• What are SGBC's objectives?
We have two main objectives:

1. Maximize each individual's capacity for creative problem solving.

2. Enhance team cohesiveness and leadership skills to promote a work environment geared toward greater "out of the box" thinking.

• The SGBC website contains many photographs and references to photography. Why is that?
In both our presentations and our workshops, we use photography as a tool--a metaphor--to enhance creative thinking. The goal is not to improve photographic skills; rather, we use photography, the "universal language," to bring clarity and emotional power to our ideas about how to expand perceptions and solve problems.

• How can we determine if Steve is the right person for us?
In both presentations and workshops, Steve goes beyond motivational platitudes to offer specific insights and suggestions, including exercises you can do on your own, that will help you--and the whole team--become more creative problem solvers. Tell us what you want to accomplish and we'll explain how our approach can help.

• If we hire SGBC, what happens next?
We will ask you questions about the challenges you faces and we'll customize a presentation and/or workshop for you. For workshops, we will discuss the exercises with you in advance to assure they address your needs.

• How long are the Presentations?
Presentations are about fifty minutes, followed by Q & A. Steve not only answers questions; he asks the group questions that get them focused on what they should do once the talk ends.

• How long are the Workshops?
This depends on want you want to accomplish and how much time you have. A workshop can be as short as a half-day to as long as a day and a half (scheduled on weekdays and/or weekends).

• Is there an ideal size for a workshop group?
We adjust our program to meet the needs of different sized groups. Groups of about 8 - 14 are ideal for giving individuals a substantial opportunity to express themselves, while maximizing the team building experience. If your group is larger, we'll suggest options that assure a productive experience.

• Can presentations be combined with breakout workshop sessions?
Absolutely.

• Do you have a location preference?
No. We can work at or near your office, at a company retreat location, or at our Chesapeake City, MD headquarters (a two hour drive from DC; two and a half from Times Square. See Location.) The workshop fee does not vary by location. If you choose to come to Chesapeake City, we have caterers, fine restaurants, and lovely B&Bs. There are several nearby motels along I-95.

• Are workshops dependent on weather or season?
No. In the case of inclement weather we have substitute activities that can be done indoors.

• Should workshop participants bring their own cameras?
Call us to discuss.

• How much do presentations and workshops cost? How do we reserve a date?
The economy is under stress so we make sure that our rates are very competitive. Let us know your objectives, the size and nature of the audience, location, whether you are for-profit or non-profit, and the preferred program length, and we'll promptly provide a quote. To reserve a date, we require a non-refundable deposit of 50% of the fee, plus any travel expenses. If you reschedule 60 days in advance, we'll apply three-quarters of the 50% deposit toward the new date; if you reschedule less than 60 days in advance, we'll apply one-half of your 50% deposit toward the new date.

• Can presentations be audio or video taped?
Steve's presentations and workshops are his exclusive intellectual property, so there is an additional fee. Arrangements must be made in advance.

• Who developed this website?
Steve Gottlieb produced the text, photographs and design. Maya Web Services implemented the design and serves as our webmaster. www.mayawebservices.com.