When you see the ABC designation used by a professional communicator, it means the individual is an accredited business communicator. A portfolio of work demonstrating the range of projects and depth of communications planning has been reviewed by a panel of the communicator's peers, and he/she has passed both a written and oral exam. IABC surveys show ABC-accredited communicators earn higher salaries both in the United Status and worldwide.
The ABC accreditation program ended in 2014, and a new program described below was put in place.
The Global Communication Certification Council (GCCC®) has based its Communication Management Professional (CMP) certification program, including the continuing professional development requirement, on the Global Standard for communication professionals set forth by IABC. Applying that standard enables the GCCC to cross all borders, align with diverse cultures, and effectively serve organizations of all types and sizes.