Introduction
Have you ever wondered if investing in a Zig Ziglar certification could truly transform your career? You’re not alone. As one of the most recognized names in the motivation and sales training industry, Ziglar’s methodologies have inspired millions worldwide for decades. However, with certification programs ranging from $2,000 to $10,000, the question remains: is it actually worth your time and money?
In today’s competitive professional landscape, the right credentials can open doors that might otherwise remain closed. But not all certifications deliver equal value. This comprehensive guide examines the tangible benefits and often-overlooked drawbacks of Zig Ziglar certification programs, helping you make an informed decision before committing your resources.
Table of Contents
What Exactly Is Zig Ziglar Certification?
Founded on the principles of the late motivational legend Zig Ziglar, these certification programs transform enthusiasts into official representatives of his time-tested philosophy. The Ziglar organization offers several certification pathways, including Ziglar Legacy Certified Trainer, Ziglar Sales Training, and specialized programs in leadership and personal development.
Each certification requires a significant investment—both financially and in terms of time commitment. Programs typically involve multi-day intensive training sessions, mentorship periods, practical application assignments, and final assessments. Successful graduates gain the right to teach and implement Ziglar methodologies in various professional settings.
The 5 Game-Changing Benefits
1. Instant Credibility Boost
Perhaps the most immediate benefit is the automatic credibility that comes with aligning yourself with the Ziglar brand. Research from the American Society for Training and Development indicates that professionals with recognized certifications earn up to 20% more than their non-certified counterparts. When you introduce yourself as a “Ziglar Certified Trainer,” you’re borrowing equity from one of the most trusted names in personal development.
2. Comprehensive System Access
Rather than cobbling together techniques from various sources, certification provides a complete, proven system for success. You’ll gain access to proprietary materials, presentation templates, training videos, and implementation guides that have been refined over decades. This systematic approach eliminates the guesswork from your training delivery, allowing you to focus on impact rather than content creation.
3. Community Connection
Success rarely happens in isolation. Certification connects you to an exclusive network of like-minded professionals—from newcomers to veteran trainers with decades of experience. This community provides invaluable support, collaboration opportunities, referrals, and ongoing learning experiences that simply aren’t available elsewhere. According to program graduates, this community aspect often becomes the most unexpected yet valuable benefit.
4. Legitimate Business Opportunities
Certification opens multiple revenue streams, including:
- Corporate training contracts
- Workshop facilitation
- Speaking engagements
- Coaching services
- Licensed product sales
Many graduates report recouping their initial investment within 6-12 months through these new business opportunities. Some have built six-figure businesses exclusively around their Ziglar certification.
5. Personal Transformation
Perhaps the most profound benefit occurs internally. The certification process immerses you so deeply in principles of achievement, positive thinking, goal setting, and ethical influence that your own mindset and behaviors transform dramatically. As Zig famously said, “You cannot consistently perform in a manner that is inconsistent with the way you see yourself.” The certification journey fundamentally reshapes how you see yourself.
The 3 Hidden Drawbacks
1. Substantial Financial Commitment
The elephant in the room is cost. Full certification programs start at around $2,000 and can exceed $10,000 for comprehensive packages. This doesn’t include travel expenses, ongoing licensing fees, or required continuing education. For many aspiring trainers, this represents a significant financial stretch that requires careful consideration.
2. Time-Intensive Process
Certification isn’t a weekend achievement. The process typically spans 3-6 months and demands 10-15 hours weekly for study, practice, and implementation. For busy professionals juggling existing commitments, this time requirement can prove challenging and potentially overwhelming.
3. No Success Guarantee
The uncomfortable truth: certification doesn’t guarantee clients will line up at your door. You’ll still need marketing skills, business acumen, and persistent effort to build a successful practice. According to Ziglar’s own statistics, approximately 60% of graduates build sustainable businesses around their certification—meaning 40% don’t achieve their initial business objectives despite significant investment.
Who Is Ziglar Certification Best Suited For?
The most successful Ziglar-certified professionals typically fall into these categories:
- Established coaches/trainers seeking to expand their methodological toolkit and add credibility
- Corporate trainers looking to implement proven systems within their organizations
- Entrepreneurs building businesses in the personal development space
- Sales professionals transitioning to training and development roles
- Dedicated Ziglar enthusiasts with clear implementation plans
Conversely, certification might not be ideal for:
- Those seeking a quick financial return
- Individuals without prior training/speaking experience
- People without a clear vision for implementing the methodologies
- Those unable to invest significantly in marketing post-certification
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does Ziglar certification take to complete?
Most certification programs require 3-6 months from start to finish, depending on the specific track and your pace through the requirements. The core training usually involves 3-5 days of intensive in-person training followed by implementation periods and final assessments.
Can I recoup my investment?
According to Ziglar, Inc., the average certified trainer who actively applies their training can recoup their investment within 12 months. However, this varies dramatically based on your existing network, marketing efforts, and implementation strategy.
Is online certification available?
Since the pandemic, Ziglar has expanded their virtual certification options. While these programs offer greater flexibility and reduced travel costs, many graduates report that in-person training delivers a deeper experience and stronger community connections.
Do I need prior experience before getting certified?
While no formal prerequisites exist, those with some background in training, speaking, sales, or coaching typically extract more value from the certification process. Complete beginners may face a steeper learning curve.
Is ongoing support provided post-certification?
Yes, graduates receive varying levels of ongoing support depending on their certification package. This typically includes access to alumni resources, continuing education opportunities, community forums, and optional mentorship programs.
Conclusion
The question of whether Ziglar certification is “worth it” doesn’t have a one-size-fits-all answer. The value equation depends on your specific goals, existing skills, financial situation, and implementation capacity.
What’s undeniable is the power of Ziglar’s time-tested principles and the credibility his brand carries. For the right person with clear objectives and implementation plans, certification can provide both the tools and the confidence to create transformative impact—while building a rewarding business in the process.
If you’re seriously considering this path, start by attending a Ziglar event or webinar to experience their methodologies firsthand. Speak with current certified trainers about their experiences. Calculate your potential return on investment based on your specific circumstances. And most importantly, as Zig himself would advise: “You don’t have to be great to start, but you have to start to be great.”
The certification might be expensive, but the right knowledge applied consistently is priceless.
