ABC

Accreditation is an IABC professional development programme offering communicators a way of demonstrating to employers, fellow communicators, and themselves their ability to successfully manage and perform tasks essential to effective organizational communication. Candidates meeting all requirements of the programme earn the designation Accredited Business Communicator (ABC).

Why become accredited?

If you are a professional communicator, IABC’s accreditation program is a way for you to measure your career progress. The postnominal ‘ABC’ reminds your peers, current and prospective employers and, perhaps most importantly, yourself, that you have successfully completed this challenging programme. It’s also worth noting that IABC’s biennial survey of the profession, Profile, shows accredited members’ average salaries are significantly higher than those of non-accredited members.

What are the requirements?

To apply, you’ll need at least 5 years’ experience in the communication profession and a bachelor’s degree, or a total of 9 years of experience and/or post-secondary education.

What does becoming accredited involve?

The accreditation process involves three main steps.

  • Submit your application and a cheque for half the accreditation fee.
  • When your application is approved, you submit your portfolio of work samples demonstrating the range of communication projects you’ve been responsible for and showing how well you understand communication planning.
  • There’s a four-hour written examination and 30 minute oral evaluation. Exams are held in Australia and parts of Asia

For more information on what you need to do, see the IABC - Accreditation page or contact IABC Wellington’s Professional Development co-Director, Iain MacLean on phone: 027 420 3056 or email: iain@macleanpr.co.nz

How much?

US$320 for members (approx NZ$500 — July 2009 exchange rate)

What are the portfolio deadlines?

Portfolios are accepted for evaluation throughout the year.

How long does it take to approve my application and portfolio?

2-3 days for the application, 6 - 8 weeks for the portfolio

How long does it take to receive the results from the oral and written exam?

60 - 90 days

How do I get a brochure?

Email the Wellington Chapter at admin@iabcwellington.co.nz and we’ll mail one to you.

You can read more about becoming an Accredited Business Communicator on the IABC Headquarters website at http://www.iabc.com/abc/