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Becoming a Customer SuccessManager (CSM) is an increasingly attractive career choice, especially as companies recognize the vital role CSMs play in retaining customers and driving growth.
For aspiring CSMs, the biggest hurdle is often figuring out where to begin. With so many courses, programs, and skills to master, it can be tough to know which resources will truly set you up for success.
That's why it's crucial to have a clear roadmap that leads you through the most valuable training options tailored specifically for beginners.
In this article, you will learn the best beginner-friendly courses and programs for aspiring CSMs – helping you build the skills and knowledge you need to maintain in the field. With that, let’s get started.
Top training resources for aspiring CSMs
Whether you prefer structured courses, self-paced reading, or interactive learning, there are plenty of options tailored for beginners. Here are some of the top resources to help you get started:
Online courses and certifications
Customer Success Management Fundamentals
This course provides a strong foundation in Customer Success Management, covering key concepts like customer onboarding, relationship management, and proactive problem-solving and strategies needed to excel in the role.
Customer Success Manager: Fundamentals to your CSM career
This is a budget-friendly course that covers the basics of becoming a great Customer Success Manager, focusing on practical skills and real-world scenarios. It’s designed for CSMs who want to sharpen their skills and improve their effectiveness in the role.
Certified Customer Success Manager (CCSM)
This is a widely recognized certification program that offers multiple levels of training, from foundational concepts to advanced strategies in customer success.
Customer Success University
Gainsight offers a range of courses designed for CSMs, including certifications and workshops focused on Customer Success strategies, data-driven management, and customer health scoring.
Free educational platforms
HubSpot offers a variety of free courses that cover Customer Success fundamentals and related areas like inbound marketing and sales.
Totango offers free courses that focus on Customer Success best practices, including customer journey mapping, metrics tracking, and customer engagement strategies.
Community and networking platforms
A global community where CSMs can network, share insights, and learn from each other. They also host events and offer various resources for continuous learning.
An online community and resource hub for CSMs that offers articles, videos, and guides on various aspects of Customer Success management.
These resources are a great starting point for anyone looking to build a strong foundation in customer success. However, your training doesn’t have to be limited to a few courses and certifications. If you want to go the extra mile, start looking at other resources – check out our blogs about customer success books and podcasts for ideas.
Now that you have a list of top training resources, it's time to focus on developing the practical skills necessary for success in this field.
In the next section, we'll explore how you can apply what you've learned and start building the real-world skills that will set you apart as a CSM.
Developing practical skills for Customer Success
While theory is important, applying what you’ve learned through hands-on practice and real-world scenarios will truly prepare you for the challenges you'll face as a CSM. Here’s how you can start building those critical skills:
Case studies and simulations
- Practice problem-solving with case studies
Case studies are an excellent way to engage with real-world Customer Success challenges. By analyzing different scenarios, you can practice identifying issues, strategizing solutions, and understanding the potential outcomes of your decisions. This approach helps bridge the gap between theory and practice, making you more confident in handling actual customer situations.
- Improve communication and negotiation skills with role-playing
Role-playing scenarios allow you to simulate customer interactions, which is key to refining your communication and negotiation skills. Whether you’re handling an angry customer or negotiating contract renewals, practicing these situations in a controlled environment can prepare you for similar encounters in the real world.
Building communication skills
- Develop effective communication and collaboration strategies
Clear, empathetic communication is at the heart of customer success. Developing strategies for effective customer interactions, such as active listening and personalized responses, will help you build stronger relationships and improve customer satisfaction.
Building practical skills is a crucial part of becoming a successful CSM, but it’s equally important to set clear goals and stay updated with the latest trends and tools in customer success.
In the next section, we’ll explore how you can effectively transition from learning to actively starting your CSM career. This approach will ensure that you remain confident and adaptable as you embark on your journey as a Customer Success Manager.
Starting your CSM career
Starting your career as a CSM is an exciting journey that requires both preparation and strategy. With the right approach, you can position yourself for success and growth in this dynamic field. Here’s how you can take the next steps:
Build a strong resume and portfolio
- Showcase your skills: Highlight your Customer Success skills, including project management, communication, and data analysis. Include any certifications or relevant courses you’ve completed.
- Create a portfolio: If possible, include examples of your work, such as case studies, process improvements, or projects you’ve managed. Demonstrating how you’ve applied your knowledge in real-world scenarios can set you apart from other candidates.
If you want to learn more about what goes into this, check out our blog that explains what to include on your resume as a CSM.
Network
- Connect with professionals: Join online communities like the Customer Success Network or participate in events such as Success CON. Networking with other CSMs can provide valuable insights, mentorship, and job opportunities.
- Engage on LinkedIn: Actively participate in discussions, share your thoughts on industry trends, and connect with leaders in the Customer Success field. LinkedIn is a powerful tool for building your professional network.
Explore job opportunities
- Find entry-level CSM positions: Look for job openings on platforms like LinkedIn, Indeed, and specialized job boards. Start with roles that match your skill level and offer growth potential.
- Be adaptable: Flexibility and a willingness to learn are key to long-term success. Be open to new challenges and ready to adapt your strategies as the industry changes.
As you begin your journey as a Customer Success Manager, remember that continuous learning and adaptation are crucial to staying ahead in this fast-paced field.
Conclusion
In conclusion, getting started in Customer Success requires the right resources, a balance of technical and soft skills, and effective tools to support your growth.
The best beginner-friendly training resources we've discussed will provide you with the foundation needed to succeed. Developing both technical skills, like data analysis, and soft skills, like communication, is crucial to thriving as a Customer Success Manager.
Additionally, leveraging tools like Velaris can significantly enhance your learning and job performance by automating tasks and providing actionable insights.
As you move forward, consider taking the next step by exploring specific courses or getting hands-on with CSM software like Velaris to practice what you’ve learned.
To see how Velaris can help you streamline your processes and improve Customer Success outcomes, book a demo today.
