Lots of workshops teach speechwriting, presentation skills and interpersonal communications. How can you choose the right course for your unique needs—and get the best training value for your money?

Before you register for any course, ask these critical questions:

1) "Do you limit the size of the workshop?" Many programs allow unlimited enrollment—and so you might be disappointed to find yourself in a room with dozens (even hundreds) of other people. Beware: The bigger the training session, the less personal attention you'll get.

2)"Do you target specific skill levels?" Some workshops lump all skill levels together. The economics are clear: It's simply more profitable to run a "one-size-fits-all" seminar. But the truth is equally clear: A "one-size-fits-all" seminar won't produce your best educational value. The fact is: You'll get a much better learning experience if you can study with people who have similar experience in the field. You'll walk away with good training—and good value.

3) "Who will teach the seminar?" Large training firms use a variety of trainers. You might not know the identity of your trainer until you get to the classroom. Some firms sub-contract—meaning, if "Instructor A" isn't available, they might send "Instructor B." Make sure you don't get stuck with an inexperienced trainer or a last-minute substitute.

4)"Will the instructor's background match my needs?" Ask questions. Get a list of recent clients. Read current books or magazine articles the instructor has written. This is a great way to see how they approach their craft. Has this instructor actually worked in the field—or merely taught in the field? There's a world of difference—and you have a right to know.

5)"Can I see some recommendations?" Tip: Look for specific names. Be leery of blurbs that do not list a source! If you see something like, "This was a great conference" but the blurb is only identified as coming from "a manager" ... well, that's not a very credible reference. You want recommendations that come from prestigious organizations and well-respected people. Otherwise, you could be wasting your time and your money.

6)"Can I talk with the instructor prior to the class?" You deserve to ask any questions before registering for the workshop. Find out if the trainers will make themselves available either by phone or email. The best instructors will provide pre-workshop questionnaires—and use this information to custom-design the workshop based on your needs.

7)"What is included in my registration fee?" Does the fee include any books or learning materials?

8)"What is the agenda?" This can be a tricky area, so ask for specifics. For example, if the morning session runs from 9-12 noon, don't assume you'll get 3 full hours of instruction. Some training companies take long breaks to sell books and tapes at the back of the room—causing you to lose important training time. Or, if a seminar spans two days, don't assume you'll get two full days of instruction. Some workshops end before lunch on the last day. Again, that's all lost learning time.

9)"Will the instructor be available to answer any questions I might have?" A good instructor will be glad to take your questions—even long after the workshop is over. Make sure you can count on direct access. It will prove worth its weight in gold.

Copyright 2007, Joan Detz.