Who Qualifies as a Professional?
A Professional Speaker is defined by two things: commercial viability and a commitment to industry standards. Professional membership in the PSA is reserved for those who treat speaking as a business.
Not at this level yet? If you don’t yet meet the criteria below, we invite you to join as an Associate Member. You’ll get the community, the mentorship, and the roadmap you need to build your business until you’re ready to upgrade.
Membership Criteria
To be eligible for Professional membership, you must satisfy all of the following:
- Experience: 10+ recent speaking engagements.
- Commercial Track Record: At least 3 paid speaking engagements within the last 12 months. Note: you will be asked to provide invoice evidence.
- Digital Presence: A dedicated professional website showcasing your speaking services.
- Proof of Competence: High-quality video footage of you delivering a presentation.
- Ethics: Full agreement to the PSA Code of Ethics.
- Age: 18 years or older.
Qualifying Speaking Events
We recognise the following formats as qualifying professional experience:
- Keynote / Conference Talk: Professional delivery to an audience.
- Workshop / Training: Structured educational or skill-based sessions.
- Facilitation / Away Day: Leading groups through specific processes or strategic outcomes.
Note: Events must be delivered to a live audience. We do not count informal social gatherings; a professional environment and intent are required.
Why the Website and Video Requirements?
A professional website is your primary tool for credibility and booking. Similarly, a video is your product demo. We will check your video to confirm your speaking is at a reasonable professional level.
If your work environment prohibits filming (e.g., high-security facilities or prisons), contact us to discuss alternative verification of your professional standing.
Investment
Professional-level membership is £275 per year.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is the Code of Ethics? Review our standards here.
What if I am under 18? Contact [email protected] to discuss developmental Associate options.
Ready to Apply?
To ensure your application is processed without delay, you must complete both of the following steps:
1. Submit Your Evidence
Download and complete the Professional Membership Evidence Form. Use this form to document your application evidence, including your 10 required speaking engagements.
Email the completed form along with your three invoices to [email protected].
2. Register on the Portal
Submit your basic details and account information via our membership system:
- New Applicants: Create an account and submit your details via the Membership Form.
- Existing Members: Log in to your portal, navigate to your membership level, and complete the upgrade application.
What Happens Next?
The office will verify your evidence and approve your application. Once approved, you will be notified to pay for your Professional membership. If you are upgrading from an Associate membership, this fee will be applied on a pro-rata basis.
Questions?
Direct your inquiries to [email protected].
Get support from the PSA
We’re here to help you. Being part of the PSA community means having access to the resources you need in times of need. Rest assured, all Foundation applications remain entirely confidential.
Support our members
If you would like to make a donation to the PSA Foundation and support your community, please click the donate button below.
You can donate cash, gift a place to a regional meeting or a conference, or provide an auction item that will raise funds at one of our conventions.
On behalf of your fellow members, thank you.
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