In 1993, I gave my first presentation to a large audience, and was terrified. I learned how to give presentations on-the-job by making many mistakes along the way. It was difficult and humbling and became part of my regular responsibilities. After giving presentations to more than 100,000 students and teachers in three years, learning what worked and what did not—I made the transition to working with corporations.

Working with Fortune 500 companies as an account manager and trainer for a national training company, I was able to see first-hand the huge need and market for communications training, particularly in presentation skills and business writing, as part of sales, management, and leadership development.

I started Speak for Success in 2001 because I saw a critical need among business professionals to communicate effectively and professionally, both verbally and in writing.

Learning how to give effective business presentations is a very important skill for people who want to advance in their careers. It acts as a differentiator, separating those with similar expertise, experience, and education from those who aren't as willing to stand out be seen. And, developing these skills is particularly important for professional women who want to move up the career ladder.

For more information please visit Speak for Success online.

Warm Regards,

Dana Bristol-Smith