Surespeak

SureSpeakis a Software as a Service (SaaS) provider of web-based video coaching platform and tools. Executive coaches & enterprises use SureSpeak to improve sales, presentation and communication skills leading to enhanced revenues, higher customer retention and improved operating efficiencies. SureSpeak users watch modeling videos that demonstrate desired performance – for example “How to close the sale”. Then with just an internet connection and a webcam, the user records their version and self-reviews. Typically the user will re-record multiple times until satisfied (current record to save ratio is 6:1). Practicing or role-playing in a private setting has proven to be very desirable for SureSpeak users as opposed to group role-playing which is embarrassing and counter-productive. When the user is satisfied with his “SureSpeak” he saves, and his coach receives an automatic email alert notifying him that a SureSpeak is waiting for review. The coach then logs in from wherever he may be and whenever he has time. This is a key to the efficiency of SureSpeak. The coach provides feedback in written form, in score format – based on customizable categories such as “body language”, “tone”, “enthusiasm”, “message content”, “sincerity”, etc. The coach also can record a video back to the user. When the coach saves his feedback the system notifies the user that his score SureSpeak has been reviewed, and likewise the user logs in when convenient to review. Additionally, each user can receive feedback from unlimited coaches, peers, managers, etc.

SureSpeak’s patented platform is unique in that it is asynchronous – meaning the practice and coaching is split up into 3 distinct parts – practice, coaching/feedback, and review of feedback. These can be done independent of each other without delay and at any time. Most training fails in that no video record is provided and if it is not efficient or readily accessible online and cannot be shared. Synchronous training solutions such as video-conference fail as they still require both parties to be available at the same time.

The five-person company, which was issued a patent for its method of recording and scoring video interviews in 2004, recently raised $2 million from OptionsXpress co-founder and former chief executive David Kalt.

References

Crunchbase Profile1
Ex-optionsXpress CEO Funds SureSpeak With $2 Million2
ITA Q&A with SureSpeak CEO 3