Optima Training turns twenty
Celebrating twenty years in business
Optima Training (UK) Limited has been going for twenty years this month. Jo was already running her own language training business when we decided to work together. Our vision was to deliver training that met a business need rather than tick a box. It was very much a reaction against the “sheep dip” approach that I had been involved in whilst working for previous employers. This inspired our very first video, which you can still find on our YouTube channel.
Jo’s passion for languages meant that we originally built our new venture around her existing business. The name was changed to reflect our broader approach to communication (including language) and optimising management skills.
Since then, we have developed our approach and refined our offering. Designing and developing bespoke programmes can be challenging. Particularly when the client wants training, and we tell them that is not what they need. That’s right – a training company telling a potential client that training won’t fix their problem.
We recently began delivery of a new programme that started out as a training request. After various programme design iterations, delivering a short pilot and facilitating workshops to define the business need, it ended up being a programme of coaching-led skills development. No training involved at all.
For us, bespoke means coming up with something that is truly designed to meet the specific needs of the customer’s organisation. Not only does it keep things interesting, but it also increases the number of times we hear about the impact we have had. Hearing that a programme has “changed my life” is extremely rewarding.
Our business has changed quite a bit over the years. Our desire to deliver something of value has not.
So we appreciate your support
We would like to thank everyone who has worked with us, or for us, during the last two decades. For making the journey an enjoyable one. We look forward to future opportunities to work with you again.