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Certifications Corner
Each month, the Certifications & Career Development Committee will explore a different meeting-industry certification, and we will talk to an MPI Potomac member who holds it.
The Certified Government Meeting Professional designation (CGMP) is demonstrates planners and suppliers have an understanding of federal rules and regulations. Many government contracts now require planners to have their government certification, and state and local government employees will benefit from this information.
Before beginning the course, you should have a basic knowledge of industry terminology and acronyms. The course teaches recognized industry practices cited in the Convention Industry Council (CIC) Manual. The CGMP Exam is 100 multiple choice questions and a passing score requires at least 85 correct answers.
Qualification: Active SGMP membership and one-year experience in the hospitality industry.
Began: 2005 and updated in 2017
Renewal Cycle: Every 3 years
Course Materials and Outline of Course: All of the certification material will be presented through the manual and instruction during the three day course
Current CGMP: Over 1,200
MPI Member Q&A
Darlene Spencer, CMP, CGMP
Space Telescope Science Institute
Year Received CGMP: 2012
Darlene, why did you decide to get your CMP and CGMP?
I’m a learner. I wanted to become more proficient in my field. Obtaining these credentials were personal goals of mine. Although not required by my employer, I felt gaining more knowledge in in meetings and events planning was important. To have this designation would help me to be more effective and efficient on my job. I wanted to be my best. I wanted to learn as much as possible regarding the industry. I have been able to do so many times over in attaining them.
Learn more...
What did you do to prepare for the exams?
To prepare for the CMP, I enrolled in an online prep course, a weekend study group (Friday and all-day Saturday). I purchased all of the study materials that were recommended in advance. I used flash cards and took practice exams. Finally, I took part in the CMP Bootcamp one day prior to the exam. I freeze up, and testing is very stressful for me. The exam was no different even though I prepared in every way possible.
When I took the CGMP exam, the only way to prepare for it was attending the three-day class prior to the actual exam. I searched the web for study materials and information to assist in studying for the exam to no avail. (It was as if an oath was taken not to provide it.) The textbook and any study materials were provided on the first day of class. Each day, a portion of the book was covered to prepare everyone for the exam. After class, I went back to my hotel room and studied until the wee hours or until I fell asleep, whichever came first.
Because I had taken the CMP exam “the year before,” it was a big help in preparing me for the basic areas and questions on the CGMP exam. On the fourth day, the exam was administered. It was one of the most stressful days of my life. I’m proud to say that I passed both exams on the first try.
Share one new skill, formula or concept you learned while preparing for the exam or recredentialing that helped you be a better meeting planner?
While preparing for the CGMP exam, I gained a logical and methodical understanding of the relevant government departments, rules and regulations that affect our meetings. This knowledge was a big help for me when making decisions around RFPs, catering hotel blocks, etc.
When studying for the CMP exam, the big takeaways for me were Risk Management and the Apex Commission, which includes the glossary. While I know that there is always a possibility of something going wrong, I was not used to creating a “risk management plan” on my job. This is now in the forefront when I plan a meeting or event. The glossary was instrumental in learning the industry terminology and studying for the exam, as well.
Obtaining these designations has been a big investment in my career. I have benefited in many ways and recommend anyone contemplating taking the exam, do it for yourself. You’ll never regret it.
Learn more about the CGMP program on the Society of Government Meeting Professionals (SGMP) website.
