It's 2011 and we are still in business. . . AND THRIVING!

In a recession most companies cut training, advertising and personnel, and usually in that order.  The first two are seen as easy budget items to reduce or eliminate.  It is a short term "fix" with potentially long term detrimental effects.  When the market turns around those items are replaced in reverse order.  THE MARKET IS TURNING AROUND.

Warren Buffet and I agree that there is no double dip.  We are not talking about Seinfeld reruns!  Training plays an essential role in effecting positive change, whether in strategy, execution or even attitude!  Customers and clients are unwilling to settle for mediocrity in the new economy.  They have high expectations of service and are unwilling to waste time and money.

Going into 2011 we have seen an upsurge of interest in short half-day and one-day interactive workshops which build skills.  E-learning provides knowledge but without the classroom and on the job training and coaching little behavior change can be expected. 

Clients are asking; "Will the training have an immediate impact and produce tangible, measureable results?  The answer is yes, assuming we have management commitment to follow up and reinforcement activities, whether they be conducted in house or use outsourced personnel. 

Six weeks after "Initiating Business Relationships" training in October 2010, one client saw a 12-1 ROI on their investmment of $12,000. . . . and are still counting. .