“Cut!”  Back in the days when I produced film and video programs, that cry was heard many times throughout the day when a take was successfully recorded or when there was a screw-up in the middle of the take requiring a ”Take 2″ (or 3 or 10 or 11!).

In today’s business environment upper management has been yelling “Cut” more often as budgets are continually being trimmed in an attempt to preserve profits in the face of economic downturn.

So how do you choose?  What stays funded and what gets cancelled or postponed?  Well, training, of course!  We always look at training as a “nice to have” vs. “need to have,” right?  But is that the most strategic response?  Like most issues, it depends.

Let’s consider one commonly identified business goal: effective business presentations.  When times are tough and the competition is getting tougher, more effective business presentations can make all the difference in landing that new client, getting buy-in from the board of directors, or motivating employees.  Presentation skills training not only leads to greater understanding and trust, the results can be immediate.  That’s critical when you’re working overtime to avoid business losses now - this quarter, this year. 

And think of what mastering a valuable skill set like public speaking can do for your team’s attitude.  Never discount how important it is for employees to maintain a positive attitude when everywhere you turn the news is negative.  Suddenly your team, your organization has another business-building way to stand out from the crowd! 

Show me anywhere else in this crazy economy where investing makes so much sense!  Effective communication skills - now more than ever!