The Old Boys Club

Posted on 11/4/2005 at 10:32 AM - Post Comment

Picture it... very formal boardroom. Six members of the board of directors. All male. Average age 70. All highly successful in their chosen fields (bankers, insurance, etc). Also present the executive team from my company. Again all male although much younger. 12 black suits looking very serious.

First relief: Right choice of suits! Black, tailored, expensive, white blouse, new (and incredibly gorgeous) shoes, hair in conservative mode. Whew!

First decision to be made: Up-beat and energetic or serious and numbers oriented. I went with something in the middle. I presented my information with a positive tone and smiles, but kept my funny side under wraps. As I had been instructed, my presentation was high-level and brief, leaving most of my allotted time for questions.

Once the questions started I saw that this old boys club wasn't as uptight as originally thought. I added a bit of humour to my answers and everyone lightened up. After the presentation we had an informal "mulling" during which each of them spent a few minutes with me. And I must confess I was especially charming!

They loved me. They loved my proposal. And I got full go-ahead! They were impressed with the financial projections and this is the best part. Why? Because I was ultra-conservative. I know I can at least triple the bottom line and move the break-even point from 10 to 6 months. Next time I sit in front of that group it will be to receive their accolades.

My boss was happy that they were impressed, and any time your boss is happy is a good time.

Between getting my energy back and knocking 'em dead today, I'm over the moon with excitement.

My life rocks!

And I plan to spread as much of this excellent energy as possible. Afterall, one must find ways to pass on one's good fortune. I would give anything to have a room full of people to motivate right now.