I came to #SMMW13 looking to connect with Social Media leaders and hear great input on social media strategies and tactics that can help grow the business I’m part of. What was unexpected for me was the impact of the sessions that went deeper, to how we approach life. Your session was one of those that felt like a moment of epiphany for me.
I had come with a “business-first” perspective, hoping to make connections and grow the sales of our company. However, I was floored by your keynote and the priority first on connecting and adding value to others. The focus first on “how can I help you?” tripped me up. I’ve been a business man, asking myself, “how can I grow my business?” So this seemed counterintuitive.
However, the stories you shared about you and others seeking to fulfill that question first, “how can I help you?”, really struck me. It was so much more than seeking a sale, it was other-centered and had such powerful impact. Particularly, hearing how you knew you would be able to meet former President Clinton, and knowing you would have about 9 seconds with him, how you prepared and took the time to learn how you could make a connection with him. It was powerful to hear how in that moment you made a common friend connection with the President, and then knowing his love for jazz made the link to get him connected to the “We are the World” recording. He was thrilled and it guaranteed that he would never forget you.
It was powerful. It was deep. It was life impacting. Thanks for doing what you do. I’m returning to my business with a new goal, a new priority, and new energy and expectancy to see what happens!