Certification Course Developed with Master Connection Associates Embraces Skills in New Professional Competencies 

McLean, Va. (Sept. 20, 2010) � The Hospitality Sales and Marketing Association International (HSMAI), in conjunction with Master Connection Associates (MCA) is pleased to announce the new Certified Hospitality Sales Executive Certification (CHSE). The new certification is open to sales professionals in the hospitality industry and demonstrates achievement of the highest level of performance, abilities, and expertise in the field.

�HSMAI has relaunched its sales certification program to enhance the credibility and value of individuals achieving certification,� said Cindy Novotny, managing partner of Master Connection Associates. �This new certification will open doors to those in the hospitality sales arena whether you are in hotels, restaurants, DMC�s,  transportation, venues, or attractions to name a few. Customers today want to work with a subject matter expert.� 

Individuals who successfully attain their CHSE will exemplify the highest degree of professionalism. Additionally, the certification encompasses a sharpened skill-set for individuals, including enhanced competencies in the ability to uncover new prospects, written skills for customized pitches, strategic thinking and effective questioning skills.

�While the key to continued professional growth is to never stop learning, professional growth which leads to improved business return is truly the real winning combination,� said Fran Brasseux, HSMAI Executive Vice President  �We have partnered with Master Connection Associates (MCA) to ensure we deliver that real winning combination in our new CHSE certification. We know sales professionals and their employers will gain on many levels from this new certification program.�

HSMAI has also partnered with HVS, and their 20/20 Assessment� program to include a high level skill assessment profile as part of the new CHSE to allow applicants to go through a professional assessment process to review their strengths and weaknesses in over 100 different skill levels.  The partnership allows the individual to schedule one-on-one time after the assessment with an HVS professional to review their profile and offer constructive advice on how to continue to improve their skills and develop their career. 

To learn more about the CHSE, visit www.hsmaicertifications.org. Once qualified, applicants will receive the CHSE study guide. Candidates will then take three MCA e-Learning modules before taking the online exam. 

About HSMAI 
HSMAI is the hospitality industry source for knowledge, community, and recognition for leaders committed to professional development, sales growth, revenue optimization, marketing, and branding. With a strong focus on education, HSMAI has become the industry champion in identifying and communicating trends in the hospitality industry, and bringing together customers and members at annual events, including HSMAI's Affordable Meetings®. Founded in 1927, HSMAI is an individual membership organization comprising more than 7,000 members worldwide, with 40 chapters in the Americas Region. For more information on HSMAI, contact the Hospitality Sales & Marketing Association International, 1760 Old Meadow Road, Suite 500, McLean, Va. 22102; (703) 506-3280; fax (703) 506-3266, or visit the website at www.hsmai.org. Join our social networking communities on Twitter, LinkedIn and Facebook.