Earning your Certified Employee Benefit Specialist (CEBS) designation is a learning journey. Along the way, you will acquire valuable employee benefits knowledge and relevant new skills. As you apply what you’ve learned to your work, you can forge a unique career pathway that is truly your own. Here’s a designee’s CEBS^® story.

A Chat With Olivia West, CEBS, SHRM-SCP

Could you describe how expanding your professional network has helped you attain success?

I have truly had a wonderful experience with my local chapter of ISCEBS. The professionals I have met there have been incredibly generous and knowledgeable, always willing to assist with questions, provide education and introduce me to other members of the benefits community. They have been a great support as I completed my CEBS designation and offered valuable guidance on my next career steps.

Could you share some insight about how pursuing your CEBS designation demonstrates that you’re a lifelong learner and an expert in your profession?

Achieving the CEBS designation reflects your commitment to navigating the frequently evolving and often challenging benefits industry. The coursework is remarkably thorough and offers valuable insights into not only current benefits trends but also the historical context that shapes our understanding of these trends. CEBS provides an excellent foundation in benefits knowledge and is considered the industry standard for very good reasons—It’s practically a degree in benefits!

Could you share a story about how you prepared for your CEBS exam and applied what you learned to your work?

I dedicated a considerable amount of time to my studies, typically around two hours of reading, quizzing myself and reviewing my flashcards on most weeknights. The instructors in the CEBS Online Study Groups presented the material in an engaging manner, and I even listened to the recorded review sessions during my commute!

The depth and variety of knowledge in the CEBS program has been wonderful, and I truly appreciate being able to provide answers to my clients’ most complex benefits questions. However, what I find most meaningful is my understanding of the broader health care and insurance landscape, which enables me to offer guidance not only to my clients but also to my friends and family in making more informed decisions as they navigate this increasingly complex environment.

Could you describe how earning your CEBS designation has supported you in your role and professional growth?

The CEBS program has been incredibly beneficial for me, providing me not only with valuable knowledge to advance my career but also with a newfound level of confidence. My clients trust my expertise, and this has allowed me the opportunity to reflect on my career aspirations and the meaningful impact I wish to create.  I genuinely believe that participating in this program has been one of the best decisions I’ve made for both my career and personal development.

Visit CEBS online for information about purchasing course materials, signing up for an Online Study Group, virtual exams and more details on the program. Do you need further guidance on your CEBS journey? Whether you’re about to take your first step or getting close to earning your designation, we’re here to help! Give us a call at (800) 449-2327, option 3, or email cebs@ifebp.org.