I am also surprised to see the negative reviews. I would have given more like a ten star rating if possible. As of October 2016, I became a rewards member for $199.00. Since then, I have taken over 14 live seminars and booked 94.5 hours of Continuing Professional Credits between live seminars and on-line courses. I am a Certified Public Accountant who needs 40 hours of Continuing Professional Credits per year. One 8 hours course could cost me on an average of $400.00. As for the instructors, they have all been very, extremely professional bring to the seminar some very hard core experiences. Then to have the people sharing their own experiences is priceless. And let me tell you, they come with some very hard core interesting experiences. The instructors are fun and have some good laugh, but it keeps the participants engaged. The other thing to keep in mind that it is difficult when you have a public audience of people with no experience verse people who could have written the course material. The audience is a wide range of individuals with varying backgrounds. As for upselling the material, let me explain my situation. At my career level, my title is a Senior Accountant. My pay range is currently at about $50,000.00 - $60,000.00 per year tops. The downside is my resume doesn't support or shows limited Management and Supervision skills. Fred Pryor has a ton of these seminars. If I would have had known of Fred Pryor Seminars years ago and realized that you are in control of your own career, I could have planned for today. In essence, if I could put on my resume Management and Supervision skills, my current salary range would be $80,000.00 and $120,000.00. What a price to pay for lack of knowledge. The instructor are not necessary selling this extra material but are making you aware of other options. One of the last presenters, introduced me to an organization called Toastmasters which will forever change my life. For the individuals who are writing the negative comments or reviews, maybe they just need to wakeup. If you can't set through a 6 hours seminar, then maybe you should have stayed home and slept. Maybe they needed the rest. You are not going to learn a new topic in one day. As a final note, I'm not paid for the this comment, and I'm not connect with Fred Pryor in anyway except as a Rewards Member. Thank you Fred Pryor! read more

Please remember this review. I started my seminar journey just wanting to learn how to better use Excel spread sheet program. The two day basic then beyond basic was fabulous. the leader of the seminar shared that they had taken advantage of the Pryor plus unlimited seminar package and that it was the best $200 they had ever spent. Believe me I was more than skeptical, but i thought what the hell it could get me away from work for a day. Little did I know what life changing information was in store. Keep in mind I was a person who was regularly irritated with others. I reacted to life. often, with heavy sarcasm and anger. I was unhappy with my inability to deal with people around me especially "my employees". Don't get me wrong I have always been great with the customers , they are the money flow to our business but the employees were a totally different story. They get paid to do a job so they need to do it, correctly, without a bunch of complaining and whining. I couldn't figure out the constant turn over in employees and lack of any decent motivation from our employees. There was constant complaining and gossip. Resentments and fears always seemed to run high./ If this sounds like you or your job Pryor seminars can help / Then i went to my third seminar Communicate with tact and Professionalism. WOW!!!! I, among everyone else, was challenged to go back to our job and ask our employees to give us feedback on how we communicated. I found out some very valuable information that day. Every seminar since then, 13 in all, has been a eye opening exciting and learning experience. I am so grateful that I was offered the opportunity to be a part of Fred Pryor. HANDS DOWN THE BEST 199$ DOLLARS I HAVE EVER SPENT IN MY ENTIRE LIFE!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! 55 cents a day. I have spent 200$ on so many things in my life that have given me little to no return. The priceless information from these seminars have added value to our company as well as me as a human being. I will forever be Grateful to Fred Pryor company for helping to change my life. Thank you!!!! read more

I attended a HR seminar recently in Columbia, SC. All attendees received a workbook at the beginning of the class, however one-third of the material covered was not in the workbook. The presenter showed two powerpoint presentations during the course, and I mean that literally. She allowed each slide to stay up for about 60 seconds and then flipped to the next one. She did not read anything, present the information on the slide, or provide the attendees with print outs of the information. Although there were a lot of topics covered during the course, there was very little detail about any of them. On three separate occasions the presenter pulled up wiki websites and told the attendees that if we wanted to know about the topic this is where we could find the information. She actually said "I could tell you about it, but it gets kind of hairy. If you would like to know, this is where you can find it." On multiple occasions, the presenter gave inaccurate information to the class. To top it all off, she asked us to fill out a survey and put our names, phone numbers, and e-mail address on the back, and then hand them to her when complete. Aren't surveys more accurate when they are confidential? I absolutely did not feel comfortable handing over a bad review to this lady so that she could read it with me standing there like she did to several of the others. I cannot believe that a legitimate company would employ these teaching methods or an instuctor with so little knowledge of the material. To say that I was extremely dissappointed in this course would be an understatement. I fully intend to write to their customer service department to ask for a refund. Please save yourselves the money and lost time--avoid this course! read more

TL;DR Worth it. Especially if you're a lifelong learner who wants to invest in yourself (or have your organization invest in you!) A year's worth of non-stop learning opportunities for less than 1 or 2 college courses. Don't be intimidated by reviews of marking/ sales pitches, as it's not aggressive and is balanced out by the experience you gain! -------------------------------------------------------------------- I've been a Pryor+ member for a couple of years now. I was sent to my first class through my employer but bought my own membership as an investment in myself as a lifetime learner. Not only does it give me access to lots of resources online but also to most in-person seminars (which rounds out a lot of my learning styles.) The in-person seminars also provide a secondary purpose, which is the ability to practice networking and to brainstorm with people who I would not have had the opportunity to meet otherwise. Of the 7 or so seminars I've attended so far, all of the instructors have been encouraging and open with their time. (Note in reference to pandemic learning: Their online webinars, though unable to recreate in-person connections, are the next best option. I've taken 2 so far and have found them very helpful.) As a business, they do have an aspect of marketing as part of their program. Some people are taken off guard during that time. I feel like it's worth it for the balance of information, life experience wisdom, and possible connections each seminar offers. Extra special shout out to Kathi Kulesza (presenter) and Linda McLaughlin (moderator) who facilitated one of the best seminars yet! (Leadership and Management Skills for Women.) read more

This company is a joke. I just got off the phone with their "customer service"(I use that term loosely). The call lasted 27:33 minuets, in that time they could not tell me the number to their main office nor could they transfer me to some to help me out. The one thing that does work at FPS customer service is the HOLD button. Over and over, "can you please hold?". To start, my self and some co-workers took a photo shop seminar and it was horrible. In the following weeks and days, we all each received a bill for this seminar. However we paid LONG before we attended. So in essence we were 6 times billed. When I called and explained this, they were not helpful. In the following weeks We all received collection letters. When I called and asked why I was receiving the letter and not my company, who had signed us up and PAID for the seminar, I was informed that it was MY name in the registration and MY credit would be hurt if it was not paid for AGAIN! The review that shows up when you search this site is FAKE!!!! They are NOT a non-profit organization. This makes it sound like they are doing this out of the goodness of their hearts. It is a FOR PROFIT COMPANY!! Not just for profit, but for profit at any cost. I can not get off their mailing list. I have called over 17 times and still I'm not off the list. I have written emails, letters and phone calls. I still receive about 2 to 3 emails a week. I am in process of filling a lawsuit. I'll let you know how it goes. AVOID THIS COMPANY AT ALL COSTS!!! YOU WILL REGRET DOING BUSINESS WITH THEM!!! read more

I attended a Fred Pryor Seminar this past week in Pittsburgh, PA and thoroughly enjoyed my experience. I attended Microsoft Excel- The Basics presented by Dan Schermerhorn. (?) Whether it was the organized seminar experience or my actual presenter, I learned a lot about Excel that I did not know before. I enjoyed receiving an Excel workbook that I was able to go through and take notes while he presented to us through PowerPoint and Excel. I was pleasantly surprised by how interesting Dan made Excel training! He used humor and personality in his presentation and spoke at the right pace. My specific class was very diverse in age and career status and Dan did a nice job incorporating something for everyone. It was amazing to hear all of the Ooooohs and Ahhhhhhs every time he showed us something in Excel that NO ONE knew about! As far as the hands off training method, I think it works very well because I remained focused on the presentation and my notes instead of attempting to follow along on my own computer screen. As far as the stereotype goes that they just try to sell to you at these seminars, I would have to argue against this. He spoke for about 15 minutes on additional programs we could purchase but I did not think this was over-kill. He focused more on being a knowledgeable teacher, throwing in extra training tips like shortcuts, rather than being a salesman. I would recommend these seminars to anyone willing to learn and hope to attend more in the future. read more

For starters, I'm shocked by the number of negative reviews. I own a company and travel extensively. Whenever I can catch a live seminar, I do. The instructors teach to all levels and are knowledgeable and well prepared. The course is $199 and yes, they tell you about opportunities to extend your learning (on an unlimited annual basis) for an additional $199. This includes live seminars and thousands of online tutorials. If you walk away learning something new, get the opportunity to ask questions of the instructor and peers, and have the opportunity to network, isn't it worth $199? As far as the personal stories are concerned, I welcome them. Some of the subject matter is dry and there's nothing wrong with keeping your audience engaged. Oh, and by the way, my graduate degree is in Adult Education, specifically Corporate Training, and I can tell you that they cater to every style of learning. If you took the Excel class and were disappointed in not having computers in the classroom, you should have read the course description which clearly states the format. Bottom line is this, if you want an affordable way to extend your knowledge base on your own terms, this is it. If you're looking to master a specific area, go back to school. Mastery doesn't happen in 6 hours. read more

Great experience with the online course. Since COVID 19, many setbacks has changed with jobs, and the economy as a whole. These online virtual trainings has bring hope, and opened up various opportunities to learn and stay up-to-date on required skills. While out of work due to this pandemic, I trust God, while taking advantage of the positives, such as, having the opportunity to take continuing education credit hours needed for work. This would not be possible while working, because some of these course are far out of state and my job would not have paid for excessive travel on multiple trips. I have taken over Eight courses thus far, just to name a few: -Engaging and Polished Business Writing and Grammar (2Day-seminor) -Worker's Comp, HR Certification Institute -Understanding Financial Statements I have been a member for three years, and during this pandemic, I have taken the most classes, due to lack of work. I will continue to additional credit hours to broaden my knowledge-Not just for the working world, for myself. I hope after things get back to normal, Pryor will continue online courses. This would be no different, than obtaining degrees online, so why not continuing education and certifications as well. Thanks again Pryor for making this opportunity possible! read more

Initially I registered for the Excel Basic and Excel Advance seminars in which I was sold on the Pryor+ membership. While I dislike being sold on a product. I felt that the cost was a bargain and I was very impressed by the instructor, delivery and was engaged throughout the seminar. As a Pryor+ (VIP) member I have unlimited access to both live and on-demand training in a variety of industry specific areas and topics in which is a true value to me. So far, I've completed at least 5 live seminars and when possible I'll stream on-demand video training. For me, the key is to take lots of hand written notes. I found trying to take notes with my laptop challenging with the pace of the class. Also, taking written notes helps with my memory. Then, I like that the facilitators are industry professionals with numerous years of experience in their fields and are highly skilled with training in the different learning styles. With each seminar I've felt more empowered and have taken away a variety of tools and strategies for success. I would recommend Pryor Training for anyone seeking to enhance their knowledge and skills on industry trends, build confidence, reduce stress, and improve productivity. read more

This was a very useful and timely course taught by a very experienced trainer, Ms. Januarie Wood. It was full of powerful tips and the science behind staying calm and focused in work situations and in life after work (to get sleep, maintain relationships, and be calmer). She taught the science behind healthy brain chemistry and the psychology behind stopping shame and anxiety spirals that make one's life painful. We learned how much anxiety and untreated stress can reduce focus, increase errors and burnout, and lead to a diminished life experience. The instructor was very experienced in using all these techniques and especially demonstrated by example how to be empathic towards oneself especially, and to others in an emotionally intelligent manner. I noticed I calmed down as I went through the course even. She often engaged her audience in the discussion and respected our opinions. I also appreciated the workbook and the "Stress Release Sheet" which summarized her wisdom and tips in an easy format. I'd recommend this course to anyone who works a job that has any stress or who has relationships in and out of work. read more

I just took the online Excel Basic Training with Jaime. He was very upbeat, which made the training fun and the time fly by. He started off by explaining the differences between all of the Microsoft offices and what they were meant to be used for. Through this I found out that I have been using the wrong application for most of my life. I really appreciated that information! Now, I can record and sort our data properly without going though all the hoops. This course is definitely for somebody who hasn't used Excel very much. It teaches you the basics of the basics, but as someone who's use Excel all their life I still got a lot out of it. I learned many tips, tricks and shortcuts, that weren't taught to me while earning my certification. They will definitely save me much time and make my work more efficient and streamlined. I have to admit there was a fair amount of time dedicated to promoting resources that you could buy, though it definitely did not outweigh, at all, the amount of time spent on the subject matter. I will definitely be taking more courses in the future. read more

I am fortunate to be able to extend my learning through my employer at no additional cost to me. I have taken 3-4 Fred Pryor seminars over the past month. The content could be more robust but is overall okay. I would like to hear less of the sales pitches for additional content and the time it takes to wait through that offering because it doesn't apply to my needs. I appreciate that there are 2 moderators so if one has problems with their internet connection, the other can jump on. Today, I sat in on a class with Jaime Swindell. He did great, kept the content moving, and was fun. He started off with a tidbit from the Fresh Prince of Bel Air and it was perfect to set folks at ease. Today's class was the first time that this option for a review was made available and I think that attributes to Jaime's confidence in the class he hosted. I would give this a 5 if we didn't spend so much time upselling. Nice work. read more

Im just finishing the Microsoft Excel Basics course with Orrin Rudolph. I really enjoyed Orrin, the course, and the content. Im not new to Excel but I was able to learn a few new tips & tricks. Looking forward to the Beyond the Basics next week. Really enjoyed Orrins mixed South Africa/Texas accent and his humor!! I was disappointed though when I told the moderator that I had to step out of the webinar for 30 minutes because something urgent come up and asked for a copy of the recorded session so I didn't miss anything. I was told that was not possible but I could PURCHASE an annual subscription so I could go through the course again. (????) As much as I enjoyed listening to Orrin and his funny stories, being asked to sit through another 8 hour session to go through the basics vs being able to search for particular sections after already paying to go through the course seemed very strange to me. read more

Just recieved a postal marketing mail from them announcing seminars on 2007/2010 Microsoft Excel at hosted cities around US this coming year. What utter joke it is. This is 2018 for heaven sake! Microsoft has gone past 2010 version several times. Nobody should be learning on dated versions. ABSOLUTELY DO NOT waste your time and money on these outdated versions with Fred Pryor Seminars. Not sure why Pryor think they have a good business model providing this kind of servce. Excel is REALLY not that hard to learn on your own. Trust me, there are plently of DIY learnings on the Internet. Just google what what you're looking to do and viola it's there. I found a great resource on how to make multi-lines in one graphical instance extracting data from several workbooks. Blew my mind how easy it was. Internet is your go to and best friend indeed. read more

I signed up for Pryor+ this past summer and just started scheduling the unlimited online classes during the pandemic to obtain my required CPEs and expand my knowledge in some key tools, such as Microsoft Access and Microsoft Excel, along with some other types of training. The classes are great and cover a lot of information. By having the class online, we are able to see what the instructor is doing easily and follow along, and communicate via the Question/Chat box. All classes so far has had someone in the background ensuring questions are responded to, or the instructor addresses them - either way, questions during class get responses. Registering for classes is super easy and obtaining documents is easy as well. In a sense, this has been a great time for me to sign up for Pryor+ and it has been a super resource to help sharpen my skills. read more

Participated in COVID Workplace Safety seminar today with Chuck and Todd. Amazing and invaluable amount of information gleaned. Chuck was very knowledgeable and personable. So much information that I didn't know as far as COVID and OSHA requirements go. Can't wait to implement all that I learned to protect our employees. Will definitely attend more seminars--very beneficial. If you are hesitating because of any other reviews (as I was), don't. Training was worth every penny. Other resources were given--such as state COVID codes, a handy workbook to keep. Considering becoming a PRYOR+ member which would mean I get future seminars for a year for free and all online classes for free--can't beat that value if other seminars measure up to this one. So glad I attended. read more

I took the Excel: Beyond the Basics training and "I Want More!" Everything was excellent and very well executed! I ABSOLUTELY LOVED JAIME SWINDELL!! He kept the class engaged and entertained (which is HUGE bonus points)!!! I really enjoyed his teaching methods and he made everything easy to grasp and understand. I truly appreciated the knowledge I gained being in his seminar!! Also, Orrin did a superb job as well keeping up with the many questions the class was tossing at him (and I LOVED his side comments and voices)! Jaime and Orrin make an AWESOME TEAM. I wish I could have them as the instructors for all courses!! Thank you Mr. Lifestyle, Orrin, and Fred Pryor for this unforgettable experience!!! read more

I have attended quite a few of the in-person seminars and have always left satisfied. Yes, the instructors do some sales pitching for the "product" of the Prior+ membership, but I had no problem with this as I believe it is worth the money. I think it is a great program to be apart of, especially if your company is willing to front the cost. I think $199 for a membership to attend as many courses in-person plus the 5,000+ online courses is a steal. I have learned a lot through the seminars I have attended that apply to both my professional and personal life. Some of the hotel choices could be better, but overall, I really enjoy this program and will continue to attend seminars in the future! read more

I have been Pryor+ member for over a year and really enjoy taking many live classes with good seminar leaders except for one. I think he is not teaching any more with bad evaluation. The convenience of CHAT with customer service is excellent. I hope the administration take a serious look of hotel venue in Honolulu Hawaii. We have been suggesting to change from the two hotels Pryor seminars are at currently. These two hotels are not friendly user for wheelchair seminar attendees or even cane users. We highly recommend to have seminars at Ala Moana Hotel on Atkinson Street adjacent to shopping center with easy free parking and ramp for wheelchair with many eating places nearby. Poranee N read more