Impression or Impact?

You may have heard the sayings - they all make the same point:

All sizzle but no steak.
All hat and no cattle.
All talk and no action.
All style and no substance.

Question of the day (week/month/year) - Are you making an Impression or an Impact? Isn't it intriguing how some people are busybusybusy trying to create a short-term fake "buzz" when they could invest that same effort into developing a REAL long-lasting impact instead?

Impressing people may generate attention - at least for a little while - but they rarely last more than a season. It's kind of like the difference between celebrities and stars. One of my Disney jobs included working with "Talent" for special events. It's interesting how some people have temporary fame - they are hot for a while, then when it becomes obvious they are not talented (or talented in only one thing that loses favor) - they fade away. They might make a interesting first impression, but there's no depth to keep our attention. So they lose significance.

Creating an impact is about making a difference. Being memorable for more than just getting attention - it is about making something that matters. True stars stay interesting for years. They develop and contribute in ways that continue to add value to the productions they are involved in. Typically, they are more than good looks and a great agent - they are constantly improving their craft, or selecting projects that add value, or just plain give back to others.

Trust me, word gets around. (As it does about each of us.)

Making an impact isn't complicated. Focusing on being "on-purpose" and (daily) building something of value is what gives life more meaning.

And who doesn't, ultimately, want a life that makes a meaningful difference?
Think about it. But more importantly, do something about it..today!

"On-stage" or "Off-stage"?

I just got back from speaking at an event with a few hundred people in attendance. All the details were covered. The stage was arranged well. The materials and lighting were set "just right". Seating, programs, music, coordination and timing, the service team's attire...everything in the ballroom looked/sounded great. The event team was excited to create an experience that was memorable.

Well, it was. For the wrong reasons.

Just after lunch, everyone was re-seated and listening to the speaker before me, when the side of the room we all heard...snoring. From the AV technician!

The whole room began to shift around uncomfortably and murmuring/snickering traveled around the ballroom for a loooong 20 seconds until someone walked over to the technician and finally shook him awake.

Guess what ended up being the most memorable moment from THAT conference?

More importantly, what do you think people are saying about the event company? The same event company, by the way, that went to all the effort and care to make sure "everything was perfect" - failed to focus on the team's behavior as a part of what really mattered.

Anything people can sense in any way during your event will either add to or take away from the value they perceive. ANYthing. As we used to say at Disney, if they can see, hear, taste, feel, or smell it, then it is "on-stage" and we should manage it to ensure a great experience. Consider, not just the "things" in the room, but the people as well, and ask "are we sending the message we want to send?" and "How will this impact our customer's experience?"

After all, you want to be remembered for the best reasons, right?

Think about it. But more importantly, do something about it...today!