Peter Handal is the chairman and CEO of Dale Carnegie & Associates Inc., a company that specializes in performance-based training for businesses of all sizes and in all sectors. Based in New York, Dale Carnegie Training has offices across the United States and in more than 80 countries.

On Oct. 26, Handal was in Des Moines to honor Hy-Vee Inc. CEO Ric Jurgens and chief operating officer Randall Edeker with a Dale Carnegie & Associates “Leadership Award.” The Business Record talked to Handal to get his national perspective about the importance of training for companies and individuals, as well as the trends he sees emerging.

Why do you think it is important for companies to invest in training programs?

Today’s world is very competitive, and it’s hard to get good employees. And even though there is a high unemployment rate, it’s still hard to match up the needs with the marketplace. Training helps employees improve, and it engages them in what they do. A lot of times, employees become disengaged; their hearts and souls aren’t tied to what they do. Training can help with that.

Is there a particular area companies tend to be more interested in – especially in today’s economy?

A lot are interested in sales training and team building. On the team building side, it’s very important after layoffs; the company helps (employees) be more productive. On the sales side, it’s simple: In an environment like in today’s economy, you need more sales.

In your opinion, what are some of the biggest challenges facing companies today?

Short-term focus is a big problem. They’re so worried about the bottom line, which is important. But people need to look out longer than just tomorrow; they need to think about five years from now.