The CMP Program - Staying Relevant to the Profession

The job of a meeting professional has changed dramatically since the CMP program was launched more than 30 years ago. The conversation has shifted from being told by senior management what the organization’s meetings, events and exhibitions will look like to now meeting professionals are playing an integral role in driving the strategy of the event portfolio and planning the goals and objectives for the events.

As the profession has matured, so too has the CMP program. Every five years, CIC recruits practicing meeting professionals to review the body of knowledge on which the CMP program is the foundation. The body of knowledge –known as the CMP International Standards – is the basis not only of the CMP exam, but is also used to set the curriculums at colleges and universities for those seeking to earn degrees in Hospitality, Tourism and Event Management. To ensure the program reflects the knowledge and skills of the meeting professional, these subject matter experts come from every sector of the industry – planners, suppliers, and third-party consultants; government and private sector; corporate and not-for-profit; and from all areas of the world. 

The updates don’t just stop there. As a valued member of the CMP community, you will have an opportunity to review the suggested updates and influence what goes into the body of knowledge. Review what the panel of experts had to say and to tell CIC if any knowledge or skills were missed. Your input ensures that those who hold the CMP designation have a say in the importance that the three letters on your resumes, job descriptions and business cards mean more than, well, letters. As a CMP you know that those letters mean that you keep relevant with market content and have proven your mastery of the knowledge and skills needed to be a successful meeting professional.

 

In a few weeks, each of you will get a chance to weigh in on the most recent updates to the CMP International Standards. Please watch your inbox for an invitation to complete a survey outlining the updates to the CMP body of knowledge. I hope you’ll join your fellow CMPs in helping to shape the ever-changing role of a successful meeting professional.  

Peace. Janet Sperstad, CMP