Friday Praise Project - Allstate: The CapCity Agency - James Fitzgerald

If you read my post yesterday you know that I am sadly noticing how easy it is for people to quickly become upset with their vendors.  In our society we expect perfection from everyone, and too many people are fast to criticize and slow to praise.  I am guilty of this.. and so are so many others.

Yesterday my sister-in-law was pleasantly surprised when a customer service department from a large company called her on the phone instead of sending a cold email in response to an inquiry.  She was shocked (in a good way).  And yet good service happens every day... and I think it is time we all stand up and praise.

I want to start a movement to praise those who do good work.  I'll start.

I met my insurance broker this week.  He inherited me several years ago when he purchased another agency, but we have never met in person.  He called to set up a "Policy Review" and spent time with me explaining all aspects of my home and auto policies.  At the end of our conversation I knew I was in good hands :-).

My agent?  James Fitzgerald from The CapCity Agency (Allstate in Austin, Texas).

****I will begin praising people and companies each Friday on the Some Assembly Required Blog.

Praising Others Makes You Stand Out

Chris Brogan wrote on his blog about his friend Suzanne Vara. He dedicated a whole post to praising what a great person she it to hang around. I am sure Chris knows a lot of people, but the reason he gave her such a public pat on the back is because she's a person who talks positively about other people.

Seems funny that such a widely read blogger as Chris Brogan would dedicate a whole post highlighting a person who "has so many good things to share about others". But in our society this is more the exception than the rule.

Who do you know in your life who talks others up instead of talking people down? Do you praise them? I think you should. Write about them on your blog, Facebook, or Twitter. Or send them a private note telling them you admire how they find the best in others.

I left the following comment on Chris's blog post:

While I do not know Suzanne, she sounds amazing in heart and soul.

I do find it sad in our society that we must call out those people who "talk about others ceaselessly in the best sense....... It’s refreshing to hear someone have so many good things to share about others." I wish all people just did this naturally.

I once heard a psychologist (can't recall who) say "the formula for a happy marriage was five positive comments toward your spouse for every one negative comment". This goes beyond marriage, and effects all relationships. People who say negative stuff in business relationships sometimes balance their words with one positive... but negative comments sting more than good things please.... so that "always going positive thing" makes one stand out as spectacular (like your friend Suzanne Vara).

If people read this far in the comments I hope they will accept the challenge to mirror her and talk people up all the time. They will stand out from the crowd and warrant this type of tribute someday!

I find it interesting that those who are always critical of others are the same ones who question why certain individuals are successful. I wonder if you can trace the "praise others quotient" directly to success levels? I bet you can!

Have A Great Day.

thom

Good People Day

The video below is from Gary Vaynerchuk. He has declared today (April 3rd) "Good People Day". He began this in 2008.



I love this concept. I spent several Decembers doing the "Praise Others Project" (2006), the "Celebrate Passion Project" (2007) and the "Celebrate Austin Entrepreneurs Projects" (2008) on this blog, but the concept fell short with some readers. I wanted others to embrace the idea of praise on their blogs, but nobody bit on the idea.

Seems it is hard to get people excited about dedicating time to discovering and talking about what makes other people awesome. Maybe the huge audience that Gary Vee has online will cause praise to be the hottest topic online today.

Think about it. What if you went crazy today praising others. Then what if everyone else did the same thing. Imagine the good vibes that would flood the universe.

Here is what Gary said on his blog in 2008:

April 3rd 2008 is “GOOD PEOPLE DAY” Pass it on

I want to try to get the WHOLE INTERNET Community behind this mission I have to make sure that tomorrow people write and talk abd blog and twitter and just flat out SING about people that are AWESOME and GOOD. It is time that we take control of the fact that WE are the media and pump out a day tomorrow that will make NOISE across this WORLD! Please take the time tonight to gather your thoughts as you come up with ideas on how to spread the word about AWESOME people! I am looking for blog posts, twitters, powncers, facebooking, digging, flickring, stumpling on all things that are good about PEOPLE!

(Please tag all mentions online with “GPD10”)

I began making a list of all the "Good People" I know. The problem is the list was too long and I just know I would leave someone out, and thus I would offend.

But I do need to praise the heck out of my family. My wife, Sara, and my kids put up with my crazy transition to being an entrepreneur, with all the travel, long hours and sacrifice that goes with it. I am not sure they know that I am not just doing this for myself (I am loving it), but there is a greater motivation than just personal reasons. It involves them, too! I praise them for their support and for just being cool, funny and very crucial to my success.

Have A Great Day.

thom

Thanksgiving Memory

I enjoy Thanksgiving. I remember being just a lad and my mother would host some extended family for turkey and all the trimmings.

My dad was in charge of carving the bird. I did not inherit his skill, as I tend to mutilate the poor turkey each time I carve.

My grandmother would come. For grace we would all stand and take turns saying something we were thankful for in the past year. The rule was that you could be simple, detailed or even funny, but you had to have something serious for which you would share your thanks. You could not pass or make a joke for the sake of being a cut up.

Grandma, who died in the spring of my first grade year, would always go last (respect to the elder matriarch). She would list her ten children, twenty-six grandchildren (not one-by-one!) and then wrap up the circle of thanks by adding that she was thankful she was the last person in the line....as the food was getting cold!

Every year it made me laugh. Still does for some silly reason.

As we close in on this holiday of the grateful, I hope that everyone can take a moment to look to discover what has made their year just a little brighter. Even in the tough economic climate there are the things that can make our hearts smile.

I could list my things here, but it would fill the page. I am very fortunate and I know it. Thanks to everyone who has touched my life in the past, present and future.

**************************

I also have been investing a lot of thought into my annual "Praise Others Project". Each December I dedicate this blog to praising those I admire. Authors, blogger, speakers, entrepreneurs, friends, etc....

This year I am going to praise the entrepreneurial spirit that is so visible in Austin, Texas. Each day I will write about a person, company, organization or movement that has that spark that creates business. I hope it will be a fun exercise and that you will come and read the daily entries and share them with others.

Have A Great Day.

thom

Compliment Those Who Do Good Work

Everyone likes to get a compliment when they do good work.

We all get caught up in the high paced corporate work world. When those around us do their job especially well it is rare for others to take a moment and reward them with some upbeat and supportive words. Yet it only takes a few seconds to say "thank you" and it has such power!

Make it a habit to tell co-workers, vendors, bosses, friends, employees or others "Thank you for doing such a great job on this task". Such simple words will brighten the day of all who hear the praise (not just the person who receives the compliment).

An email was received today at vcfo from a long-time friend of the company and relatively new client. Her short blurb made every one's day a little brighter:

"Thank you for sending Gwen and Kimberly to review our accounting/Quickbooks process. Kimberly was able to significantly clean up our Quickbooks and make life easier for me!

I just finished our November billing and it was much quicker than last time. I even have an understanding of our security deposits that I don’t think anyone else has had here before."

These four short sentences were not only sent to Gwen and Kimberly (who always do great work!!!), but the message was sent to the CEO, Managing Director of our Austin office, and several others (including her own boss where she works). When sending praise, always make sure that you copy as many people as you can!

This person was very thoughtful to send such an email. It showed a level of class and grace that is often overlooked in a client / vendor relationship. Too many of us ignore the good work that we encounter everyday.

Praising others is an important skill in cultivating your professional network. I know first hand that a hectic schedule can make someone get too focused on themselves, and thus we can forget to say "thanks". But none of us succeed in our lives without the help of many many other souls. Take the time to recognize people for their contribution in making your world just a little bit better.

Say thank you for the big things in life, as well as the minor things -- and everything in between.

Not every customer thanks a vendor for helping them with Quickbooks. Seems like a normal enough task. After all, that is what we were hired to do! But this client's short email made an impact on everyone who was cc'd.

How about you? Whom can you praise right now?

Have A Great Day.

thom

Tell Others "Great Job!"

When you appreciate someone .... tell them.

Last night I had the honor and privilege of serving as the Master of Ceremonies for the 8th Annual Austin Business Awards. Twenty-four companies and not-for-profit organizations were honored in six categories for their unique contributions to making Austin one of the most amazing places to live and work.

I had a lot of fun. I tried to motivate the entertain the crowd, and we ended the program, not only on time, but ten minutes early. (Think about that, a major Chamber of Commerce event with 24 awards...and we were ahead of schedule!!!)

One audience member, whom I had never met, came up to me after the event and told me I did a great job. He had walked across the room with the soul purpose of telling me he enjoyed the evening! He had a genuine smile, and his words made my day.

Speaking is part of what I do for my career, but having people seek you out and tell you they appreciate your efforts, even when it is routine.... embraces your soul.

I was reminded by this man's gesture that I too should seek out those who impact my world and tell them they are doing a great job... even if it is just part of their daily grind. We are all touched by those who make our lives easier, or just make us smile.

From the bartista at Starbucks, to your co-workers, to your family --- we all should reach out our hand and say "Great Job!" The people on the other end of your complement will be transformed by your words.

Try this today. Praise others and pay the joy of life forward.

Have A Great Day.

Jason Dorsey - A Class Act!

Over the past two years of writing this blog, promoting my books, and speaking to companies, law firms and organizations around the country I have had the opportunity to meet some outstanding people. It is a true blessing to have been in contact with exciting and enthusiastic individuals from many walks of life. Through these encounters I have learned more about the business world, human nature, life and my own soul.

This week I had the honor of spending an hour with a successful author and professional speaker who lives here in Austin, Texas. Jason Dorsey has written four best-selling books and has spoken to large audiences around the world. He has met presidents, business executives, celebrities, university presidents and hundreds of thousands of young adults. All that and he is still under thirty years old!

We met for coffee and talked about the book and speaking businesses. Jason was very gracious with his time and shared his thoughts and advice freely. As I have said many times, people who are truly successful professionally, spiritually and emotionally are always willing to lend a hand to others who are reaching for success.

How about you? Do you open up your calendar to help others who are looking to learn more about your line of work? If the answer is "no"...why not?

Jason has been growing his successful business for over ten years. He is quoted in the current issue of Forbes Magazine that hits the shelves this week, talking about "Generation Y in the workplace". He is an expert in all things related to youth in both the academic and workplace environments.

I stopped at BookPeople after our meeting and purchased his newest book, "My Reality Check Bounced", and I look forward to reading it this week. Although the book is for people who are "twenty-something" (I am over 40), it still seems like a relevant book for anyone looking for more out of life.


This guy is a class act.

Have A Great Day.

thom
http://www.thomsinger.com/

Go Ahead, Make My Day

People like it when you complement their business. We spend so much time doing our jobs, that a little "hey, good job" goes a long way to make someone feel better about themselves.

I try to tell people when they do something that is impressive. A waitress who gives exceptional service gets a big tip, but one should also pull her (or better yet, her and her boss) aside and point out how her efforts made your restaurant experience phenomenal.

In our culture people are quick to criticize (either publicly or privately. And don't get me started about the anonymous world on-line where folks are down right nasty). Yet nobody feels the need to praise others.

Yesterday I got a phone call from a friend of mine. He had given my books to some co-workers, and one of them had come back and shared their appreciation for reading them, and how they were motivated by the words. My friend called me at home last night to share the comments, which were detailed as to what inspired the reader. It made my day. It erased other parts of my afternoon that had not been pleasant.

He did not have take the time to call me and share this information, but he did it anyway. His small investment in time had a big impact.

When I worked inside a major law firms (in marekting and business development), I was asked what was the biggest "difference" I found being in a firm vs. a corporate environment. My answer was that in a company there tended to be more praise when you had an accomplishment. There were more "att-a-boys". One of the attorneys told me just to pat myself on the back every time I used the parking card and the gate went up..."Attaboy!". It was a funny answer, but somehow too close to the truth.

Take the time to tell people when they are doing something right. Do not assume that they already know how you feel, or that doing a good job is just expected.

Here is your challenge. Before today is over, find someone to praise. Do it in person. Make a call. If the day is almost over, send them an email or a text message. But tell them why they are good at their job. You will be amazed....it will make their day.

Have A Great Day.

thom
www.thomsinger.com

*****Purchase Some Assembly Required and The ABC's of Networking at Amazon.com

Praise Others Project - (December 31st)

Today wraps up "The Praise Others Project". I spent all day trying to decide where to end this month long blog series. Each day in December I selected an author and blogger who I have come to know from their writing....and who has inspired me. I could not select on final person, nor do I want it to end. So I will continue from time to time and add to this series. It has no end.

It was a big project. Having to create a meaningful post everyday about someone I admire....but it was also a soul warming event.

Please look back at the blog achieves of The Some Assembly Required Blog for the month of December 2007 (or click below on the "praise others project" label). You will be amazed at the body of work that has been created by these amazing folks and hopefully discover for yourself what makes them all so amazing.

Thank you to all who appeared in this project, many of whom emailed me directly to talk about their own reasons of why they find it so important to praise others:

Steve Harper, Stephen Covey, Barbara Wallace, Charles Garfield, Darren Rowse, A.J. Jacobs, Scott Ingram, Hugh Macleod, Jill Konrath, Chris - Lisa and Anne, Jason Alba, David Bach, Jen Blackert, Harvey Mackay, Tom Kane, Malcolm Gladwell, Tom Peters, Jack Canfield, Larry Bodine, Joe Calloway, Tim Sanders, Michael Port, Seth Godin, Monica Bay, God, Rick Warren, Donny Deutsch, David Lorenzo and Jim Collins.

Have A Great Day

thom

Praise Others Project (December 30th) - Jim Collins

One of the most highly praised books of the last few years in Jim Collin's Good to Great. Jim calls himself "a student and teacher of enduring companies -- how they grow, how they attain superior performance, and how good companies can become great companies".

This book is an extensive study of companies and what characteristics are common in those that achieve and remain at the top of their industries. He compares and contrasts these companies with their competition and shows exactly what makes greatness.

Collins is a former faculty member of the Stanford University Graduate School of Business. I usually do not love books written by professors, as too often they are stale and too academic for my taste. Yet even with years of research and enough stats to sink a ship, Good to Great is hard to put down. I wanted to include him in "The Praise Others Project" because he is a wonderful writer who caused me to think - "Good is the enemy of Great!". That alone gets me out of bed in the morning.

Regardless of your industry, your company can benefit from Collins' research and observations. When I first read this book I saw the company I was working for as just "good". Sadly they had no ambition of being great, so the lessons were lost on there. Fortunately my current employer is one of Collin's "great" examples. The difference in working for a "good" company and a "great" company are very easy to spot once you know the difference.

This book should be a MUST READ for anyone who is in business. If you have not read this book, put it on the top of your stack for 2007!

Collins is an avid rock climber who makes his home in Colorado. He runs his research laboratory and consults with Fortune 500 CEOs. He seems cool.

Have A Great Day.

thom

Praise Others Pictorial

As we wrap up "The Praise Others Project" I would like to reflect on how great it was to look for those whom I admire and then highlight them each day.

The photos of these amazing authors and bloggers are as unique as the individuals. Below are are a look at some of those who we praised:

Praise Others Project (December 29th) - David Lorenzo

David Lorenzo is the author of the book, Career Intensity, and a great blog by the same name. He has impressed me with his philosophy that the hallmark of successful entrepreneurs and top executives is the drive for continuous individual improvement known as "Career Intensity". This is not a genetic trait, but rather a focused strategy.

His book and his blog provide readers the framework to develop the habits that will lead to a lifetime of career success.

Lorenzo is a business consultant and professional speaker who had a very successful career with Marriott and The Gallup Organization. He now mentors successful business executives and helps them achieve higher levels of success within their companies. Using his extensive experience he assists entrepreneurs and executives in discovering their unique path toward better results.

I have been impressed with David Lorenzo over the past year and read his blog regularly. He is living his dream and helping others. I am happy to include him in "The Praise Others Project".

Discover David Lorezno today!

Have A Great Day.

thom

Praise Others Project (December 28th) - John Moore

John Moore is the writer of The Brand Autopsy Blog and a great book, Tribal Knowledge. This guy knows marketing strategy like nobody's business! He made his mark in the marketing world by creating, championing, and implementing marketing ideas and branding ideals for Whole Foods Market and Starbucks Coffee. Today, through speaking engagements and through his Brand Autopsy Marketing Practice, John shares business and marketing advice with companies aspiring to become the next Whole Foods or Starbucks.

I have never met John (although he does live in my town of Austin, TX), but I admire him for both his knowledge and the way he writes. His blog is internationally read and widely quoted. He calls himself the "marketing medic"....which is exactly what most companies are in need of....emergency medical attention for their braning and marketing!!!

His book is an insider's view of what how Starbucks embraced marketing as they grew up to be the behemoth they are today. Readers will learn many of the endearing and enduring principles Starbucks follows, including:

• Building the Business Creates the Brand.


• Actions Speak Louder Than Advertising.


• Be Nice. Be Clean.


• The Employee Experience Matters


• Practice Passionate Followership.

I am including John Moore in "The Praise Others Project" because he not only has written some inspiring stuff, but also because he lives the dream!

Have A Great Day

thom

Praise Others Project (December 28th) - Donny Deutsch

My favorite book I read in 2006 (I read 32 books) was a surprise. It was Donny Deutsch's Often Wrong, Never In Doubt. I did not expect this guy's book to be amazing, yet his story is a real inspiration.

Before reading his book I only knew of Deutsch by reputation. I had not yet seen his CNBC TV Show, The Big Idea with Donny Deutsch (which is now one of my favorite shows on cable). Let's just say his reputation is not always positive, but it turns out this guy is pretty cool.

Deutsch made his name in the advertising business as CEO of Deutsh, Inc. He took over a small agency from his father and transformed it into an industry powerhouse, winning agency of the year from AdWeek and Advertising Age in 1998, 1999, 2000 and 2001.

What I loved most about his book was his philosophy of "Why Not Me?", which is Deutsch's motto. Regardless of the situation or opportunity, he built a multi-million dollar media business by asking him self, "Why Not Me?". If someone will achieve victory, "Why Not Me?".

Often Wrong, Never In Doubt is a great book that will make you think bigger about your possibilities. I also learned to look beyond the media reputations of celebrities and learn more about them before you develop your own opinions!

Have A Great Day.

thom

Praise Others Project (December 26th) - Rick Warren

Do you live a purpose driven life or do you just live life? Hmmmm, I think most of us would prefer to have a purpose.

Dr. Rick Warren, pastor of Southern California's Saddleback Church, is the author of the international best-selling book, A Purpose Driven Life, is passionate about attacking what he calls the five “Global Goliaths” – spiritual emptiness, egocentric leadership, extreme poverty, pandemic disease, and illiteracy/poor education.

His book is the best selling hard-cover of all time in the United States. I have heard that one in four Americans have read the book. WOW, think about that for a minute....the BEST SELLING BOOK...EVER!!!. Double WOW!.

I have read it, and I will tell you that it is a powerful read. Yes, it is a book about God...but even those who do not believe can find meaning in Dr. Warren's words.

Regardless of religion, I hope everyone would share in wanting to defeat his five "Global Goliaths". Who wouldn't want to eliminate spiritual emptiness (even an atheist wouldn't want people feeling empty inside), egocentric leadership (nobody likes our politicians to be jerks), extreme poverty (not good), pandemic disease (germs do not discriminate by your faith) and illiteracy/poor education (if we could educate more people, the world would be a better place).

After the success of his book became HUGE, he stopped taking a salary from Saddleback Church, although he continues to work harder than ever. Additionally he paid back all the money that was his salary for twenty-five years. He and his wife are reverse tithers, giving 90% of their income to charity, while living off 10%. He clearly practices what he preaches.

Rick Warren is a pastor, a global strategist, a theologian, a philanthropist, and an inspiration to millions of people around the world. If you have not read his book, I recommend it highly. I am very pleased to be able to include him in "The Praise Others Project".

As December is coming to a close...I hope you have enjoyed "The Praise Others Project", (Be sure to look back at the post each day this month. You will discover some wonderful authors and bloggers) and you are finding ways to tell those around you that you appreciate and admire them for all they do to make your world a better place.

Have A Great Day.

thom

If you are Rick Warren, CLICK HERE!

Praise Others Project (December 25th) - Merry Christmas

Today is Christmas. While not everyone celebrates the birth of Jesus, I wanted to depart from praising authors and bloggers today and instead I would like to praise The Higher Power....the great Author of everything....the big Blogger in the sky.

Regardless of your religious beliefs, today I wanted use "The Praise Others Project" to highlight whatever it is that is bigger than the individual. That force that is grander than man. Some would call this God, others might not. In any case, today is a great time to praise and respect all religious beliefs, which includes those who do not believe in religion.

What I have never understood was why people from different faiths learn to hate each other for their differences, rather than respect one another for the similarities. It appears to be human nature to grasp a hold of beliefs and arrogantly decide that others are wrong. This causes wars and makes people wildly work to do things like ban any type of religious symbols from public places. They get offended by it rather than discovering that it is really just about joy.

I once heard a comedian say say that he was an atheist...but that he was always very respectful of all persons of faith. He had friends from every religion on the planet because if he was wrong in his opinions, he wanted people on the other side who could be character witnesses at the door to heaven. I like that.

I am Catholic. My closest friend is Jewish. For over two decades we have always respected the traditions of each other's families. It is easy to do. I was raised to cherish my beliefs, but to understand that not everyone in the world shares these beliefs. As long as someone is not out to harm my faith, I want to celebrate theirs.

So on this special day for Christians, I wish you peace, joy and tranquility in your life.....regardless of your faith. Take time today to "praise others"....regardless of their religion.

Merry Christmas.

thom

Praise Others Project (December 24th) - Monica Bay

Welcome back to "The Praise Others Project". Everyday this month I am highlighting an author or blogger who has inspired me. Today I would like to introduce you to Monica Bay and The Common Scold Blog.

Monica is the editor-in-chief of Law Technology News, editorial director of Law Firm Inc. and Small Firm Business, and a rabid New York Yankees fan. Her blog is a great resource for what is happening in the legal profession, but it is also a great way to learn more about the Yankees! She travels the country to see the team play, and always has delightful stories and photos from the ball parks.

I love the story of how she named her blog:

"The Common Scold is named after a cause of action that originated in Pilgrim days, when meddlesome, argumentative, opinionated women who displeased the Puritan elders were punished by a brisk dunk in the local pond. Believe it or not, the tort lasted until 1972, when State v. Palendrano, 120 N.J. Super. 336, 293 A.2d 747 (N.J.Super.L., Jul 13, 1972) pretty much put it to rest. But the thought of those feisty women, not afraid of a little cold water, has always cheered me up and inspired me."

As the father of two daughters, I want them to grow up to be feisty women! Fortunately nowadays that wont get them dunked in the water.

Monica does a great job of regularly posting to her blog and keeps it new and fresh. On the far right side, down near the bottom she has "The Penalty Box". Here she posts press releases she gets from companies who overuse the word "solutions". It makes me chuckle, but as former marketing director, I cringe to think that one of my releases could have ended up on such a list!

Check out Monica's blog....and enjoy!

Have A Great Day.

thom

If you are Monica Bay, CLICK HERE!

Praise Others Project (December 23rd) - Seth Godin

Nobody could have a month long "Praise Others Project" highlighting business authors and bloggers without including Seth Godin. Seth is one of the most read and highly quoted bloggers. His books are best sellers. And he is considered one of the world's premier marketing thought leaders and change agents. And he inspires millions.

I have not yet read his newest book, Small Is The New Big, but I have read Permission Marketing, All Marketers are Liars, and Purple Cow (by far my favorite!). His writing style is both informative and entertaining. You do not read a Seth Godin book without learning something.

His blog is wildly successful because he looks for things that are out of the ordinary. I often discover some wonderful obscure online and offline products because of Seth. His opinions are clear, but he is rarely offensive to anyone who might disagree.

What I admire about Seth Godin, and why he is included in "The Praise Others Project" is his approachability. While I have never interacted with him, he seems to be open to having smart discussions with anyone in the world who can add his discussions. Many people who reach his level of "guruness" are no longer open to talking with random folks. From what I can tell Mr. Godin has not let his fame go to his ego.

Seth is also one of the most praised professional speakers in the business world, and was named one of 21 Speakers for The Next Century by Successful Meetings Magazine. That is cool!

He is at a level of success most authors/speakers will only dream about. He continues to find fresh, new, incredible ideas and makes them available to his audience. He is has not yet peaked (there is still more to come), and he seems like a really good person.

Have A Great Day.

thom

If you are Seth Godin, CLICK HERE!

Praise Others Project (December 22nd) - Michael Port

How would you like to Book Yourself Solid? Michael Port's book by the same name is "the fastest, easiest, and most reliable system for getting more clients than you can handle even if you hate sales and marketing". Michael bills himself as "the guy you call when you are tired of thinking small". He is an author, blogger, speaker, professional actor (yes, with real TV and movie credits!), and the founder of the "Think Big Revolution".

I ran across Book Yourself Solid and read it in two days. The book is based on Michael's strategies for getting more clients, something that should be important to everyone. It is not just random theory, but rather is a practical guide of how to advice based on Michael's own experiences.

Michael is a very giving person who helps many other aspiring authors and speakers by sharing his ideas. He hosts a free weekly teleconference ("The Think Big Revolution") on Mondays at noon (eastern time). On these calls he discusses important topics that cause the participants to think bigger and often brings in industry experts whom normally charge enormous consulting fees. For no charge they share amazing insights with Michael and his callers. Click Here to sign up for these free calls.

I admire Michael for all he has done with his career, and hope our paths cross one day. I am happy to include him in "The Praise Others Project".

Have A Great Day.

thom

If you are Michael Post, CLICK HERE!

Praise Others Project (December 21) - Tim Sanders

We are into the last third of "The Praise Others Project". Today I want to highlight author/speaker Tim Sanders.

I first met Tim in 2000 when he was the Master of Ceremonies for the KPMG High Tech Awards in Austin, Texas. He later came back to Texas and spoke for my firm at two different client appreciation events while on tour for his first book, Love Is The Killer App.

Tim is a former executive with Yahoo! and is an in-demand, dynamic speaker. All three times I saw him talk he captivated the audience. His second book, The Likeability Factor is the perfect follow up to his first...echoing his message of being a "love-cat" to excel in business.

Tim is the guru on the topic of people doing business with those they know and like. And he lives his "love-cat" ways in the way he treats everyone he encounters. He is just an all around cool guy.

He also writes a very good blog.

Have A Great Day.

thom

If you are Tim Sanders, CLICK HERE!