Of Vaudeville and Cyberspace.

As we look ahead to 2009 the only thing certain is change.

And while change isn't always comfortable great things can come from it.

During the depression era the Vaudeville houses were in trouble. New technology like radio and talking movies were taking the audiences away from the previously packed theaters.

The entertainers and the producers that embraced the change were able to capitalize on an environment that others were afraid of and were fighting.

The vaudeville performers like Bob Hope, George Burns, and Bing Crosby that were able to adapt to the the change did great.

Many of the silent film stars didn't fare as well.

Some of the bigger vaudeville producers started producing movies, or bought radio stations. The others held on by changing to Burlesk dancers. Eventually many of these theaters wound up closing.

As your industry goes through changes in 2009, don't be afraid to branch out and be a part of the change. People who sit around and complain about how "that's not how it used to be" are going to be like the theater owners that wound up shutting down the theaters or the silent film stars that were never heard from again.

Everything changes. Make the change work for you.

Happy Holidays!

I just wanted to take a moment and thank each of you for being a part of an incredible year for me. The book, the speaking engagements, and the friends I have met have made 2008 a year I'll never forget.

May you all have a great holiday season and a prosperous 2009.

Tom

What can we learn from the Britney Spears comeback?

If you've been in sales any length of time it has happened to you.

You have totally embarrassed yourself in front of a client. Whether you dropped the ball, or someone in your support staff messed up, or there was a flaw with the product, you knew there would be hell to pay the next time you had to face the customer.

So what do you do?

Nobody has embarrassed themselves more than Britney Spears. She did it on a worldwide scale. Who could blame her if she chose to move to a deserted island and hide out the rest of her life?

But instead of hiding she has acknowledged the problem without dwelling on it too much. In the interviews she has done she has shown how she is getting her life back in order.. She has gotten herself back into shape. She has avoided putting herself into situations where she might return to her bad behavior. And she has come back to the marketplace with a strong CD that will debut at number one.

How does this apply to you?

When things go wrong don't try to hide. Face them head on. Acknowledge the problem without dwelling on it too much, and return with a solid presentation.

Americans believe in giving folks a second chance. If Britney stays clean, behaves herself, and continues to deliver the concerts and CD's people expect from her she will be able to have a long fruitful career.

The same with you. Don't let the mess ups prevent you from making a comeback.

If you admit the mistake, and deliver with a quality product and service not only will your customers forgive, they will forget.

I Was recently on the Jim Blasingame Show. Listen to the interview now.

Blog..James Blog...

The latest james Bond movie opened this weekend to massive box office results.

Why would anyone want to go see a James Bond movie anymore. After all don't we all know the story? Bond the good guy fights some bad guy with a couple of hot women and a bunch of really great chase scenes.

There is nothing really different. Other than the actor playing the part and some better special effects than the james Bond movies of the 60's.

What is your franchise? Are you consistent? Do people know what they are getting from you? Are you the James Bond of your business?

You need to freshen up your presentation. But at the same time you don't need to reinvent the wheel every time.

Build a franchise and make sure you deliver what is expected. If you do you will have a long career just like Mr. Bond.

Don't be shy

Don't be afraid to use your past successes to promote yourself.

Almost 40 years after the Beatles broke up Paul McCartney is still referred to as "Former Beatle" Paul McCartney." How many times have you heard an entertainer referred to as "Academy Award Winner" or "Platinum Recording Artist"

If you have been honored by your company or trade organization with a distinct honor don't be afraid to promote it and let your customers know.

Everybody wants to be associated with a winner.

Be proud of your accomplishments and don't be afraid to tell the world what you have achieved.

Paul Newman

Iconic actor Paul Newman died this weekend.

Paul Newman was more than just an actor. All of the obituaries mentioned his philanthropic projects. They also mentioned his longtime marriage to Joanne Woodward.

Paul Newman was a man of honor and integrity.

Now more than ever customers are demanding honor and integrity from their salespeople.

Those that work hard, play hard, get involved in charity, and can be held to their word will have a long, successful career.