Photo credit: mag3737

This professional designation, granted by the International Association of Business Communicators offers professional communicators a way to demonstrate their ability to think and plan strategically and to successfully manage the skills essential for effective organizational communication.

About a year ago I decided that I wanted to go for my ABC, which to those not in the communications profession is to become an Accredited Business Communicator. I am starting this journey not only because I want to take the next step in my career, but also to demonstrate that I have the skills necessary to take that next challenge.

I am fortunate to belong to BC Chapter of the International Association of Business Communicators (IABC) which has the second highest number of accredited members. One of them in particular who is very, umm, passionate, about having members obtain their ABC, but I won’t mention any names, Maureen.

One way the chapter helps people prepare for their accreditation journey is the Accreditation Preparation Program (APP). Its meant to help fill the knowledge gaps and I find really act as a reality check as to whether or not you are ready to take on this challenge. The instructors are all accredited and extremely well qualified to assist aspiring candidates. There have been two classes already and I feel validated that I am on the right path but have also learned a few things that I need to integrate in my communications practice.

To obtain your ABC you need to submit two portfolio pieces and sit a four and a half hour exam that is both written and oral. I have to admit right now I feel more intimidated by the portfolio pieces than I am by the exam. I can’t count the number of projects I have worked on in the 11 years I have been practicing and the majority of them have went well, but what I have been missing is the research and measurement pieces. Since starting the APP I have been considering how to build those important elements into my communications programs. It’s added a new dimension to how I think strategically about aligning communications programs to achieving the goals of the organization I work for.

I have to say, I am really excited about this journey. It will be extremely rewarding to put the work in and arrive at my accreditation destination.