Embarking on a new business venture is no small feat. Professional trainer Melanie Staunton of Communicate Training shares her secrets to creating a successful company.
We love entrepreneurs and small business owners at Honeycombers, which is why we’ve created Launchpad, a digital networking platform with IRL benefits. It’s a privilege and pleasure to learn from so many talented folks! Looking for inspiration? Check out how Melanie Staunton, the founder of Communicate Training, gets it done like a boss.
In conversation with Melanie Staunton of Communicate Training
Let’s get to know you! Tell us who you are and what you do.
Hello everyone! I’m Melanie Staunton, the founder of Communicate Training. We deliver bespoke programmes, talks, and one-to-one coaching that help organisations and individuals master the art of confident, compelling communication. Helping people build confidence and unlock opportunities through enhancing their communication skills, is something I’m deeply passionate about!
Tell us the story behind your business.
I launched Communicate in April 2022 after seven years in the corporate training industry, because there is nothing more meaningful to me than empowering people to develop skills and habits that can make a tremendous difference in their lives. Whether it’s amplifying themselves so they get the promotion they deserve, build confidence to pitch their ideas persuasively, or be able to have productive feedback conversations, communication skills are without a doubt a huge advantage in any role, situation, or industry. What began as a small venture working with entrepreneurs, local businesses, and tech startup CEOs has quickly grown into a global training company, delivering in-person and online workshops all over the world. Communicate has become a trusted partner to multinational firms and individuals alike.
What are some milestones or achievements you’re proud of?
Honestly, just taking the step to launch Communicate was a big achievement in itself! Especially as it was during Hong Kong’s fifth wave of Covid. Since then, we’ve delivered training in over 15 countries, including Geneva, Singapore, Dubai, and Australia, and supported over 40 clients such as Cartier, PwC, Mastercard, Burberry, Lazard, Deacons, and the Financial Times. I’m proud to have built a company that champions female and local talent and partners with foundations like Splash and The Sisterhood to bring Communication Skills workshops to underserved communities. It reinforced my belief that even a small business can drive big change.
Share a setback that taught you a valuable lesson about running a business.
That first year tested me on every level. I launched Communicate in April 2022 when the corporate training industry was hanging by a thread! In May 2022, only a month later my dad passed away, and five months after that my husband and I were passengers in a serious car crash. It was an extremely tough few months. However, at this time, the wonderful female trainers that I had onboarded to work with Communicate ended up being an incredible support to me. Whilst I was getting my business off the ground and navigating a rollercoaster first few months, they were amazing – and still are!
This taught me that surrounding yourself with the right people is vital. Finally, I found that taking things one day at a time, one step at a time, one challenge at a time, made the mountain much easier to climb.
Describe a typical day in your life and what you love most about it.
No two days are the same, but they all centre on people and possibility! One morning I might deliver a public speaking workshop to finance executives, the next I’m coaching a startup founder on her personal brand. I’m driven by that “aha” moment when someone realises how small shifts in their voice or body language can unlock genuine confidence, credibility – but most importantly – opportunity! Even with over a decade of experience in the corporate training industry, I still get so excited when I see participants transform from hesitant speakers into those who light up the room and command their seat at the table.
What’s your favourite book, movie, or TV show that has influenced your entrepreneurial mindset?
For me, Steven Covey’s 7 Habits of Highly Effective People is a gamechanger! In terms of entrepreneurial mindset, it helped me to remember that I always need to check in with myself in terms of my mission and my priorities. When you are clear on this, it helps to guide your choices in the right direction. For example, early in Communicate’s journey, I said “yes” to every client, logging eight months of global travel while still recovering from the car accident. Finally, on another long and lonely flight I realised true effectiveness comes from aligning work with my core values: health, family, and purpose. Since then, I’ve become disciplined about saying “no” to opportunities that don’t serve my long-term goals and values, and “yes” to those that do.
Any advice for aspiring entrepreneurs?
- Put in the time and work to become outstanding at what you do! Mastering your craft breeds credibility, client satisfaction, and referrals.
- Prioritise long-term gain over short term wins.
- Seek feedback relentlessly, from clients, peers, mentors – literally anyone! If you aren’t asking for feedback, your product or the service you provide will never reach its full potential.
Finally, some rapid fire questions to close us off…
1. Top tip for maintaining a good work-life balance?
Firstly, define what “balance” means for you, as everyone is different. Then, block out time for it in your calendar – no exceptions! My rule is: you can’t give 100% if you don’t feel 100%.
2. Favourite thing to do on weekends?
Take time to unplug with family and friends, whether that’s playing golf, taking a day trip, or being active! Sometimes I have “no plans Sundays”, which I also love!
3. Tell us one fun fact about yourself that not many people know.
I have a Law degree, but decided not to become a lawyer and moved to New York to be an actress instead!
Entrepreneurs we love: Melanie Staunton
Name: Melanie Staunton
Business name: Communicate Training
Email address: melanie@communicatetraining.com
LinkedIn: Communicate Training
Instagram: @communicate_training
Location: Hong Kong
