Topic 4:

Leveraging Presentation and Business Development Skills

Question: I am interested in leveraging my presentation skills developed as a professional actor/director with business development skills that I've developed after 5 years as a Sales Rep for a Fortune 500 company. Specifically, I'm interested in getting into media/public ppeaking training. Do you have advice re starting my own freelance business? Know of any individuals or organizations with whom I should speak to get started?

--No name, Alexandria, VA

Answer: You are clearly well qualified to focus on media and public speaking training. Acting and sales rep experience is a solid foundation from which to build. Pulling together highlights of your prior training and work experience can be a starting point for you to muster the energy to start and market your own enterprise.

Learning from other freelance business leaders can be an inspiring way to plan and begin your own venture. Entrepreneurs usually have intriguing stories of what sparked their interest and drive to go off on their own. Coming up with your own can help you also get in touch with the passion for what you expect to contribute. Do look into your local Chamber of Commerce and local universities that may have small business centers that are available for advice and new learning.

The more you can become visible in your community, the better for your new venture. Volunteering your services can lead to opportunities down the road.

Keep in mind that more and more larger organizations are preparing their workforce for greater empowerment in the spirit of continual improvement. Part of this effort requires folks to develop the self -confidence to get their ideas out. You may want to explore organizations with empowerment-driven cultures as another potential market for your services.

Keep in mind that there is a difference between being in front of audiences and teaching others to do the same. Check in with yourself about your understanding of training philosophies, techniques, instructional design, and standards. Keep in mind that adding a certificate or master degree program can

establish credibility in the field and help you gain professional technical knowledge & skills. Your local ASTD Chapter can be a perfect resource for you ongoing learning and networking. Participating in and volunteering to help at the international conferences can also provide good benchmarks for professional public speaking.

--DH