Case Study
Orange

The Background

We have been doing all Orange’s internal Presentation and Communication Training for more than five years. We have a range of courses designed for different levels, needs and experience. Orange is a passionate believer in investing in the skills of their workforce and is immensely positive and supportive of all those who wish to enhance and develop their communication skills.

The two main courses we offer are Professional Presentation, an intensive, dynamic and practical one day course; and Personal Impact and Presence a more advanced and challenging two day course, which includes a wide range of skills, techniques and experiences culminating at the end of the second day in a session on Conference Speaking. Each course has a maximum of 5 participants to ensure there is enough individual coaching time for each trainee.

Our Approach

In both courses the approach is very practical and positive. The trainees explore how they prepare physically and emotionally as well as mentally. The emphasis is on preparing for speech and not for print, on reducing the dependence on written text, on generating the necessary energy to fill the space and on the development of confidence.

Good use of the voice is encouraged and the development of a varied and expressive delivery. Techniques are explored to ensure that the trainees can begin at their best and do themselves justice in a wide range of demanding situations. The ultimate aim, as in sport, to seem a “natural”

All the practical sessions are filmed and replayed to analyse the performances for impact, style content and presence. The feedback is constructive with relevant exercises and solutions being suggested. At the end of the session all the trainees get their own DVD, a pack of Guidance Notes and within a couple of days they will receive a full set of personal feedback notes which encapsulates everything that was said to them during the training session.

Results

The courses have proved so popular that there are frequently waiting lists to attend. The trainees are often surprised by the dynamic and performance based style of the day where they are not expected to write notes and are challenged and encouraged to adapt their approach, ditch their “crutches and props” and realise their full potential.

"I found this course was truly excellent. Even within the first hour, practical tricks and tips had been given that had immediate benefit and use, and which instantly made a difference. For anyone with a genuine desire to improve their presentation skills, this is the course for them. Susan Ford is a gem who should be treasured by Orange. In my opinion the value of this one day course to an individual employee of Orange, and therefore to Orange itself, is immense."
Hilary Maddelena

"Thank you very much for a great course. It was inspirational and very practical...a great way to learn."
Sandip Kothari