Ever seen something that’s just brilliant?
As you may know, I’m a huge fan of Dunkin’ Donuts. If you had been sitting next to me in my car with the top down, you would have felt the warm Vegas sun, smelled the fresh-brewed coffee, and heard me laugh out loud as we pulled through and saw the sign that said, “See you tomorrow.” Brilliant!
It seems so simple. Most drive-through windows have “Thank You” signs. That’s how many speakers end their speech. Though there is nothing technically wrong with ending on “Thank you,” it is just not powerful. When a business says “Thank You,” appreciation is nice… but, what Dunkin’ Donuts has done is brilliant. They are actually planting a “suggestion” of more business. My business brain loves that! It is brilliant.
How does this relate to your speech? Well, when you give a speech, are you planting seeds for more speeches? Audience members may have enjoyed your speech, but they may never even consider recommending you to others. I learned this from my mentor, Jim Stoval. Even though Jim speaks to thousands of people every month — and earns a speaking income that I dream of — he still always plants the seeds of suggestion in the minds of his audience members.
This doesn’t mean you have to be pushy or sell; it just means to politely suggest. Would you be offended by the sign at Dunkin’ Donuts? I wasn’t. I love their coffee, and I’m a big fan. It’s the same with your audience. If they love you, your message, and your delivery, they will appreciate passing your information on. Let them. Suggest it to them. It can be something as simple as, “This is what I do for a living; if you liked my message and know of any groups that need to hear it, please let me know.” Not pushy, just very sincere and matter-of-fact.
Many speakers love to speak but hate to sell. If you don’t want to sell, you should at least be able to suggest. If you are not comfortable suggesting, work on increasing your belief in your message. Believe that you are uniquely qualified to deliver your message the way only you can with the passion only you have. If you believe that much, suggesting should be easy.
That’s it. Clear. Simple. Direct. That’s it for this week’s edition of Sponge! “See You Next Week!”
Stage time,
Darren LaCroix
2001 World Champion of Public Speaking
Hey Darren,
Your message was Krispy and Kreme as the Donuts itself………Anyways I,m a big fan of Krispy Kreme!!!!
Darren,
I LOVE getting your newsletters.
Great stuff!!!
Short, sweet and to the point…I love it! I will work on my “See you tomorrow, next time, until we meet again…” speech closure!
Excellent! You are a jewel!
Patricia Cotton
whenever I read any article you are sending I really enjoy it but this article I wish that time with you it is really you have meticulous observation on this sign and liberate and give very nice tip for the speaker by link the subject with speeches
thanks.
Great message Darren.
If you are headed to New York you soon will be trying Canada’s famous Tim Horton’s coffee and great donuts as they are buying out those stores. Enjoy! and think of your many Canadian fans who have loved meeting you firsthand and sharing your excitement for speaking!
Every time I read an article by you, watch your TV program, or listen to one of your products… I leave with an idea I can use immediately to better serve my clients while making more money. If I ever get a tattoo, it will have your name on it 🙂 (just kidding)
You are correct. To be successful, one must form the habit of doing. And continue to do until the habit or process becomes a natural part of you.
Each newsletter I recieve from you is always informative and something I have not heard of or have not tried before…keep them coming and always with wonderful help and inspiration!
Thank you!
Patricia
I liked your piece on Debi from Michigan and her article acceptances by article banks. What is an article bank and how can I find them?
Hi Darren,
I just watched your TV interview from Vegas. It’s great to see how well you’re doing. The focus, dedication and intestinal fortitude you’ve shown over these last several years truly inspires me.
Be well,
Jim
Love Dunkin Donuts! I had to laugh when I saw the sign on your post. A bit creepy to realize they know how often I come! On the upside, I love going in and placing my order and being greeted so positively by the crew. That is what will bring me back tomorrow!