Testimonials
There's a reason why the following list goes on, and on, and on ...
I absolutely loved the course and would highly recommend it.
Victorian Municipal Councillor
This was a great interactive session, thanks!
APS Participant
The training was really useful and it really allowed me to assess myself and where I can improve and where my strengths are. The practical tasks were extremely useful and the feedback given after these tasks by the facilitators really helped. Thank you very much.
APS Participant
I was really impressed with the training overall, particularly with some of the improvement I saw in co-workers over the course of the day's activities.
APS Participant
I felt like the content relating to harnessing nerves for positive performance, and how to deal with follow up questions in presentations was particularly beneficial for me.
APS Participant
The training was really good. I heard good things from friends who'd done it the days prior, and it lived up to the expectations in a way few training courses do.
APS Participant
I really enjoyed it and learnt a lot. Thank you :)
APS Participant
The training was really fun and engaging. I really liked the way the trainers got everyone to participate - the environment was relaxed and non-judgemental. Thank you!
APS Participant
I think the most valuable thing was getting feedback from the presenters - hearing that they thought I sounded good when presenting was a real confidence boost!
APS Participant
David and Marianne were very engaging and did a great job creating an environment where I felt comfortable to contribute.
APS Participant
The team who all present on a regular basis each got something out of the training. David 'nailed' our brief and the team who all present on a regular basis each got something out of the training. David 'nailed' our brief and provided an extremely valuable training session.
Operations Manager
I learned how to speak with more expression and passion. I don't have any suggestions (for improvement). I really enjoyed the training and the presenters were very engaging. I really appreciated that the training was very interactive. The time went very quickly and I learnt a lot.
APS Participant
The incredible combination of Marianne and David engaged our group from beginning to end. One of the rare instances a day long training session felt like only a few hours. The perfect combination of theory and practice provided clear learnings and technique everybody could take away. Empowering regardless of experience level.
Nathan DeLorenzis
Was a valuable day of training, I really enjoyed it and have gone from the kid at the back of the class saying don't pick me to looking forward to my next opportunity to present. Thank you ...
Local Government Workshop Participant
I have had three opportunities to present/MC since the training day and found I was more confident and calmer (no pre-gig nerves!). The value of practise and breathing ... awesome!
Local Government Workshop Participant
I thought David and Marianne were excellent, our business will really benefit from the day. We had a large group for the day, we really appreciated how much time was given to each individual by David and Marianne, even if it meant we finished late.
Private Workshop Participant
A great session. I enjoyed it immensely.
Private Workshop Participant
It was the best training session (my company) has offered. It got me out of my comfort zone.
Private Workshop Participant
David and Marianne were both very engaging, approachable and personable. They offered great examples and manage to tailor the training to suit individual needs within the group.
Private Workshop Participant
The training was well paced and offered lots of practical tips to assist in presentation skills - both preparation and delivery.
Private Workshop Participant
Marianne was very good -thanks so much!
Private Workshop Participant
Loved it. Marianne was great!
Private Workshop Participant
It was a great and supportive environment which allowed honest and constructive feedback. I think we all improved throughout the day and I will use the tools to continue to improve. Thanks for a great day.
Kathy Pryor
Great feedback and good constructive criticism. Learnt about the small details that really made my presentation skills improve which has given me a real confidence boost for future public speaking.
Melbourne Public Workshop Participant
I learnt to relax and breathe. Take my time and slow down my talking. I was very pleased with the training and I only have positive feedback.
Melbourne Public Workshop Participant
The training provided realistic hints and ways to present with more confidence.
Melbourne Public Workshop Participant
I did get a lot of out it. I thought both presenters made the group feel welcome and made a safe friendly environment.
Melbourne Public Workshop Participant
I enjoyed the training and was able to learn some new skills. The feedback given to attendees was thoughtful and constructive. I will definitely use Spruikit again if the need arises.
HR Manager, Healthcare, Private Workshop
I found this to be one of the best courses I have attended for some time. It exceeded my expectations, the day went fairly quickly, good to have a small group of participants and two excellent trainers.
Victorian Public Service, Public Workshop Participant
Exceeded expectations. Very much enjoyed the training. One of the best workshops i've been to.
Federal Government Department, Public Workshop Participant
Thanks again for the excellent training course, it really helped polish my presentation skills.
Federal Government Department, Public Workshop Participant
All of the content that was provided was beyond beneficial for me. It was one of the most useful courses that I have been on to date. I could think of a million people at my department who could learn a great deal from this course.
Federal Government Department, Private Workshop Participant
The whole group really got a lot out of the Spruikit sessions - look forward to having you as a part of the program next year!
Learning and Development Manager
No changes. I thoroughly enjoyed the training, finding it to be captivating, interesting and entertaining. Fantastic.
Victorian Public Service, Public Workshop Participant
There are absolutely no improvements that I could suggest. This was the best training course I have ever attended.
Australian Public Service, Public Workshop Participant
The course went well above all of my expectations. The skills and knowledge that I developed in one day was valuable and relevant to my work. The practical exercises were excellent to slowly ease you into public speaking and presenting with confidence.
Australian Public Service, Public Workshop Participant
The facilitators made participants feel very comfortable and confident. I really liked that they acknowledged at the start that it was a big step for some people to even attend the training. It made a very good learning environment.
Australian Public Service, Public Workshop Participant
Fantastic training. David and Marianne were great in being able to build on strengths in people while identifying and encouraging them to work on their weaknesses. I learnt a lot about myself and certainly observed the changes in just the one day of training. Highly recommend it to anyone.
Wendy
Great training course, I thoroughly enjoyed the day and got a lot from it. David and Marianne were fantastic facilitators. I recommend this course to anyone wanting to improve their presentation skills.
Leah
Fantastic workshop. I got so much from the session I attended, my confidence improved so much.
Private Workshop Participant
Could not fault Marianne/David, very professional, knew the content inside out and provided examples to content with case studies and real life experiences. Will strongly recommend the course to others. Thanks for the opportunity, a great experience!
Victorian Public Service, Public Workshop Participant
Marianne and David provided a bit of both worlds, different styles, both very engaging. The small group allowed great individualised attention. I was impressed with how they handled the impact of an accent on presentation; respectfully, practically and effectively. For me, the information on how to structure what I want to say was invaluable, it will really help me deliver complex subject matter to a critical audience. Fun format - I recommend Spruikit to help you shape up your presentation!
Russelle Beardon
David and Marianne teach the essentials of presenting in a friendly, clear and thorough manner. The day starts with some interesting theory on presenting and moves into small practical exercises that are simple and effective in getting you to overcome your weaknesses and emphasize your strengths. Anyone who does this course will come away with a much better understanding of how to present effectively and more importantly confidence in their ability to present.
Bill Robinson
Excellent, experienced facilitators communicated their knowledge well. I learnt lots. Today I gave a radio interview and for the first time ever, was not nervous. This was a direct result of the presentation skills workshop. I actually looked forward to the interview applying the skills I learnt to be more effective.
Private Workshop Participant
The presenters were knowledgeable, experienced, engaging and worked as a team. This contributed to gaining the most from the training.
Public Workshop Participant
Techniques to improve the way we sound was something new for me to explore. I think the reinforcement of good practice is an important take away for me. Also the tips on how to relax or loosen up are thing I will try. I enjoyed the session as it was. More practice is always good as daunting as it is. I would certainly be interested in trying to develop this area further.
Public Workshop Participant
Presenters are extremely knowledgeable and easily to follow. Both are easy to talk to without feeling you were talked at. I found the sessions covered everything I wanted.
Private Workshop Participant
I learnt to make my presentations flow a bit better, I learnt to minimise my presentations so as to allow the people I'm speaking to take more in and remember more. Honestly, I wouldnt change anything. I absolutely loved it and got so much out of it.
Public Workshop Participant
The presenters were very easy and clear to understand and offered good constructive advice which I will certainly take on board. Thanks for the course, it was a benefical day.
Public Workshop Participant
I really enjoyed the workshop and have recommended other staff to go through this. Well done guys...
Public Workshop Participant
Both David and Marianne were amazing - not only were they a fantastic team but were very approachable and extremely engaging. I thoroughly enjoyed this training - I still find the word 'presenting' such a daunting thing to even think about but the skills I learnt from David and Marianne will be put to the test for many years to come - I'll get there eventually!
Public Workshop Participant
Congratulations David and Marianne a wonderful presentation and probably the most beneficial PD I have ever undertaken.
Private Workshop Participant
I really enjoyed this opportunity. Great facilitators who clearly have a different background but bring great experience to the workshop. Facilitators offered honest critical feedback which adds value and provides actual advice on what can be improved. All in all, really enjoyed the experience.
Private Workshop Participant
A really good and engaging course which approached topics from a new angle. I especially liked the focus on the presenter - rather than improving PowerPoint skills which is often the case. Loved the voice coaching - rare opportunity! Thank you.
Private Workshop Participant
A very engaging session. Presenters are very friendly, personable and create an open, relaxed and enthusiastic environment. Great individualised feedback. Good handouts and resources for participants to keep. I learned much and have already used the skills on a couple of occasions. Thanks!
Private Workshop Participant
I found the session with Jenny Kent to be really helpful and I took away a lot from that. Overall I was surprised with how much I learnt and the confidence I gained from this training course. I found the session to be fantastic!
Private Workshop Participant
Great facilitators who are experienced in presentations. Enjoyed the small group size.
Private Workshop Participant
The energy from all 3 coaches was fantastic along with their anecdotal stories which made the day move along quickly. Thank you for the opportunity.
Private Workshop Participant
The day course was interesting and informative. Having the chance to go up and discuss matters was a confidence booster and gave us a chance to improve in the way we present things. The day was a little longer than I expected. Thanks for taking the time to help us.
Private Workshop Participant
The experience with Spruikit is one of the best training I ever had. I am very glad I had the chance to attend your training. I will recommend Spruikit to any business without hesitation.
Private Workshop Participant
I really enjoyed the day. I know I still have more to learn but I now can focus on 3 or 4 key learnings and use these going forward. Thank you for making the day enjoyable and interactive.
Private Workshop Participant
I found this course great value to me. Well presented. Highlighted by the fact that the day went so fast. Thank you very much.
Private Workshop Participant
Thank you Marianne, David and Jenny - you were all fantastic and I will definitely recommend the course to my colleagues.
Private Workshop Participant
I was extremely impressed with the presentation skills course. It was professionally run and I feel I gained a great deal from the day. I have learnt what I need to be aware of and somehow I need to combat my very frustrating upper inflection! Thanks to everyone!
Private Workshop Participant
This is a very good learning exercise. As GPs we get asked to different presentations to the community; including schools, children and general community, peers etc. By having a sound knowledge, how to deliver a speech to tailor the needs of the audience who attend. Spruikit fulfilled by needs. I will recommend this kind of workshop to recently graduated peers. Thank you.
Private Workshop Participant
This was an excellent workshop and I learnt invaluable skills appropriate for day-to-day use. Well delivered with a good amount of critique to each participant. Thanks David and Marianne!
Private Workshop Participant
Thank you to both David and Marianne. You made the day as enjoyable as it could be for someone who hates presenting and I believe I learnt the root cause of what is limiting me which I see as most important.
Private Workshop Participant
Excellent day with great feedback. Very informative.
Private Workshop Participant
Thank you David and Marianne for a fantastic journey into the world of presentation. I have taken away an enormous amount of knowledge and will use it for all future presentations. You both need to be commended on delivering your expertise in such an enjoyable way. Thanks again.
Private Workshop Participant
Thanks for a terrific workshop. I valued the practical nature of the workshop. The various stages of practical trial and feedback was absolutely tremendous. The build-up over the day to the final 3 minute speech via staged teaching was very good.
Private Workshop Participant
Overall it was a very valuable day and a really positive experience for me. Thanks to both presenters who brought a wide range and diverse mix of experience and techniques.
Private Workshop Participant
You ran a really good balance between getting on with it and allowing us questions and catch up - perfect presentation! You both gave and set a great example of what to strive for. Thanks.
Private Workshop Participant
Thoroughly enjoyed the training. Incredibly practical and wonderful tools to implement. Took us out of our comfort zone, but empowered us first so we felt excited and energised about the challenge. Thank you.
Private Workshop Participant
I thoroughly enjoyed the course and the way it was presented. The nature of the subject meant that we were not only able to glean a lot from the theory and various techniques presented to us, but also from the way both David and Marianne conveyed the information to us. It was, in effect, providing us with a continuous practical example of everything that was being taught. Overall, it provided me with some great feedback, from both David and Marianne and my peers, reinforcing the things I was doing right and giving the clarity and confidence to improve those areas I was lacking.
Private Workshop Participant
I found this PD one of the best I have participated in. The fact that we were forced to face our fears and present in front of strangers with little or no time to prepare was very useful. The critiquing was very useful and at no time was it negative. I was presenting last week and spoke slower and more clearly and found it was a much morer pleasant experienced. Thanks!
Private Workshop Participant
I wanted to thank David and Marianne for the opportunity to undertake your training. I came away from the training absolutely exhausted, but also glowing at the same time. Both good signs of a very engaging day! I Have undertaken other public speaking and media training courses and this was the obvious standout. The practical exercises and the pace of the program is spot on but it is your own personal delivery styles which sets the Spruikit program apart. You are both clearly very talented individuals, who are passionate and genuine about the subject material. I am sure that there are days when you find it difficult to "re-energise" for another full program day, however never once did I detect a hint of a "going through the motions" approach. I will be recommending the training to all of my team. Thank you again.
Private Workshop Participant
I thoroughly enjoyed the 2 days. I gained so much from participating. The other participants contributed to its success BUT all the presenters were the best presenters I have ever had. Engaging, knowledgable, relevant. Thank you!
Private Workshop Participant
Loved the course! Couldn't have asked for better trainers.
Private Workshop Participant
Very clearly presented. Articulated well. Very helpful 'bag of tools'. Very worthwhile. THANK YOU! Just loved the other participant stories and the interaction - a very humanising experience all around. We all need a lot more of this. It builds understanding, compassion and empathy. Best way to open the mind to learn how to change positively. Thank you David, Marianne and Lynette!
Private Workshop Participant
An excellent workshop. Well prepared - you walk the talk - very credible and knowledgable experts. Thank you - have reinvigorated me and given me confidence to present with passion!
Private Workshop Participant
Although I was nervous about signing up to the day I knew if I went it would surely be beneficial. I had a fantastic day and thoroughly enjoyed the practicality of the workshop and exposure it gave me for getting up and presenting. The voice coach was interesting and some simple but effective tools used to assist in the presentation. Both David and Marianne were fantastic giving the right level of guidance and constructive criticism. Thanks for a great day. I will certainly be recommending your company. Cheers!
Private Workshop Participant
The presenters were lovely and engaging. I could see the transformation in most of the attendees by the end of the day.
Private Workshop Participant
Thought Marianne and David were great! And Jenny was very good too! Would recommend the course to others!
Public Workshop Participant
Thank you for the opportunity to attend. I learnt valuable and usable skills and found all presenters to be friendly, approachable and very knowledgable on their topics.
Public Workshop Participant
The program built the excitement right from the beginning. The anticipation that we were going to be challenged could be felt around the room. The atmosphere was that of learning. Felt Marianne and David really had our interests at heart and the group responded to this to really support each other. Really enjoyed it and thank you for helping this simple thing "speaking" become more simple!! Kind regards.
Public Workshop Participant
Wonderfully, professionally presented. Got heaps out of it and it was much more pleasant than I anticipated. Many thanks to Marianne, David and Jenny.
Public Workshop Participant
The course was particularly well organised, well presented (great role models) and I thought well balanced between theory and practice.
Public Workshop Participant
Congratulations for an exceptional day. The entire day was professional with obvious attention to detail in every aspect. From the moment I arrived it was obvious also that Spruikit is totally professional and welcoming. A warm welcome, refreshments and meal of quality and facilitators that had the ability to create an atmosphere conducive of a postive learning environment. The day was well paced and all three facilitators were stimulating, motivating and encouraging. Feedback was given in a positive and supportive manner. Thank you for a wonderful Spruikit experience.
Public Workshop Participant
This is the most rewarding program I have participated in with great content, relevant practical skills and amazing and knowledgable presenters. Thank you all for a most rewarding day! :)
Public Workshop Participant
I very much enjoyed the workshop on Tuesday. To be honest I am very happy that my colleague couldn't make it and I could go instead! I really walked away with a lot of useful hints and tips on how to better prepare for my presentations in the future. A big thank you for the great workshop and keep up the good work!
Public Workshop Participant
A really great course. I've recommended it to colleagues. The best course I've attended for the price.
Public Workshop Participant
Thank you for a great training day. It was good to learn several key points that we can use to improve our presentations. Also good to learn a few tips to harness nerves and think more positively about public speaking. I think getting up in front of the group several times throughout the day before our main presentation definitely helped me to not feel so nervous by the end.
Public Workshop Participant
I found this a friendly supportive session. Both Marianne and David were personable and helpful. The way the day unfolded was very good. All the skills aimed at 'group presentation' can be used in one-on-one appointments. Thanks for a great day!
Public Workshop Participant
Spruikit was an extremely enjoyable workshop that has helped provide me with extra confidence when talking in front of a group. Both Marianne and David were extremely helpful and constructive with all feedback. I certainly can see why this course benefits so many people. Thank you.
Public Workshop Participant
Thank you. I had a wonderful time learning the tips and tricks of the trade. David and Marianne were friendly, approachable and knowledgable. Jenny's tips were practical and realistic tricks to follow when faced with public speaking.
Public Workshop Participant
I thoroughly enjoyed the training - it was practical, informative and engaging. I would have no hesitation in pursuing further training with Spruikit when the opportunities arise. Thank you guys!
Public Workshop Participant
I have been to several workshops for various reasons - train the trainer, emotional intelligence, effective leadership - and have learnt something from them all - but this workshop was the best I think I have been to! The level of professionalism from David, Marianne and Jenny was outstanding, and I got the sense that they were all genuinely committed to improving our skills. The opportunity to give a short presentation and receive useful, constructive criticism was invaluable. Thank you. I will definitely be using what I learnt, and referring to my notes. Warm regards.
Public Workshop Participant
I found the course delivery was at a good pace. The feedback from the facilitators was really constructive. I felt much more confident in my abilities by the end of the day. Thanks again!
Public Workshop Participant
I have certainly developed more confidence in my ability to speak in public, and to convey my message.
Sue English
In one day, David Thomas and Marianne Van Dorslar at Spruikit transformed my skills and confidence in presentation. Some of the best and most supportive training I've had.
Fran Macdonald
I loved this day! The facilitators were very professional, positive and constructive. They gave encouraging and useful feedback to all participants. Even though it was a very busy schedule, they did a great job in running to time, and most importantly, while still maintaining a relaxed, non-judgemental environment. I also liked the manual - not so jam-packed that you would never bother reading it. It was well set out, containing only the most pertinent information and I am sure I will refer to it regularly. Thank you David and Marianne for a most productive P.D.
Private Workshop Participant
I really appreciated the fact that everyone had the opportunity to practise some presenting skills. Not only does practising highlight what skills you do or don't have, watching others is a very valuable learning experience. I gave a presentation the day after the workshop. I had a much more confident approach, didn't hide behind the powerpoint presentation and the audience asked lots of questions and gave positive feedback. Thank you!
Private Workshop Participant
Thanks for the day. It was very enjoyable and I learned a lot.
Private Workshop Participant
Thank you. Enjoyed this training and useful!
Private Workshop Participant
I found the session enjoyable and will begin using learnings immediately. The day after the session (spent developing a presentation) would have gone down the path of 'Death by PowerPoint' if it wasn't for the Spruikit presentation skills training.
Private Workshop Participant
I really enjoyed this training - it made me think in a different way and I learnt loads.
Private Workshop Participant
Thank you. Great team day and great balance between education and putting people out of their comfort zone. Cheers!
Private Workshop Participant
Fantastic training day - lots of easy helpful hints. Spruikit Team makes presentations seem natural and simple. One thought - one sentence. Less is more. Thank you for such a wonderful day and making presentations more fun.
Private Workshop Participant
Excellent, very professional. Loved it!
Private Workshop Participant
Really good overview on professional presenting. I learnt a lot from the coaches. Clear and concise notes to refer to at a later date.
Private Workshop Participant
Even though I have been presenting for over 10 years, I found the material useful, and wish I had these techniques 10 years ago. A very informative day and materials I can use again and again. Thanks!
Private Workshop Participant
Very good focus on key points and excellent for team building. Very enjoyable and informative day. Thank you.
Private Workshop Participant
Thank you for a very entertaining course yesterday. I will be recommending to my partners that we send more staff on the Spruikit workshop.
Public Workshop Participant
Very good course - broad background. Excellent presenters.
Public Workshop Participant
I was very happy with the quality of the workshop and this was very beneficial. I am interested on hearing about more workshops in the future regarding presenting and voice coaching. David and Marianne were great and provide great feedback. Thanks!
Public Workshop Participant
Thank you. Spruikit information, content and presenters are a professional outfit. Congratulations and thank you.
Public Workshop Participant
Truly one of the best workshops I have attended.
Private Workshop Participant
I thought it was all perfect content ... the facilitators were excellent ... and kept my interest and enthusiasm all day ... Thanks so much for helping me to be a better speaker!
Public Workshop Participant
This was honestly one of the best training sessions I have been to. The topics were very practical and relevant, and the presenters gave useful constructive criticism. I appreciated that they created a non-threatening and friendly environment and I feel that I have overcome my natural reluctance about giving presentations ... I will definitely recommend this course to other people in my organisation and friends. The course was very well structured and I found all of the topics extremely useful and will apply them in my work.
Public Workshop Participant