CPSM: Earning the Certification
Posted by Communications2 on Jan. 14, 2026 / Member Resource / Subscribe 0
by Cali Nielsen, CPSM | J-U-B Engineers
The Certified Professional Services Marketer (CPSM) certification always felt slightly out of reach for me. I often felt overshadowed by people with more experience or higher degrees. I also worried about not having enough time—both professionally and personally. It ultimately took a little extra encouragement from my boss before I committed to attending the study groups and pursuing the certification. Fortunately, I ended up in a fantastic study group. Everyone was truly invested.
Our study group met consistently. We asked countless questions of the CPSMs leading our meetings, and they answered everything to the best of their knowledge. We discussed everything from testing format and content to how the certification had helped them in their own careers. We were curious and engaged, which I believe played a significant role in our success.
The time we spent studying together sparked insightful conversations about real challenges we faced at work and how we applied what we were learning. These discussions not only deepened my understanding but also built my confidence. It was particularly encouraging when group members leaned on specific career experiences I had that they didn’t. We each brought something unique to the table, and by sharing our strengths, we helped one another succeed. The study group was incredibly helpful in many ways.
I also felt that personal study was essential. Before each group meeting, I tried to work through the material so I could bring any questions I had about content to the study group. As the exam approached, I reviewed much of the content again—especially the topics where my day-to-day experience differed from the study materials. Our group met one more time to “cram” and ask any final questions we’d gathered during our individual review. That extra session was incredibly useful.
The test itself threw me a few curveballs—there were definitely questions I didn’t expect. I’ll admit that it was challenging. Still, because I had studied consistently and intentionally, I felt more confident than not. It was incredibly rewarding to see a passing score after all the effort I’d invested.
What the Certification Gave Me
When I first planned to pursue the certification, I had money on my mind. I asked my boss if the firm would reimburse the cost of the exam once I passed and cover ongoing renewal expenses. Not only was it paid for at the time, but every employer I’ve had since has also covered my renewal costs.
I also wondered whether the certification would increase my perceived value—and, by extension, my salary. While there was no immediate financial reward such as a bonus or instant raise, the CPSM has absolutely influenced my earning potential over time. It has strengthened my hiring salary at new firms and contributed to raises—not just because of the credential, but because of the knowledge I gained and continue to gain through Continuing Education Units (CEUs).
Beyond financial benefits, I hoped the certification would open doors, and it certainly has. I’ve had opportunities at both the local and national levels that I never imagined when I first considered the CPSM. For example, I was invited to judge the Society for Marketing Professional Services (SMPS) national marketing awards entries. That experience alone was incredible. Many of my professional relationships, job offers, and other opportunities can be traced back to my CPSM certification.
The Conquerable Challenge
When I made the decision to pursue the CPSM, my life was full—both professionally and personally. I had taken on new, challenging responsibilities at the small firm where I worked, which made my workdays more demanding. Outside of work, I was navigating health challenges, caring for a toddler, and expecting my second child. All of this made studying more difficult and the exam feel even more daunting.
Looking back, it might seem like waiting would have made things easier. But for me, postponing the certification wouldn’t have been the best choice. It’s entirely possible I would have waited years longer, missing out on opportunities that shaped my career.
So this is my encouragement to anyone considering the CPSM: do it anyway. Pursue the certification even when the timing isn’t perfect. You may surprise yourself with what you can accomplish. And if you have to pause and restart, that’s okay—you can always begin again.
Cali Nielsen, CPSM, is a proposal and resource manager for J-U-B ENGINEERS, INC. She has been in the A/E/C industry for 25 years with various firms ranging in size from 9–11,500 employees. She enjoys working with colleagues on proposal content strategy, marketing strategy, client management, and providing professional training.
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