Certified Speaking Professional

What Is a CSP™?

The Certified Speaking Professional (CSP™) designation, established in 1980, is the speaking industry’s international measure of speaking experience and skill. The CSP™ designation is conferred by the National Speakers Association (NSA) and the International Federation of Professional Speakers only on those accomplished speakers who have earned it by meeting strict criteria. The letters CSP following a speaker’s name indicate a speaking professional with proven experience, who understands what is required, and knows how to deliver client satisfaction.

Why You Should Hire a CSP™

It will make your job easier! The success of your meeting will be judged largely on the caliber, professionalism, and appropriateness of the topic and presenter(s) you select. Choosing a CSP™ maximizes your opportunity of providing a speaker with a message that will focus, elevate, and enhance the mission of your meeting and stick firmly in the memories, attitudes, and action plans of your attendees.

How Many CSPs Are There?

About 12 percent of the 5,000 + speakers worldwide, who belong to the 13 member associations of the Global Speakers Federation, currently hold the professional designation of Certified Speaking Professional (CSP™)

What Benefit Does a CSP™ Bring to Your Meeting?

A CSP™ brings a proven track record of continuous speaking experience and expertise. CSPs are committed to ongoing education, outstanding service, and ethical behavior. CSPs offer wide varieties of approaches, topics, and styles. Only you can determine which speaker will best fit your needs.

A Certified Speaking Professional provides a solid place from which to begin your search.

What Are the Criteria?

Every CSP™ must…

Maintain membership and subscribe to the Code of Professional Ethics.
Serve a specific number of clients within a five year period.
Present a specific number of professional speaking engagements within this same five-year period.
Submit testimonial letters from clients served.
Submit professionally prepared promotional materials.
Receive excellent ratings from past clients on professional performance evaluations.
Continue education in the professional speaking field through NSA’s many educational programs.

The Association

The National Speakers Association (NSA) is the leading organization for those who speak professionally. NSA’s thousands of members include experts in a variety of industries and disciplines, who reach audiences as trainers, educators, humorists, motivators, consultants, authors, and more. Since 1973, NSA has provided resources and education designed to advance the skills, integrity, and value of its members and the speaking profession. The CSP certification is NSA’s indication that you are booking a committed professional who has a history of success with many audiences. Visit NSA’s web site at www.nsaspeaker.org.

Comments from Those Who Hire Speakers:

I am a CMP (Certified Meeting Professional). I believe strongly in designations. It says you are committed to the profession. When I have equal speakers, I will take the CSP first over the non-CSP. Yes, CSP does make a difference in selecting speakers.”
Betty E. Garrett, CMP, Garrett Speakers International

You know they (CSPs) have achieved a certain discipline that puts them in a category all their own…they have passed the test of longevity; they have proven themselves. It makes a difference today and will continue to make a difference in the meeting planning industry.”
Marolyn Wright, Program Resources

I always consider the CSP designation the hallmark of professional excellence. The CSPs that we have selected have never disappointed our audiences.”
Barbara S. Sadek, The Society for Human Resources Management

It’s truly an indication that a speaker has achieved a higher level of professionalism. It’s something we look for first. I reduce my risk by hiring someone with a CSP.”
William Bess, Manufacturers Representatives of America