journey. When you know exactly where you want your career to take you, you can choose the right courses and exams that will get you closer to your goals.