Russell Minchew, an Alabama telecommunications network manager, is always looking for new ways to turn irate callers into satisfied customers and grow more confident in his role. New Jersey human-resources business partner Diane Litchko craves opportunities to further enhance her professional skills and hear exceptional business leaders talk about what makes them successful.

Both of these busy professionals devote several hours a week to participating in the Microsoft Office Live Meeting Leadership Forum, a series of presentations led by some of the world’s most respected motivational speakers, executive coaches and business management experts – without spending any money on travel or even leaving their desks. Peppered with inspirational messages, practical advice and interactive discussions on a diverse range of topics, the series has attracted tens of thousands of participants over its three-year history. Participants need only the hosted Microsoft Live Meeting service, a phone and a PC with an Internet connection.

“The value I gain from that hour on my computer is just incredible,” says Litchko, who has participated in more than 45 Leadership Forum seminars over the past year. “Every session has given me the chance to tap into fresh ideas, connect with other professionals, and get exposed to different business approaches and cultural attitudes that I might never have the time or budget to pursue through in-person seminars.”