Cool Things My Friends Do (Week #103) - Rob Hill at the Vatican

Each week on this blog I enjoy highlighting some of the cool things my friends do in their personal and professional lives.

This week Pope Francis lead the ceremony at the Vatican that canonized Popes John XXIII and Pope John Paul II. This was a historic event, having two former Popes declared saints at the same time, as well as it was the first time a reigning Pope and retired Pope (Benedict XVI) celebrated a mass together.

My friend, Rob Hill, flew from Texas to Italy to attend this historic

event. Rob is a "dynamic Catholic", and wanted to be present at the Vatican for this once in a life time opportunity. His trip was quite an adventure, but he had a great experience (I read about his travels on Facebook, as he has not yet returned to Austin. I look forward to buying him lunch and getting to hear more of the details).

Rob began studying the Italian language 6 months ago in preparation for his adventure. The cool part is that he had planned to travel alone, but ended up connecting with a group students from the University of Dallas (who were participating in a semester abroad outside of Rome). They adopted him into their group, and one of them was the niece of a guy from his church in Austin (Random- the world is very small sometimes!!!).

These kids were informed on how the crowds would be handled, and the best places to wait in line to get into St. Peter's. They darted to the barricades to position themselves and then were corralled like sheep down the long via della Conciliazione. The students got separated from him but Rob was among the last 100 people to get into St. Peter's square.

Next he befriended two local Italians (thanks to his ability to speak the language).  They knew what to do and suddenly he was 300 meters from the alter. After 14 hours on his feet (much of it in the rain), he actually got a seat for one of the most historic events of our time. Cool.

I am excited to include Rob's story as week #103 of "Cool Things My Friends Do".

Have A Great Day

thom singer

The ABC's of Legal Marketing - U is for Unique

Have you ever seen very young children play soccer?  Someone kicks the ball to the left, and everyone runs left.  The ball goes right, the crowd follows.  There is little strategy and lots of running back and forth.  This is the perfect analogy for how most law firms market.  If one firm advertises, sponsors an event, or takes another marketing action, their local competitors are sure to follow.

This is how magazines make a lot of money on their regional "Best Lawyers" issues.  Most firms assume they must buy a full page ad congratulating their own attorneys since their competitors are going to be represented in the publication.  This may or many not be a good idea (probably not), but it does not stop firms from spending thousands of dollars.  They are chasing the soccer ball with the wild abandon of a kid on a field.

I enjoy the story about southern law firm in the 1990s that featured the managing partner's bulldog in their local advertising.  Within a year dozens of other firms in their region had dogs and other pets prominently displayed in their advertising.  Really?  What was the purpose of being a copy cat? (yes, some used their cats).  Does this type of planned sameness make you stand out?

Being unique is what gets you remembered.  If you look like every other law firm there is no reason for people to call you.  Go to the websites of your competitors and look at the pictures on their homepage.  Almost all of them will have photos of their local skyline, their state capitol building, or the scales of justice. That is what most law firms select for their image.  I mentioned this at a bar association meeting where I was the speaker, and one lawyer came up laughing as his firm displayed all three of those images.

My advice is to review what other firms are doing with their marketing, and then do something different.  To copy others in your marketing means you are a commodity.  Commodities are not exciting, have to sell on price, and lose business to others regularly.  Does this describe your firm?

Stepping out and being unique is scary for everyone, but apparently more of a stretch for law firms.  While you must abide by your state's bar association advertising rules, you should not care what your competitors will think of your unique position in the marketplace.  In fact, you can rest assured if you get any attention at all for your efforts that many other firms will follow you down the path.  This means you will only be unique for a short time, and then you need to be ready to change again.

Do not leave your marketing strategies to chance.  Hire a professional marketer to help you brainstorm ideas.  As an attorney you are an expert in your legal practice, you are most likely not trained at marketing.  Do not assume attaining a JD means you can effectively promote your business.  Marketing is a learned skill, and if you embrace working with consultants who can assist you then you will create a campaign that will allow you to stand out from all the other lawyers in your area.


Thom Singer is experienced in legal marketing and business development.  He regularly speaks at law firm retreats inspiring attorneys to embrace their brand and increase their sales.  He also teaches lawyers ways to improve their presentation skills as the firm's secret weapon for business development success.  More information at www.ThomSinger.com.

Cool Things My Friends Do (Week #102) - Eve Richter Losses Nearly 150 Pounds

Each week on this blog I enjoy highlighting some of the cool things my friends do in their personal and professional lives.

My friend Eve Richter has lost 148 pounds. That is cool. 

Eve's weight loss journey began as she was leaving her old job and was under a lot of stress.  She could not eat or sleep. At that time she weighed 368 pounds.

Once her appetite returned, she decided to consciously eat less food.  She basically ate about half of anything in front of her. This meant she lost more weight. 

A year later a women's boxing gym, Pink Gloves Boxing, re-opened.  Her friend Brenda Porta was leading the charge, and Eve, who had tried boxing before, was psyched they were starting up again. So she started with that, just 2 days a week. It was hard. Because of her size she had to modify a lot of things, but she enjoyed it more than any other activity she had done -which meant she would stick with it. It was such a supportive group of women, and she was happy to have them in her life.  There was no embarrassment with her body or limitations. She steadily lost more weight and got stronger.

By summer Eve joined a summer intensive boxing class, which was 4 days a week at an hour and a half instead of an hour. Next she got some TV coverage, and it was fun to show the fat girl getting in shape, keeping up with this challenging workout.

When the summer intensive ended, she knew twice a week was no longer enough of a work out. She joined Gold's Gym and started working with a trainer. At that point, nutrition became an issue. It turned out she wasn't eating enough to support her active lifestyle. The trainers helped her learn to eat right.  (It was pretty surreal to be told she needed to work out less, eat more, and eat more fat. Insane!)

These days she is trying lots of new things.  Her activities now include boxing, working with a trainer, strength training, sports cardio and core classes at the gym, and this week she just started running.  Soon she begins an aerial classes (trapeze and lyra), and is super excited about it!  Her future also included fun things like hang gliding and fun runs.

Eve has lost almost 150 pounds since January of 2013. She is now

more concerned with her health and fitness instead of what the scale says.  The proudest moment of the journey was being written up in Austin Fit Magazine   She said "Me! In Austin Fit Magazine! Wow! I love that people find my story inspirational, and use it to make positive changes in their own lives".

Most importantly, Eve wants people to know that it doesn't take crazy diets or fad activities or surgery to get in shape - even when you have hundreds of pounds to lose. She has not given up ANYTHING that she didn't want to give up (She did stop eating fast food many years ago, and mostly avoids highly processed foods and junk food). If she craves something, she eats it. She NEVER goes hungry. Conversely, if she is  not hungry, she does not have to eat (but does try and get in the right number of calories, protein and carbs daily). She does not do low-carb or cut out "fun" foods. She still drinks beer, eats chocolate, and anything else she wants.  It is about balancing her foods.

Eve says she will not continue to workout 10-12 hours a week forever. That is what she does now.  She foresees settling into a routine that will include other activities as well. But now she is having fun and enjoys it when friends come up and say "WOW - you look great!".  She says "It never gets old". 

Congrats to Eve Richter. She is an inspiration to everyone.  I am proud to have her as week #102 of "Cool Things My Friends Do".

Have A Great Day

thom singer

Cool Things My Friends Do (Week #101) - Vision to Reality by Honoree Corder

Each week on this blog I enjoy highlighting some of the cool things my friends do in their personal and professional lives.


My friend Honorée Corder has released a new book.  She is the creator of the phenomenal STMA (Short Term Massive Action) Coaching Program, and in this book she shares the principles and tools she's studied, coached, and lived for more than 20 years.  

Vision to Reality™ will teach you how to increase your efficiency and effectiveness, overcome challenges, increase your productivity, live with passion and purpose, and turn your wildest visions into your true reality. 

Not merely a collection of good ideas, this book spells out the steps used by successful men and women to transform their daily actions into the life of their dreams. With daily practical application, Honorée’s formula for success will transform your business and life beyond your wildest dreams!

I have known Honorée for several years, and she is an inspiration to those she meets.  She works hard, is always seeking new business ideas, and goes out of her way to promote others.  This is the second time I have included her in the "Cool Things My Friends Do" posts.

Join me in saying "Cheers" to Honorée for her newest publication.

Have A Great Day

thom singer

5 Reasons To Hire A Master of Ceremonies

A friend, who is the CEO of a tech firm, asked me why his company should hire a professional Master of Ceremonies to host their "Users Conference" instead of having the VP of Marketing (who has a "great personality") serve in this role.  They have had varied levels of success by having their own people run the show, but he liked the idea that his employees did not cost him any additional fees.

Yes, he was thinking of hiring me to weave the "Conference Catalyst" program into the role as EmCee -- but my answer had nothing to do with if I was chosen for this conference.  Having an MC is a smart move.  The company is investing a lot of time and money in the conference, and the "face of the conference" is not a place to cut costs. I have found that events that have "just anyone" serve in this role often come up short on maximizing "conference attendee experience".

Five Reasons for A Professional EmCee

1.  Experience Matters.  Seasoned event professionals hire a Master of Ceremonies for the same reason that experienced keynote speakers are selected (I did not say "professional speaker", as there are many great speakers who do not charge a fee.  But speakers who have not delivered a minimum of 25 keynote level presentations -or more - could fail to achieve the desired result of content and charisma).

Being the MC involves a different set of skills from giving a speech, and thus having someone who has a great personality and some presentation experience does not guarantee they can oversee the energy, flow and transitions of your show.  A good MC will set the tone for the whole event.

2.  Conflicting Responsibilities.  The VP of Sales and Marketing (or other team member) has many responsibilities at the company's customer conference.  They need to always be "on" for clients, and have to be able to make time for any variety of conversations.  The MC role is both time consuming and emotionally intense.  Thinking that a senior level employee can juggle all that they need to do at a conference while also being the on-stage host means that their efforts will not be 100% effective.

3.  A Fresh Perspective.  Company or association events are often overrun with "insiders" about whom audience members already have pre-set opinions.  Reputations and past interactions (positive and negative) can cloud the way an audience views your Master of Ceremonies.  This is not necessarily a bad thing, but it takes a way the fresh edge that a professional MC can bring to the event.

4.  The Event is NOT a Commercial.  Smart organizations resist the temptation to make the focus of their event about the company that is planning the conference.  When your MC is from the executive team, or board of directors, you are indirectly placing the spotlight on the company.  When you have an outside MC it will move the attention to the audience experience.

5.  Keeping On Schedule.  The most important thing the MC can do is ensure the event runs on time and has the right energy and "vibe".  Too many speakers (especially those who are not professionals) have little regard to the importance of timing.  An experienced MC knows how to set expectations of the allotted schedule for all speakers, and can politely "give them the hook" should they go long.

Have A Great Day

thom singer

Thom Singer is known as "The Conference Catalyst". He works with meeting planners and conference organizers to set the tone for a meeting. His presentations educate, inspire and motivate attendees to engage deeper in the event and make meaningful connections. http://www.conferencecatalyst.com 

Cool Things My Friends Do (Week #100) - Stormi Boyd Joins Red Velvet Events

Each week on this blog I enjoy highlighting some of the cool things my friends do in their personal and professional lives.

It is always cool when two people I know and respect join forces and work together.  The combination of "amazing" plus "amazing" always equals more than the sum of the parts.

This week my friend Stromi Boyd joined the team at Red Velvet Events  (founded and run by another friend, Cindy Lo).  Stormi has a long resume as a meeting professional, and joins RVE as the director of professional services.  In this role Boyd will oversee a team of seasoned meeting planners and event producers. She will also be in charge of the management of Red Velvet Events' larger productions worldwide.

Stormi and I first met on a plane headed toward the PCMA (Professional Convention Management Association) annual Convene Conference in San Diego in 2012 (where I was speaking). While we had known each other via social media (and had many mutual friends) we never met until we were traveling to an out of town event. Since that time I have come to know her as a great leader in our local meetings industry community.

The best is yet to come now that these powerhouses have come together!!!

Have A Great Day

thom singer

Celebrating Five Years as a Solo-preneur - Thank You

April 1, 2014 marks five years that I have been in business for myself (full-time), and I am honored to work for wonderful clients as a speaker, trainer and consultant. 

Thank you for being part of this journey. If you are reading my blog you may have seen me speak, read one of my books, or you are a personal / professional friend. However our paths have crossed, I am aware that none of this could have happened without you.

The new year brings exciting changes. Several opportunities have appeared that will allow me to offer high quality training and consulting products for my clients that included programs on leadership, sales, negotiations and creating better teams. I am also continuing to expand "The Conference Catalyst" program (serving business and association events as a keynote speaker or EmCee).

I am excited for the future and appreciate YOU for being part of this adventure.

Have A Great Day

thom singer

Limit Your Local Cliques At National Meetings

The national conference of an industry association is a great place to gain knowledge, learn best practices, and network with peers from around the country (or around the world).  Most people proclaim their best ROI at live events is directly related to the people they meet.  While the keynote speakers and they educational sessions are fantastic, most people find the real power in live events comes from the other attendees.  

The serendipitous "Hallway Conversations" that occur when we converse with fascinating people (often who are from other parts of the globe) are hard to plan for in advance, but when they happen we realize they are the reason we came to the event.

Yet too many people undermine their own chances to connect by hanging around with co-workers and other friends from their home cities.  It is not uncommon at large association gatherings for local chapters to have their own private happy hours or all sit together at luncheons.  

Why would I want to fly to New York to spend two days connected at the hip with my friends from Austin (who I see every month at our chapter meetings)?  Especially if being with them is limiting my opportunities to discover the maximum value from being present at the conference?

Am I saying you should ignore your friends or be rude?  Of course not.  But think about what happens at a luncheon if you all sit together -- You meet nobody new.  But if ten of you sit at ten different tables, then combined you meet 90 other people.  What are the odds that one of those 90 will be AMAZING?  (My guess is most of them will be!!!).

If you are attending a large destination event with several others from your hometown, together you can make the conference more successful by working together and separately.  Have your private happy hour in your home city two weeks before traveling to the meeting.  At this happy hour have each person take a minute to share with the group what they hope to accomplish at the national conference.  Then get agreement for all to be on the lookout to help others maximize the event.  

Hanging around together will limit the value you can encounter. Working for each other while meeting new people at the event will give everyone a shot at more success.  If you must see each other, plan to get together at non-convention times.  A late night drink in the hotel bar or an early morning walk is a great way to spend time with your friends. 

If you are on the shy or introverted side, then it is okay have one "networking buddy" whom you attend sessions together. But do not be clingy.  It is okay to sit at the same table, but leave a few seats between you so both can engage in conversations with people from other cities.

The next time you attend a national event, break the trend of needing to always be with your hometown friends.  Challenge everyone in your chapter to get out and be ambassadors for your chapter, city or region.  You may be surprised how this will impact your experience.  When everyone is out talking up your area the other attendees will notice.  If you all sit together everyone will notice you as a clique.

The people you meet at conferences can open up a whole new world of contacts.  A top reason that people claim to attend association events is for the "networking opportunities", and then they stink at making any connections because they are engulfed by those they already know and see regularly at home.  Get over the need to fly over several states to visit with your neighbors.   

5 Tips for Chapter Delegates at Large National Association Events

1.  Do not stand or sit together at every breakout, meal, happy hour, etc...  Go forth and meet new people. 

2.  Have a local meeting of those who will be present at the national event a few weeks before the conference.  Share what each person in your delegation is hoping to accomplish (what they want to learn, who they want to meet, etc..), and then everyone become the extra eyes and ears.

3.  Introduce the cool people you meet on site to others from your hometown.  You never know when you might the the catalyst for a fantastic connection.

4.  If you think your group is getting cliquey, encourage people to branch out and / or invite outsiders to join you.

5.  Have a chapter meeting within a month after the event where those who attended share with the information with whole membership.

Have A Great Day

thom singer

Thom Singer is known as "The Conference Catalyst". He works with meeting planners and conference organizers to set the tone for a meeting. His presentations educate, inspire and motivate attendees to engage deeper in the event and make meaningful connections.  http://www.conferencecatalyst.com 

www.ConferenceCatalyst.com

Cool Things My Friends Do (Week #99) - Michael O'Neal's Solopreneur Hour Podcast Tops 100,000 Downloads in a Month

Each week on this blog I enjoy highlighting some of the cool things my friends do in their personal and professional lives.

It was only four weeks ago that I highlighted Michael O'Neal and the Solopreneur Hour Podcast here on Cool Things My Friends Do.

While I have mentioned people more than once over the past two years (this is week #99), repeats do not usually happen so quickly.  However, this is cool...... Michael's podcast hit a major milestone this week (in the world of podcasts):  The Solopreneur Hour received over 100,000 downloads in the month of March (and the month is not over).


That is cool.

I do not know much about podcasting, but I do listen to several shows, including The Solopreneur Hour.  I know from many of the things I do in my own business that finding an audience is difficult.  I get excited if 1000 people read a blog post.  100,000 people doing anything is a huge accomplishment, and Michael only launched this podcast in August 2013.

If you work for yourself, want to work for yourself, or if you are interested in podcasting you should spend some time listening to this great show.  Once a listener you will be hooked.  You will discover that Michael has a lot of knowledge.  He and his weekly guests (that the calls "co-hosts") discuss a plethora of topics relevant for solopreneurs.  They are a bit hyper focused on podcasters.... as that is Michael's world.  (Much like I talk write about professional speakers often, as those are the people I hang out with!)

Congratulations to Michael O'Neal and The Solopreneur Hour on this milestone.  Now, he needs to get to a million downloads a month!!!   

****FYI, this is week #99 of "Cool Things My Friend Do".  It has been a very cool adventure highlighting others, and has changed me for the better.  What cool things do your friends do?  Tell the world.

Have A Great Day

thom singer

Cool Things My Friends Do (week #98) - Jax and K8 Take On The World

Each week on this blog I enjoy highlighting some of the cool things my friends do in their personal and professional lives.

This week's Cool Things My Friends Do blog post highlights both my kids.  Each of them had a very cool experience on Friday that is worthy of the week #98 spot of "Cool Things":

Jax and the LBJ High School Tennis Team took 2nd Place in the Del Valle Tennis Tournament.  She and her mixed doubles partner played well and came in 3rd overall and got trophies.  She loves playing tennis and is very dedicated to being part of her school's team.  I am always impressed with her enthusiasm for the sport as I was never much of an athlete.

K8 had the chance to attend the LeAnne Rimes concert with a friend and even got to meet Ms. Rimes.  They were so excited I heard they did not go to sleep until nearly 2:00 AM as they recounted the great experience.  (I especially love the photo with the random lady trying to get a selfie with LeAnn while she poses with the kids).

I am pretty sure my children are having better childhood experiences than I had growing up (and my early days were really good).  I hope they realize the cool things they are doing and appreciate their journeys.  It is fun to watch them both go out and explore the world.

Have A Great Day

thom singer

6 Tips For First Timers Receptions

"First Timer Receptions" at most conferences come up short of amazing.  The true purpose of hosting a special gathering of first year attendees is often forgotten behind the selection of finger-foods and the placement of the bar.  In the end these parties are usually not usually exciting for anyone.

Opportunities to impact the conference attendee experience are usually found in the simplest places.  Those of us in the meetings industry are often seeking ways to reinvent conferences with alternative meeting formats (which can be great), with the hope of delivering something unique and memorable.  Sometimes the shaking up of our existing formats can be done with ease and still create that "wow factor" we seek.

Several associations have recently asked me about how they can breathe new life into their "First Timer's Reception".  This has lead to some of the most fun conversations I have ever had in this business. It is fun to chat with organizers who are excited to try new things.

When people have a positive experience at an event they often look for reasons to come back year-over-year.  They also tell their friends and encourage them to attend.  Getting people excited in year one has a lasting impact.  You do not get a second chance to make a first impression.

It is more complicated than ever to spur human-to-human engagement at live events (they are often focused away from the event via mobile technology) and this leaves first timers out in the cold.  Those who have long-term contacts at an event tend to look up from their phones only long enough to socialize with those they already know.  Cliques are a problem in most organizations, and they are the elephant in the room.  But when all we can do is throw together newcomers without a plan we are creating new cliques for next year.

Brainstorming ideas with your team and vendors is paramount to finding the best options for your event.  Vendors, sponsors, and speakers see dozens of events a year (if not hundreds), and can help identify new concepts that can be used in your own agenda.

Each event is different, so there is no simple formula, but below are seven ideas that may spark some discussion for your next conference:

6 Ideas for the "First Timers Reception"

1.  It is not just for "First Timers".  There is no reason your reception has to only include the newcomers.  When it is positioned for the "First Timers Only" it can give off the vibe of being the "Kids Table" at a family Thanksgiving.  By stating that 1st year attendees need a special place to network, it can create false walls within your community.  Make the new attendees the stars of the show and invite and engage the more well known members of the conference society to participate.  This will undercut the vibe of a hierarchy.  If your VIP's behave in away that says "this is important", it will be amazing.  If they blow it off to go to the bar with their clique, everyone will know it.

2. Have a speaker. Do not just have anyone address this group.  Often a senior staff member or a board member does an "Info 101" session, and rarely are these talks interesting.  Instead, get a speaker for the event that can set the tone for the whole conference.  Yes, this may cost some money, but "First Timers" are your future, and worth the investment.   Another idea is to ask your morning keynote speaker to do an special talk at this event the night before their speech.  It should be different from their keynote (but most speakers have several talks).  When this is done right it will set up what is to come in the main event and build excitement.  Many people enjoy meeting the speakers, and having a smaller intimate party where that is possible will have positive impact.  Many speakers will happily add on another talk for little or no additional fee.  If your keynoter is not an option, get one of your breakout speakers to be the featured presenter.

3.  Host a "Human Library".  This idea is becoming a popular alternative style session at events.  The idea is that industry experts volunteer to be "checked out" for 15-30 minutes for short conversations. The attendees sign up for these live chats that can be one-to-one or small groups (do not let people sign up in advance, as on-site will encourage an on-time arrival and keep anyone from having priority). By putting this into the "First Timer's Reception" it creates a special perk for the newcomers, as they get to ask question of the most experienced and influential people in the organization or industry.  

4.  Provide high-quality and useful gift.  Shirts with the conference logo for the first timers sends a message that they are special.  People appreciate nice things, but hate the cheap stuff.  Be sure if you have a gift that it is not crap.  Get a nice Polo shirt or other item that people would want to wear or use after the event.  You can even have the people sign up in advance for their size and give them an "opt-out" option so you are not wasting an expensive gift on those who are not interested.

5.  Make it an experience.  There is no rule that says the "First Timers Reception" has to be in the hotel ballroom or other free conference space.  Take them off-site to a local venue that will add to their experience.  It does not even have to be a reception.  Indoor sky-diving or GoCart racing will be something everyone will always remember. Many organizers cringe at the thought of anything that is not done on the cheap, but if that is your motivation your results will be a direct reflection.

6.  Do not host a reception and then forget the First Timers exist.  To make the inaugural experience at your conference really special there is more to it than a party.  Highlight and honor these new attendees all throughout your event.  Make it clear to the whole group that those who are new are the future of the organization and the paramount to the success of the conference.

Have A Great Day

thom singer

Thom Singer is known as "The Conference Catalyst". He works with meeting planners and conference organizers to set the tone for a meeting. His presentations educate, inspire and motivate attendees to engage deeper in the event and make meaningful connections. http://www.conferencecatalyst.com 

The ABC's of Legal Marketing - S is for Simple

To effectively grow your practice it is not necessary to be over the top with your marketing and advertising. Too often attorneys believe that they must do amazing campaigns that include a large investment of time and money to be successful at branding, and thus to do little or nothing to promote themselves.  

It is naive to assume that doing good work is enough to attract future clients.  Most of your competition does good work, as that is the ticket to entry in the business community.  If you want to attract opportunities you have to be known, but this is easier than you might think.

Never underestimate the power being interested in others.  Being engaged in your community and choosing to pay attention to the people around you will make them feel important. When they feel important (and respected) they will appreciate you.   It might sound easy, but it is rare that anyone is made to feel significant these days.

The difficult part is that when we get busy, many times we want to shut out the rest of the world to get stuff done.  This creates a disconnect, and can undermine your efforts.  To market your business you must choose people all the time.  

Make a commitment to being more present with those around you and you will discover better results.  It is simple, but cannot be done without effort.

Have A Great Day.

thom singer

Fitness Bootcamp for Lent

Those who have read my blog for a long time know that I get serious about a commitment for Lent each year.  I try to give up something difficult and this requires that I find unusual discipline to succeed. 

In 2011 I went Vegan.  This remains my hardest Lent adventure (until this year).  I even wrote a separate blog about the experience, 40 Days Vegan, which continued with a part-time "Vegan Leaning" lifestyle for several months after Lent ended.

2012 came with my giving up all alcohol.   This was only hard as SXSW, my wedding anniversary, and St. Partick's day all fell during Lent, but I survived with ease.

Processed sugar was my target in 2013.  This one was hard because they sneak it into everything (Catsup, etc..).... so while I was not always as successful as I hoped, I did manage a fairly successful Lent sacrifice.

This year I decided to go a different direction.  Instead of giving up something, I added something difficult that will require sacrifice, dedication and an unparalleled commitment.  I joined an early morning fitness bootcamp program.  The 7:00 AM class takes place near downtown three days a week, and if I am not traveling, I am present with the trainer, who is working me harder than anything I have ever experienced.

Two weeks into Lent (I admit it - I started a few days late because of SXSW) I am doubting the logic behind this choice, but there are moments when I am enjoying this festival of pain.  I am sore, exhausted, and feeling the burn in muscles that have never been worked ever.... but I will be back out there next time.

Ryan Nail is the owner of Corefit Training in Austin.  He has been holding these morning workouts for seven years, and he has a great combination of compassion and Drill Sargent. He works each person in the class based on their level of fitness and experience, but he requires each person to give 100% for the hour they are in his charge.

While I have never been much of an athlete, I feel improvement in just a few sessions.  

Along with my commitment to the workouts is also the dedication to making better food choices.  I have been using the My Fitness Pal app on my iPhone since January and tracking all my food and drink choices.  It has become like a game to not go over the calorie recommendations, while still eating healthy.  Turns out the sweets and other crap we snack on are all wasted calories.  The combination of  selecting the right foods and exercising (which started before the bootcamp) is already showing in my belt.  

I look forward to completing my 2 months in the fitness bootcamp for Lent.  Heck, I might even stay involved longer.  

If you live in Austin, TX.... and want to know more about Corefit... check out Ryan's website http://traincorefit.com/

Have A Great Day

thom singer

What Do You Know About Me?

A friend who interviews prospective job applicants has an interesting first question when he meets a candidate:  

"What do you know about me?"  

Some in his company find this to be an "unfair" inquiry, but in today's Social Media Crazy World there is no reason someone should not be easily able to provide a good response.

Each person who is brought in for interviews at my friend's company receives a list of the executives they will meet a week in advance, but most have no clue how to answer this question.  His bio is on the firm's website and he has a robust LinkedIn profile, yet few candidates have ever looked him up before their face-to-face meeting. 

When going to a meeting of any kind, be prepared.  This is not just good advice for job seekers, but also for sales people (and others).  Before you meet with someone new, are you looking them up?  Why or why not?

In advance of any meeting it is useful to read the other person's LinkedIn profile.  While many people do not have meaningful information on their profiles (and some do not even have a LinkedIn profile), there are times when the discovery of a mutual connection or knowing career information (where they went to college, business affiliations, etc...) will fast-forward your conversation and relationship.

Take a look at my LinkedIn profile.... what did you learn about me?  Why would that matter if we were going to have a meeting?

Have A Great Day

thom singer

Cool Things My Friends Do: Feathr Wins the "Move My Start-Up to Austin Contest"

Each week on this blog I enjoy highlighting some of the cool things my friends do in their personal and professional lives.

I met Aidan Augustin at the 2014 South by Southwest Interactive Conference in Austin, TX.  Aidan is the co-founder of Feathr, an event management app (company) that is helping to make the human-to-human connections at conferences better.  

When we met he had just won the Capital Factory's 2nd annual "Move Your Start-up to Austin Contest", and he and his team are currently making plans to relocate from Florida to Texas.

As a keynote speaker and "The Conference Catalyst" it gets me excited when anything is introduced that is designed to improve the ROI of live events.  While I have not yet seen the details of what Feathr provides, I am looking to spending time with my new friend (and learning about the technology they provide) when he gets to Austin. 

Capital Factory is a great place for Aidan to bring his young company.  Josh Baer and the team at Capital Factory have created a unique environment for start-up entrepreneurs to learn, grown and thrive.  I think it is cool that they won this contest, with over $100,000 in cash and prizes that allows the employees at Feathr to come to Austin and become part of our dynamic business scene.

(This is week #97 of "Cool Things My Friends Do")

Have A Great Day

thom singer

Cool Things My Friends Do - Richard MacKinnon and BorgFest

Each week on this blog I enjoy highlighting some of the cool things my friends do in their personal and professional lives.

Do you believe that humans will augment our bodies with technology?  Is resistance futile?  Will we be assimilated? 

My friend Richard MacKinnon is the organizer of a new startup festival, BorgFest, in Austin scheduled for October 2014. It's a cyborg festival and expo for human augmentation, enhancement, body modification, and wearable tech. 

In order to make this event special, Richard will focus on the culture and identity aspects of human bodies changed by technological intervention. As we all get older, more and more of our bodies will be replaced or augmented and we will end up drawing attention to ourselves in not always positive ways. 

How is the human body is changing, as well as our identities?  What does it means to be human?

Borgfest will bring together people whose bodies and identities have changed (from accidents, war injuries, medical issues, etc...), their families, service providers, vendors, product companies, researchers, and startups that are disrupting the medical device industry with 3D printers and other rapid prototyping and iterating technologies.

Here's the vision statement from his website:  http://borgfest.com

How can you help today? There is something that you can do RIGHT NOW...and I mean NOW (Until March 15, 2014).  Richards needs your vote in the WINSXSW Contest sponsored by VentureBeat and BuzzStarter. 

If he wins he will receive cash and recognition. This will be helpful in putting together the sponsor pitches needed to fund and scope the festival. The bigger the budget, the more people will can include in the first year! So here's the link to vote with your Twitter account:

http://winsxsw.buzzstarter.com/Phase1/borg-fest

I look forward to seeing BorgFest come together.  Congrats to Richard on this cool project ("Cool Things My Friends Do" week #96).

Have A Great Day.

thom singer

The ABC's of Legal Marketing - T is for Tenacity

Lawyers are tenacious when it comes to their work. The definitions of tenacity include; holding fast, highly retentive, and persistent. When trying a case or pouring over documents attorneys have high level of commitment to doing whatever it takes to complete the task.  However, when it comes to marketing, branding, networking and business development many are not focused and give up easily when they do not see immediate results.

To build a successful practice you must be committed to the long term efforts it takes to raise your visibility in your business community.  People do business with those they know, like, and trust... but if you are not participating with the key people who can hire you or refer business, then they are working with other lawyers.  

To be tenacious in your marketing efforts you must understand and honor the importance these activities have to your future success.  If you continue to believe "doing good work" is enough to build a practice then you will find yourself frustrated with the ups and downs of your career, as when you get busy you will forgo the marketing work (while justifying your time spent on billable activities).  The most successful lawyers realize that there is more to business than billable hours.

Create a plan and identify the activities that will impact to your success, and then do not let anything get in your way.  Developing new business is complicated. Many people think networking is just going to "after-hours" events, drinking some beers and waiting for the referrals to role in.  Others think marketing is about website and logo design.  This is why so many lawyers give up on the whole process. When they do not see fast results they trash the whole concept.

To experience marketing success means that you have to be tenacious. Many people you meet can be great connections for you, however it takes a long time to build meaningful relationships. Stick with it. You cannot reach the top by quitting half way up the mountain!

Be tenacious.

Have A Great Day

thom singer

Thom Singer is experienced in legal marketing and business development.  He regularly speaks at law firm retreats inspiring attorneys to embrace their brand and increase their sales.  He also teaches lawyers ways to improve their presentation skills as the firm's secret weapon for business development success.  More information at www.ThomSinger.com.

Please join the LEGAL MARKETING SOCIETY on Facebook  https://www.facebook.com/LegalMarketingSociety

Thank You For Your Support!!!

The Singer Family would like to say "Thank You" to everyone who supported our 7th Annual February Fundraiser for the "Kate Singer Endowment for Cranio-Facial Research" at the Dell Children's Medical Center.

As you may know, Kate (now age 12 and FABULOUS) was born with a medical condition that caused the bones in her skull to prematurely fuse.  She underwent major surgery at age 6-months, and today is doing great.  

Our family donates a portion of the fees I earn as a professional speaker to a research endowment we created at both our local Children's Hospital in Austin and Rady Children's Hospital in San Diego (where Kate had her surgery).  

Each February we invite our friends, family and others to donate to the cause.  Over the years the two endowments have grown to about $40,000 (and we are not going to stop!).

Our efforts at fundraising last month topped $2200. Donations from $10 and up all came together and added up to this meaningful amount.  (It is not too late to donate... CLICK HERE).

Thank you to all who supported the cause in 2014.

Have A Great Day.

thom singer

Cool Things My Friends Do: Michael O'Neal - The Solopreneur Hour

Each Friday on this blog I enjoy highlighting some of the cool things my friends do in their personal and professional lives.

On airplanes I listen to podcasts.  Since I am on airplanes often (nearly 40 trips last year), I take part of each trip and listen and learn from some very interesting people.  Late last year I stumbled upon The Solopreneur Hour Podcast, hosted by Michael O'Neal.  

While I have never met Michael in person (he may come to Austin for SXSW next week, and thus we will hang out at some point), after about 30+ episodes of The Solopreneur Hour, I have come to think of Michael as a virtual friend.  We have exchanged emails, and I have begun to participate in his SoloLab coaching group.  He has a genuine conversational style with his co-hosts each week, and since I am coming up on five years as a "Solopreneur" he discusses topics I care about (I am living on a daily basis).

Michael's tag line for his podcast is "Job Security for the Unemployable" and he has both smart ideas and an is an enthusiastic cheer leader for those who are following the sometimes lonely path of self-careering.  He has created a fast growing brand, and is making a difference for those around him.  I have not done much in the internet marketing arena, but I am becoming better educated about online brand promotion from Michael and his guest hosts.

His personal story is interesting, and he openly talks about the ups and downs of his personal and professional life.  After a series of changes that impacted all aspects of his life, he re-started four years ago.  From his home in San Diego he has started something that is worth watching for the future.  With so many people fed up with the corporate game, being a solopreneur is a real option.  

I am looking forward to seeing Michael and his podcast grow like crazy (maybe someday he will interview me!!!). Log onto the iTunes store and search for Solopreneur Hour... you will be glad you did.  I am happy to have him as week #95 of "Cool Things My Friends Do".

Have A Great Day

thom singer

Innovation Lessons for the Meetings Industry

The March 2014  Fast Company Magazine is the annual issue that lists "The World's 50 Most Innovative Companies".  I like Fast Company and the way they cover the speed of business - - - their magazine is an inspiration no matter what industry you work (it is not just for those in tech start-ups).

The opening letter from the editor covered "12 Innovation Lessons for 2014".  As I read Robert Safian's piece, I realized that his message was indirectly screaming to the events and meetings industry (NOTE: Austin's iconic super event, South by Southwest, was number 12 on the list of the 50 Most Innovative Companies). 

Ten of his twelve were direct suggestions that event professionals (#eventprofs) should consider in planning their next conference, seminar, meeting, convention or other gathering (#10 spoke to "Made in China, and #11 spoke to how Apple is the big winner in Apps -- and while one could stretch these connections, I did not include them in my post as there was not a clear tie).

Here is the link to Safian's opening letter.  Below is my interpretation for event organizers.

10 Innovation Lessons (Morphed from Fast Company 
Magazine) for Meetings and Events
by Thom Singer

1.  Exceptional is Expected. People are tired of the cookie-cutter conference with the same industry speakers.  If you are not engaging people with both cutting edge education and an interactive experience they may not come back year over year.   This means finding presentations that are more than "Sage from the Stage" experts.  Event attendees want to be challenged and to think differently (and take actions).  Filling speaking spots with anyone who can cover a topic will not create anything unique.  People are looking to learn in ways beyond the lecture, but not every speaker is experienced enough to deliver the goods that audience wants to experience.

2.  Innovation is Episodic.  Not everything you do at your event will be amazing.  But if you are not  introducing new elements or ideas each year then you will quickly become stale.  Some of the unique content and experiences you provide will miss the mark in "wowing" the crowd.  However, if you take no risks, you will have no rewards.  Shake things up and let your community share in the grand experiments.  When you do find the right mix, the buzz about your event will go viral.

3.  Making Money Matters.  Your event is a micro-business.  In a few cases the event is designed as an expense for the hosting company, but usually there needs to be a profit for the event to repeat each year (or at least a minimal expense). As an event professional you should see yourself as an entrepreneur who is growing a company.  There are hard choices that must me made in event design, but the end goal should always be enhancing the conference attendee experience.  Review expenses and find ways to work with your agenda, vendors, sponsors, etc... to ensure that your not flushing away your profits in areas that are not of impacting your attendees.  

4.  Sustainability Has Found A New Gear.  Several years ago "going green" in meetings was mostly a grand idea of hope or hype.  These days there are many ways that a conference can lower it's footprint in use of energy, recycling, sourcing local foods, reducing waste, etc...  Making your conference more eco-friendly is now "must-have".

5.  Unlocking Global Talent Unlocks Possibility.  Looking beyond domestic standards for ideas of structuring conferences can be exciting.  Asia, Europe, South America, Africa all have conferences - and in many places they are doing some interesting things.  Seek inspiration from how they set up their agendas, venues and other aspects of event management.  Looking beyond the United States to source speakers, sponsors, vendors, and attendees will also help you create a unique experience. (Discover the Global Speakers Federation for more ideas on international speakers).

6.  Passion is Underrated.  There is nothing that impacts a conference more directly than excited attendees.  But in planning events we are often too focused on the content over the experience.  Nobody walks out of a boring lecture fired up, no matter how smart the speaker or how great his content.  If he or she does not have passion that is transferred to the audience, it is just a data dump.  Move past the safety net cliche of "Content is King".  Yes, content is important, but the "Conference Attendee Experience" is king, queen, parliament, and the treasury.  Passion matters: Planners need passion.  Sponsors need passion.  Presenters need to share their passion.  Attendees want to find passion.  Make it happen or have a blah event.

7. Conflict Isn't Required.  Changing up the delivery style of events in old-school institutions often brings push back and fear.  But making events better should not cause conflict.  Everyone in the host organization should have the same goal of curating an amazing event.  Ongoing conversations about desired outcomes and educating involved parties as to new trends in events can change minds.  Also, being unique does not mean that all things have to be different.  Innovate at annual events by adding more elements without throwing away all of the traditional aspects of the event.

8.  Happy Customers Make You Happy.  Nothing is better than happy event attendees.  When participants review your conference by saying it was the best event ever (or in the last several years), you know you have done it right.  

9.  Software Beats Hardware.  We live in a digitally enabled world.  If your event is not utilizing online registration options, mobile apps, and social media.... few attendees look at you as progressive.  Too many organizations continue to tell attendees to "put you phones away", yet many take notes on these devices and are sharing information online.  Do not run from the realities of our social media crazy world - embrace it.  (NOTE:  Too many events are being undermined by mobile devises and it is causing the networking elements to fail because attendees are always looking at their phones.  Finding the balance here is key... and it can be accomplished). 

10. Dreaming Big Isn't Folly: It's Required.  If you want to have a great event, you have to think beyond the standard conference formats of the past.  Immediately after last years event you should get your organizing team together with your speakers, sponsors, vendors and select attendees to brainstorm ways to enhance the experience.  Collaborating with these partners will expose you to fresh ideas.  "Event Professionals" are not only the planners, but anyone who works in and around the meetings business.  Hoteliers, caterers, speakers, etc.... all see hundreds of events each year, so engage them as part of your "dream team" and you will find new ways to create a "wow" experience. 

Have A Great Day

thom singer

Thom Singer is known as "The Conference Catalyst". He works with meeting planners and conference organizers to set the tone for a meeting. His presentations educate, inspire and motivate attendees to engage deeper in the event and make meaningful connections.  http://www.conferencecatalyst.com 

www.ConferenceCatalyst.com