Are Speaking Training Programs Overpriced?
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- November 16, 2023
It depends on the setting, let’s dig dipper – written by Tam Lawrence
Public speaking is a skill that can open doors to countless opportunities, from corporate engagements to personal development. However, the cost of acquiring this skill has raised some eyebrows in recent years. Many speaking coaching programs come with hefty price tags, ranging from $5,000 to a staggering $40,000. The question that arises is whether these rates are inflated or justified.
There comes a time when the truth of the matter deserves a conversation.
In short, the answer is a resounding “yes.” The cost of speaking coaching programs is often exorbitant, and there are several reasons why many find them overpriced. Let’s delve into the intricacies of this issue.
1. Misaligned Training Objectives:
One of the primary concerns with some speaking programs is the misalignment of training objectives. While storytelling and sharing personal experiences can be powerful and therapeutic, they may not always be what corporate vendors are seeking in a public speaker. Some programs tend to focus excessively on personal narratives, turning what should be a professional development opportunity into a public therapy session.
2. Lack of Empirical Data and Research:
Effective corporate speaking often relies on empirical data, research, and a profound understanding of the subject matter. However, some coaching programs neglect to equip speakers with the tools needed to create data-driven presentations that resonate with corporate audiences. Instead, they prioritize emotional storytelling over substance.
3. Uniformity and Boilerplate Approach:
Another concern is the one-size-fits-all approach adopted by some coaching programs. Speakers are trained to follow a predefined template, leading to a homogenization of their presentations. This approach can hinder the development of authentic and unique speaking styles, which are often valued by discerning corporate clients.
4. Exorbitant Fees for Limited Value:
With prices ranging from $2,000 to $10,000 for presentations that predominantly focus on personal storytelling, many participants find themselves questioning the value they receive in return. This can lead to a sense of disillusionment and frustration.
5. Incomplete Training Outcomes:
Perhaps the most significant issue is that the high cost of these programs doesn’t necessarily translate into a high completion rate or effective training outcomes. The landscape is flooded with hundreds of aspiring speakers enrolling in programs, yet only a fraction complete their training. This leaves many without the proper tools and opportunities to access well-paying speaking engagements.
The Ideal Approach:
So, what’s the ideal approach to public speaking training? While group sessions and workshops have their place, one-on-one or small group training sessions tend to be more impactful. In personalized settings, coaches can better understand the individual needs and strengths of their clients, offering tailored guidance and constructive criticism.
In conclusion, the current landscape of speaking coaching programs, with their steep prices and questionable training methodologies, may be leaving many aspiring speakers high and dry. While there is undoubtedly value in professional speaking training, it should not come at the cost of exploiting the dreams and aspirations of individuals. The focus should shift toward delivering effective, personalized training that equips speakers with the skills and knowledge they need to succeed in the corporate world, without breaking the bank. After all, the world is in need of well-prepared, knowledgeable, and inspiring speakers who can contribute positively to its advancement.