I am a certified professional matchmaker. I know that doesn’t mean anything to most people, but here is what what a GLI matchmaking certification is all about.

Matchmaking is not a regulated industry. The Global Love Institute, formerly known as the Matchmaking Institute, was established 20 years ago in 2003. A few goals of the organization were to provide structure around the industry, provide resources to industry professionals, and establish a code of ethics to protect the interests of both the matchmakers and the clients.

When The Institute was established it was the only state-licensed matchmaking school in the world. Because the matchmaking industry was not regulated, the Institute is instrumental in providing guard rails for new professionals breaking into the industry. The matchmaking certification  provides a layer of credibility that allows access to industry professionals and opens the doors that would otherwise be closed off to you.

It is not a requirement to have certification to be considered a bonafied professional matchmaker. There are many heavy hitters in the industry that built their certification status off of the hard work they’ve put in over the years. Their track record serves as their certification. In my opinion, the certification is most useful to people who are new to the industry. It can be a hard to break into matchmaking without the support of other industry professionals. And, because so many people with both good and bad intentions are entering the industry everyday, a certification can go a long way in helping other professionals feel comforatable working with you.

There are a few different certifcations available in the matchmaking industry, but I believe the most recognized certification is the one offered by the Global Love Institute.