Neil Bennett is a freelance journalist and broadcaster with a strong belief in the power of clear, honest and straightforward communication. As a reporter with many years' experience, he has seen at first hand how individuals and organisations can make, and sometimes ruin, their reputations by the way they write and speak.

Some people are naturally gifted communicators but Neil has known many people who have blossomed into strong performers from an uncertain start. Good training is the key and can help everyone to improve these vital skills.

Neil now trains senior personnel in the public and private sector in how to identify and express their key messages. This ability is relevant not just in dealing with journalists and those outside an organisation but internally as well. His wide ranging journalistic career has given him a solid insight into methods which work and those which don't.

Neil was a front line reporter for the BBC for more than 30 years, specialising mainly in crime and the criminal justice system. He also worked regularly in Northern Ireland and covered sports news for five years, reporting on two Olympic Games and football, cricket and rugby World Cups.