Seth Godin said something today that is worthy of repeating (although, isn't most of what he says?):
"Persistence isn't using the same tactics over and over. That's just annoying.
Persistence is having the same goal over and over."
Amen.
Here is a certification test study tip I've never seen before:
"Think like a 60 year old white man."
This is a study tip included in a document posted on an ASAE & The Center online community for CAE candidates (you need to sign in). Let me be clear that the community and the study tips are NOT provided by or affiliated with the CAE Commission. ASAE & The Center created the community and any member is free to post what they want.
However, it's sad that such a statement is included on a test-taking tip sheet! And, in defense of the CAE exam, it's not at all true. The CAE Commission is not a group of 60 YOMM, nor is the item writing group. I've participated on both (when was a 30something white female). So, where is this impression coming from, I wonder? Hopefully just the opinion of the creator of the list.
But it raises an important point. As an association/certification exec, you should continually monitor the environment and see what is being said about you and your exam - good, bad or indifferent. Maybe there are perceptions out there you need to address.