NICE TO MEET YOU!
I do a big mix of things for work because I like variety.
All my services have in common: communication, human interaction, words, listening, understanding, clear expression, writing and creating connections.
What qualifies me?
One part passion. One part experience. One part skills.
I love clear, positive communication, the art of writing, words, expression, languages. I have 20+ years of experience in communications, coaching, and language learning.
My mission is to help people to communicate smoothly, clearly and confidently, so they enjoy positive, fruitful and successful connections with the world.
Here are my professional specs…
Fluency coach for founders, leaders and senior managers for 20+ years
Cambridge-certified teacher of English to speakers of other languages (CELTA)
Classroom, 1-on-1 and small group teaching, in the US and internationally
University-level curriculum development and instruction
2 decades as an international B2B storyteller, digital marketer + business communications strategist — both in-house and as a freelancer
Deep knowledge of tech/software/SaaS/ all stage start-ups
Multi-sector experience: Tech, Finance, Healthcare, Macroeconomics, HR, Film, Music, Hospitality, Education, Insurance, Energy, Nonprofit
Fluent in English, Spanish, French
Another whole side of my business is devoted to personal coaching. You definitely benefit from my coaching when we work together, so have a peek: sonjashahan.com
HOW I ENDED UP HERE
GEOGRAPHY
Born in New York City, raised in New Jersey and have lived big life chunks in California, New Orleans and Barcelona. I’m in (old) Orléans, France now. Voila.
BACKGROUND
I’ve studied a mix of communications, sociology, languages, psychology, marketing and coaching. Life has handed me all kinds of roles: university teacher, software marketing manager, writer, translator, restaurant manager, visual artist, public speaker, counselor to teenage girls. It’s always been about communication and human relationships.
(NON-WORK) LIFE
I spend a lot of time traveling, reading, writing, listening, meditating, dancing. I’ve been studying Buddhist philosophy for years, so that’s my frame when it comes to understanding people, life, relationships and every situation I find myself in.