Chair's Corner: Insight from Your Peers

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Karen Gonzales, CMP

One of my goals as your 2012 Chair for the CMP Board of Directors has been focused on engagement with the CMP community. This goal is critical as it helps the board of directors to understand the makeup of our CMP community, what your needs are and how our certification community plays a significant role for our industry.

With that being said, I took to the road to reach out to a few of your peers. I asked them why the need for the CMP credential? What has the CMP credential done for their career path? How have their employers been able to benefit from their knowledge of having the credential? Here is what they have to say:

Advocate for the Industry
"Being in the industry 20 years the value of the CMP became apparent early on. Although the associations I worked for had strong recognition, it was going to be my name and reputation that would get me to the next level. Having the CMP after my name gave me credibility when applying for a position, when networking and now when working with my clients as a HelmsBriscoe associate. My clients value the fact that I have a planner background and understand all meeting logistics - the CMP confirms that. As a CMP we have an obligation to the industry which is to be active, stay current on trends and most importantly mentor those with an interest to be a CMP."  -- Jeanmarie Kline, CMP, HelmsBriscoe, Manager, Global Accounts

Competitive Advantage
"In our competitive sales environment, my CMP certification illustrates my personal commitment to the meetings industry and allows me a professional edge when working with experienced meeting professionals."  -- Mary Lynn Novelli, CMP; Professional Convention Management Association Convene® Account Executive

Professional Development
"My CMP has helped in knowing more in detail of the US meetings market and a way-of-doing-business so I can be better prepared to promote meetings to go to Mexico from the US. It is also an asset (tool) to establish a better working relationship among meeting and incentive planners." -- Jose M. Barquin, CDME, CMP; Mexico Tourism Board, Director, Florida, North Carolina, South Carolina & Caribbean

Each one of us may have a varying reason for why we obtained and continue the CMP credential. Regardless of why, we are a community that believes in the value of certification, investment in professional development and commitment to enhance our industry.

I encourage you to contact your CMP Board of Directors or me with any thoughts or suggestions; we are here for you.

Warmest regards,
Karen Gonzales, CMP

Karen Gonzales is the Chair of the CMP Board of Directors and Senior Vice President of Membership & Operations for Destination Marketing Association International