AOL First Major Company to Certify Sales Staff With IAB Exam

AOL will now require its entire sales team to pass the IAB Digital Media Sales Certification exam.

The exam tests team members’ skills and knowledge for digital media advertising. According to AOL, the exam will keep its sales staff up to date with the ever-changing world of digital advertising. This marks the first widespread adoption of the test by a major company.

“AOL is dedicated to providing clients with the best digital advertising customer service, knowledge, and innovation. Customer service is a hallmark of AOL’s business, and fundamental to building a long-term relationship with our clients,” said AOL’s head of sales strategy and operations Marta Martinez.

“By certifying all our sales employees and ensuring that they have a deep understanding of the interactive advertising platforms, technologies, and capabilities that impact the industry, we are demonstrating our dedication to our clients and staying ahead of the curve.”

IAB’s exams cover comprehension of the digital media advertising ecosystem. Subjects for the test include best ways to sell digital media, how to manage digital advertising campaigns, and how to analyze campaign performance.

The test is designed for salespeople with two to five years of experience in the field. IAB recommends that those who take the test already have a firm understanding of the digital advertising sales realm.

AOL marks the first major company to require its sales staff to take the test. Following the passing of the exam, AOL staff will be certificated by the IAB.

Non-AOL employees interested in taking the test can take it to get certified. The IAB charges $400 for IAB members and $500 for non-members.

“The digital advertising space is booming. With competition at an all-time high for talent in the digital advertising space, to recognize those who have attained the requisite skills and intelligence needed to succeed,” said IAB VP of Training and Development Michael Theodore.

“The IAB Digital Media Sales Certification is the professional barometer that all digital media companies should aspire to, and we are thrilled that an industry leader like AOL has been so proactive about adopting it.”

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