101 Ways to Captivate a Business Audience

Chapter 11

This Stuff Really Works

I had just completed the manuscript for this book, and I decided to take a break. I was reading the local newspaper when I noticed the headline: “High School Students Hear Motivational Talk.” I couldn’t help but think, “That poor speaker dude trying to impress a bunch of high school kids. Good luck!” I read the article. It was 10:00 A.M.; the talk was going to start at 12:15. I couldn’t miss this opportunity. I’ve appeared before appliance parts salespeople, accountants, and even butchers, but the thought of going before a group of high school kids would give me the willies. I couldn’t wait to observe the “motivational speaker” trying to motivate a group of teens. I thought that this had to be the toughest audience ...