Microsoft has taken another step to try to compete with Google Adwords. They’ve added a free training hub where paid search professionals can hone their skills and learn about the latest updates to the Microsoft Search Alliance adCenter. One cool thing about it is if you register and sign in with your Windows Live ID it tracks you progress. So, you can start training videos right where you left off. Then once you are comfortable with the material you can take the Accredited Professional exam. Unlike Google Adwords Certification there is no minimum to how much budget level you need to maintain to take the exam. You just have to be an active adCenter user and pass the exam. Plus, the exam costs just $15.
Once you pass the exam you become an Accredited Professional which lasts for a year. You must then retake the exam each year. There is no longer a company accreditation so individuals can use theirs certification to promote their company as well. Plus, you have the option to be added to Microsoft’s member directory as well as their “Find a Pro” directory.
So what are you waiting for? Get cracking on your accreditation!
