With the introduction of the new CSM designation (Certified Social Media Marketer) and the proliferation of many other designations in recent years from ALHS (Accredited Luxury Home Specialist) to CPS (Certified Short Sale Professional) and everything inbetween.....
I got to wondering .... What what is the process of getting a seminar/training/course program accepted by NAR, and who is making the money off of it?
I am guessing here, I have absolutely no idea how this works .... But I am thinking most of these courses are dreamed up not by NAR staffers, but by people in the industry anywhere and everywhere. Then the creator of the course goes through some process of having the course accepted and credited by NAR?
The course is then marketed to NAR members. Members pay to take the course, then continue paying annual membership fees to maintain the designation. I wonder how the money thing works. The course creator and NAR split the income?
Anyone know if that is actually how it works?
Some of us Active Rain Old Timers really ought to get together and create a new designation. Let's say CARS (Certified Active Rain Specialist). Seriously. I think there is some money to be made there. :-)
So there is a new designation for social media... I saw something.
I usually like the classes in designation courses better than your average continuing ed but I am opposed to those designations and certifications that require a yearly fee.
I have no clue about how it works but I am sure it is sold to NAR and NAR and our state and local associations sell it to us and they all make money off it.
I like it Cheryl - the big boys are out there creating designations and raking in the yearly dues - why not us...
That's what I love about the E-Pro designation. One time fee and you have it for life.
Who knows how long it will last but I think that's the model everyone should follow.