I mentioned earlier in this blog that I worked in Ohio with Pure Romance.
One of the many things I loved about this job was learning from some of their top consultants in some pre-engagement interviews. (I often call folks
representing my client to better understand the organization, the stresses, the joys, and the problems. If my job is to bring more humor to their workplace, it makes sense that first I need to learn about their … well… workplace.) I was really lucky to call one of their absolute leaders in sales, Leslie Zay.
Leslie is charming in every since of the word, filled with vitality and energy, and is truly funny during her presentations. (Leslie flattered me by sending me a tape of her doing an actual show.) She used humor in the best way possible: she used it to get folks to relax and laugh, sure. But I think best of all she created an atmosphere that made it safe for other people to contribute their own humor. In other words, some of the best and funniest parts of her presentation were when her audience made their own jokes.
Leslie’s genius was her ability to set the tone or vibe that humor was not only allowed but encouraged… and the result was an awesome good time. (And
from what Leslie told me… it also resulted in a great check at the end of the night.)
What’s my point? Humor is a great tool in business; it’s an excellent tool in sales. If you want to make more money, use humor as a tool.
What’s my other point? You don’t have to be funny to create an environment where humor thrives… you just have to inspire and encourage others to be funny and the humor will follow. (Leslie happens to be very funny, but she is awesome at enabling others to be hilarious.) Thanks Leslie!
Comments? What do you think? (Leave us a comment below.)
Brad Montgomery
Motivational Keynote Speaker, Humor in the Workplace Expert, Fan of Leslie and Pure Romance
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Humor is a great tool in business when, as any tool, used in the proper way at the proper time. If you can make people laugh, you can open their minds. That’s powerful! Keep on laughing!