If you've been in the association management world for a good amount of time, you're definitely aware that the industry uses a lot of acronyms—and you're probably familiar with a many of them. One of them is CAE: certified association executive.

Offered by ASAE, the CAE is professional certification for association executives and shows their commitment to the industry.

But, for young professionals new to the world of associations, knowing exactly what the CAE is and what is involved in obtaining those letters after one's name can be a bit confusing and daunting.

Lack of preparation can be detrimental.

The first step for those who don't know much about the CAE, as well as those interested in the test, is to check out the certification's webpage, said presenters at an ASAE Young Professionals Lunch and Learn event in January:

• Lauren Hefner, MPA, CAE, vice president of stakeholder relations, Healthcare Businesswomen's Association
• Lisa Claydon, CAE, marketing and communications strategist, American Diabetes Association
• DeeJay Garringo, CAE, senior director of programs and membership, STAT Association Management & Marketing.

All the information related to the CAE can be found on this one-stop-shop site, from the definition of CAE to eligibility requirements to test dates and more. The site is a key resource not only in finding out if an individual is eligible to take the exam but also in understanding the process involved in obtaining a CAE designation, the speakers said.

Once an individual understands the process of obtaining the CAE credential, the speakers suggested developing a "plan of action." Each speaker found different plans helpful, but the overall concept was to plan, and plan accordingly.

Though their methods varied, the speakers agreed it's crucial to develop a personal study plan, join a study group, attend a CAE kickoff, connect with the CAE Candidate community in ASAE's Collaborate discussion forum, find a CAE mentor or coach, and register for a virtual preparatory course.

In addition, each speaker shared that their study plans required at least five months of prep work prior to the exam. They noted the journey requires extensive reading and that helpful literature, as well as practice tests, can be found on the CAE website. Discussion with other candidates regarding the concepts at hand can also be helpful in preparing for the exam.

"Lack of preparation can be detrimental," Hefner said. In other words, deciding in April to take the May exam will not likely end well. The speakers agreed the preparation phase is not one to be taken lightly and must be done effectively to succeed.

At test time, Claydon recommended using what she called the "30,000-foot view from above" concept when answering questions on the exam. In other words, think as a CAE when taking the exam. "You must take the baseball manager approach—look at the entire field and players," Garringo added.

In the end, the speakers said, it all comes back to preparation. Successful applicants put themselves in the mindset of a CAE, which is why the journey to obtaining a CAE is exactly that: a journey, not a sprint.