Ed Hearn, CSP
…the first and only, current or former professional athlete, from our country’s six major pro sports to receive the highest earned designation in professional speaking - the CSP (Certified Speaking Professional). Less than 7% of the 5,000 speakers who belong to the International Federation for Professional Speakers hold this designation!
What is a CSP?
The Certified Speaking Professional designation, established in 1980 by the National Speakers Association (NSA), is the speaking profession's highest earned, international measure of professional platform skill. The CSP, awarded by the US-based National Speakers Association and the National Speakers Association of Australia, is bestowed upon only to those 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.
How Many CSP’s Are There?
Less than 7% of the 5000+ speakers who belong to the International Federation for Professional Speakers hold this professional designation. The membership of the International Federation for Professional Speakers is comprised of professional speaking associations worldwide. CSP is the international standard that these associations agree represent competence in the speaking profession. CSP Certification is an indication that you are booking a committed professional who has a history of consistent success with their audiences.
Why Should You Hire a CSP?
It will make your job easier! A CSP brings a proven track record of continuing speaking experience and expertise. 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.
Comments From Those Who Hire Speakers
“CSP is an insurance policy toward the meeting planners success. The CSP designation is a qualifier in the mind of the astute planner.“
“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. “
“You know they (CSP’s) have achieved a certain discipline that puts them in a category of their own; they have past the test of longevity; they have proven themselves. It makes a difference today and it will continue making a difference in the meeting planning industry.“
“When I have a choice of a speaker who is a CSP or not, I will select the speaker who is a CSP.
“I always consider the CSP designation the hallmark of professional excellence. The CSP’s that we have selected never have disappointed our audiences.“
“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.“
“If someone is in the business of meetings planning business and want one less thing to worry about during your meeting, hire a CSP. Once you’ve had a CSP, without again, you’ll never be!“