Spotlight on Greg Sullivan
Less than two decades have passed since Greg Sullivan started a business with just $300 in his pocket. Today his e-Business Solution company, G. A. Sullivan, is one of America's fastest growing IT firms. In 1999 Greg received the ultimate recognition any entrepreneur could hope for. He was named the national SBA Small Business Person of the Year.
Exponential growth can be traced to a bold decision Greg made in 1992, when he transformed himself from a programmer to a businessman. He developed an ambitious business plan, hired an ad agency and marketing consultant, and built a sales force.
He also brought in Richard Klees for public speaking coaching. Greg and Richard met at a Microsoft conference where Richard was coaching 150 speakers. Under Richard's guidance, Greg immediately understood what polished communication skills could mean for the future of his company - and how improved skills could open new doors for regional and industry leadership.
"Hungry for Knowledge"
"Greg has been one of the most amazing people I've ever worked with due to his dedication and motivation to learn," comments Richard. "Not only is he a very quick study- he's literally hungry for knowledge. When I make suggestions, he practices diligently until the new communication patterns are perfected. His learning curve has been incredible."
Not that Greg had exactly been a poor speaker to begin with. He just had problems conveying his conviction and enthusiasm to others, and sometimes came across as flat and bland. By overcoming old habits he learned to be dynamic and magnetic with audiences. This helped him establish a better impression, whether he was speaking to employees, customers, high-tech groups or large business meetings.
A Proactive Learner
Initial improvements haven't been enough for Greg. As his company keeps expanding, he continues to ask his coach for advice. Sometimes he videotapes his speaking engagements and sends Richard a copy. Richard then provides a careful critique via email.
"We've been working together for almost five years now and I always receive valuable insights from our coaching relationship," Greg comments. "Richard helps me see where new opportunities lie. He shows me how to vitalize messages and set listeners on fire. I can't imagine being where I am now without his help."
Round of Applause
To Greg's astonishment, he began receiving compliments on his speaking skills soon after the first session with Richard. "Total strangers came up on numerous occasions and told me what a great presenter I was. They wanted to know what steps I'd taken to get so good. This was a lifetime first for me! Needless to say, the positive reinforcement made me eager to get even better."
With sharpened speaking abilities have come invitations to give keynotes at a wide variety of seminars and conferences. Every engagement helps keep G. A. Sullivan in the spotlight and enhances the image of both Greg and his company.
With G. A. Sullivan revenues now at $32 million, an employee base of 300, and eight offices in the U.S. and Europe, no one can doubt the wisdom of Greg's game plan ten years ago - including his foresight in being certain he was a confident and poised public speaker.