Taking the first big step in pursuing a professional certification

Pursuing a designation through one of NACM’s and FCIB’s six Professional Certification Programs can be intimidating. Whether you’ve been in the industry for years or only a matter of months, the allure of a professional designation might subsist despite anxieties about going back to classes and homework. 

“The certificate program has always interested me and I have wanted to earn my Credit Business Associate (CBA) designation for several years,” said Kari Rhoten, CBA, credit manager for IMI Tennessee LLC. (Nashville, TN). “I finally took the steps to apply, the hardest part really was taking the first step.”

For credit managers who graduated college years ago and haven’t been back in the classroom since, the designation journey might look intimidating. But once you begin the process, the lesson plans begin to excite you rather than scare you. 

“I graduated from college many years ago,” Rhoten said. “Getting into the habit of studying again took some time. I kept myself on a schedule, so I did not get too far behind. Working full time and getting the certification was a huge time commitment for myself and family.”

NACM’s Professional Certification Programs allow credit managers to deepen their understanding of credit by diving deep into nuanced and intricate topics related to credit management. Even if you have years of experience in the field, professional certification courses can help you learn even more. 

“I have been a credit manager for over 30 years and yes, I learned several new things about credit and collections,” Rhoten said. “The videos and modules were very interesting and easy to follow. With the CBA you learn about the accounting and financial side of the business, it was very interesting to see that side as well.”

While it may be intimidating at first, the journey is also very rewarding. After earning her CBA, Rhoten was inspired to pursue her Credit Business Fellow (CBF) designation as well. “Not sure how far I will go, but I am enjoying the journey,” Rhoten said. 

📝 Study tip: “Stay on schedule with your studies,” Rhoten said. “NACM does a great job with providing you with everything needed to achieve success, utilize the practice test and study guides online.”