SITE recently tapped volunteer industry experts to augment and strengthen our foundational CITP curriculum. Geraldine Gatehouse, one of these volunteers, played a special role in these efforts. 

Geraldine was instrumental in the creation of a new CITP study guide our team is putting the finishing touches on — and will share soon with members and friends looking for CITP exam prep assistance. 

A previous SITE Southern California Chapter President and avid SITE ambassador, Geraldine shared her inSITEs on CITP. 

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Q: How did you start your incentive travel career? 

A: Quite by chance, I met an owner of an international incentive travel company at a local social event, and we exchanged numbers. A few weeks later, I got a call asking if I was interested in an opportunity with them. 

This turned into the perfect spot for me, as a program manager. I had never worked in the industry previously, but it was a great fit for my skillset and launched a career spanning over three decades.

Q: As a past SITE Southern California Chapter President, how has volunteering impacting your professional career?

A: I don’t think I would have been Chapter President without all the volunteer experience I had prior to that. I took on many different roles on the board, and worked on the iconic award-winning holiday event as part of the core team that helped it expand and grow. 

I also was part of the volunteer team that managed the SITE Classic for many years. As an independent planner, that exposure helped me gain new clients, my main one of which was IMEX America, a very special opportunity for which I remain truly grateful.  

Q: How does CITP differ from other industry certifications?

A: CITP is the only mid-level certification for an incentive travel professional, which makes it a differentiator from others that focus on meetings. 

There is a business case for incentive programs, and expectations are high from all stakeholders. It requires specialized and nuanced knowledge to create and manage them successfully. 

Q: Are there any specific experiences that you think are beneficial before attempting the CITP exam?

A: Talking to incentive industry professionals, joining a SITE Chapter and attending meetings are all helpful. 

Checking out the SITE website for research like the Incentive Travel Index, which provides current information. 

For the CITP it’s helpful to have participated in incentive events or programs, to understand the service levels expected.

Q: What advice would you give to someone considering pursuing their CITP certification?

A: If you have been in the industry and around incentives for some time, CITP is not as hard as you might think — as long as you prepare, and embrace the experience and skills you already have. 

It’s a lot of common sense, combined with practical knowledge. There are some questions involving calculations of room nights, food & beverage and related costs, so don’t get flustered on those. They’re really straightforward. 

I would recommend studying in advance. I was part of a study group that met virtually each month, and that was very helpful. 

And finally, good luck!

If you’re ready for a new challenge in the new year, apply to take the CITP exam via SITE’s LearnHub.