There are many benefits of passing the CMA exam. Certification gives you a competitive advantage when searching for a new position or asking for a raise. You will show your peers, your current employers, and any prospective employers that you have the knowledge and skills as well as  the commitment and motivation it takes to prepare for and pass the CMA exam.

So, what keeps you from taking the next step even though you know the benefits of being certified? Are you too busy at work? Does your family occupy all your free time? Are you having trouble finding the money?

Maybe you have considered taking the exam, but you think you commit to too many hours a week already to justify finding the time to study. Let's think about it differently. Finding the time to study is actually a necessity because once you pass the exam, you will have many more career opportunities. These opportunities may include better and more flexible hours, an increase in pay, or a new position. You have already shown your commitment to the company by putting in long hours and great effort; now show your commitment to yourself and the profession.

Often, potential candidates are short on time because they are too busy with their children's extracurricular activities. However, your kids should be THE reason you DO take the exam. Your children shouldn't be the reason you don't take the exam.  Set an example:  While your kids are doing their homework, you can study for the exam. You will show them you are never too old to continue learning.  Once you pass the exam and become a higher-earning CMA, you can adjust your free time more liberally and devote more of your time and resources to your children.

It is also not uncommon to hear people say they can't afford to pay for the exam fees and/or review materials.  However, if you think about the exam as an investment in your future that you will be cashing in on for many years to come, you will realize that it will cost you more to not prepare for and pass the CMA exam. Some options for raising the funds needed include asking your employer to help you with the expenses, applying for scholarships through professional organizations, and requesting money from relatives for your next birthday, holiday, or graduation.

In short, if you put as much effort into finding the time and money to accomplish the goal of becoming certified as you do into finding a reason to not prepare for the exam, you will find a way!

Once you are a CMA, you will not only have professional advantages, but you will also feel personal satisfaction. The self-confidence gained from completing the exam and using those three letters behind your name will be well worth the energy spent on making the time and finding the cash.

Gleim is committed to helping you become a CMA. Your San Antonio IMA Chapter has partnered with Gleim to ensure your success on the CMA exam! Working together, we will provide the necessary tools to prepare you for this difficult exam.

As a San Antonio Chapter member, you receive significant discounts on the Gleim CMA Review materials and Gleim CPE. Contact Melissa Leonard at 800.874.5346 ext. 131 or melissa.leonard@gleim.com to take advantage of the offer or if you have any questions.