I’m getting set to launch details about the Virtual Event Manager Certification & Business Training Program. One of my friends, Debra Gould, the Staging Diva, has been very vocal against certification programs that state that you can’t be a home stager until you get certified.

Debra posted 15 questions that you should ask before handing over your money for a home staging certification program on her blog. I loved her questions so much, I copied them below and answered them to share with you how my virtual event training programs are unique.

1. If a program offers hands on training, how is it done?

I limit my live trainnig and coaching programs to no more than 12 people. My alumni (those who took the course before) are free to interact in these training and coaching programs, however, I limit my live programs to no more than 12 people so you get my individual attention.

When I’m not running the training and coaching live, I offer the program as a home study kit. You’re free to purchase the workbook and CDs from my website, however, you’ll miss out on the live coaching option. Despite this, once I do run the training & coaching live again (which is usually once a year), you’ll receive an invitation to join us.

2. Is the trainer a recognized expert in the field of virtual events?

Google “leesa barnes” and judge for yourself.

3. Will the training prepare you for the realities of being an entrepreneur?

Yes, because one of the training modules in the certification process is called Virtual Event Business Mastery. I teach you how to create a business producing virtual events based on my experience and knowledge. While merit is admirable, marketing makes money, so I teach you step-by-step how to create a business out of this.

4. Does the trainer have real world experience starting and growing a profitable virtual event business? If they haven’t done it, how do they know what they’re talking about?

I’ve been producing virtual events since 2003 and finally cracked the code on how to make money with them in 2006. I still produce 3 of my own virtual events annually and I also help produce up to 10 for others. While I do teach others the mechanics on how to produce a virtual event, I’m still in the trenches doing them myself.

5. Has the trainer proved they know how to get media attention for their expertise as a virtual event expert? If not, how will they teach you to do it?

Again, Google “leesa barnes” to see all the media coverage I’ve received to date.

6. Does the company give you an opportunity to learn and ask questions about their program before signing up?

You can submit your questions about any of my learning programs through my helpdesk. Often, I hold a special Q&A call so you can call-in with your questions.

7. Is free information available to aspiring virtual event managers and others or is it all about the money? Is the free information quality content or just fluff?

Here are some free resources to get you started with virtual events:

• Virtual Event Mistakes Revealed
• 7 Habits of Highly Profitable Virtual Event Managers (see sign up box on right)
• Virtual Event Manifesto

8. What do past students say about the program? What business success have they experienced?

Check out the testimonials here.

9. Can you talk to the trainer personally before deciding?

Only by appointment. Please request this by opening a ticket on my help desk.

10. Can you attend a free preview to experience something about what the program will be like?

I create preview videos, preview calls and articles so you can get a taste of what you’ll get in the program. These are included on the information pages of the programs that I sell.

11. Does the program offer a Satisfaction Guarantee? In other words, will you get your money back if it’s not what you expected?

You can read our Terms & Conditions for information on our guarantee.

12. Is the format of the program or the way it is delivered practical for you? Will you have to travel or be away from family for a few days?

All my training programs are delivered virtually. Some people need to be in a room with others in order to learn. While I can appreciate that, I love doing all my training virtually as it frees up my time to work on my pet projects.

Although 100% of my training is virtually, I do employ various techniques to appeal to various learning styles.

• I use videos and transcripts for visual learners
• I use audio for auditory learners
• And for those who learn by doing, you work on an actual virtual event during the training program. It can be your own or one that I assign to you.

13. Are you being promised anything that sounds too good to be true or unrealistic?

I’m very clear on what you’ll achieve after taking my program. Please consult that program information page for more details.

Of course, there’s a disclaimer that states that I can’t guarantee your success. What I mean is that your learning style, ability to take action and drive are unknown to me. Thus, I can’t guarantee your success because you are part of the equation. If you have a history of buying programs and leave them sitting on your shelf, or you NEVER actively participate in the forums or coaching calls, you can never be successful.

However, if you have a history of applying what you learn to your business right away and you actively participate in the forums and coaching calls, then you’ll have different results.

14. Are you being promised official credentials for completing the program so that you will be a “real” virtual event manager; or does the training company admit that virtual event management is a completely unregulated field that does not require any credentials at all?

To become a Virtual Event Manager, you do not need credentials. However, if you want leads from my business, Marketing Fit Inc., becoming certified as a Virtual Event Manager means you’ll get new business from me without having to pound the pavement looking for leads.

Of course, you can do virtual event management on your own, however, I find that people still have no clue how to produce a virtual event and make TONS of mistakes.

Also, my process is proven to help people add an extra 5, 6 even 7 figures to their income. So, you can choose to do it on your own or you can take my training and certification program so you can do it the right way from the start.

Again, you don’t need certification to produce a virtual event, but learning from a proven expert can only enhance your business and cut the learning curve.

15. What type of ongoing support does the company provide for its graduates?

Graduates from my programs get complimentary membership in the Association of Virtual Event Managers (new members only). After this complimentary period, I encourage my VEMs to stay on board so that others can learn from them.

The Bottom Line

My goal with the Virtual Event Manager Certification & Business Training program is to teach you how to build a successful business producing virtual events.

I’m saddened when I hear how people totally mucked up a virtual event due to inexperience or unethical tactics (or both). If I can help just one person learn how to produce a virtual event ethically and with confidence, then I can pack up my things and go home completely satisfied.