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This blog has been moved...........

2009-03-24T09:25:00.002-04:00

Hey Kids!

Check out the new home of this blog at my website

A Trip To The Dog Park

2009-03-16T17:47:00.003-04:00

Feeling a bit uninspired today I decided to take an hour off and take the dogs down to the local dog park.

It was our first time there and I didn't know what to expect. What does one do at a dog park? What do you bring? What if the other dogs start making fun of my dogs? What if my dogs are chosen last when teams are chosen? So many questions; not many answers.

Well I guess you just let dogs do what they do - sniff, romp, sniff, run, sniff, bark, sniff and sniff. Owners have small talk until some one's "child" gets a bit aggressive and then you take corrective action while the other kids still try to sniff.

Well five of us were there with our "kids", having a good time, when the grounds person showed up. He was on the cell phone with someone who apparently was ordering him to order us to move our dogs to the far end of the fenced in area so that the grass would have a chance to grow.

"You really think you're gonna grow grass at a dog park and actually expect the dogs to stay in one area until it grows? This is a dog park. The dogs run all over." said Daisy's mom.

Go get em Daisy's mom!!!

His response was that he needed to grow grass. (Just doing his job obviously; no matter how much truth there might be to her comments.)

I could only chuckle as I watched my dog doing that digging scratching tearing up the grass thing that dogs do after they do "their business".

The man didn't see me. I took my children home before we were asked never to come back. And here I thought I had found an option to saving my grass. Oh well.

Be Willing to Learn. It Earns You Respect.

2009-03-11T10:23:00.006-04:00

When I attend a conference as a presenter I always attend sessions of other speakers. Sometimes I attend to get information. Sometimes I attend to get tips on how to be better at my craft. Other times I just attend to have fun. (Okay, most of the time I attend to have fun.) Heck, I even attend to "steal" material and get some motivation for myself. I am a learner.

Monday evening a woman came up to me shared the following thought:

I was sitting with you this morning at the General Session. I was impressed that you were our opening keynote speaker last night and you were there in attendance his morning. You even took notes.

I shared with her that I really liked what he had to say; a lot of what he did complemented my work and I am eager to find out how he and I might be able to help one another. I also told her some words I live by; which are "the day I cannot learn something new is a sad day."

We can all learn; from strangers as well as our peers.

If you're an accountant other accountants can teach you something.
If you're a secretary other secretaries can teach you something.
If you're a doctor other doctors can teach you something.
If you're a Recreation Professional other Recreation Professionals can teach you something.
If you're a teacher other teachers can teach you something. Heck even the students can teach you things.

Do I need to go on?

Being willing to learn earns you the respect that you don't often think about. Being willing to learn separates you from others in your industry - the ones who may think they know it all. They don't. Neither do you. Neither do I.

So shut up, listen, and learn something today.

Little Things Really Do Go A Long Way

2009-03-10T19:28:00.005-04:00

I walked into my hotel room the other day and there was a bag on the bed. Inside was a card welcoming me to a Recreation and Park Society Conference. I was their opening keynote speaker later that afternoon. Inside that bag was also an assortment of my favorite candy - Marshmallow Peeps. After I delivered the keynote I was thanked with more Peeps.

On Monday I delivered a leadership session and a Recess from the way we think session. At the end of each I was showered with more of my favorite candy.

Yes, I was a paid presenter. Yes, they treated me like a celebrity - making sure everything was set up the way I needed, including me in all of the social activities, etc. But it was those Peeps that meant the world to me. That someone took the time to get to know me as we developed a relationship/partnership during the last year. Thanks Daphne, Tony and Audrey.

It really doesn't take a lot to make someones day - even in these times when finances might be tough. It doesn't take a lot at all. So with that in mind....................

Do you have the opportunity to do a little thing today or tomorrow for someone else. Go for it! And make it a habit.

The Spirit of Barbara! Catch It!

2009-03-04T07:43:00.003-05:00

I sat next to Barbara on a flight yesterday. We chatted and laughed for about an hour on the flight from Hartford to Washington DC. Barbara was probably old enough to be my mother. We laughed at the crazies in the airport. We laughed at all the people annoyed about our delay. We laughed about the economy. We laughed about lazy people we have (or in her case, still) work with. We laughed about her husband leaving his glasses home (he was sitting a couple of rows back). We laughed about any topic that popped up.

Towards the end of the conversation I asked Barbara if she had kids. She said she had two; now only has one. She shared that her son was killed in an accident at twenty-one years old. We continued talking and laughing. I was amazed and commented.

Then she said to me, you can let the experience kill you too; or make you stronger. We continued to laugh.

What's eating at you these days? What's upsetting or worrying to you. Have you taken some time to laugh? Go do it. There's enough unhappy people in the world; (Quick aside: now it seems that most of them live in Portland, OR.) But there's one person who continues to laugh - despite one of the worst things that can happen to a mother.

So today I say Catch the Spirit of Barbara and go create some laughter.

Why Aren't People Paying Attention In That Meeting?

2009-02-26T10:14:00.008-05:00

Found myself sitting in a meeting recently and noticed the following going on:

People were texting
People were twittering
People were talking
People were emailing
People were doodling
People were cleaning out their purse
One person was writing checks
Another was making a list of some sort
One was cleaning his finger nails - and then staring at what came out.
And one guy was observing all of the above (that would be me!)

As a speaker I know one thing, if they're doing any or all of the above, it's my fault (for the most part); I'm not keeping them interested or engaged. But on the other hand some people need a little guidance at a meeting to recognize why they are in attendance. It's one of the reasons I created The Meeting Playce Mat™; to give people a tool to take something away from that meeting experience. It's fun; it's creative; and it gets you thinking.

Keep the people engaged and we won't be doing all of those things listed above. But how do you keep people engaged? Here are three ideas:

Include them by asking stimulating questions
Offer them opportunity to interact and be a part of the meeting; to put to practice what you are presenting
Give them new and fresh content - or at least take a new thinking approach to old stuff. Stop rehashing old ideas.

There are many more. But why not start here. If you're a presenter of any sort; civic meeting; staff meeting; or conference presenter, make a pledge right now to keep those people with you and not looking for opportunity to go to technology land, finger crud world or the ear wax kingdom.

Now this is what you call Customer Service?

2009-02-25T15:47:00.005-05:00

Met a colleague for breakfast this morning. We were sitting drinking our coffee and brainstorming. On the table was a little bowl of creamers; enough to bathe in. (As an aside, what is the deal with those things anyway? Why is it that some have to be kept cold while others can sit on the sidewalk on a brutally hot summer day alongside that fried egg?And do restaurants really know which is which and why? And what about the supply we find in hotel rooms? Should I be looking for cobwebs; you never know how long those have been sitting next to that in room coffee maker?)

But anyway, I digress.

Out of the corner of my eye I saw the waitress serving the table behind us barreling down the aisle. She whizzes by, puts her hand out, scoops up our little bowl of dairy delites and drops them off at the next table.

Ed and I looked at each other in amazement. Wasn't sure if he was shocked, appalled or confused.

I just laughed. I guess my quota of free refills had been reached.

It's Here..........The MEETING PLAYCE MAT (TM)

2009-02-24T12:43:00.014-05:00

Tired of those boring meetings that lead to no results, no innovative ideas and nothing new being said.

Take The Meeting Playce Mat (TM) to your next meeting. It'll make your next meeting a whole lot more productive - or at least a whole lot more fun!

email me your name and (snail) mailing address and I'll send you a sample today!

Find out more about the Meeting Playce Mat (TM) Here!

Are you hanging out with Recessionaries and participating in the Recession? I hope not.

2009-02-21T07:54:00.004-05:00

I keep hearing about this Recession, yet I'm still not seeing it???

I had to wait 30 minutes for a table last night in a restaurant. At 9:00 the place was still packed
The roads are as congested as ever; if not more congested? Are people getting up in the morning and driving to the companies that laid them off just to say hi?
The line to check out at one of my favorite stores was ten deep the other day and there seemed to be more than enough help at the register
The company who normally turns my marketing materials around in two days has not delivered my proof yet - it's been a week? They're swamped with work; so they tell me.
I booked two engagements this week at my normal fee
One friend booked a cruise; another a week in the Caribbean; a third to South Africa

So this leads me to a few questions:

Am I just hanging out with the right people?
Are service organizations staffing down to give the appearance of being busy?
Are companies trying to move forward and ignoring the craziness that is Wall Street and Washington?
Are the travel deals so good that I better do some surfing as soon as I post this blog entry.

I really am trying not to participate in this Recession. Would you join me?

What is it?

2009-02-17T19:18:00.008-05:00

Look long and hard at the picture below and try to guess what it is before reading any further.

So what is it?

Recently I attended a seminar on the importance of play; as it relates to design, innovation and creativity in business and society.

One of the exercises involved being paired up with someone to create a new idea or product. There was one catch. We were not allowed to talk. This had to be a non-verbal exchange of ideas based on drawing or writing. I was paired up with Karen, a professor from Syracuse University.

Karen started our conversation with what looked like an open box.

I put wheels on it.

From there it just got silly.

Karen and I were no longer on the same page; we both had our own idea for a new product. I started going down the path of an oven and she started going down the path of I didn't know what; but I think it was something military; as it appeared to be armed with weapons.

But at the end of the exercise, we had agreed that we had designed the first Attack Skating/Skiing Oven named Herbie.

Play is critical for creativity and innovation to occur. Play can also be constructive and transformational for any organization when used the right way and for the right reasons. Some of the smartest companies use play to create new products and services. And it does wonders for the health and wellness of an organization. Is your organization playing?

June 18th is Recess At Work Day; a day that promotes health and wellness, creativity, team building and so much more. But don't wait until June 18th; visit the Recess At Work Day website today and start playing, innovating, designing, being more creative and getting well!

Shut Up! Or You May Be The Next One Let Go

2009-02-16T08:31:00.004-05:00

In my How To Be A Good Employee program, I offer some simple rules to navigate the workplace; have fun, stay motivated and be a good team player.

Rule #5 is SHUT UP!

Now this does not mean you should not speak up for what you believe in or bring attention to matters of importance; it means stay out of the gossip and nonsense that is so pervasive in many organizations. Pretty simple to state; not so easy for some to do.

Yesterday I received a call from two former colleagues. Both still work for the same company. It seems that a staff member was let go and they called to tell me as if I cared.

When I leave an organization I could care less about what is going on - especially the crap. But there are those who seem to think you care; or maybe it is just their way of staying in touch. Who knows. And again, who cares?

But it was interesting how both of these people had very different explanations as to why their co-worker was let go. One painted a picture of it being an unfair decision; the other painted a picture of it's about time.

Who is right? Who knows. And again, who cares.

But this is how organizational gossip and employee turmoil begins or gets fueled. If you're an employee of an organization you know the talks that are going on after someone is let go or receives some corrective discipline. Are you part of theses talks? Are you inciting them?

Let me make life easy for you................Chances are that none of the gossips really know the real reason; nor will they ever. Probably, because chances are it's a little bit of valid information from every piece of gossip out there.

Hence Rule #5?: Shut Up! Stay out of it and do your job.

The World is Crumbling Around Us...................

2009-02-11T07:52:00.003-05:00

And this guy is pissed at Burger King . Make sure you click on the police recording link.

And then give this some thought................................

You know that the 911 Operator will remember this day for a long time to come; she can probably write a book of bizarre calls. But enough about her, what are the funny, crazy, silly, outlandish things that have happened at your workplace that still make you laugh? When things get tough at the office, take a moment to reminisce and laugh.

And the stupidity at Bank of America continues....

2009-02-09T11:48:00.005-05:00

If you remember, back in November I gave Bank of America the Stupid Company of the Month Award (you can read about it here)

Well the Stupidity at Bank of America continues. The account I thought was closed is not, and has been accruing $5.95 monthly fees on a zero balance.

And why?

Well it seems when I logged into my online account and told them to close this account they closed the online banking account, but not the actual checking account.

And how did I find this out?

The very nice customer service representative told me that when I called asking why I am receiving overdrawn statements when I requested the account to be closed. He informed me that I had requested the online account closed and not the actual checking account. To close a bank account you actually need to talk live with a person - on the phone or in a branch.

Okay, I'll take part of the blame here -perhaps a miscommunication. But on whose part?

Not mine. Remember, the customer is always right. Right???

So I made a suggestion to the BOA rep. I suggested that maybe he pass along a suggestion to the online department suggesting that they might be a bit more explicit in their email communication about the closing of online access versus closing of an actual bank account.

And to which his response is..............

I can go to the website and submit that suggestion by myself.

And to which my response is....................

I'm not even a customer any longer; and you're the customer service person who should be forwarding these requests.

And to which his response is..................

There are different ways we gather information at BOA and him forwarding the information is not one of them. (Now if this line isn't enough to make you puke; you know that came right out of some training manual)

And to which my response is........................

A chuckle and the stupidity at BOA continues.

Just a few days ago I again heard talks of the US Govt nationalizing BOA. Nationalize. Can we De-Stupidize them first!

A Message For Governor Rell: Yeah, yeah, yeah, families are making do with less, blah, blah, blah.

2009-02-05T09:10:00.006-05:00

Families Are Making Do With Less; So Can We.

That was a point that Governor Rell (CT) kept repeating during her doom and gloom budget conference yesterday. She was setting the tone for what was about to come.................
layoffs, agency closures, agency consolidations and decreased services. I'm sure this is happening in most states.

Hey Governor, I'm willing to make do with less; but I think it is about time that you make it easier for me to do so.

I just finished writing an $18 check for a boat trailer. Three weeks ago I wrote an $18 check for a jet ski trailer. Hey governor............why can't all registrations be renewed online?! Why couldn't you send these both to me at the same time? Why do I have to write a check, stick a stamp on it and walk to my mailbox - Twice! Why can't I print out my registration online? And what about my license? What happens when I arrive at the DMV to renew it and find out the hours are shortened or you have closed the office. Yeah, yeah, yeah, families are making do with less, blah, blah, blah.

Yo Governor, I'm willing to make do with less; but I think it is about time that you make it easier for me to do so.

Government talks about having less bureaucracy; I think that government needs to learn how to get out of their own way. Do you need to lay off 400 people? Maybe? Maybe not? Are there lazy people in government who take advantage of their jobs? Absolutely. Are there lazy people in the private sector doing the same thing? You bet. But is it possible that you have perpetuated things by placing people in the wrong positions, not screening candidates properly, and turning your head on "out on administrative leave" issues? And now, after you have fostered (not you personally) this type of behavior for decades you plan to fix it with fewer services and people?

Yeah, yeah, yeah, families are making do with less, blah, blah, blah.

You forget one thing Governor; families are already doing with less; now you're going to be asking them to do with even less. Your speech seemed to address your political team, not the great people of CT! Forget Double Taxation. This is Double Screwation.

So using the DMV as just one example, how about implementing some things that make sense? Now take the resources you just saved and deploy them into positions that make more sense, training that allows people to use their talents, and products and services that support everyone. If private industry has learned how to tap into people's talents, so can government. Need help figuring it out? I'll show you for free!

You see Governor, I really am willing to make do with less; but I think it is about time that you make it easier for me to do so.

Don't Invite Your Mother To The Meeting If She Is Going To Whine

2009-02-03T09:17:00.002-05:00

If you’re old enough and your parents had guts, balls or chutzpah, you remember “The Look.” The Look meant you did something wrong and you had either cut it out right now………..Or Else. It was appropriately used when we were taken to a public place – restaurant, house of worship, or shopping.

Or Else meant discipline. It didn’t mean time out. It didn’t mean you were sent to your room to think about what you did; a room where you had computers, 100” flat screen TV’s, MP3 players, your cell phone and enough toys for a small village in a third world country. Discipline often involved hands, belts, slippers, or even a broom. Now I am not supporting physical discipline but I do know in the past I have mentioned my view on this ridiculous thing called “Time Out.”

So there we are, in the food court of the Convention Center. Ellen and I are looking for a place to sit, eat, and catch up a bit. We meet at this event every year to play a bit as well as strategize about our businesses. We join a young woman at a table for six. She invites us to sit down as it will only be her and her mother. Mom is nowhere in sight. But without even knowing what she looked like we hear this train barreling down the tracks, approaching the table.

“This is awful. They have no food I like. I don’t want to sit down here with all this noise. The food choices were terrible. The lines are so long. The cashier is so slow. (She is now at the table.) They don’t give you any napkins. Where am I going to sit? (We left seats on either side of her daughter and one across; quick aside, notice it is across; not acrossed.) Ellen is horrified; I am biting my tongue not to laugh. Oh, by the way; for my current and former New Yorkers, she’s got one of those high-pitched Nasally New York Voices – (think Janice from Friends). Her daughter points her in the direction of the condiment station where she can find her napkins. And then it happens; as she turns away the daughter gives her “The Look.” I burst out laughing. It was wrong but all I could do at that point.

There was absolutely nothing right going on in this woman’s life on that day. Mother-Daughter time meant nothing to her. I wished I could have introduced her to people in that room who had lost their mother; or worse yet, their daughter. Slapping her back to reality would have been my pleasure. Or maybe a little reminder, that unlike those kids in the third world country, at least she could afford food.

And then I got thinking about some dynamics of meetings and teams; which is why I was there. I am currently working on a new product to make painful meetings a bit more valuable and fun (watch your inbox for the launch); but this was the perfect example of how often times we invite the wrong people to a meeting. In my research about successful meetings one of the most common complaints is that things do not get done because the wrong people are in attendance. The wrong people bring bad ideas. The wrong people bring no ideas. The wrong people bring their agenda. The wrong people are not capable of looking at all sides of a discussion and then making a decision that is right, not just in their best interest. The wrong people will use a phrase like “Not to play Devil’s Advocate” on a regular basis. Drop the Advocate is what I am thinking; because you are the Devil! The wrong people suck the life out of a room. They always find something wrong with the project, the product, the idea, the class, the hotel, the restaurant, etc. Think about it at your next meeting experience. So how do you identify who the wrong people are? They are usually the topic of discussion at the meeting which occurs right after the meeting – you know the one.

Do you we realize we invite the wrong people to meetings, we put the wrong people in positions, we have conversations with the wrong people, we try to train the wrong people. I can go on and on. We invite people out of courtesy. News Flash! – They don’t want to be there either; hence the possible sucking out of life. So who are the right people? I propose three simple questions when you are asked to attend the next meeting:

Why are you being invited to this meeting? (What is the expectation being placed on you?)
What will you contribute of value to this meeting? (Not can you, but will you)
Is there a better person that should attend in your place?

Let those three questions be the basis for staying on or getting yourself off that invite list. And if you’re planning the meeting, ask yourself these questions:

Look at your list and ask why you’re inviting each person?
What is the contribution you expect from each person; tell them beforehand
Do you really have the right people on that list?

So mom and daughter get up from the table to leave. We smiled at the daughter with one of those “we feel your pain” looks. Mortified, she smiles back and gave us “The Other Look” – the rolling eyes one. I hope mom accomplishes whatever her daughter expected by bringing her to this event.

Motivated by Money, I Used To Shovel Snow For A Living

2009-01-28T12:20:00.007-05:00

I used to shovel snow for a living.
Okay, it wasn't a living, but when I was a kid, wanted a few extra bucks, and it snowed, I shoveled. I also learned about negotiation.

I used to sell Kool-Aid for a living
Okay, it wasn't a living, but when I wanted a few extra cents, and it was summer; I stood on a corner prostituting myself for a nickel and learning the value of my time.

I used to rake leaves for a living.
Okay, it wasn't a living, but when I was a kid, wanted a few extra bucks, and it was fall, I raked leaves into piles, jumped in the piles, and then put the leaves in bags. I learned work should be fun.

I used to haul trash for a living.
Okay, it wasn't a living, but when I was a kid, wanted a few extra bucks, and it was summer at the cottages, I hauled people's trash to the community dumpster and then ran home and took a bath.

I used to teach adult ed for a living.
Okay, it wasn't a living, but when I was an adult, wanted a few extra bucks, and it was spring, I taught. I learned that adults really do think they know everything.

I used to do taxes for a living.
Okay, it wasn't a living, but when I was an adult and wanted a few extra bucks and it was the first quarter of a new year, I did taxes. I hated taxes. I hated some of my clients. I decided you should not do work you hate or spend time with miserable people.

Are these tough economic times? Yes they are.
Is there work out there? I believe so.
Is it at the level of experience or pay that you expect? Probably not.
Might you have to do things you don't enjoy? Perhaps.

But I do believe that there are those people who always figure out a way to make it work and others who sit around waiting for things to happen. I hope you're the former, no matter what your work or financial situation is right now.

Move To New England; There Is No Recession Here

2009-01-23T09:16:00.003-05:00

I've been doing market research lately to see how hard the Recession has hit the Northeast; specifically New England. I keep hearing about layoffs and high unemployment; yet the traffic I sat in yesterday morning didn't seem to support the numbers? Corporate parks were full of cars. That evil donut place still had lines of cars blocking lanes of traffic as people waited to reach a drive-thru window (sometimes it really is faster if you get your lazy butt out of the car)

So here are my research findings:

Business is booming in Turners Falls, MA.
Business is booming in Northampton, MA
Business is booming in Bristol, Farmington and West Hartford, CT
Business is booming in Eastham, MA
Business is booming in Southington, CT; as well as Cheshire, Waterbury and Danbury, CT.
Business is booming in Manchester, NH
Business is booming in Portland, ME as well as Portland, CT

Yes, everyone I talk to in these New England towns tells me business is great. They have not seen any difference or slowdown.

Are they telling me the truth?
Are they in denial?
Is this Recession really not a Recession?

Or have the business owners in these areas figured out how to thrive in a Recession?

What's your opinion? I'd like to know.

6 Ways To Be A Successful Team Member (#6)

2009-01-21T07:43:00.004-05:00

Last night I was at a Professional Development meeting. A small group of us were laughing, being a little raucous, and acting....well let's just say, a bit childish - and this time I didn't start the antics.

A woman walked over to us and said "I want to come join this group. You all seem to be having fun." I took a moment to look around at all the uptightness (I know it may not be a word; so what) and pretentiousness; the ones who were there to impress. I chuckled inside.

Which takes me to #6 on our 6 Ways To Be A Successful Team Member

6. Be Playful and Fun
Now let's not confuse being a jerk and acting like an idiot with playful and fun. More often than not being playful and fun is about being who you are, and not putting this charade on in front of others. People want to see the real you; what makes you laugh; what gets you excited. A few ideas:

Live in a moment
Spend some time with kids; even if you don't have any. Go rent some.
Wear a fun tie, accessory or hat
Take a Recess
Stop worrying about what others think
Pay close attention to #5 (post from two days ago)
Organize a short impromptu "field trip" for your colleagues - like a trip to the ice cream store. Buy everyone a cone - of your flavor choice of course!

People are attracted to playful and fun people. They not only reduce the stress and chaos in our lives; they usually make even the most tedious team objectives a bit more bearable. Try it. Mimic someone. Get a mentor.

Well. that's the 6. Pretty simple, right? Now here is the task................

Take the 6 Ways To Be A Successful Team Member and have a fun candid discussion with your team members about which ones have been violated. Do it playfully of course.

But I’m An Accountant Who Talks To Fat Ladies!

2009-01-20T08:44:00.003-05:00

This is the article referred to in my newsletter of January 20, 2009. Yes, I know it is a bit of a long post. It'll keep you from surfing for porn.

What? you're not getting my newsletter. Sign Up Here!

But I’m An Accountant Who Talks To Fat Ladies!
It was October 1984 and I was selecting classes for my final college semester. Constitutional Law and Civil Liberties. Looks interesting; fits into my schedule; I can blow out of campus by noon (my criteria for class selection). How difficult can that class be? After all I’m an accounting major.

Hah! Seems that Constitutional Law and Civil Liberties is the last class taken by Government Majors to earn their degree. As a quick aside, let’s just say this was not an easy semester and the hardest I ever worked for an “A” grade.

Midway through the semester, spring 1985, we were given an assignment. Students were paired up to deliver a five minute presentation of a case previously decided by the Supreme Court of the United States. One student was given the majority opinion; the other the dissenting opinion. Now to be honest I do not remember the case I was assigned, the partner I was assigned, or which side of the decision I needed to defend. That information is irrelevant and probably forever blocked from my mind for a reason.

I read the case. I wrote up my presentation. I practiced it in front of the mirror. I practiced it in front of my family. I stood in the cafeteria in front of my business major friends and practiced. I was psyched. I was prepared. I was motivated. I was ready. This was going to be fun. This accounting major was about to declare a victory.

8:00 AM that day. Sitting in my seat the stomach is turning at warp speed. I’m nauseous. I am hoping Professor Grant – I remember her name! – was abducted or hit by a bus on the way to class. Nope, the smiling, perky, prematurely gray professor walked into the room. #%*$

Just pick me and get this over with I thought. Nope. She chose another pair to be first. Is this what death row feels like?

Finally after what seemed longer than waiting for Santa to arrive on Christmas Eve, it was my turn. I step to the front of the room. I look out at what seemed like 23,000 pairs of eyes staring at me. I open my mouth. Words start coming out. The looks of horror, shock, and hysterics on the faces of my professor and my classmates were something I can still vividly see.

Now if you’re old enough you may remember a commercial for FEDEX with the world’s fasting talking man. If you’re not old enough, I hate you. Just kidding – but go to YouTube or Google and use search terms FEDEX, fast talking man and watch the video. But I digress.

Yes, a five minute presentation, perfectly crafted and timed, was just delivered in about forty seconds. I vowed never to speak in public again.

Spring 1988, yes just three years later, I was sent to Winnipeg Canada to teach financial statements and budgeting to Seed People. Seed People? I called them Seed People. I was working for a large Agri-company at the time. I had P&L responsibility (that’s profit and loss for the non-business reader) for North American operations. I was sent on a mission to teach seed salesman (corn, sunflower, etc), researchers, executives and office staff how to read, understand and prepare annual budgets, forecasts and financial statements. This will be a breeze; after all I’m talking my language. Debits. Credits. Profit. Loss. Income. Expense. Bottom Line. No need to even prep!

The presentation started off without a hitch. Things were going smoothly – except for the water stains in my armpit. It was apparent they had neither a clue nor interest in what I was talking about. The water had made its way down into my tight fitting suit pants. Then out of nowhere came their words. Hybrid. Biotech. Harvest. Grain Elevator. And could I explain how to account for these things. Ugh!

Now I will take some of the responsibility here; but I was young and green. Do you think my boss could have prepared me just a bit better for this one? I once again vowed never to speak in front of an audience.

Both of these tragedies taught me two things:

When you know more than your audience you are considered an expert and people look to you for answers, guidance, ideas and motivation.
When you know less than your audience you are not comfortable with the material you are presenting and your audience will question your right to be at the front of that room – and they will show no mercy or tolerance.

1989, I lose a whole bunch of weight at Weight Watchers. In 1993, after having my weight off for four years I join their team as a part-time meeting room Leader. Sharing my success and ideas was easy. Facilitating a group learning experience was a breeze. Why? Look above, I just told you why.

But there was another reason this worked for me. I broke the Weight Watchers script. I did it my way; not their way. You see, their way broke my #1 rule above. I had to be me and share my experiences, ideas and thoughts in a manner that made sense to me, not by delivering some silly theatrics that their training department thought was cookie cutter for everyone. And while at times I left management’s stomachs churning from my antics, they loved the loyal following I had. The company loved how I rang up their cash register. They gave me awards for highest attendance and best member weight loss results for years – awards that meant nothing to me. Nothing. My awards and rewards were when people came up to me and thanked me for helping them figure out their weight issues and stay motivated.

But then something strange started to happen. In addition to their thanks these people were also giving me nudges. These people saw a gift in me to motivate and inspire people to change. They saw a gift in me to take traditional routes to dieting and better health and come up with innovative, fun and creative ways to be successful and experience long-term results. These people started telling me I needed to get out of accounting and go become a motivational speaker. One woman came up to me and told me about an organization called the National Speakers Association (NSA). I chuckled and said thanks. I went home and looked up NSA online; could not figure what they were really all about and closed out the browser page.

1993, I get a call from a colleague. Would I like to teach a CPA review course with him? Teaching the whole class was just too much for him. I was a full-time recruiter at the time – placing accounting professionals in new positions. I also had the Weight Watchers gig going on. I had “tons” of time on my hands. But it sounded like fun.

Ray and I met. I looked over the materials and learned what was expected of me. I’ve been down the path of this exam. I know the material. What I need to refresh myself on is given to me by the organization. I decided to do it.

I made the class fun. Again, I didn’t exactly follow the rules that were given to me; nor will I write here what my success was; I only share that with my speaking audiences. (Never put certain things in writing) The students started telling me I should go become a Motivational Speaker. Now I’ve got two groups of people telling me the same thing.

I taught this class for several years. I had command of the room. I had command of the material. Students were learning, laughing and passing the exam. I continued to hear them tell me I should go become a motivational speaker. I continued to chuckle.

Winter 1999, I had started an online retail business several years earlier which was providing me no satisfaction and was doing the Weight Watchers thing. The review course had been swallowed up by another review course. I was not on the same page with how the new organization ran their classes so I had decided to jump ship. At the same time I jumped the review course ship I was asked to speak on a cruise ship by someone I met online through a Weight Watchers staff networking group. On that cruise I met two other speakers who were part of that NSA thing. I did my speech – which went okay, just okay - and went home. I wasn’t really sure what the next stop-along-the-way-in-my-life was going to look like.

Then one day while sitting in my cold mud-room-converted-to-an-office, my phone rings.

On the other end of the line was someone from the State of CT telling me how she got my name from someone and heard that I could "light a fire under the asses of a stereotypical group of state workers.” Those were her words, not mine. I held the phone in disbelief. Why is this person calling me…………….I’m an accountant who talks to fat ladies?

But I kept hearing those voices inside telling me to go be a Motivational Speaker.

Voices: “You should be a motivational speaker!”
Me: “I’m an accountant who talks to fat ladies?”

Voices: “You should be a motivational speaker!”
Me: “I’m an accountant who talks to fat ladies?”

Voices: “You should be a motivational speaker!”
Me: “I’m an accountant who talks to fat ladies?”

I paused and then some words just came out of my mouth……………………

“Let me come down, meet with you and see what you have in mind.”

And those words were clear, commanding, confident, and not above the speed limit.

I did that speech. I joined that NSA thing. A new career began.

Today you can find me at http://richdigirolamo.com/. But more importantly, thanks to Professor Grant, the Class of 1985 Government Majors at Manhattan College, my friends at Continental Grain Company, Mikki Williams, Scott “Q” Marcus, Christie Ward, NSA and all the “Skinnies” at Weight Watchers; you helped lead me to a path and into a career that has me jumping up out of bed in the morning!

And if you want to get more comfortable speaking in public visit my friend Jacki Rose.

6 Ways To Be a Successful Team Member (#5)

2009-01-19T12:26:00.003-05:00

5. Avoid The Negative Ones

You know who they are; they have infiltrated every organization. They are the reasons I write my bi-weekly newsletter. They are THE NEGATIVE ONES.

They are the doom and gloomers. They talk negatively of every decision. They talk negatively of others. They are unhappy, miserable and feel entitled. And the kicker....................

Did you ever notice they seem to find each other? !?!?!?!?! It's like they have Naysaydar, kinda like Gaydar, but for negative people, the ability to seek out, find and feed off of all the other negative naysayers.

And while you may be laughing and think this is funny, as a speaker I can usually spot them in the crowd. They are the ones sitting there thinking they can learn nothing; they know it all. They are the ones in the cafeteria and other common areas just sucking the life out of everyone they come into contact with. They ought to be canned! They bring down employee morale. They are disengaged. They crush productivity.

STAY AWAY FROM THESE PEOPLE.

Stay far away.

Run. Run......As Fast As You Can.

They can ruin your career.

They can get you branded or labeled as one of them

- squashing all aspirations of advancement.

Years ago I held a sales position; a new sales person had just joined the company. She was bright, smart, funny, sarcastic (in a good way) and a go-getter. She had promise. I was excited about the skills she was going to bring to the rest of us. She then met two of the "miserable ones" and began getting sucked in to the garbage. I contacted our territory manager and suggested she step in and save what I saw as a Rising Star. The manager did nothing. Eventually the Rising Star became one of the most avoided. Too bad - for everyone; especially the customer.

Surprised? Shocked? Don't be; this is happening right now. Heck for all I know there may be people avoiding you. Yikes!

Look around your organization. Who are the ones you need to be avoiding? You have my Permission. More importantly; you'll be happier.

Or take it one step further. Take a look at your life. Who is just sucking the energy out of you? Who is just "too much work?" Is it time to sever the relationship. Don't be afraid; there are happy, helpful, fun, motivational people waiting to enter your life. You'll be glad you released the negative energy.

6 Ways To Be a Successful Team Member (#4)

2009-01-16T12:18:00.011-05:00

4. Share New Ideas
There seems to be a hesitancy when it comes to sharing new ideas. The two most common reasons I have found are:

Fear that someone will steal or take credit for your idea
None of your other ideas have been accepted

Let's look at #2 first. And for that I can only offer these words and phrases:

Not now
Not yet
Wasn't the right time
Convince me

On the flip side, at least people know you're always dreaming and thinking about possibilities. Most likely you're ahead of your time. Here's a great example......

Anyone old enough to remember Karen Carpenter? Killer drummer and vocalist. She died in the early 1980's - eating disorder.

Karen was half of the famous group, The Carpenters. Her voice was absolutely amazing and people often wonder how legendary she would have been. In the late 1970's she did a solo album; completely out of the music style that most were accustomed to hearing come out of her mouth. The album was not released. Some said the world was not ready for it.

In 1996; thirteen years after her death that album was released and did okay. Some of the talk at the time of release was that it was too far ahead of it's time for 1980; but now it was right. Others say had they convinced the music industry that 1980 was the right time who knows what influence it would have had on the music industry? I say too bad; maybe a better job of convincing needed to have been done.

Now as for #1; No one will steal your idea. Go back and read that again.

If you've really thought it through only you have the desire, plans, vision and dare I use that word that makes me want to puke - passion - to see that idea through to completion. Only you have what it takes to not only convince others why it is needed but what it will take to see it through. If you don't already know, I am the founder of Recess At Work Day; a free health and wellness idea that I created so that employers can improve morale, engagement, productivity and overall health within the organization. Most people hear Recess and immediately think fun and games - and who has time for that when we need to work on being greedy and bankrupting our country.

{Pause while I come down from the soapbox}

Recently a good friend of mine introduced me to a Corporate Health and Wellness Manager who mentioned to him that she wanted to bring a Recess to her organization! A Recess? Ding, Ding, Ding!! He told her about me and put us in touch.

Could he have done it? Maybe. But he knows who the guy is that thinks organizations need to take a Recess from the way they currently are doing business - for lots of reasons.He knows why organizations like the Pennsylvania Recreation and Park Society have hired me be they keynote speaker and deliver a breakout on this very topic. He knows the guy is who has built a part of his business around looking at Recess in a new light. He knows who is studying the need for this. And he is comfortable enough that I will deliver. Some fun things are going to happen in 2009 with a large multi-national and several recreation organizations; and I'll be a part of them.

I know you've got ideas. Keep offering them. Keep talking about them; and keep coming up with new ones. Think them through logically and clearly. Keep you motivation and enthusiasm high by asking for advice, partnering and support. Not only does it show your true team spirit; but it keeps you relevant and on the radar with your organization - which is what you are hoping for, right?

Just make them good ideas.

This is an example of not a very good idea. I saw this in "The Pit" at the furniture store. I am assuming the next stop is "The Fire Pit."

On Monday we'll do #5. Have fun this weekend. I'll be doing my best to keep warm.

6 Ways To Be a Successful Team Member (#3)

2009-01-15T09:09:00.002-05:00

3. Take On A New Project With Enthusiasm
The other day I was offered a project that "had my name all over it" (so the person who offered me the project said).

Under normal circumstances it would have had my name all over it; but this was a volunteer job and thus far my experience with this organization is that while they tell you to be creative and have fun; in the end all of your creativity gets squashed and your energies get zapped. This time I declined.

I know, you're reading this looking at the title of the post wondering why you should take on a project with enthusiasm when I'm starting off with a bad example.

Because not everything works out the way we like.

When you take on a project you should ask yourself what can I do to make this project memorable to those who have asked me to take on the task; I ask myself what can I personally learn by taking on this project and finally I ask myself what talent or skill can I offer to make the outcome of this project even better than anyone had expected. Those three points are a great source of motivation and most of the time, they are the outcomes. Some of the time, as how I started this post, it doesn't work that way. My history with the "has my name all over it" organization is while they talk about new ideas, they can't get out of their old way of thinking. If it had been the first request I would have said yes.

In How To Be a Good Employee, a program I offer to college seniors and new hire orientations, I share the story of a woman whose employer sent her to search for a lost document believed to be in a row of file cabinets the size of a double-wide trailer. Talk about the needle in the haystack thing. Now how many people do you think signed up for that task? She wasn't looking at the floor or in the other direction and she won the prize!

In the end she told me she had a choice - be miserable or get herself excited about it. She chose to get excited. She is motivated to learn. One of the things she did was realize that a lot of company history was in those files and there was a lot to be learned about the organization. She was right. Down the road, when decisions and policies were made, she had a better understanding as to why.
She also decided to have some fun during her search. Wanna know what she did?

Get your organization to hire Rich and you'll learn.

There are so many opportunities that come along with a new project. Be enthusiastic and the outcome will be a much better experience - for everyone.

Tomorrow we'll do #4.

6 Ways To Be A Successful Team Member (#2)

2009-01-14T08:40:00.003-05:00

2. Pick Up A Loose End for Someone Else

It's happened; it's the end of the day and everyone is walking out the door. Off to see their spouse, partner, significant other. Off to see their kids participate in some sport. Off to their aerobics class. Or off to the bar for a well needed drink (possibly because of you). Everyone is walking out the door. Everyone but you. You've got a few more things to do.

You offer polite smiles and pleasant "have a nice evenings." Under your breath you're muttering words I cannot write here but this should sum it up: *&$#*&$#!*&$#!

If only someone had offered to stick around and help you finish your work. You'd be out of there in a few minutes.

Well let me ask you this.............When was the last time you offered to help someone out?

Seems so much of what goes in on the workplace comes down to "it's not my job." And if it's not your job, why bother; right? Well maybe you'll earn some respect? Maybe you'll learn a bit more about the company products or services? Maybe you know something that can make that person's job a bit easier? Maybe that person has something to give you? Maybe you will actually look like the team player you say you are? Maybe some new revenue or cost savings idea might come out of it? Maybe...............................Oh go figure the rest out yourself.

But on your way out of the office today tell someone you've got fifteen minutes to help them with something. And if you think that fifteen minutes can be better used on your own work.........why were you leaving so early?

Tomorrow we'll do #3. Click here to learn more about Rich's programs on team building, communications, and other employee issues.

In the meantime here's a little fun item for you that was sent to me yesterday....

HIGH SCHOOL -- 1958 vs. 2008

Scenario 1:
Jack goes quail hunting before school and then pulls into the school parking lot with his shotgun in his truck's gun rack.

1958 - Vice Principal comes over, looks at Jack's shotgun, goes to his car and gets his shotgun to show Jack.

2008 - School goes into lock down, FBI called, Jack hauled off to jail and never sees his truck or gun again. Counselors called in for traumatized students and teachers.

Scenario 2:
Johnny and Mark get into a fist fight after school.

1958 - Crowd gathers. Mark wins. Johnny and Mark shake hands and end up buddies.

2008 - Police called and SWAT team arrives -- they arrest both Johnny and Mark. They are both charged them with assault and both expelled even though Johnny started it.

Scenario 3:
Jeffrey will not be still in class, he disrupts other students.

1958 - Jeffrey sent to the Principal's office and given a good paddling by the Principal. He then returns to class, sits still and does not disrupt class again.

2008 - Jeffrey is given huge doses of Ritalin. He becomes a zombie. He is then tested for ADD. The school gets extra money from the state because Jeffrey has a disability.

Scenario 4:
Billy breaks a window in his neighbor's car and his Dad gives him a whipping with his belt.

1958 - Billy is more careful next time, grows up normal, goes to college and becomes a successful businessman.

2008 - Billy's dad is arrested for child abuse. Billy is removed to foster care and joins a gang. The state psychologist is told by Billy's sister that she remembers being abused herself; and their dad goes to prison. Billy's mom has an affair with the psychologist.

Scenario 5:
Mark gets a headache and takes some aspirin to school.

1958 - Mark shares his aspirin with the Principal out on the smoking dock.

2008 - The police are called and Mark is expelled from school for drug violations. His car is then searched for drugs and weapons.

Scenario 6:
Pedro fails high school English.

1958 - Pedro goes to summer school, passes English and goes to college.

2008 - Pedro's cause is taken up by state. Newspaper articles appear nationally explaining that teaching English as a requirement for graduation is racist. ACLU files class action lawsuit against the state school system and Pedro's English teacher. English is then banned from core curriculum. Pedro is given his diploma anyway but ends up mowing lawns for a living because he cannot speak English.

Scenario 7:
Johnny takes apart leftover firecrackers from the Fourth of July, puts them in a model airplane paint bottle and blows up a red ant bed.

1958 - Ants die.

2008 - ATF, Homeland Security and the FBI are all called. Johnny is charged with domestic terrorism. The FBI investigates his parents -- and all siblings are removed from their home and all computers are confiscated. Johnny's dad is placed on a terror watch list and is never allowed to fly again.

Scenario 8:
Johnny falls while running during recess and scrapes his knee. He is found crying by his teacher, Mary. Mary hugs him to comfort him.

1958 - In a short time, Johnny feels better and goes on playing.

2008 - Mary is accused of being a sexual predator and loses her job. She faces 3 years in State Prison. Johnny undergoes 5 years of therapy.

This should hit every email inbox to show how stupid we have become!!

6 Ways To Be A Successful Team Member

2009-01-14T08:36:00.001-05:00

1. Show Up On Time.

Don’t laugh; you’d be surprised how many people think less of you because you are chronically late. You would be surprised how many people have been left on the brink of failure because you failed to show up on time. But guess what…..that is not my issue here.

My issue is that lateness is about respect; or lack of it I should say. When you make me wait you are telling me that I don’t matter; I am not important and my time is not as valuable as yours. Screw that!

Years ago I was a member of a Toastmasters group; we met at 8:00 in the morning every other Friday. One member always walked in about twenty minutes late; even on the days she was supposed to facilitate the meeting. Yes, you read that right - twenty minutes. Everyone thought the right thing to do was to wait for Diane - everyone but Rich. Well one day I stood up and said “No, we are not waiting for Diane any longer or ever again. You are not respecting me or anyone else in this room who shows up on time. This is not an isolated incident. We are starting and I am going to fill her role unless someone else wishes to do it.”

Silence. Eerie Silence. As if the Queen had just been dethroned.

We started. She walked in and slipped into a chair with a very obvious uneasy feeling. I ignored her. Her apologies for being late would mean nothing at that point. Come to think of it, not much of what she said had any meaning at that point. Yes, forever branded as being late and unreliable. Not someone I would want on my team. Do you agree?

Tomorrow we’ll do number 2.

So I decided to listen to a health expert and...............

2009-01-12T11:06:00.002-05:00

I've got this cold; a pretty bad one. Yesterday morning it wasn't so bad; so I took the advice of the health expert on some morning show.

He was talking about how you should push yourself to go exercise when cold and flu season is upon us; even when you're feeling under the weather (by the way, what does feeling under the weather really mean?)

Well that was the motivation I needed. So I tossed my snow shoes into the car, queued up my favorite disco play list on the MP3 player, and headed over to the local golf course. Over hill and dale, up and down big ole hills (the course is built into a mountain), and in and out of tree lined greens I went; recreating for about one hour. As an aside, I like to call it fun and recreation; exercise is anything but fun.

Last night as I wheezed, coughed, sniffled and moaned, the dogs looked at me like I was a cry baby.

I've always heard to rest when I am not feeling well. But what if someone else's thoughts and views were right? What if they could propel me to better health faster? That's why I went.

On a bigger picture, what if someone else's thoughts, opinions and views could boost your business productivity, morale or creative processes? Remaining stagnant and doing nothing is equivalent to sitting in a germ laden environment hoping to get better.

Okay, so today I feel like crap; I'm weaker and tireder; but the time out on the golf course yesterday was great time to think about the week ahead rather than the weakness in my head.

What new idea have you been avoiding introducing to your life; business or personal? Is it time?

You're entitled to a smoking break too!

2009-01-09T12:28:00.008-05:00

It never fails; when I am delivering an employee morale, communications or engagement presentation we get into a conversation about taking breaks versus not taking breaks. Someone will usually comment how breaks are frowned upon by management; but it seems that the smokers take their breaks.

So take up smoking is usually my response; followed by this..................

Just get some of these and join the smokers:

Happy Friday. Enjoy your weekend.

Disclaimer: Purchasing this item might cause obesity, cavities or diabetes. But at least you won't get cancer, emphysema or a multitude of other diseases. And you'll get that break that you deserve.

Need more ideas for stopping the whining in your organization......... Try this!

Please do not share your anger with the customer!

2009-01-08T13:58:00.003-05:00

Okay, maybe she was having a bad day, but the look of disgust and frustration that Sarah, the Staples Associate, exhibited during my visit this afternoon kept me biting my lip until I walked out of the store so as not to laugh out loud.

The sign on the shelf saif the item was on sale. Woo-Hoo!! Mama didn't raise a dummy. I bought the item. It rang up higher. I mentioned it to Sarah. (As an aside, use people's names when they are wearing name badges) She proceeded to tell me that I was wrong. (So much for the customer is always right?) I proceeded to suggest she go look at the sign.

She came back all bothered with the sign in her hand. Seems that sign was from last week and someone did not remove it. She proceeded to tell me she would match the price. (I was thinking, like was there another option?)

Now she is hitting the keys on the register quite hard and tossing my item in the bag; all because she had to give me $3.00?????

If that's Sarah's biggest problem I think she's got something to teach all of us. My gut feeling however is that Sarah has other issues going on. Just a gut feeling. What do you think?

We are a Nation of Disengaged Lazy Employees?

2009-01-03T14:59:00.004-05:00

A while back I was listening to a talk show host go on about how American Workers have become lazy and that is why they have lost their edge and are not the Super Business Power that they once were or think they are.

Well I was shocked; as a speaker who presents on employee issues like morale, engagement and communication, I have only met people who tell me they work harder than anyone else, are the most loyal and give 200% to their careers and jobs.

So then who is this Lazy American that the idiot on TV was talking about?

Well I think I found him this morning!

I was picking up a few groceries in a local market when I came upon two clerks in the aisle. From the conversation it was clear that one of them was new. His response to the other one went something like this "all done" or "did it already."

Well all of a sudden the "experienced" guy tells the new guy that he was going to make him look bad; that he never finishes this before noon and that he should slow down. It was 10:30 AM.

Slow down?!?!?!?! Maybe Mr. Experienced One should take a lesson from the new kid on the block before the new kid is his boss - and remembers the conversation in the aisle on January 3, 2009.

Knowing When It Is Time To Invest in Training

2009-01-02T08:22:00.009-05:00

Yes, that would be the stuffing from inside of a chair in my Entertainment Room. It was a "gift" I found when I returned home one afternoon - compliments of my dogs.

I began by yelling at them, asking "who did this?"; as if they were going to answer. My male cowered from my raised voice; my female looked at me with this glare as if she was saying "like you're gonna do something about it; you have no idea which one of us did it."

Then I laughed. I was getting angry at the result rather than looking at the cause; much like organizations do when people do not perform at an expected level.

Signs are usually there that training and development of the staff (or canines) is in need. Blame can be passed; but perhaps some of the blame needs to be put on the supervisor - that being me. Lack of supervision? Not enough guidance? Not enough praise for good actions? Not giving them a well deserved break, by taking them out for a walk or a cup of coffee? Yes, this supervisor needs to take some of the blame and put together a plan of action.

How about you and your organization? Is it time to invest in your talent; to keep them moving forward; before any future damage is done?

We're going back to training this week!

Happy End of Stupid Resolutions Day

2009-01-01T10:01:00.004-05:00

Call me cynical; call me crazy; but as I got older I realized that this whole resolution thing is silly, pointless and nothing but a self-esteem lowerer (is that a word?) for so many.

I'm gonna make a gazillion dollars this year
I'm gonna fix my relationship
I'm gonna lose a trillion pounds
I'll be the envy of the beach this summer
This is the year I will clean up my finances
I am going to have more life balance; spend more time doing things I like and having fun with my family and friends
We're going to turn the company around this year

I'll stop; you get my point.

Yep January 1st is the day to totally fix your life. Not April 22nd; nor June 18th. Not July 9th; nor September 20th. January first is the day that everyone on the planet is going to begin the task of doing amazing things.

Here's the issue; most of the steps you're about to take to fulfill your wildest dreams are no different than they were last year, the year before that and the year before that - hence the need to make to make that resolution again. And even worse, is that when you tossed in the towel last year, you did just that; tossed in the towel. Why didn't you try a different approach on April 22nd, June 18th, July 9th or September 20th? Why didn't you?

Stop and ask yourself a question right now. Are you or your company about to make the same mistakes you make every year - taking no risk, trying nothing new, taking the same approach to your business; thinking January 1st is a clean slate to start over. Stop yourself and do something now - not on January 1 2010.

Remember this.........a new year begins every day. Every day you have 365 days ahead of you to make a difference. This year make January 1st only as important as the remaining 364.

Happy End of Stupid Resolutions Day!

A Lesson in Communication Aboard the Airport Shuttle

2008-12-30T10:34:00.005-05:00

Numerous Airport Shuttles run nonstop between San Francisco International and the various hotels in the immediate surrounding area. The shuttle serving my hotel also served two others. It works something like this............

You hop on the shuttle and the driver asks where you're going. You respond with something like Delta, United, American when going to the airport and Crowne Plaza, Holiday Inn, Marriott when leaving the airport. Pretty simple, right?

So we pull up to the Embassy Suites; woman hops on, driver asks where she is going and she says "The Airport." She continues to walk onto the bus while the driver pauses. I couldn't tell whether he was amused, annoyed or confused but the pause and stare were priceless. He then asked her what airline. "Oh, of course, {pause}, Southwest."

Next stop was the Holiday Inn Express. Driver opens the door, man hops on and drivers asks "What airline?" Guess the woman taught him!

But seriously, how many times have we said something, knowing what we meant, but our words were misinterpreted.

Rich's #1 rule of communication: Assume people know nothing, nada, zero, zilch!

When An Opportunity Arises Go For It.......................

2008-12-23T09:21:00.002-05:00

Took 20 hours to get home from San Francisco yesterday; I think I got home from South Africa faster.

The plane was grounded in Cincinnati; it had a dent and the maintenance people were trying to determine if the aircraft was air worthy. The pilot and co-pilot were in the terminal with the passengers and I was chatting with the two of them about the "dent."

But then I had an idea....................I thought I would offer them my cost savings idea from yesterday's post. (read that first before you go any further.)

So I shared my skinny people thoughts and Co-Pilot Jason responds in all seriousness, "Well the problem with that is there is only one seat belt in each seat."

I guess he didn't get it. Or he has no sense of humor. Or he is stupid. Or he was trying to be funny? I was more worried about him flying me home than the dent!

My idea to keep the airlines in business.

2008-12-22T16:09:00.004-05:00

I arrived at San Francisco International Airport on Saturday morning to find that my flight was overbooked by 18 people. Weather forecast for New England was not good Saturday and Sunday; so I hedged my bet that I would still get home by Christmas and took a bump - Delta was oh so VERY GENEROUS with their offer for me to spend the weekend. (I figured it was better than getting stuck in Salt Lake City at my expense)

While standing in the terminal I noticed these two anorexic looking women and it became oh so very clear how the airlines could get out of this oversold position.................................

Let Skinny People Share Seats.

Hey, if obese people are buying two seats, why not? I think this could work.

If you have a direct link to a decision maker at one of the airlines please give them the link to this post.

Why do people in airports look so unhappy?

2008-12-17T09:51:00.003-05:00

Next time you’re in an airport take a look around, not a whole lot of people smiling. Take a look at those faces; no smiles and too many mean stern looks. Scowls are abundant too. I just don’t get it?

The way I look at it people in airports are:

going home to their kids!
going to see a loved one!
getting away from crazy family!
going on vacation!
visiting an old friend!
going to a meeting which gives them money in their pocket!
Going to a conference or convention with networking and education opportunities!

Okay, so maybe there are some inconveniences; like security, delays and cramped seats; and I am sure there are people who just got dumped or are going to a funeral, but statistically there has got to be more good going on than bad.

And it's not just the airport; take a look around your office; watch people walking through the halls or sitting at their desks. Count the happy faces; then count the sad, scorned and scowled looks. And when you're done prepare a PowerPoint presentation of your results and offer it to HR as an opportunity for boosting morale.

Or make your life easy; just do what I do and start a conversation with people.

Think Inside the Globe, Not Outside the Box

2008-12-14T22:51:00.007-05:00

For the past 19 years I have sent a picture holiday card to my friends. It started out as my retaliation for all the picture Christmas cards I was getting of every one's kids; but now it's become fun and something my friends and family look forward to; around October they usually start asking me if I took the picture yet. And if I forget to send it to someone or it gets lost....... people are actually crazed.

I tell you though, I really applaud folks who have to come up with creative ideas all the time; I only have to do it once a year and I get all stressed out over it.

So I made a little video of the making of this years card. I've been thinking about doing this for two years; I finally did it. The picture you see at the end is the one that went to print!

Enjoy! Share it with your friends. And don't forget, creativity keeps organizations thriving.

8 year olds at a bar! Now that's what I call breaking rules!

2008-12-13T17:31:00.005-05:00

When I went down to the hotel bar last night for dinner, the last thing I expected to see was a bunch of 8 year olds taking up bar stools. But they were.

And the bartender was serving them!

Let me back up.....

There was an ice storm Thursday night. 350,000 people were without power and when they were told that their power "might" be restored by Monday; they headed for the nearest hotel rooms. I suspected something was up when I arrived and the registration line was about 20 people deep.

The hotel was understaffed and in no way ready for this; but everyone was patient. There was lots of laughter and camaraderie; the type of behavior that "refugees" often exhibit when faced with tough times.

I checked in to my room and decided to go down to eat some dinner; and that is when I noticed young children seated at the bar - being served. Food, of course.

Now as far as I know, a minor at a bar is illegal, and I am sure that many a liquor license law was being broken; but the hotel team did not seem to care. They were trying to turn a tough time into something better for people in turmoil (and a recession into an economic opportunity for them). No one seemed cranky, upset or mad. Okay, one person made a derogatory comment about kids taking up seats at the bar. Of course I immediately thought where is the camera when I need it.

Now I am not going to share the hotel or the state I was in, because there is always some idiot that won't see what the hotel did as a good thing, but will slap their hand or slap them with a fine; but it goes back to something I write and talk about with all my audiences. Breaking a rule at times for the right reasons is good - very good. Last night was one of those times.

I decided not to take a seat at the bar; there were young kids looking hungry and cranky. I talked with some folks in the hall, let a few kids turn my propeller and went back to my room. I called for a pizza and watched DVD's of episodes of Batman from the 1960's. It was a good night for everyone!

Recessions Lead To Truths, Lies and Mixed Messages

2008-12-12T14:10:00.003-05:00

The other day I was having a conversation with a local real estate agent. He told me his business is booming. A little later on in the conversation he mentioned he was going to take on a second job doing some catering with a friend since nothing is going on. I'm confused; business is booming and you need a second job?

A colleague of mine says she is booked solid in 2009, but she's not attending a holiday event with her peers - it costs too much. I'm again confused.

The postmaster at my local post office just told me things we booming for the USPS; that was a week ago. This morning he told me that the post office is looking at cutting the hours of smaller offices; seems that business is bad at the US Post Office and has been for a while. I'm confused.

Are these lies? Are these mixed messages? Is it wishful thinking? Do people not know what they are talking about? Are people just trying to impress others?

Well with all this nonsense going on I have made a decision................

The only people I am listening to these days are the ones who are telling me things are tough, getting tough, or have been tough for a while. I think they may be the only ones telling the truth.

Save Time Baking Holiday Cookies this year!

2008-12-09T10:00:00.004-05:00

What, you really need a recipe?

Okay, visit http://richdigirolamo.com/holidaycookies.html

I thought the opening act was better than the headline

2008-12-08T12:01:00.003-05:00

Last night I went to see Comedian Brian Regan. His opening act was another comedian - Joe Bolster.

I thought Joe Bolster was funnier.

Well in the 15 hours that have elapsed since last night two people have lashed out at me for saying this. They think Brian Regan is the funniest man on earth. Okay, I'm glad; and he was funny. I just thought the other guy was funnier. And it is not like I said Brian sucked!

It's kinda like when I speak to an audience; some people like me more than the other speakers; some people like me less than the others. sometimes my blend of fun and motivation in a keynote or breakout session is what they're looking for; other times it is not. I'm not offended. People's tastes are different. I think this would be an awful planet if we all liked the same things.

There are times when we are not on our game or have an off day; and this doesn't just apply to people who are speakers, performers or entertainers. The waiter has a bad day. The secretary has a bad day. The football player has a bad day. And if you're the chairman of GM, Chrysler or Ford you're having lots of bad days that could perhaps be leading to less than stellar performances. Or maybe people just like the other product better?

In the end, the only thing that matters is your opinion; and don't let anyone change it.

So............ for my two colleagues who think I should be nailed to a rafter; I really liked Brian Regan; I just liked Joe Bolster better.

I have an "Opportunity" for you sales and marketing types

2008-12-03T17:17:00.005-05:00

Years ago my friend wanted to share a great "opportunity" with me. She wouldn't tell me what it was all about, but invited me to a meeting to learn about the "opportunity." I declined; figuring it was Amway. I was wrong. It was NuSkin; same thing.

A couple of years ago my friend Sherry called me to tell me about an "opportunity" she just couldn't let me miss out on. She avoided my direct questions about what network marketing or pyramid scheme it was about. I scolded her; giving her a piece of my mind; telling her don't pull that "opportunity" crap on me. I;m your friend I said to her. Tell me what you're up to; let me be excited for you and let me ask my own questions. Don't sell me.

Today I was offered an "opportunity" to contribute a chapter to a leadership book. The offer came from a stranger. I shot off an email cutting to the chase, knowing that she really didn't want a contribution and asked what this "opportunity" was going to cost. I received a reply avoiding my question. I sent her an email thanking her for the "opportunity."

I would like to offer a real "opportunity" to sales and marketing people - an "opportunity" for you to remove the label sleazy from your name - and it is a free opportunity...............

Be Honest and Up Front about what you're looking for.

Ten Minutes to Increased Employee Morale

2008-11-25T07:39:00.003-05:00

Ocean State Job Lot is one of those fun stores where you just don't know what you'll find (or what you'll catch). They carry overruns and overstocks that manufacturers are trying to unload; at great prices. I pop in every so often to explore the bargains and the people.

On yesterday's visit I came upon the woman who was "in-charge" of the cashiers. Back in my high school days, when I worked at Waldbaum's, they called that person the Front End Manager. For purposes of this blog entry we'll call her that.

The Front End Manager picked up a microphone and made an announcement that two of the employees should "take their ten"; obviously meaning ten minute break. I decided to cause some trouble, uh, I mean have some fun.

"What can anyone possibly do in ten minutes; pee?" I asked the woman.

She chuckled.

My cashier rolled her eyes and went off on a tirade about how ridiculous it was and how right I was and how they get two ten minute breaks and a 1/2 hour lunch on an eight hour shift. Miss Front End Manager joined our conversation. She too thinks this is a silly amount of time, (Heck Waldbaum's even gave us 20 minutes; time to pee and wash your hands.) I was so glad that she didn't see the policy as okay. The three of us kept laughing.

But the kicker was when the elderly woman behind me, I'm thinking she was in her 80's, made this comment..........

"It would take me ten minutes just to walk to the bathroom."

Everyone laughed. I did my job; opened up an opportunity for a bit of levity to be added to an otherwise unhappy worker's day. For a brief moment morale and camaraderie increased. It is that easy. You can and should do it - often.

Laughing at absurd company policies is fun. Rewriting them with a humorous slant is even better; and one of the tips I offer in my 50 Ways To Have Fun At Work Tip Booklet.

Stupid Banking Rules Lead Fun Motivational Speaker to Flee Bank

2008-11-21T12:23:00.006-05:00

now

The Stupid Company of the Month Award

goes to........

Bank of America

Congratulations Bank of America; you have just received my Stupid Company of the Month Award.

Yep, this morning I closed out a small personal checking account. My business account and my main checking account are next.

This small account, which I maintain for a disabled relative, does not meet your direct deposit or minimum balance requirement and therefore is no longer free. It was free until recently. Now while I do not consider $5.95 to be a hefty fee and I would even be willing to pay it, I am insulted when I am told I can have the exact same type of account for free if I close this account and open up the exact same type of account - because that is the current "promotion." But I would need to close and open; no type of flagging or converting of my current account can be done; this is what I was told by the Customer Service Supervisor last week. When I asked this person if he sees the stupidity in what he is asking me to do, he remained silent for a few moments and then shared how the online banking business is completely separate from the branch level banking business and that different promotions are offered by each and that he totally sees the logic. Leadership at BOA should be happy to know that one of their supervisors tows the company line; no matter how stupid the policy.

So Bank of America, I did what I was told to do......I closed the account and opened up three new free accounts within walking distance of my home at a competitor bank where size doesn't matter. When I replied to the question why I was leaving BOA, your customer service representative replied in disbelief "another one" and did nothing to try and retain my business.

Your award, should you choose to collect it, is a $5.95 credit towards a keynote or training program of your choice. I would suggest a communications program; whereby staff are encouraged to bring their real issues and concerns to management when they think policies lead to loss of a customer.

Motivating the Big 3 Leadership Through Self-Help

2008-11-20T16:41:00.002-05:00

Well, Nancy Pelosi is pissed at the Big 3 CEO's for arriving in Washington to beg for money on their million dollar corporate jets.

I think I better mail a copy of The Only Self-Help Book You'll Ever Need to those three CEO's. I think they're going to need it,

Did you ever hear of something called the telephone?

2008-11-18T09:57:00.007-05:00

I've got a spam blocker on my email. It requires you enter a verification the first time you send an email to me. I love it. If you're interested in learning which one I use, click here.

Now realizing that nothing is 100% accurate I check the junk mail folder twice per day. On a rare instance something important is there and the person did not get the verification email; or for all I know their spam blocker stopped my verification email from getting through. Did I lose you yet? Remember the fun days when auto responders went on infinitely????

A sampling of those blocked emails include

Some King or Prince offering me enough money to bail out the world if I give him my bank account number
Motivational offers to make me thinner than a rail by drinking pond scum
Humorous offers from other speakers telling me how they have "THE" system to keep me booked year round; which always produces this thought in my head: if they know how to do that, shouldn't they be too busy to sell me that service?
How I can get on Oprah

Well the other day I saw an email that said "why are you ignoring my emails" with an email address that looked familiar. It turned out it was from a friend who changed their email address and obviously ignored or did not receive the spam verification. I opened the message and read this email asking me if she had done something wrong and could not believe I was ignoring her.

My response: Did you ever hear of something called the telephone? (yes, the Dr. House side of me came out in the response; I can't always be Julie. Huh? What? If you've been to one of my programs you know what I'm referring to)

No response yet; written or verbal.

Have we forgotten how to use the spoken word to connect with people? Have we forgotten there was a time, not so long ago when there was no email, texting, and twittering. Sometimes I really think we have; and it is some of what we'll be laughing about tomorrow during Weekly Recess.

But in the meantime, pick up the telephone and invite someone to lunch or a cup of coffee today. Let them hear your true voice.

Boost Employee Morale, Engagement and Communication. Weekly Recess starts Wednesday

2008-11-15T08:15:00.007-05:00

Have you signed up for Weekly Recess yet?

Office mate pissing you off?

Boss out of control?

Your motivation to do anything is dwindling?

Economy has you frightened about career uncertainty?

Wondering what to do with that dysfunctional team?

Looking to boost employee morale?

Seeking creative ways to stand out?

Wishing once and for all your employees would become more engaged?

Leadership needs a swift kick in the you-know-what?

You're looking for Communication versus Backstabbing?

There's No Need To Fear........

Weekly Recess is here

(Yes, I am sitting here watching Underdog as I type this.)

So whether there's a hot topic on your mind or you just need to take a Recess from the daily work grind, join that Fun Motivational Speaker Rich DiGirolamo for a bit of pointed fun and humor each Wednesday at 12:30PM EST. Weekly Recess has been designed with you in mind.

Sign up today at http://weeklyrecess.com/; and don't forget to tell a friend or two. It is free!

Motivate Employees; Engage Employees. Bailout Style

2008-11-13T07:26:00.005-05:00

Companies and Associations who hire me to keynote at their conferences and meetings are looking for a few things. First, they tell me they're looking for something fun and motivational; but at the same time they are also looking for:

Increased morale
Increased employee engagement
Employees/Members who will bring innovative and creative ideas to the table
Employees who will stop whining (yes, I am hired to stop that) and remember they have a job to do
Simple easy ideas to bring teams closer together

Now the good thing is I study the above issues and I spent a good part of my career in the corporate world; so I bring along the experiences of other organizations as well as my own experiences/ideas.

You with me????

And now for a BRILLIANT RICH IDEA.....................

It seems you can't get away from the dismal news these days about the economy. Even if you don't read the paper or watch TV inevitably you will run into a doom-and-gloomer employee who will tell you the world is coming to an end.

Well I have an idea; as it relates to engagement. Since employees already feel they are owned by their employer and the employer is looking for more engaged employees I think the solution is clear................

All companies should offer a new Employee Benefits option entitled Engagement Bailout. Here is how it works:

Your employer bails you out of all debt. You are now free and clear. No mortgage. No credit card bills. No loan sharks named Guido hunting you down.
You will now also stop complaining about the chain around your ankle attached to the leg of the desk. You smile that you have a job and never, ever, ever again think an ill thought about the place you call work.

Oh, by the way, your pay is cut significantly; the good news is you don't need it.

Could it work? Leave your thoughts; Human Resource Professionals encouraged.

_________________________________

Rich DiGirolamo is a Humorous Speaker who works with organizations who help others. If you haven't booked Rich for an event, you're missing out on the best secret in CT.

Challenging the actions of your Leadership can be fun; but have a solution to offer

2008-11-12T07:30:00.010-05:00

Last week I received a voice mail with the message "Call me back NOW." The tone appeared irate, agitated and alarming. I laughed. I knew what the call was about.

You see, I had challenged the actions of the President of an organization where I volunteer my time - and he didn't like it. Challenged? Hardly. Questioned? Absolutely. It has taken five months to get a banking issue resolved - an issue that should have been resolved in about one week.

So off I sent an email which I knew was going to be interpreted the wrong way, even though I put the following words in that email:

"I am not angry and do not put tone and inflection in the wrong places when you read this; I am confused, stating fact, and want to know what I can do to help you get this resolved."

So I returned the call; and heard nothing but blame being passed around. He was going on and on blasting one of his volunteers. I held the phone to my hear repeating these words in my head as he talked: blah, blah, blah, blah, blah, blah, blah, blah.

At the end of the trashing of another board member (his trashing of the other board member), I offered him a two-step process to get this resolved immediately.....................

Step One: Stop wasting time pointing blame
Step Two: Go into the bank and get the necessary documents.

I do find it amazing how so many organizations; those which are volunteer based as well as those who employ people, spend more time passing the blame versus finding the solution and fixing the problem.

Do you know what I mean? Does this message need to be passed along to someone in your organization?

_____________________________________

Beginning November 19, 2008; Take a Weekly Recess with Rich. It's Free!!!

Sign up today

A Meeting With No Purpose. Right Solution. Wrong Answer.

2008-11-10T12:29:00.009-05:00

The rumors are flying. There will be layoffs. There will be cutbacks. There will be an early retirement package; they have to. Bonuses are going to be reduced or eliminated. Our hours are going to be cut; meaning our pay gets cut.

Yep this is what is going on in a lot of organizations right now. These are scary times for workers. Communication is critical to help people get through these times.

So when a state agency decided to bring all of its managers together; from all corners of the state; it seemed like the right solution. The managers were looking for some peace of mind - or maybe a piece of some one's mind.

Here's what they got.....................A 90 minute one-way meeting where they were told to fasten seat their seat belts; it is going to be a bumpy ride.

Hello Mr. Boss............Great idea. Right solution. Wrong answer.

The rumors are still flying. The fear still exists. Could the organization leadership really have no answers right now? Then come out and say it. Maybe those at the top of the food chain could then open a discussion and give everyone an opportunity to figure out how to navigate these turbulent times. Or maybe they do have some thoughts; but are fearful of frightening people.

Hello!!! The fright already exists.

Open, Honest Communication has never been as important as it probably is right now. I urge leaders at all levels to have it at the top of your To-Do list; and don't remove it.

Speaking of Change....How About a Secretary of Motivation and Fun

2008-11-06T08:35:00.003-05:00

So President-Elect Obama is pulling his team together. Chief of Staff. Secretary of State. Secretary of Defense. That doesn't sound like change to me? I think we need a Chief of Motivation and Fun; and I would like to nominate myself for that. Please contact Obama if you support me.

As Chief of Motivation and Fun my first task would be a little team building exercise that is very much needed by the members of Congress. It is quite clear that this group of people need to learn how to work with one another and drop their own agendas.

How about a White House Cheerleader? My friend Michelle would be perfect for that. Let's face it, someone is going to have to inspire these people to clean up the current mess that we call the United States of America. Imagine having a cheerleader in the background wherever you go reminding you how great you are and reminding you that "we can."

I'm excited and both scared for Obama. He's got quite a task ahead of him. I also admire the man; he showed true leadership the other night when he asked for every one's help. A true leader shows their human side; and acknowledges they cannot do it all alone. So good for you Barack! Now start putting that new team together - and remember change needs to start right at the beginning. Your new chief is ready to serve. Call me - 203.879.5970

Speaking about my horrible experience could be your next free marketing opportunity

2008-11-04T07:44:00.006-05:00

A new indoor water park opened not far from where I live. Last night my friends and I decided to pop in and see what it had to offer.

Here is what we observed:

bright lights
lots of fun colors
activities that really are only geared towards those twelve years old and younger
overpriced Dippin' Dots (but they are delicious)
lots of screaming children - on a Monday evening? Whatever happened to "it's a school night?" (Never mind; they're off today for election day - DUH!)
lots of screaming parents; (the place does have a bar though; probably the motivation for all the dads who were there)
happy motivated staff
and a manager with little sense of imagination???

Little sense of imagination?

We suggested an Adults Only night. He not only told us that they did not offer one; but in the same breath he shared that many people have suggested it too. Okay, so this wasn't an original thought, but apparently there is some interest. We chatted about the idea for a few moments. He concluded that it won't happen.

Too bad I thought. What if a bunch of adults popped in there one evening to have a drink in their bathing suits and got to laugh with their friends in a setting other than a bar, coffee shop, or someones kitchen? What if they did not use many of the water park activities because they were too old, too big, too fat or too self-conscious, but still had fun being in a fun playful environment?

But here is the bigger question...................What if they had such a "horrible" time that they went home and told all their friends who have kids about this place; and how great it is for kids? Word of mouth marketing still rules - I know it does; as a motivational speaker it is often how I get booked to keynote at conferences and conventions. I experienced it just last week. Two bookings came out of one educational training session.

So I'll be watching the economy and the water park .Let's see what happens. I'll bet if business slows down we just might see adult night at the water park. I hope I'm in town that day!

Don't Worry About Being Laid Off: Managers & Supervisors Make Great Politicians

2008-11-03T09:56:00.003-05:00

This past weekend I found myself in the middle of a "discussion" with people regarding the lack of truth in politics. Everyone involved in the discussion agreed that politicians lie and hold back information in order to get elected.

But then I asked if this is any different than the company where most of these people are managers and supervisors? Aren't managers and supervisors holding back information, not telling the truth or not sharing information with employees? Aren't decisions being made that will impact (negatively) worker morale, productivity and performance but employees are being told the decisions are in their best interests? I asked why that behavior seems to be acceptable to them all, but a politician's behavior is not?

Taking a Halloween Risk and How I Won a Free Trip to Europe

2008-10-31T08:04:00.008-04:00

It was Halloween in the late 1980's; I was working for Ask Mr. Foster Travel Service (Carlson Travel) as a Financial Analyst. There was to be a Halloween Costume Contest - first prize was a pair of tickets to anywhere American Airlines flew in Europe. I was not going to participate, but instead be one of the judges. After all, I was an accountant type person, not a fun travel agent.

At the time we had a Vice President named Pam. She often wore black. She often wore a black cape. People were afraid of Pam; she wasn't the warmest person in the office; not very approachable. When people saw Pam walking across the parking lot they would scream, "It's the Wicked Witch of White Plains."

Hmmm.......................... (yes you know where this is going)

So I went out and bought a witches outfit; broom included. My friend Patty painted my face green. We put an ugly wart on my nose. The outfit was nothing special; compared to some of the elaborate costumes worn by others. The long black hair went down the front and back of my head.

The judging was about to begin. We were lining up in the hallway. And then I had an idea...............

A risky idea, but an idea. I grabbed one of those sticky name tags and wrote the The Wicked Witch of White Plains on it.

But then I had a better idea; tore that name tag up and wrote the following words on it.................

Hello, My Name is Pam!

I placed that name tag just above my heart, but hidden by the hair.

The parade began. I heard great cheers for those elaborate costumes. I entered the room. When I saw that first person I moved the hair ever so slightly so she could read the name tag. The roar was that of a lion. I kept going. The roars were getting louder. Pam was ahead. I hid the name tag. I passed Pam and exposed the name tag again. The roars were even louder. Pam had no clue. For a brief moment morale in the office was increased; there was a bond that was always there but not shared enough.

Belgium and Holland are places you need to go visit. I had a blast; thanks to Pam.

Happy Halloween and the next opportunity you have to take a risk or increase your team spirit or office morale............go for it!

A Few Baby Boomers Might Save Your Life

2008-10-28T10:43:00.008-04:00

Millenials, Gen X, Gen Y, Boomers; we're all different, yet at times have a hard time existing together. Boomers are considered dinosaurs. Often times technologically challenged, still drinking whiskey and scotch and listening to heavy metal and disco.

Well I only have one thing to say to all the rest,.................Go Ahead, keep making fun of Disco. Keep making fun of Donna Summer, Gloria Gaynor, The Trammps, the Hues Corporation, France Joli, Deneice Williams and so many others. Go ahead, keep making fun. Keep thinking that Boomers are dinosaurs and have no value.

The greatest thing about generational differences is that we all bring history, new and old ideas to one place. We can all learn from each other. Boomers need to understand that tenure does not mean knowledge while Millenials, Gen X and Y'ers need to realize that not every answer is a text message, email or mouse click away. Teaching is happening at every level of organizations today; which means learning is too.

So don't knock the boomers and don't look at the young ones as having no value. Everyone has value. Everyone - especially Boomers who love disco.

What?

Boomers who love disco?

Yep, and it just may be a disco sound by the Bee Gees that might save your life.

Go ahead keep knocking disco, but before you do, click here and think about this..................

You're Not Motivating Staff When You Embarrass Them

2008-10-23T07:23:00.008-04:00

I just returned from walking the dogs. The woman around the corner was yelling and screaming at her children, yet again. She was yelling at one of them for leaving the f&$%ing living room light on; telling the other one to get the f&*k in the car. She then threatened to 'put the dog down' when it ran out the door and would not respond to her shrieks. I see this scene play out many a morning.

This scene will also play out in many organizations today. Some employee will make an error or need to be corrected regarding a behavior or action. That employee will not be grabbed aside. That employee will not be spoken to in private. That employee will be embarrassed in front of others. That employee will do whatever possible to have minimal contact with that supervisor. The only thing that will be different (hopefully) is the use of expletives. This is not how you motivate, engage, or retain people. This is not how you build and grow a healthy team, department or organization.

In both these cases, it shouldn't be this way. Correct people in private; but more importantly provide them with ideas on how to not make that error again.

If I were the dog I wouldn't want to be there either. And as for who we should 'put down'...........

Forget Starbucks and the third place. My motivation today is to get you to look at your second place.

2008-10-20T13:28:00.008-04:00

In 2006 the CEO of Starbucks said he wanted his locations to be our "third place."

Home is number one. Work is number two. And he wanted Starbucks to be number three; the place we would retreat to when the other two had sucked the energy out of our life (that is my interpretation).

Well this really confused me, you see my home and office are the same place. So does that mean I need a new second place? Should I count my vacation home as my second place? Or is that a substitute first place for me? Do I move Starbucks up to my second place? And if I do that now do I need to find a new third place? What about the people who spend more time at the office than at home? I was very confused. And what was this going to do to all the studies that were showing how much time people spend at work? Was the number that some people use to impress others about to have its turf stepped on? This third place thing really opens a can of worms.

I do know this however, there are times we all need to get away from our home and away from the office - and Starbucks is a great place to go.

But if you ask my Parks and Recreation clients, they will tell you that so is a park, a nature preserve, a beach, the woods, a ski slope, a golf course, a bike ride or ______________ (fill in your own).

So while I do love Starbucks, and am sitting here right now, I hate to inform them that they are not my third place. Today they are. But tomorrow my third place might be somewhere else. And there is a very good reason.....

Let's think about this logically; all the time we spend at home or work has driven us crazy, ruined marriages, and offered us lots of co-pays on prescription anxiety drugs. I'm afraid of making Starbucks my third place; spend too much time there and well you see where I am going with this.

So I'm spreading the wealth when it comes to my third place. I'm coming up with a rotation schedule. It's much more fun.

And this has to do with what Rich?

I really do have a point here. As a keynote speaker on employee matters, my job is to make your second place, your workplace, just a bit more fun a bit more tolerable. Is your second place just a bit too crazy at times? Do you ever feel trapped in the craziness; craziness that might be stifling morale, engagement, innovation and creativity? Would it be helpful if you changed your second place location every so often?

When was the last time you took that staff meeting or creativity session to a nature preserve, the woods or the beach? The last time??????? How about the first time! Now is the time; especially with all the fear and concern your employees are having in this economic environment. Now.

But just in case you need to break into this slowly, I guess you can go to a Starbucks. If your meeting gets boring, you can do what I'm doing.............eavesdropping right now on some people planning to fire the manager at a certain chain restaurant nearby.

Does Every Meeting Need To Have An Agenda?

2008-10-18T07:43:00.010-04:00

This morning at 11:30 I will be on a conference call with four other entrepreneurs to discuss how each of us are planning to do business over the next six to nine months. While it seems that doom and gloom appears to be all over the news and is the conversation at coffee shops and bars, we have chosen not to participate in those conversations. Our conversation is about moving forward, ignoring (to some degree) this "worst financial crisis since The Great Depression", and letting everyone else worry. I have organized the call and agreed to facilitate it as well.

I was asked by one of the participants if there was an agenda I could send out before the call. I am not an agenda type person. I am not scripted, timed to the minute, or that detail oriented. He probably has a schedule for bathroom visits.

Agendas are not bad. Detailed plans are not bad. But sometimes open discussion with no preconceived notions, no missions and no suggested outcome provides the creative solutions to challenges and opens up new opportunities. When I present breakout sessions at conferences I always give a handout, some people need one. But in the end it is creative, lively, fun discussion that helps organizations generate new ideas and offers employees the chance to learn how to work better with one another.

So my response to him was..................Does Every Meeting Need To Have An Agenda?

He responded with "I gotcha" because he knows me and knows how I work. And he still wants to be a part of the call.

How about you? Are there people in your organization whose style of work you need to be more accepting of or more trusting of? Could you possibly benefit from experiencing a new approach to doing business?

Speaking of Not Recognizing Value

2008-10-14T08:05:00.003-04:00

It was a great day to go pumpkin picking yesterday here in the Northeast. But on my way back to the car I was looking down a cliff and saw the above.

All at once the following thoughts ran through my head:

Is it a mass pumpkin grave?
Is it The Land of the Misfit Pumpkins?
Maybe it's Pumpkin Hell?
Is this where the bad pumpkins are sent for time out?
The Pumpkin Quality Control Team must have been to work today

But my final thought looking down that cliff was; what a waste; a lot of pumpkin pies could have been made!

Every person in your organization has value. Be a good pumpkin and help them locate it.

I Am Now Smarter Than a Fifth Grader..........I Think

2008-10-10T07:58:00.006-04:00

Ever feel like the young ones in your life are running circles around you when it comes to technology? Now for me, young ones are below twenty-five years old.

You just figured out texting and they're Twittering. They don't use email any longer. You're still trying to figure out how to save a document as a PDF and they're doing things with technology that frighten you. Then you go ask them simple questions and they look at you with that "Are you a moron?" look. Now you can look at the humor in this (see yesterday's post) or feel terrible; you decide.

Today I was passed along a great Tech Tips article; (click on those words for the slower ones and a new browser page will open with the article) and I felt it was worth passing along. This ought to help you feel motivated and empowered to continue in your technology quest. There are basic and not so basic tips. Have fun with them. Share the source with your friends. Pick two or three of your favorites and use them today. Show the world how smart you are and perhaps add one of two of your own. It might also give you an opportunity to see what your kids are really up to and substantiate that frightening feeling you've been having.

I don't know about you, but each day I wake up hoping to learn one new thing. It is a priority for every day of my life. It is something as a speaker I share with audiences during keynotes, breakout sessions and workshops. Can you learn one new thing today? Can you do this tomorrow? And the next? Continuing Education to a greater degree happens at conferences, meetings, conventions, and classrooms. Continuing Education however should be on your radar map every day.

The day any one of us cannot learn something new is a sorry, sorry day. Think of that next time you're in a meeting bored out of your mind or reading an article that appears basic. There has got to be some walk-away for you.

Now hit the shift key and then the space key and re-read this post.

It's time for Pumpkin Pancakes!

Why Do We Need To Look At The Humorous Side To Things?

2008-10-09T10:47:00.007-04:00

So how do you look for the funny and humorous in (almost) everything.

It really is a mindset; and you really need to train yourself how to do so.

So let me start out by telling you that I could do a week long motivational speech at my expense on finding the misery in everything. Yes, I admit I was not always the fun guy; I was a miserable person at one point in my life - always looking at what was wrong, who wronged me, and why I didn't have what I wanted. Anyone with me?

So I won't bore you with the painful process I went through to change my outlook but I am going to share a couple of tips that should get you to laughing or chuckling just a bit more - especially when dealing with those uptight ones who somehow creep into our lives.

Perspective - Put things in perspective. Look at what people (or you) are really getting all crazed about; and is it really within their/your control? Recently during a break at an all day Success Program I was presenting, I found myself in a discussion with a woman who was so upset that the person sitting in the next cube was not carrying their weight. She was gong on and on and on and on. I was laughing inside. I could only imagine how much time she spends during her day getting all worked up over this. She just couldn't understand that she was not going to change that person. I had ideas for her; she just wasn't ready to hear them.
Irony - Find the irony in the other side of arguments; and how if people focused on the other side a lot more would get done. i.e. My recent blog post about the morons we have in Congress slapping the hands of former AIG execs.

And here's an example of both:

A friend calls me up the other day; frantic and worrying about impending layoffs. He is absolutely sure his group is going. With all the open positions in the company; positions that the company is still trying to fill he just cannot understand why is group is not needed. I said, "John, wouldn't it make more sense for you to place yourself in one of those open positions." He started going on and on about not being qualified. I said, "John, you have been with this company over 20 years; you have company and industry knowledge. If my group was going and I was in your shoes I know what I would be doing." John continued his worry. While I feel for him, he is my friend, I find it funny that he cannot connect the value he possesses.

Yep, that's it. Perspective and Irony - that's how I do it and that's what I share with employee groups when matters like morale, engagement, and organizational change are the topics of our time together. It's really not that hard to see the humor in so many situations. So first start working on the YOUR perspective and the irony of what's got YOU crazed. Then start laughing at all those around you.

My Motivational Keynote Speech Just Got Better Thanks To A Bunch of Morons in Washington, DC

2008-10-07T15:46:00.008-04:00

ddksl

Congress scolds former AIG executives over crisis (AP)

Yep, that was the title of the article I just read on Yahoo. Congress just gave a tongue lashing to former executives at AIG.

What a bunch of morons we have sitting in Congress and they seem to get dumber by the minute. Scolding for bad deeds that are completed? Scolding former executives - the key word being former? What good is this? Have we not learned from Enron, WorldCom, and Adelphia. These people do not give a crap. We know what motivates these executives.

The Congress is just making my job way too easy - and too fun. I can't wait to deliver my next keynote; especially when I get to the part where I talk about how organizations spend way too much time pointing the blame and bashing the cause of the problem instead of finding solutions. The only thing this does is get people more angry and creates more ill.

Look around your organization right now - be it government or a corporate entity - what is a problem you are trying to solve at this very moment? Now how about trying to solve it without digging up who/what/where and why got you in this pickle in the first place!

I Have A Vision To Speak About How Fun It Is To Ride A Bicycle

2008-10-06T07:29:00.009-04:00

Yep, that's what I want to do. I want to tell people how much fun it is to ride a bicycle. I don't want to promise them how they can lose weight or get that perfect body; that would be telling a lie. I just want to tell people how much fun bike riding is. I could go on and on about the benefits of bike riding, but I won't.

But I do have a dream...........riding my bike cross country and promoting the fun aspects of being outdoors; motivating people to put down the Blackberry and meet me on Newberry; encouraging them to blow off a few meetings and join me for fun in Hastings; to leave the office early one day and bicycle around Crystal Bay. And for the kids reading this, get away from the Wii and come say Wheeeeeeeeee!!!

Yep, I have a vision of meeting people all across the United States and having them join me for segments of this ride. These people are not athletes. These people are not cyclists. These are everyday people who need to be reintroduced to the great outdoors. That is my vision - well at least today.

I know many of you are thinking how cool! Others are thinking Rich has gone off the deep end. Who has the time and how will I support myself and what about the dogs and.................

I know you are thinking this. Some of you are thinking this because it is not your dream; your vision; we never get other's dreams and visions. This is how most people think; always looking for what is wrong with an idea and not focusing on the possibilities. This is why organizations hire me to keynote their conferences and meetings; to get people thinking about the possibilities; about how they need to change their ways of thinking in order to be more successful; to figure out their role in the overall vision of the organization; to provide fun and motivational tools to get them to engage and produce.

So as for supporting myself. What if I got an organization to support my ride?

How about a bicycle manufacturer?
How about an organization that is working towards "greening" the planet?
How about a sports energy drink company?
How about a parent's organization?
How about Parks & Recreation?
What if I got donations?
How about a clothing company?
Maybe the PTA would have an interest?
How about...............
What if........

The possibilities are endless.

But what this is really about is your dream. What is your dream? What's your great idea. What is the direction where you would like to see your life, your career, or your business head? What needs to change in your office? Where do you need some more fun in your life? What steps have you taken to make your dream or vision occur? Have you taken a step today? Did you take one yesterday?

Don't just read these questions answer them. Even better yet sit down with a pen and paper or your boss and spend fifteen minutes. It could be the best fifteen minutes you spend this week.

Organizations thrive when visions come to life.

Who are you supporting in the upcoming election?

2008-10-05T09:03:00.008-04:00

I just don't get it. My Liberal Democrat friends are sending me emails to sign petitions to get Sarah Palin to step down from the ticket - due to her inexperience. Yes, you read it right - my Liberal Democrat friends.

Why in the world are my Liberal Democrat friends sending me this? If you think she is that inexperienced and that clueless wouldn't you want to see her on the ticket? You would think they would be motivated to keep her on the ticket. Do you really want her to step down so John McCain can bring in someone more experienced. If you're assuming Obama is going to win why is this of concern?

And why are you wasting space in my inbox when we all know this is not going to happen? - Palin stepping down.

So here is the response I have been offering these people:

"I am not even going to read this. You should be working to get Obama elected, not wasting your time on Palin if this is how you feel."

But I do find fun and humor in this and it brings me quite a chuckle. Why? Because we live in a world where everyone seems to point the finger, pass the blame and discount people's value rather than work towards fixing the problems, creating new opportunities and being innovators and agents for change. This happens in politics, business and personal relationships - and just another example of why I encourage people to avoid the negative ones when I am delivering a keynote speech.

Thanks Mom for my next fun Customer Service keynote story!

2008-10-03T07:36:00.011-04:00

My mother seems to go through computers like I go through toilet paper - and I am quite regular. The things my mom can do to a computer have even left the people at Microsoft dazed and confused. But as a professional speaker, my mom has provided me with lots of fun stories that I can share with audiences.

My mom is 76 years old. I was intrigued by her motivations when at 68 years old she decided she wanted to enter the technological age. For that I applaud her. But who knew the fun and laughs she was going to provide to the family and one of my Top 5 - who I also refer to as her local tech support! Thank you RTO for not moving out of Yonkers!

Some of moms PC feats have included:

Getting McAfee Virus Scan to go into an endless scan
Windows updates that never seem to stop updating
Monitor screens that change to colors I didn't even know existed
Printers that print anything but the document you have sent to that printer
Sending email and then sitting and pondering why I have not responded immediately. (this was early on; she finally figured out her son is not sitting at the computer all the time; that occasionally I am out keynoting at a conference)
Finding a dial-up speed that was 115 kps
And my favorite...........Managing to get the Windows Start/Task Bar to settle across the center of the screen - yes even the folks at Microsoft could not figure out how she did that one! And CTRL-ALT-DEL did not fix it

So when mom needs a new computer, I now take the disposable approach. Get her the cheapest thing for her needs; because whether it costs $300 or $3,000 we are going to be replacing it within a year.

I try to be honest with salespeople and tell them bells and whistles mean nothing; that the only amount of gigs I am interested in are the ones booked on my calendar. This is purely economics. She is going to need a new computer in a year; it is that simple. I am certain of that.

So to my friends at Office Depot, Best Buy, Circuit City and Staples - all whom I went to visit yesterday - stop and listen to what your customer needs and not what you think they need or are hoping to move out of your inventory. I have an inventory of possessed computers I am thinking of putting on the lawn this Halloween.

Today I'll spend some time shopping the web for a PC Bargain. As I left mom's yesterday she offered to do it. I was concerned she would blow up the Internet.

The Conference Planning Committee Chose Not the Fun, but the Un-Motivational Speaker

2008-10-02T07:43:00.005-04:00

She was cheering me on. She wanted me to be the Opening General Session for their conference. We had a great conversation on the phone. All looked good. I was excited. The Executive Director was excited.

And then my name got tossed in front of..................... The Committee.

Her case: We can have some fun. We can really motivate our volunteer base to stay involved and get more active; or we can listen to the Boring State Legislator tell them the state of their industry and how funding and donations will be less and less.

Their Case: But the Legislator is free.

Which would you choose as the opening general session for your conference? Fun and Motivational or Free and Doom and Gloom?

Hello!!!! Unless you're living in a bubble I am pretty certain you know the state of the economy; and if you're in a role which is totally supported by funding and donations you probably know even more what you are about to come up against. So let's gather 500 people together for a few days and start off by pounding that into their heads for an hour? There's a great conference waiting to happen.

Am I pissed that I was not chosen? Pissed is the wrong word. Disappointed? Sure. Even the Motivational Speaker gets bummed from time to time. I know, you're shocked. But as I quoted in my New Self-Help Book, I really am sick of all those people who say life is hunky dory all the time. Let's Get Real!

But what I am more bothered with is the fear and uncertainty that is building daily throughout too many organizations. In addition to the financial health of companies, the health and wellness of organization staff and volunteers is also deteriorating as they continue to have salt poured into the economic wound - that being the US Economy.

I've always believed that there is money to be made in any economic downturn - you just have to know where to look. I also believe it happens because most people are so busy focused on how awful things are while the smart people are ignoring the news and having fun growing their businesses or personal wealth. They've started a new bubble.

So with that, I encourage you and your organization to choose not to participate in this economic downturn. If you're going to take the approach that Free has more value than Fee (yes that is why I was not chosen) or spending more time focusing on cutting expenses versus seeking revenue opportunities, we know where your thinking is.

And Speaking of Ways To Reduce Morale & Motivation

2008-10-01T12:06:00.006-04:00

Is leadership really that difficult? Do leaders need a smack upside their head in order to figure out the obvious and right thing to do? Motivating staff to continue to perform for you does not have to be as difficult as people think.

Last week I was having a whole lot of fun speaking to a group of CT State Employees. Well at one point their leader's actions came under fire - that leader being Governor M. Jodi Rell. I told them I would send her a letter. And since I always keep my promises............ the letter below was emailed to the Governor of the Great State of CT this morning (the only edit I made was removing the individuals name; that remains between the 100 of us in the room last Friday).

Governor Rell,

So why is it that when a taxpayer takes the time to send you a message about a great experience he/she has with a state employee; and that taxpayer asks you to personally let that person know they made a difference you cannot find 30 seconds in your day to contact that individual, yet you (or your staff) can find the 30 seconds to contact that person’s boss?

Last week I presented an in-service for a diverse group of state employees; the above matter came up. Governor, one of the focuses of my presentation that day was how leaders and staff can find value in each other, share that value, and applaud each person’s value. You are the leader of our state and I know for a fact that one of your employees, (his name was here), would love to hear from you how he made a difference to that taxpayer; and not get a message from you through his supervisor.

Governor Rell, if you take this as a criticism you are missing the point of this message. If that call or email comes directly from your office you will have restored the faith of a group of state employees that are a little wounded right now.

No need to answer this email, I recognize how busy you are; and this email is not about me.
Rich DiGirolamo

Hmmm..............maybe I should start a new fun part of my speaking business; writing letters for people who are pissed off, slighted, or hurt.

EH! Stop Speaking To Me Like That!

2008-09-30T08:58:00.007-04:00

I was in Canada last week. I love the Canadians. They are warm and friendly.

I entered the border crossing plaza and handed the officer my passport. He asked me a few questions about why I was there, checked out the temporary registration on my vehicle, and welcomed me to Canada.

Now let's talk about the return to my own country! I entered the border crossing plaza and handed the officer my passport. I was interrogated - for what seemed like an hour (okay it was ten minutes); as if I was some sort of a criminal.

What am I transporting in the car?
My clothes and a laptop.

Am I carrying firearms?
No.

Am I carrying ammunition?
No.

Did anyone give me firearms?
No.

Where is my license plate?
Just registered the car; it has a temporary plate.

Why?
It was purchased out of state.

Am I carrying drugs?
What!!!? No.

Where am I going?
Home to CT

Am I driving all the way through?
No planning on finding a place to sleep soon.

Where did I stop tonight?
To take a leak. (I was started getting to get – no pun intended – pissed at this guy)

Where?
Some travel plaza about an hour back

Go ahead! (he hands me back my documents)
Thanks for doing such a thorough job. (I think he wanted to arrest me with that comment)

The whole time I was having flashbacks of when mom was trying to catch me in a lie; or when the boss called me into an office to talk to my work. Okay it's 11:00 at night and a guy with a propeller on his head in a car with a temporary registration is crossing the border. I guess that screams trouble???

But I found it odd how welcoming the Canadian Officer was and how abrasive my fellow American acted towards me. It was like good cop-bad cop or good boss-bad boss.

But then again, maybe his supervisor was watching? Maybe he had a fight with his wife/partner that night? Maybe he had a headache? Maybe he was doing his job? Maybe he was having fun and gets his kicks being abrasive? Maybe this type of stuff shouldn't bother us? Maybe he had other motivations?

Maybe we should all look at the tone we use to communicate with one another?

Did I say I love the Canadians?

No, Ifs, Ands, The Problem Is or Butts

2008-09-24T20:59:00.003-04:00

The Nebraska Recreation and Park Association took a Recess the other day – a fun and humorous Recess from the way too many people and organizations think.

The purpose of my Recess: It’s Not Just For Kids presentation was to overcome challenges and identify new programming opportunities for Recreation and Park Services. During our time together there was one rule……….They were not allowed to use the words But, The Problem Is, You Don’t Understand, That Won’t Work, or anything similar.

Based on the feedback I received afterwards they had a heck of a lot of fun and appeared motivated to leave their conference and explore new programming opportunities.

Well that evening the tables were turned when I joined them for the Pub Crawl. I was put in a position where I was not allowed to say But, however they got the opportunity to play with my BUTT!

Things got a little crazy at Wanda’s Bar in Hastings, NE and a game of Butt Darts commenced. Now if you’re not familiar with this game you give yourself a wedgie (in your pants), stick a quarter in the crack, and then tighten that quarter in your crack. Once you have enjoyed that experience, you position yourself over a glass and the goal is to drop the quarter into the glass.

I was watching the fun. It was quite humorous - especially watching the woman who weighed all of forty pounds and had no butt. All I kept thinking about was what a great humorous story this is going to be for a future presentation.

While I was thinking of material, they started chanting my name. Rich. Rich. Rich.

Now I could have made excuses, BUT………………. We’re not allowed to use those words. And since I’m always willing to try something new…………………………….

Two rounds later, I guess you could call it the "elimination" round, guess whose virgin butt was the NeRPA Butt Darts Champion!

Now if this doesn't motivate you to save a life.....

2008-09-20T14:24:00.002-04:00

Attention passengers, is there a doctor or nurse on board?

So much for making that connection. Good thing I have music and a book I commented to the woman next to me.

A doctor moved to the back of the plane. Within 10 minutes we were rapidly descending into Buffalo, NY. Ironically, I will be there Tuesday night. Taxiing at the speed of sound it was like a scene out of one of those Airport or Airplane movies of the 70's and 80's. Northwest Airlines Flight 259 now arriving Gate 8, Gate 9, Gate 10, Gate 23, 24, 25,26. RTO, that one was for you!!!!

The paramedics enter the aircraft. Spend about thirty seconds with the woman and walk her off.

We applaud the doctor.

A short while after the flight attendant comes by and offers the doctor a bottle of wine for stepping in and perhaps saving that woman's life.

I found humor in this. A bottle of wine? In this land of opportunity - meaning let's sue the pants off someone - they offer him a bottle of wine? There's a motivational reward waiting for you!

How about a free ticket to Buffalo?

Humor, Fun, and Motivation Courtesy of Thinking Outside the Box!

2008-09-19T14:15:00.006-04:00

You've heard it. I've heard it. I'm sick of hearing it. It's a phrase that is so overused it means absolutely nothing anymore................

Think Outside the Box

Unless of course you're these two; then it has a whole new meaning..................

Have a great weekend; I'm in Nebraska; I'm the opening keynote speaker for the Nebraska Recreation and Park Association.

Guess what type of thinking I won't be talking about? But we will be having fun.

I've got a short motivational keynote and a fun idea for the Federal Reserve.

2008-09-18T07:10:00.009-04:00

So yesterday the Federal Reserve bailed out AIG to the tune of $85 billion. Looks like Detroit is next in line to the tune of $45 billion (the number I heard on the news last evening).

Hey Federal Reserve, here is a fun idea...................Do you realize you could bail out over 433,000 families instead of just a few corporations? As a motivational speaker for business and corporations, I like to encourage organizations to change their thinking. So today, I am calling on the Federal Reserve to wake up and spread the bailout in a manner that is fair and equitable.

Here is my idea.............

Let's assume the typical family has $300,000 in debt between mortgage, credit cards, car leases/loans and student debt. If you took that $130 billion and cleared the debt of those people you would have helped over 433,000 people. There would be fun and laughter in the streets.

Now for those of you looking at the humor in all this, please don't; I think this could work; and you don't see McCain or Obama offering suggestions? Heck, $300,000 might even be on the high side. The Federal Reserve could probably bail out 600,000 or 700,000 families; even more fun and laughter. I could see block parties with music coming out of speakers on every corner.

This just seems like the right thing to do; after all once the bailout has occurred, in order to control costs, jobs are just going to go overseas anyway, right?

So if anyone reading this has a direct link to someone up the Food Chain at the Federal Reserve please send them this and tell them I have a fifteen minute keynote prepared just for them!

But in the meantime...............Hey Fed, I'm first in line for my bailout. Anyone want to be number 2? Feel free to hit the comments button below.

But that is how this Motivational Speaker does business!

2008-09-17T07:25:00.004-04:00

So I get a call yesterday from a credit card processing company; starting to tell me that my current credit card processor is ripping me off. I decided to have some fun with this woman and here is how the conversation went:

Rich: Do you know who my credit card processor is?

Lady: No, but next year all customers of credit card processing companies will see their fees more than double and we can help you.

Rich: (thinking every one's fees?) So everyone is going to double but you? Listen, if you would like to send me information in the mail I would be more than happy to take a look at it.

Lady: We do not mail information.

Rich: Well I don't make decisions based on phone calls, so you can either mail me something or take me off your call list.

And then I nearly blew a gasket!

Lady: That is not how we do business, but tomorrow a representative will be in your neighborhood....

Rich: (I cut her off) That is not how you do business? (I started laughing) Well guess what, that is not how this Motivational Speaker does business either; and if you would like me as your customer it would be in your best interest to listen to how I do business, rather than tell me how you do business. So thank you for the call, but most importantly thank you for giving me something fun to speak about when I address customer service in my next keynote.

Speaking of learning……I think it should be fun and motivational!

2008-09-15T08:17:00.003-04:00

A fun learning experience for me is a hands-on learning experience. I like to do, not just be told what to do. Now I do realize that there are different learning styles, but I’m a hands-on interactive type of guy. Please do not ask me to visit the Guggenheim; I’d rather eat dirt. But a visit to the Liberty Science Center, where I get to press buttons and turn dials is the place for me to learn and have fun. As a speaker I recognize that people like me are sitting in the audience and always include a good chunk of fun motivational interactive pieces that get people excited and encourage them to take action; even when it is a 45 minute keynote. Seriously, who really wants to listen to anyone speak for 45 minutes?

Here’s a quick thought, at your next boring tedious staff meeting toss in a quick ten or fifteen minute interactive/creative piece. See how the tone of the meeting can change. If you need a free idea, get in touch with me, I’ll give you one.

Well enough writing for today, I need to go pack my box of interactive fun and ship it to Nebraska. Sunday I am the opening keynote speaker for the Nebraska Recreation and Park Association. I love Recreation and Park Professionals; they get paid to have fun – even though they forget sometimes!

A Life Answer Provided By The Magic Bullet

2008-09-11T09:56:00.006-04:00

Several years ago when I awoke in the middle of the night I bought a Magic Bullet off a 3:00AM infomercial. It's a chopper, grater, blender, and juicer all in one. This machine is being pitched to solve all of your kitchen dilemmas!

Well like anything else we get sucked into buying on television, they make it look so easy. You can make the best salsa with just a flick of the wrist. You can make the easiest chicken salad with just the flick of a wrist. My flick of a wrist usually resulted in Salsa Soup and Chicken Salad Puree!

For years I would sit and watch that infomercial trying to figure out what I was doing wrong. Not being much of a TV watcher I tend to surf through the channels; and anytime I saw that Magic Bullet commercial I stopped. This is going to be the time I figure it out.

Want some Puree? There's a vat of it in my kitchen.

So the other night there it is again.........the Magic Bullet. Once again I am analyzing the scenario. I've got the cup. I'm using the right blade. I'm chopping the pieces into the sizes they seem to be using. I'm flicking my wrist like theirs. Why am I getting Salsa Soup?

Now it's time for the Chicken Salad; into the cup, twist on the blade.

WAIT!!! STOP!!!!!

The Cup! The Cup!

I've been using the big cup (must be the bigger is better mentality in my sub-conscious)! They're using the small cup.

I ran downstairs at 11:00 PM. There were leftover chicken drumsticks in the fridge! Rip them apart. Drop them in the small cup. Put in some mayo. Flick. Flick.

CHICKEN SALAD!!!!! (a little mushy, but not puree!)

The answer was right in front of me the whole time; I was just looking in the wrong place; at the wrong pieces.

What answers are you looking for in the wrong place? What answers are right in front of you, but your focus is somewhere else? Maybe the real value of the Magic Bullet is to teach us how to solve life dilemmas by looking for the right pieces?

Northwest: The Crappy Airline

2008-09-08T08:57:00.002-04:00

Now before the lawyers start suing me for libel and slander for labeling Northwest a crappy airline (because let's face it, we've all had crappy airline experiences); this has nothing to do with crappy service, it really has to do with crap!

While waiting for a recent Northwest flight there was a couple with their dog in the gate area. It was not a service dog, but small enough to fit in a piece of luggage that fit under the seat-back in front of them. It seems that dogs are allowed on the plane if they fit in a carry-on. I went over to meet the dog. Cute.

While in flight a sudden odor shot through the cabin. That odor came from the seat right behind me. Please refer to the title of this blog post. Yes, the dog took a crap. Well as quick as that odor came, it went. I guess the owners have done this before and were prepared. People were wild. I found it hilarious. I saw two options; get crazed over a situation of which I had no control or laugh at those who were getting crazed.

The other day a cute little baby was in the terminal. We boarded the plane. Guess where the baby was seated? While in flight a sudden odor shot through the cabin. That odor came from the seat right behind me. Please refer to the title of this blog post. Yes, the baby took a crap. Well as quick as that odor came, it went. I guess the "owners" have done this before and were prepared. Three older women seated nearby went wild. I found it hilarious. I saw two options; get crazed over a situation of which I had no control or laugh at those who were getting crazed.

Too often we are bothered with what we cannot change, versus focusing on what we can change - our attitude. So let's all get rid of the crappy attitudes and leave the crapping to babies and dogs.

Vote for me!

2008-09-06T07:04:00.002-04:00

My friend Sherry and I are ready to serve our country! Will you help us?

Watch this video and see how you can help:

http://www.inews3.com/topstory.php?id=526963682044694769726f6c616d6f20267c536865727279204b696e67

How To Know You're PowerPoint Obsessed

2008-09-05T21:38:00.004-04:00

Disclaimer: I am not a fan of PowerPoint, mainly because I feel my intelligence is being insulted when someone stands up and reads a presentation to me because they are either unprepared or need a crutch. I want to be engaged and involved in a presentation, not bored out of my mind.
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So with that disclaimer, today I sat in on a meeting with a woman who has her son's activity schedule on a PowerPoint slide. No really; I'm not fibbing. She showed it to me..............With Pride! She has the next three months all done................color coded and everything. I wonder if there is a slide show throughout the house?

I'm thinking this person is also a Crackberry Addict!

The Best Paperboy in the Whole World

2008-09-02T14:29:00.005-04:00

Readers of my newsletter were introduced to a boy named Chris back in July. You will want to take a moment to refresh yourself with his story before continuing. Click here to read Chris' story.

So Sunday morning I pull up to my favorite coffee shop on Cape Cod and there is Chris. He remembers my name, where I was from and says he was hoping he was going to see me.

Seems that the summer was good. He is up to 45 papers per day and was able to buy a laptop with his summer earnings. Seems that offering folks reading with their coffee and telling them what was in the paper paid off handsomely for Chris and The Cape Cod Times.

But here was the best part. I offered to buy him something to drink. He declined; someone inside was buying him something.

A couple comes out of the coffee shop. He buys the newspaper from Chris; she hands him his smoothie.

"Not bad" I said. "They're buying the paper from you and they're buying you drinks."

"He is the best paperboy in the whole world" the woman tells me. "Have you heard his spiel."

I just chuckled and said "Yeah, I'm kinda familiar with it. I was there when he came up with it."

Chris looked at me with a silly red face. It was priceless.

Drill Heads Not Oil!

2008-08-31T07:44:00.004-04:00

So now we get to see how smart Americans really are.

Gas prices have come back down over the past month. Now some say it was the government while others say it was demand and consumption went down. Rather than argue over who is right (the government never tells the truth anyway, but one more time let's give them some benefit of the doubt), let's assume it was a combination of both.

So just looking at the consumption piece, here's what it means................... We used less oil to get things done. We filled our cars when needed. We stayed closer to home. We did not make unnecessary trips. Our life did not come to an end.

So as you can see we don't need to drill Alaska, we need to drill the above fact into people's heads.

A phrase heard in the hallways of many companies today is "do more with less." How encouraging! The people who have come up with that line should be shot. The people who are reverberating those words throughout the organization need to have their dirt smudged window offices taken away from them. Do More With Less? What kind of stupidity is that? How about "get creativc and do more with what you have?"

As your resources get cut and taken away, how can you do more with what you have? That's the drilling that is needed!

I'm taking my bike to the beach today, not my car.

So I Paid Double. That's Not Why I Showed Up.

2008-08-27T07:39:00.007-04:00

Had dinner with seven colleagues last night; the purpose was to discuss Public Relations and working/partnering with the media.

It was a typical "networking" evening; some people willing to give information and others hoping to get lots of information while not contributing a whole lot. At points, some people were tuning themselves out; some were tuning others out.

Well I never saw such chaos when the bill came. Should we ask for separate checks? Who should pay for what? Should this one pay more? He didn't drink? She drank like a fish! I drank too much, let me pay for more.

Just split the damn thing 8 ways!

We're professionals; business owners. If I pay more than I should, so what. I was not there for dinner, I was there for the advice, friendship, guidance, sharing and idea generation that this dinner event was offering - which I did receive. Thanks Jerry, Bonnie, Ronnie, Robin, Noreen, Juan and Alice! So I probably paid double my meal value; it was my choice not to drink. (I can't stand wine anyway) I walked away with a great idea, an idea that could be a lot of fun, offer a needed solution to my market and most likely earn me a "few" bucks more than dinner cost. Is that worth an extra $10, $20, $50, $100?

But it reminded me of a dinner event years ago with 9 women - it was a salad bar. When the check came the chatter about who drank what (coffee/soda was not included) was getting insane. I was seated next to a woman named Phyllis. Phyllis was a feisty sixty-something who was a no-nonsense type of woman - I loved her. Phyllis turns to me and she says "this is why I don't go to dinner with a group of women." I just laughed as I have seen men do the same thing, but felt it was my obligation to protect the male species. Phyllis takes $20 from me and $20 from Lori, who was seated on her other side. She tosses $60 down the end of the table and tells the group to have a ball fighting over the bill. The three of us got up and left. Twenty minutes later we were in the parking lot talking and laughing - we think the bill was still being discussed inside, or perhaps their disgust with us.

Why do you gather with people? For friendship? networking? information? camaraderie? ideas? Or to fight over a few bucks?

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Friend or Colleague's birthday coming up? The Only Self-Help Book You'll Ever Need might be that fun thought provoking gift they need.

An Easy Way To Be Reminded Of Your Past! But A Good Reason You Should Search It Out.

2008-08-25T08:33:00.011-04:00

Okay, this is kinda cool............. Last week I finally offered myself to the world on Facebook. I've had a presence on LinkedIn, but after a short time there I realize it is not social networking; business networking yes, but not social networking; and I still do not know of many people who can trace business back to LinkedIn. Do you?

So I post my Facebook page. I allow Facebook to read my personal database to find people already Facebooked. Not many. Or maybe I know the wrong people? Maybe I'm not connected to the "in" crowd; only the LinkedIn crowd?

But it seems that Vinny was Facebooked and he found me. I received a message from Vinny almost immediately after signing up. Now the question becomes does Vinny spend way too much time on Facebook or was it meant to be????

Vinny and I went to high school together; he was one year ahead of me; sat near each other in calculus. He still looks the same. Sucks when some people don't age. Although maybe he is posting a picture from high school like people do on dating sites; not that I would know. That night Vinny sees Kenny at his photography exhibit; (you can check out Vinny's stuff here: http://vrod62.blogspot.com/.) Kenny was a great friend in high school, an usher in my wedding, my FBLA partner; but we all know how things go; people lose touch over time.

So now Kenny contacts me - the bastard still has his hair; although it is graying. Bald or gray? Which would you rather be? Let me know. Two days later Kenny sees a haunting from my past - Dave; or as we used to call him - Guido. Now Dave and I are back in touch.

In the matter of three days I am back in touch with three people who I actually liked; and will hopefully see in the near future.

But what does this have to do with anything? I think at times we forget not only how the past shaped us, but who in our past shaped us.

So today I blame Vinny, Kenny and Dave for being a part of my refreshing sarcasm, playful attitude, and irreverence. Thanks boys. My audiences thank you too.

And for the rest of you............go get a presence on Facebook. I'll be your friend, but it is very cool to see who in your past might come back to haunt you.

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Planning a meeting or conference? Include Rich. Visit http://richdigirolamo.com/

The View from Third Shift

2008-08-24T08:54:00.003-04:00

Third Shift. Most avoid it. Many spend years working their way off of it. Yet there is one person who loves third shift.......................................

The other day I met Steve. Steve is a third shift worker. He works with the handicapped. And has he put it to me the other day, he spends his night changing diapers.

Now while some reading this might think his comment is horrible, let me offer some perspective. I have had the opportunity to speak to Fortune 10 Corporations, small businesses of 20 employees, and everything in between. If you ever need some perspective, live a day in the life of a health care or health and human services provider. Now I am in no way denouncing what employees of Fortune 10 companies do, but I would like to see them roll over a handicapped developmentally disabled person at 2:00 AM and change their diaper - yes literally change the diaper. So many people think they've got it tough. I don't know.

But here was my favorite part of the conversation. I asked Steve to come clean and really tell me why he stays on third shift all these years later when opportunities have been plentiful to work a more traditional workday. He said, "Rich, on third shift I don't have to worry about my handicapped co-workers, and making sure I am not part of the trouble they are forever getting themselves and others into."

Yikes! But perhaps true? Maybe third shift has its benefits?

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Are your employees looking at all that is right with their job or all that is wrong? Give them a dose of Rich. It's time to laugh at workplace craziness, not get crazier. Get in touch with Rich right now

How Not To Become A Rumor

2008-08-22T07:35:00.004-04:00

Ever feel like you're just trying to save your reputation? Ever wonder not what people are saying about you, but why? Ever wish you could stop the rumor mill? Here's how I do it.......

Step 1: Be clear that your actions are always honest, sincere and understood.
Step 2: Never open your mouth in front of the nosiest person you can find. Never ask their thoughts on anything. Just say hello and let them do all the talking. Then tell them to have a nice day. Now this could be tough since I know there is an office or neighborhood gossip within earshot of you right now.
Step 3: Document all your actions for public release. Perhaps buy a billboard.
Step 4: Sit back and watch what happens; because no matter how much you try at some point in your life you will be part of a rumor.

Okay, so that is not exactly what I do. Although I have thought about the billboard. It is fact, at some point in our lives we all have had a negative label attached to us; we have all been a target or victim of a rumor. In my Permission to Speed program I address this issue and toss out the idea of finding out what we did to attain that label and the steps we can take to remove it.

Or you can take the other approach..............plot your revenge!

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Could your next conference use a fun humorous presentation keynote presenter? Invite Rich to play with your group. The payback will be ENORMOUS!

How To Start A Rumor

2008-08-21T14:36:00.004-04:00

Today I offer you a lesson in how to start a rumor.

Step 1: Observe or question something of which you are not certain.
Step 2: Find the nosiest person you can find and ask their thoughts on what you observed. I know there is an office or neighborhood gossip within earshot of you right now.
Step 3: Do not ask the person you observed what they did or what happened. I mean let's face it; that would be the right thing to do.
Step 4: Sit back and watch what happens

Try it today. Try it in your office. Try it at home. Try it at your next social or professional networking event. Try it with your neighbors.

It's amazing how many people are getting fired, overdosed on drugs, are cheating on their spouse, are alcoholics or gamblers, are not capable of maintaining a relationship, are stealing and not telling the truth. With all these terrible people amongst us, we should consider ourselves fortunate to be in the state that we are in.

The other night I watched a neighbor being loaded into an ambulance. I went over to see if I could do anything, like offer the family member a ride to the hospital. I also found out what was actually going on. You'd be shocked at what people had told me they heard by the next morning.

When asked what happened I suggested they go ask and get the real answer direct from the source; because that's how rumors otherwise get started.

Stay tuned until tomorrow; I'll be writing about how to not become a rumor.

Everyone should carry a mirror

2008-08-20T16:50:00.003-04:00

I think at birth we should all be given a mirror; a mirror that we are to carry with us every day until the day I die. The mirror will have two purposes:

The first purpose is simple. Every time you are in the vicinity of someone who begins to criticize or critique someone or something it should be your obligation to take out that mirror and hold it up in front of that person's face; reminding him or her that he or she is not perfect and probably guilty of the same thing. Let's face it, you cannot all be Boss, Employee or Parent of the Year.
The second purpose is even simpler: To make sure you always look your best.

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Are people in your organization laughing at all that drives them crazy or getting even crazier? Unleash Rich on them for an hour. He'll get them laughing, thinking and working harder for you. Visit http://richdigirolamo.com today.

The Chinese even have restaurant waiting solved!

2008-08-19T18:19:00.003-04:00

I've been in NYC the last two days; last night I had dinner with a friend who just happened to be in NY as well. I was craving Chinese food, so we headed to Chinatown. Lots of choices; not really sure which one was best; although it is Chinatown you would think they are all good. So we asked someone on the street which was their favorite. Green Bo.

People were waiting in the street to get in to Green Bo; which to me looked like a Chinese take-out with seats. They asked us how many. We told them two. They didn't want our name. About two minutes later we were summoned from the street and were told to be seated at a table for six. Ellen looked at them puzzled. They motioned with their hands to go sit down. We sat. Four people were seated with us. Two other couples. At first it was odd, but then I thought why not?

So there we were three couples having dinner separately but together and nobody seemed to mind.

Once again the Chinese are showing us how to run a business. I think I'll mention the idea to my friends who own a restaurant in CT. I'm sure the uptight clientele won't find it amusing, fun or acceptable.

Take Your Dog To Work Day

2008-08-14T09:26:00.000-04:00

Everyday is Take Your Dogs To Work Day For Me - well every day I am not traveling.

And when I am not traveling I take some time out of my day to go have a bit of fun; to break the monotony; to rejuvenate my brain.

Here is what I did the other day......................

Did you enjoy this video? Tell others about it.

Special thanks to my colleague and friend Gail Hand for her amazing video abilities.

A lesson from Michael Phelps on Being A Success

2008-08-13T10:40:00.001-04:00

Did you see Michael Phelps' reaction when he broke the record for most Gold Medals ever by an Olympian? Did you see it it? His reaction was amazing!

His reaction: He looked at the board displaying the results, took his cap and goggles off and stood in the pool catching his breath. That is it. He then got out of the pool and walked away. He had another race in less than an hour.

That was it. No jumping up and down. No screaming and yelling. No intervews. He walked away. He still had work to do.

And that is what I call "A SUCCESS"; not needing that pat on the back; not needing the recognition from your fans and peers; not needing recognition no matter how small or great your contribution.

To me the successful people in any organization are the ones who just keep delivering; they don't look for recognition and they don't sit around airing their list of accomplishments. They just continue to move forward getting the job done.

Michael Phelps got the job done yesterday; for his team, for his country and for himself. You would have never known it when he pulled off his cap and goggles and tossed them ever so gently up onto the pool deck.

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Is your leadership team engaged in their work or engaged in making themselves look good? Give them some time with Rich. He promises it will be fun while they learn how to be great team members. Contact Rich Today

Self Help Groups??????

2008-08-12T13:59:00.000-04:00

I don't get it......................

Why are there self-help groups? Shouldn't it be called group help groups?

If it is truly self-help, you wouldn't need a group; you only need yourself; which is why I wrote my book The Only Self-Help Book You'll Ever Need; to show people they don't need groups, expensive seminars and DVD/mp3 programs. They no longer need to buy hype and promises.

They need something much closer to home - themselves; that's all.

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Do you have your copy of Rich DiGirolamo's Only Self Help Book You'll Ever Need? It's a fun look at self-help with great thoughts and exercises to stimulate your thinking.

Everything was great except................

2008-08-10T08:13:00.000-04:00

I was entertaining yesterday; professional colleagues. And it was an international event, as we had some colleagues from The Netherlands join us.

So Hans comes out of the bathroom and stops to talk to me in the kitchen. He is telling me what a lovely home I have, but this is killing the Feng Shui. This meaning my knife holder below:

I chuckled. This knife holder was a gift from a relative; and here is what I have found; people either like it or they are horrified. I think Hans liked it (and I really liked Hans and his lovely wife); I also saw the irony that he chose the word "killing"the Feng Shui.

But where was I and what was the point? Oh wait.................... Have you ever told someone they did a great job...........except? Has anyone ever given you a complement only to end with a criticism? Sucks, right?

Try using the word unusual? Hmmm......well that is unusual? I have found it does several things, removes any defensive attitude, creates for conversation, and keeps me out of trouble.

Unusual. Try incorporating it into your vocabulary next time you're about to criticize someone or something.

And speaking of Feng Shui and something unusual.......................

Do you have a home office? A friend/colleague of mine is offering to help you make that space someplace you look forward to being - and she is doing it for free. I bought Linda's services a few years ago and after doing a little Feng Shui of my office I had one of the most productive work periods in a long time. What she is offering is not about Feng Shui, but something much cooler - and again it is Free; so check out what Linda Varone is offering by clicking here. I am planning on being there!

Detailed instructions on bus riding

2008-08-07T11:44:00.000-04:00

I don't often travel by bus, but in the past 3 months I have used the bus several times; it was more convenient than plane travel and not much longer in time. It also gave me a chance to catch up on some pleasure reading.

So pulling out of the Port Authority yesterday the bus driver gave us what I thought at one point was going to be a keynote address. Now basically he told us the following:

What time to expect arriving at our locations; and reminded us that he had no control over the weather or traffic
Stay off the damn cell phone unless it is an emergency
If it is too hot or too cold let him know and we will operate as a democracy and take a vote to determine what to do
How to use the lavatory so as not to fall down into the tank
He encouraged us to commandeer the seat next to us as the bus was only half-full

Was this really happening?

Here I was on a bus ride, being told what to expect from my ride and how to enhance my experience. On a bus? Who would have thought I would have been given a five minute speech upon taking a seat on a bus?

Maybe some bigger businesses need to take a look at this enhancing the customer experience thing.

All in all it was a pleasurable ride. I ate my lunch and read a book - The Power of Nice.

My only suggestion.............. know your audience and use interpreters. It was apparent that many did not understand the cell phone use rule as I listened to phone calls in everything from Spanish to Jive. Yes, Jive. The last time I heard Jive was in one of those Airplane comedy movies.

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Looking to break the monotony at your next conference or meeting. Contact Rich to learn how he can reinforce your message while making it a fun experience for your audience.

Thinking Outside the Box is Stupid

2008-07-31T10:26:00.000-04:00

Think Outside The Box
Think Outside The Box
Think Outside The Box

Are you tired of hearing it? Think it is overused?

I am. Actually it has become a meaningless statement for many.

Now let's think logically about this. Think outside the box is a term that tends to be associated with new initiatives, change, creativity, innovation, etc. Now imagine you are looking at a box. Now someone tells you to think outside of it. What next.........Don't think about the color blue, don't think about Superman.

The box is still there. How can you think outside of it.

You want new creative ideas....................

Throw the box in the recycle bin (hey we need to start
living green) and start with nothing. New ideas happen by completely removing all remnants of old thinking.

Where Does The Motivational Speaker Do His Social Networking?

2008-07-30T08:40:00.000-04:00

He goes to the National Speakers Association Annual Convention!

Tomorrow I leave to go get my dose of energy; off to NYC to be with colleagues and friends; to learn, laugh and network. It's an event I attend every year and one that I would not miss.

To me this is social networking - being with people. Now I'm not knocking MySpace and Facebook and all the other sites out there which are classified as social networking, because we all have definitions of social networks; mine just happens to involve face-to-face human contact; not sitting behind a computer being someone I think I am or wished I look like. (Those of you posting pictures of yourself from 20 years ago know what I mean!)

There are so many associations, groups, organizations and clubs out there. There are tons of opportunities to get inspired, meet new people, educate yourself, or become better at your job. The internet is a great place to start searching.

I always chuckle when I meet other speakers who are not part of any professional association. I wonder how they could actually speak to associations and not be a part of one? Seems out of touch.

There's a group out there waiting for you to arrive; waiting for the value you provide. I know it. No matter what line of work you're in, there's a group of professionals waiting to meet you. Find them. Meet with them. Spend time with them. And then we can share that feeling of being re-energized!

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Getting Involved Has Its Rewards

2008-07-28T08:54:00.001-04:00

Last night I got to sing the male part of that famous ending to the song by Meatloaf, Paradise By the Dashboard Light.

Yep, while all 8 bridesmaids and the bride sang the part "Will you love me forever" I got to sing the "Let me sleep on it" part. I was the lucky one. You see, when the DJ started asking for all the guys to line up, most of them ran off the floor; he grabbed my hand and brought me over to meet the girls.

It was a wedding, you're supposed to have fun. The bride and groom were having this videotaped. How sad would that have been if no one "played."

Throughout my life I have volunteered; whether it be a committee at work, or a leadership role on a board, or acting silly at a wedding, I always knew that getting involved had its rewards. I met people, got recognized by management as a team player, and have been given referrals and leads in my business. I believe it is important for everyone to get involved.

A few months ago I was hired to work with an Employee Activities Committee to help them generate some new ideas. I still remember the lone male's response as to why he joined the committee - to meet the people he worked with. So now you're not Mary the Nurse Manager, you're Mary the.....................

So there I was singing Let me sleep on it............................

Well the 20-somethings nearly fell over when I let it rip at this part:

I couldn't take it any longer Lord I was crazed
And when the feeling came upon me
Like a tidal wave
I started swearing to my God and on my mothers Grave
That I would love you to the end of time
I swore that I would love you to the end of time!

So now I'm praying for the end of time
To hurry up and arrive
Cause if I gotta spend another minute with you
I don't think that I can really survive Ill never break my promise or forget
my vow
But God only knows what I can do right now\
I'm praying for the end of time It's all that I can do
Praying for the end of time, so I can end my time With you!!!

Remember, I'm old according to them. They didn't know I grew up with that song. Now I'm not Rich the old man, I'm Rich the................. (cool dude???) Who knows, maybe they'll look at me differently next time they see me.

A little bit later the DJ came over, said thank you and stuffed something in my shirt pocket. It was two lottery tickets.

Hopefully I added to the memories of the bride and groom's day. Because in the end...........and always forget this................get involved to have fun and benefit others............Your reward will come later. I promise.

My reward for getting involved. I won $1

How To Inspire Creativity and Make A Great Grilled Cheese Sandwich

2008-07-26T08:08:00.000-04:00

Take two slices of your favorite bread
Spray both sides of the bread with olive oil spray
Place one slice of cheese on top of one of the slices of bread
Next, place slices of fresh mango on that slice of cheese
Top the mango with another slice of cheese and the remaining slice of bread
Cook in a George Forman Grill, frying pan or oven

So why am I giving you a recipe?.........................

Everyone's talking creativity in the workplace; but here is the catch, creativity happens everywhere and some would say that you're either a creative person or you're not. I believe that opportunities to be creative are abundant if we look for them. Practicing and training yourself to be creative is not as difficult as one might think. Why not start in the kitchen?

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Rich's new book, The Only Self-Help Book You'll Ever Need, is flying off the shelves. Amazon is already sold out. But don't worry, Rich has plenty. Get yours today

A Visit to the Ice Cream Shop

2008-07-25T07:51:00.000-04:00

I was out riding my Trikke last night (http://www.trikke.com/) when my neighbor asked me if I wanted to go for ice cream. I said sure.

About 30 minutes later we were sitting in front of Praline's Ice Cream and he made a comment how people who work in ice cream stores are happy and fun. He then went on to tell me about a relative who took a job as a Disney character at 56 years old and is having the time of his life. Yep, a 56 year old man is walking around a theme park dressed as Goofy.

People don't realize how the environment we work in impacts our mood. When I speak to organizations about morale and teamwork I always leave them this quote:

"Create an environment that is fun and you create an environment that people want to be a part of." - Rich DiGirolamo

How's your work environment. What can you do to fun it up? From colored walls to fire poles (bat poles) between floors, more and more employers are recognizing the need to fun up the space employees spend most of their life. There's a company in Texas that even gives new employees $300 to decorate their cube space. But before you engage a task force and start designing the Excel spread sheets to study this initiative...................

Maybe the team should visit an ice cream shop to get in the mood.

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To learn more about Rich and his employee programs, visit http://www.richdigirolamo.com/

FOUR Free Goodies When You Order Rich's New Book

2008-07-23T11:32:00.000-04:00

Rich's new book, The Only Self-Help Book You'll Ever Need is now on sale. It's a fun, simple, affordable, proven approach to transforming your life. And it's cheap..........only $9.95 (plus shipping and handling)

But wait, because there is more, AS AN ADDED BONUS you get these four e-books while you wait. But you've got to act by August 15th or the free stuff is out the door. So order yours today.

You Have To Get Heavy In Order To Get Skinny

- a fun 31 day workbook to changing your mindset about weight and health. These daily exercises of the mind, body and spirit are true lessons to keep you on track to making long term and permanent changes.

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Striving for Imprefection

- Whatever the goal, the attempt to be "perfect" gets in the way of getting "better." Success comes in small steps. Failure arrives all at once. The choice of what we call it can make all the difference. This book is an inspirational approach to that choice.

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Laughing With Gail Hand

-This E-book is a compilation of tips and stories from Gail Hand, who is a Motivational Humorist, Certified Laughter Leader, Certified Laughter Yoga Leader, Entrepreneur and Dog Photographer.

http://www.gailhand.com/

Real World Teambuilding Strategies That Work

A power-packed collection of insights & strategies from professionals who make a difference in America, and around the world, every day!

- Featuring Margie Thomas

http://www.matconsulting.com/

All of this for $9.95!!!! Never will such a deal be available again.

So click here and order your copy of The Only Self-Help Book You'll Ever Need.

What? You don't need Self-Help? Of course not. Buy it for a friend.

You Can't Get There From Here!

2008-07-23T08:27:00.000-04:00

No, I'm not talking the Poland Spring in Maine, but I am talking Omaha Nebraska from Hartford CT; well at least on Midwest Airlines.

The other day I received a schedule change email from Midwest Airlines regarding an upcoming flight. Now I have to tell I have started ignoring these messages; every single one of them has been about a one or two minute schedule change.

But for some odd reason I decided to read this one rather than trash it. These are strange times for those of us who fly; you just never know what to expect any longer.

Well..........................

It's a good thing I read this message because it would have sucked to show up to the airport and find that Midwest Airlines had packed up and went home; yep they're discontinuing service from Hartford.

You know, we're all busy, doing way too much and have too much on our plates. I know how easy it is to not read emails or listen completely to voice mails. Be careful. Be very careful. You just might find yourself in an airport or at a meeting all by your lonesome self. Or worse yet, inconveniencing a client or fellow employee.

Now, as an aside, I am pissed. Midwest gives you free warm chocolate chip cookies. So in addition to not being able to get there from here and I won't be getting any free cookies!

HIS IS BIGGER THAN MINE!

2008-07-21T14:55:00.001-04:00

So recently I spent too much time with someone who had a story for every comment you made, a response for every point you brought up, an I-can-one-up-you for every sentence that came out of every single person's mouth.

After about an hour it became so annoying that it was clear people were choosing not to even participate in any of the conversations that were occurring. If you never thought that silence was golden, this scenario proved you wrong.

But the funniest part was when he said "I have a story about that" and someone else replied "you have a story or answer for everything" and he just didn't get it. He just continued chattering away.

Except I don't know what was funnier; the frustrated look on the person who made the dig or the cluelessness of the Know-It-All.

But it did get me thinking about my own listening skills. What about you? Are you a listener or just thinking about your own thoughts.

Be truthful.

I now declare the end of the phrase "I don't know"

2008-07-17T11:55:00.001-04:00

How many times have you asked someone a question and the response "I don't know" is rolling off their lips before you've even taken that final pause.

I don't know.

I don't know.

I don't know.

In my Permission To Speed program I share with people that there is a one word answer to the "I don't know"; yep just about every question can now be solved and there is a one word answer to that question.

Do you know what it is?

Think hard.

Harder.

Is your brain hurting yet?

Have you ordered my book over on the right?

The answer is...............

GOOGLE!!!!!!

With all the tools that Google provides from desktop search to Internet search I am sure you can find the answer. So next time you're about to weasel out and say "I don't know", try saying Google.

You can even find out how to use toilet paper!

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Need a fun motivational keynote speaker for your next event who delivers relevant information as well? Learn more about Rich; visit http://www.richdigirolamo.com/programs.htmlor better yet, call 888.476.1664

Speak Up or Shut Up and Tow The Company Line?

2008-07-16T17:54:00.000-04:00

Okay, this one makes no sense. A friend of mine works for a large hospital here in the Northeast. The hospital encourages open, frank, candid discussions between staff and management. You're not supposed to keep things inside, you're supposed to speak up when you feel change needs to occur, wrong has been done, a new idea needs to be implemented or you have what you believe to be a better way of doing things. Sounds like a great place to work.

My friend does all these things. She has an impeccable record and not a blemish in her file. So why is it that she is told she needs to work on her communication skills and given that as the reason she was denied a promotion. She is told she tends to be too vocal about certain things??????

WTF!!!!

People, you need to make your mind up. If your organization is really not ready for open communication maybe you should stop telling people to speak up but rather release the following policy........................... Shut Up and Tow The Company Line.

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Is it time for your employees to laugh and learn a bit? Check out Rich's How To Be A Good Employee program. It's a lesson in communication, teamwork and leadership that everyone can use.