On Being “Real”

This Shepard Letter can be put into the motivational and self improvement file.

I had just finished a speech.  One of the audience members came up to talk to me.  He said that his group has been fortunate to get to hear a lot of speakers, but seldom does he get to meet the speaker.  He ended our conversation by saying, “Because I met you and shook your hand I’ll always remember your speech.  It was real.”

He said it was real.  What did that mean?  Now, this wasn’t about me being some type of celebrity.  I’m just a business speaker.  I presented the speech well and had relevant material, but what happened after the speech is what made it “real.”  All I did was make myself available after the speech to answer questions and talk to anyone who wanted to.  Not a big deal, but it made impact.  So, I’ve been thinking about what it is to be “real.”

As I think about my friends and colleagues who are successful, I see some commonalities about them.  They are approachable and available.  They have a bond with their customers as well as the people they work with.  They create positive impact on others.  They are “real.”

The secrets to being “real” are common sense.  It takes some effort.  Care about what you do.  Be respectful to others.  Make yourself approachable and available.  Always be on time, even early.  Be enthusiastic about who you are and what you do.  Create positive impressions that are memorable and that garner respect, admiration and build confidence.

Most of all, recognize that every interaction you have is an opportunity to make positive impact on others – an opportunity to be and make an experience “real.”