Illuminating the path forward

This research began with a striking paradox: Professional development consistently ranks as a top priority for communication professionals in research and industry conversations – yet investment often fails to match this intent. While communication leaders regularly champion the importance of upskilling, many providers continue to report declining enrolments and limited organisational support.

Some attribute this gap to the rise of free or low-cost alternatives, or to professionals forging their own learning paths. But as this survey reveals, the reality is more complex. Amid unprecedented transformation – driven by AI integration, shifting workplace models, and growing strategic expectations – budgets for formal professional development remain constrained, often limiting access to the depth of learning now required. 

Beyond resourcing, another challenge is emerging: a disconnect between confidence and capability. Many professionals believe they possess the skills they need, yet managers paint a different picture – suggesting the need for more reflective, feedback-informed approaches to growth.

To explore these tensions more deeply and understand how professional development can evolve to meet the changing needs of the profession, the Centre for Strategic Communication Excellence (CSCE) conducted this global survey in early 2025.

Ann-Marie Blake, a partner of the CSCE, was recently named one of the Public Relations and Communications Association (PRCA)’s 25 for 2025 in recognition of her outstanding volunteer contributions.

The 25 for 2025 initiative honours individuals who go above and beyond to support the PRCA community, drive progress in the profession, and inspire meaningful change.

Congratulations Ann-Marie!

Ann-Marie Blake will also be facilitating a couple of 90-minute virtual communication courses in May!

In this course learn what it means to communicate inclusively with your potential and current employees, stakeholders and customers. You will also receive practical guidance on how to make communication and campaigns inclusive and accessible.

Improve how you write about technical and change projects without resorting to jargon and language that your stakeholders can’t understand. Engage your audience by communicating with clarity

Most workplace communication is designed for those who think out loud. Open-plan offices, brainstorming sessions, and high-energy meetings cater to people who thrive on interaction. But what about the deep thinkers? The quiet contributors? The team members who process information internally before they speak?

If your internal communication strategy prioritises visibility over value, you might be missing out on some of your organisation’s most thoughtful and innovative minds.

Join host Sia Papageorgiou FRSA, FCSCE, SCMP in conversation with Richard Etienne, communication strategist and inclusive leadership advocate, as they explore how to design internal communication that engages all personality types – without forcing introverts to adapt to an extrovert’s world.

What we’ll explore:

• Why traditional workplace communication often leaves introverts unheard (and disengaged)
• How to structure internal communication to balance deep thinking with open collaboration
• The role of psychological safety in helping quieter team members contribute their best work
• Practical ways leaders can recognise and engage introverts without pushing them out of their comfort zone
• How small shifts in communication styles can unlock greater innovation and stronger teams

The public relations industry has long been recognised as a female-dominated field, with women making up approximately two-thirds of the workforce. However, when it comes to leadership, women remain significantly underrepresented, comprising just one-third of top-tier roles. This disparity raises critical questions about the systemic barriers that prevent women from rising to senior leadership positions in PR agencies and organizations.

Partner of the CSCE, Sue Heuman was recently featured on the Stories and Strategies podcast, where she, Doug Downs, and Farzana Baduel examine the challenges faced by women in their careers, the personal and societal factors that hinder their progress, and the strategies they’ve employed to overcome these obstacles.

In this webinar, we explored how communication professionals can stay relevant and lead with confidence in a world rapidly shaped by artificial intelligence, data analytics, and evolving social platforms. Joined by an exceptional panel – Asha Oberoi, Adrian Cropley, and Alex Manchester – we unpacked everything from AI governance and ethical implementation to audience targeting, automation, and building the right measurement frameworks. If you’re navigating the tension between innovation and responsibility, or simply want to sharpen your strategic edge, this conversation is a must-watch.

Last chance to share your voice!

The Global Alliance for Public Relations and Communication Management has partnered with the Centre for Strategic Communication Excellence (CSCE) and Reputation Lighthouse — on a Responsible AI survey to understand the AI evolution better as it pertains to the Public Relations and Communication profession.

North America: 23 April 11:00 AM–2:30 PM PST | 1:00 PM–4:30 PM CST | 2:00 PM–5:30 PM EST

Europe, Africa and Middle East: 24 April 9:00 AM-12:30 PM GMT | 10:00 AM-1:30 PM CET |11:00 AM-2:30 PM SAST

Our courses have been running for a few months now, and the response has been phenomenal—both in participation and feedback. If you haven’t heard, the Centre for Strategic Communication Excellence (CSCE) has partnered with the Global Communication Certification Council (GCCC) to offer intensive exam preparation courses designed to set you up for success. Even if you're not planning to take the exam, these sessions are packed with valuable insights on strategic communication that can elevate your practice.

Don’t miss your chance to join one of our upcoming sessions!

GCCC Certification Masterclass
Facilitated by Sia Papageorgiou, FRSA, FCSCE, SCMP, this 3.5-hour intensive masterclass is designed to prepare candidates for the CMP and SCMP certification exams. Providing a thorough overview of strategic communication management and the Global Standard for the Communication Profession, this program equips you with the essential knowledge and skills needed for success. Participants also receive a complimentary study guide to bolster their exam preparation.

Here's what people are saying:

"I attended the GCCC Certification Masterclass, which provided an excellent overview of what to expect for the SCMP exam and sets a strong foundation for positioning communication professionals as strategic advisors. The facilitator was highly engaging and knowledgeable and created an open and collaborative environment for questions and discussions. Thank you!"

Unlock more value with our complete toolkit collection—5 essential resources for the price of 4, designed to support every step of your communication journey.

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