Certification Programs

The GCCC was created by the International Association of Business Communicators (IABC) to offer certification at various levels and to promote a common, global understanding of what constitutes professionalism and competence in communication. 

The GCCC operates as an independent certification body, separate from IABC membership or governance. Its members represent the communication industry globally and are drawn from a broad spectrum of organizations.

The GCCC is committed to impartiality in all aspects of its certification activities. The Council recognizes that impartiality is essential to the credibility and integrity of its programs. To that end, the GCCC ensures that certification decisions are made independently, objectively, and without undue influence. 

Top management provides active oversight and allocates the resources necessary to uphold impartiality, manage conflict of interest, and protect the objectivity of all certification processes. Membership in IABC is not a condition of Council membership or certification. 

The GCCC is responsible for: 

• Developing and maintaining procedures for operating the certification program
• Protecting and building the credibility of the program 
• Developing, reviewing, and recommending updates to certification requirements 
• Overseeing the establishment, ongoing review, and updating of certification examinations 
• Reviewing disciplinary matters and policies

The GCCC has based its certification programs, including the continuing professional development requirement, on the Global Standard for communication professionals set out by IABC. Applying that standard enables GCCC to cross all borders, align with diverse cultures, and effectively serve organizations of all types and sizes. Certification is intended to support communicators throughout their careers. 

For questions about the certification programs of the GCCC, please contact us at info@gcccouncil.org.

GCCC currently offers two levels of certification: