This past week, I had the privilege of being one of three friends asked to speak at a book launch and celebration honoring the life of my friend Joe Bonsall, a 50-year member of the legendary Oak Ridge Boys. Joe’s remarkable legacy was not just in his music, though his voice undoubtedly touched millions. His true distinction lay in something even more profound: his ability to encourage others.
A recurring theme emerged as I listened to fellow speakers and spoke with audience members—Joe was an encourager.
He had a way of making others feel seen, valued, and capable. And it wasn’t limited to those in his industry. Whether it was a young musician dreaming of stardom or someone like me who works outside the entertainment world, Joe offered words of belief and support. His encouragement wasn’t strategic or self-serving. It came from a genuine place of care and connection.
In reflecting on his life, I couldn’t help but think about the transformative power of encouragement. In a world that often feels hyper-critical and divided, encouragement is one of our most underutilized and undervalued tools. But its impact is immense.
Encouragement Creates Belief
We’ve all faced moments of doubt—times when the mountain ahead seems insurmountable. In those moments, a simple word of encouragement can spark a belief we didn’t know we had. Joe’s encouragement often had this effect. His words didn’t just motivate; they instilled confidence. He had a knack for reminding people of their unique gifts, often when they struggled to see them themselves.
Belief is a powerful thing. It’s the foundation of every achievement and every act of courage. When someone believes in us, it’s as though they’re lending us strength until we can build our own. Encouragement, at its core, is the act of transferring belief.
Encouragement Inspires Action
Encouragement isn’t passive; it’s a call to action. When someone encourages us, they’re not just saying, “You can do this.” They’re saying, “You should do this.” It pushes us to move beyond our comfort zones and take that next step, no matter how daunting.
Joe’s encouragement wasn’t just kind words—it was a challenge to live fully and to pursue dreams with everything we have.
Encouragement Leaves a Legacy
Joe Bonsall’s legacy is a testament to the ripple effect of encouragement. Each person he inspired will carry his words with them, passing them along to others. It’s a cycle that has no end. We may not all leave behind platinum records or a place in the Country Music Hall of Fame, but we all have the ability to leave a legacy of encouragement. And that legacy has the power to transcend generations.
How You Can Be an Encourager
You don’t need a stage or a platform to encourage someone. You just need the willingness to notice others and speak life into their dreams. Here are four ways you can start:
1. Acknowledge Strengths: Take a moment to point out the qualities or talents you admire in someone. You might be surprised at how much they need to hear it.
2. Offer Support: Sometimes encouragement isn’t just words; it’s showing up, lending a hand, or providing resources to help someone move forward.
3. Challenge Gently: Encourage people to stretch beyond their perceived limits. Let them know you see their potential, even if they don’t yet.
4. Be Generous with Positivity: Kindness and affirmation cost nothing but have immeasurable value. Share them freely.
You Are Needed
In the spirit of Joe Bonsall, I want to leave you with this: You are capable of more than you realize. Whatever challenges you’re facing, whatever dreams you’ve been putting off—step forward.
The world needs your contribution, and there is someone out there who will be inspired by your journey.
Just as Joe encouraged me, let this post be my encouragement to you. Believe in yourself, take action, and leave a legacy of encouragement for others.
Because, in the end, that might be the most iconic thing any of us can do.
When I reflect on my many clients who have followed the distinction prescription that I propose — either because they are subscribing to my insight, they’ve found their own pathway there, or a combination — I marvel at the transformation that has been the result. Just look at my often-cited case studies like the Fairmont Scottsdale Princess, High Point University, St. Elmo Steakhouse, the Savannah Bananas, and more. You’ll see organizations that have not only created marketplace distinction, they’ve moved into the realm of iconic examples that transcends their respective industries.
In today’s crowded marketplace, businesses face a critical challenge: standing out from the competition. You know that I’m convinced that the answer lies in creating distinction—the ability to differentiate yourself in ways that captivate customers and compel them to choose you over anyone else.
But distinction is not just about being different; it’s about being uniquely valuable.
Businesses that embrace distinction as the core strategy will unlock the key to transformation. Instead of competing on price or getting lost in the sea of sameness, they focus on what makes them remarkable—whether it’s delivering unparalleled customer experiences, offering innovative products, or communicating a brand story that resonates deeply with their audience.
Transformation occurs when distinction drives not only marketing but also decision-making. It becomes a guiding principle that informs everything from product development to how employees interact with customers.
The result? Greater customer loyalty, increased revenue, and a brand that people trust and recommend.
Creating distinction is not a one-time effort—it’s an ongoing process of constantly evaluating what sets your business apart and how you can build on that uniqueness. Those who commit to this path see a profound shift in their business performance and reputation.
In a world where blending in means getting left behind, distinction is the catalyst that propels your business forward. The most successful companies don’t just serve customers—they create experiences and value that can’t be found anywhere else.
That’s the transformative power of distinction.
One of the tools that can help you transform your business in the distinctive manner required by today’s marketplace is Artificial Intelligence (AI). The question is: Are you prepared to take your business to the next level with AI? I’ve discovered that Bob Dietrich and Pamela Dunn have created an incredible resource that will help you do just that.
Introducing the Unleash AI For Business Summit: a FREE virtual event featuring me and other top entrepreneurs who are currently using AI in their businesses.
We will share the strategies we have developed and are currently using in our businesses to implement AI successfully. I’ll be sharing how to use AI to inject personal stories into your content — essential to avoid the trap of your content sounding like everyone else with a ChatGPT subscription!
And the best part? I’ve arranged a complimentary ticket for you to attend!
In this event, top entrepreneurs will show you how to:
– Multiple Ways To Use ChatGPT To Create Scroll Stopping Content – Design Engaging Online Courses Effortlessly with AI – Using AI To Create A Deeper, Authentic Connection With Your Audience – Elevate Your Sales with AI-generated Content – AI-Driven Techniques for Scaling Effective Social Media Reach – Using AI to Create and Launch Your Powerful Book – How to Develop Your Clarity Statement to Effectively Use AI – How to Simplify Your Business With Custom GPTs for Content Creation – Using AI to Automate and Personalize Messaging for Your Ideal Client – Save 75% of Your Time by Leveraging AI and Smart Delegation – How To Use AI To Supercharge Your Virtual Assistant – Top 5 Ways To Monetize Online with AI – and much more…
These interviews are short, to-the-point conversations with real entrepreneurs who are creating amazing results with AI. And you can watch it all for free from anywhere! But don’t wait too long – grab your complimentary ticket now before they’re all gone: https://www.unleashaiforbusiness.com/link.php?id=211&h=fc82490543
You don’t want to miss out on this opportunity to learn from the best in the industry.
P.S. Join me and additional experts like Jay Abraham, Mike Abramowitz, Ridgely Goldsborough, and over 30 more.
In today’s rapidly evolving business landscape, digital transformation is no longer a buzzword—it’s a reality. As organizations embrace new technologies to streamline operations, improve customer experiences, and stay competitive, leaders must adapt their approaches to guide their teams effectively. But how do leaders stand out in a world flooded with digital tools and platforms? How do they lead in a distinctive manner?
To lead distinctively in the age of digital transformation, leaders must go beyond traditional management skills and develop a unique set of competencies that align with the demands of a digital-first world. I have been—and currently am—working with leaders who have significant difficulty with this issue. They want to apply yesterday’s standards to today’s high-potential team members. It just doesn’t work.
Here are five key attributes and strategies that define distinctive leadership in this new era:
1. Embrace a Visionary Mindset
Distinctive leaders have always been visionaries.They still are. They see beyond the immediate technological changes and envision how digital transformation can shape their organization’s future. It’s not just about adopting the latest tools; it’s about understanding how they can enhance the company’s unique value proposition and drive long-term success.
Remember, the first Cornerstone of Distinction (from my books, “ICONIC” and “Create Distinction”) is CLARITY.
A distinctive leader communicates her vision clearly and consistently, ensuring every team member understands how their work contributes to the broader strategy.
This clarity fosters alignment and inspires innovation and creative problem-solving across the organization.
2. Cultivate a Culture of Agility and Continuous Learning
Digital transformation is synonymous with rapid change. Distinctive leaders cultivate a culture that embraces agility and continuous learning. They recognize that what worked yesterday might not work tomorrow, and they encourage their teams to stay curious, experiment with new ideas, and learn from failures without fear.
Distinctive leaders know that the old saying, “Knowledge is power,” is incorrect. Only the knowledge that is applied will have an impact.
You can expect more on this for one of my weekly “Myth Buster Monday” segments here on LinkedIn.
By promoting a growth mindset, distinctive leaders empower their teams to adapt quickly to new technologies and market demands. They invest in ongoing training and development, ensuring their workforce is equipped with the skills needed to thrive in a digital environment. This commitment to learning helps organizations stay ahead of the curve and sets them apart from competitors stuck in outdated ways of thinking.
3. Promote Digital Literacy and Emotional Intelligence
While technical skills are essential, distinctive leaders understand that emotional intelligence is equally important in a digital world. They strive to foster digital literacy across all levels of their organization, ensuring employees understand how to use new tools effectively and ethically. However, they also emphasize the importance of empathy, communication, and relationship-building.
In a digital-first environment, where remote and hybrid work is becoming the norm, connecting with others on a human level is crucial.
Distinctive leaders prioritize clear, empathetic communication, understanding that technology should enhance—not replace—the human touch. They lead with empathy, actively listen to their teams, and foster a sense of belonging and purpose, even in a virtual setting.
4. Leverage Data for Decision-Making, Not as a Crutch
Data is the lifeblood of digital transformation, but distinctive leaders know that data is only as valuable as the insights drawn from it. They leverage data to inform decision-making but don’t let it become a crutch. Instead, they combine data-driven insights with intuition, experience, and a deep understanding of their organization’s unique context.
By balancing data with human judgment, distinctive leaders make more nuanced and compelling decisions.
They also encourage their teams to question assumptions, consider multiple perspectives, and avoid becoming overly reliant on algorithms or automated processes. This approach fosters a more dynamic and innovative workplace and helps maintain a distinct identity in an increasingly homogenized digital landscape.
5. Champion Customer-Centric Innovation
Finally, distinctive leaders understand that digital transformation should always be in service of the customer. They champion customer-centric innovation, using technology to enhance the customer experience and deliver unique value.
Whether through personalized marketing, streamlined service delivery, or new digital products, distinctive leaders prioritize innovations that solve real customer problems and build lasting relationships.
They stay close to their customers, using digital tools to constantly gather feedback, track preferences, and anticipate needs. This customer-first approach drives loyalty and sets the organization apart as a leader in digital transformation who truly understands and cares about its audience.
Leading distinctively in the age of digital transformation requires more than just technical know-how—it demands a visionary mindset, a commitment to continuous learning, and a deep understanding of both digital tools and human dynamics.
By embracing these qualities and strategies, leaders can guide their organizations through the complexities of digital change and emerge not just as followers of trends but as trailblazers in their industry.
The future belongs to those who will blend technology with a distinctive, human-centered approach to leadership.
Last night, I had the incredible honor of receiving the Cavett Award from the National Speakers Association, the highest accolade in our profession. It’s a dream for every professional speaker, and I am truly humbled to join the ranks of legends who have inspired and shaped our industry.
The surprise announcement was a moment I’ll never forget, but what has stayed with me most since then is an overwhelming sense of gratitude.
This award is not just a recognition of individual achievement; it is a testament to the incredible relationships I have built with my clients, colleagues, and friends over the years. These relationships have been the cornerstone of my career, and they continue to inspire and drive me every day.
Receiving the Cavett Award also marks a recommitment from me to assist organizations and leaders in creating distinction in their respective markets. It reinforces my dedication to delivering the Ultimate Customer Experience® and helping businesses achieve what I often emphasize: earning “more customers who will spend more money, more often, and provide more referrals.”
To all my clients and friends, thank you for your trust, support, and partnership. This award is as much yours as it is mine. Let’s continue this journey together, striving for excellence and making a difference in every endeavor.
Here’s to creating distinction and delivering extraordinary experiences!
Currently, I am working on a new keynote speech and project that I’m calling “The Customer Algorithm.”
The idea came to me as I was driving a rental car from Tucson to Phoenix. Construction on the Interstate had traffic at a standstill, and I was likely going to miss my flight. This raised the possibility that it might be more productive for me to simply travel to my next speech rather than return home for a day before hitting the road again.
When I called the airline, the AI voice recognized my name and frequent flyer status. It was friendly and made me feel that it wanted to help. However, while it could’ve helped me pick a later flight to the same airport, it was not prepared to help change my destination. I found myself alone in my Hertz rental, repeatedly shouting, “REPRESENTATIVE!”
You know that organizations are increasingly turning to AI to support their customer experience strategies. While AI offers numerous benefits, it is crucial not to overlook the importance of the human element in delivering the Ultimate Customer Experience®. Emotional intelligence is the key to building trust and loyalty — essential components of any successful CX strategy.
As my recent travel experience suggests, human agents are better suited to handle unique or unexpected situations that fall outside the scope of AI’s programmed responses. People on your team should be able to think creatively, draw from their experiences, and offer personalized solutions. This flexibility is particularly valuable in industries where customer needs and preferences can vary widely, such as retail, healthcare, and hospitality.
However, this does not mean that your organization should shy away from implementing AI in your CX strategies. AI can be a powerful tool for handling routine inquiries, providing quick access to information, and streamlining processes. The key is to find the right balance between AI and human interaction, leveraging the strengths of each to create a seamless and efficient customer experience.
The obvious question is, how do you achieve this balance?
Organizations must invest in training their human agents to work effectively alongside AI. This includes teaching your AI how to hand off conversations smoothly and when to escalate issues to a human agent. Your team must be trained on how to leverage AI-generated insights to provide better service. Additionally, organizations should prioritize transparency, letting customers know when they are interacting with an AI and offering the option to speak with a human agent if needed – without requiring them to shout “REPRESENTATIVE” repeatedly to get to one!
Another important consideration is the continuous improvement of AI systems based on customer feedback and interactions. By analyzing data from both AI and human interactions, you can identify areas for improvement and fine-tune your AI algorithms to better meet customer needs.
AI is a valuable addition to any CX strategy, but it is not a replacement for the human element.
The Ultimate Customer Experience® requires a balanced approach that leverages the efficiency of AI and the emotional intelligence of your team members. By investing in the right mix of technology and human talent, organizations can create a customer experience that drives customer retention and referrals, which means profitability for your organization.
What do you do when you find yourself in a downturn?
No one enjoys this situation – and often, the result is that we start marketing obsessively, creating an appearance of desperation for business. Ironically, no prospect or previous client is attracted to a company that seems to be hurting for customers.
Instead, we need to consider a more guided and reassured approach.
Within the professional speaking segment of my career — as opposed to the consulting and education/training aspects of what we do — I’ve noticed that spring often brings a bit of a slowdown in activity. A smaller number of conferences and conventions are held when school is not in session, and families are taking vacations, so we typically get fewer calls in the spring to book speeches for meetings in the summer months. (It’s why the National Speakers Association has always scheduled their annual convention in the summer!)
And 2024 is part of the four-year cycle of both a Presidential election here in the States and the Olympic games occurring in the same year. This often means that keynote slots usually filled by professional speakers will now go to political analysts and successful athletes.
Is there a typical time when you experience a lull in your business?
It’s tempting to view these quieter periods as detrimental. However, it’s crucial to recognize them for what they are: seasonal adjustments, part of a natural ebb and flow in the cycle of business.
Understanding the patterns of our professional landscape can transform how we perceive and react to these lulls. Instead of succumbing to frustration, we can view them as an opportunity to regroup and realign our strategies. Here are four approaches to re-motivating oneself during these slower periods:
1. Strategic Planning and Goal Setting
Use the quieter times for strategic planning and setting new goals. It’s an opportune moment to reflect on your business’s direction, evaluate past performances, and set clear, achievable objectives. This is not merely about continuation but a strategic recalibration to ensure that when the pace picks up again, you are ahead of the curve.
2. Skill Enhancement and Learning
Slow periods are ideal for personal and professional development. Whether it’s attending online workshops, reading the latest in your field, or learning a new skill that can add depth to your offerings, the investment in your growth will pay dividends when the demand picks up.
3. Strengthening Connections
Networking doesn’t only have to occur in peak business times. Reaching out to your network, checking in on colleagues, or even setting up informational interviews can foster relationships that yield future opportunities. This is also a perfect time to collaborate on new ideas with peers. Knowing you aren’t alone in this situation can provide assurance, as long as it does not become a “woe is me!” conversation. My mastermind group meets every summer – and a small group of pals and colleagues meet on Zoom every week. We help keep each other motivated and encouraged.
4. Innovative Experimentation
With more time at your disposal, experiment with new ideas that you wouldn’t during busier periods. Whether it’s a new marketing technique or a fresh topic for your speaking engagements, experimentation can lead to innovation and renewal. It was during a slower period in speaking that I created the concepts that became my bestselling book, “ICONIC.” You never know where your experimentation might lead!
Reflecting and Renewing for Enhanced Relevance
Reflecting on past successes can indeed be a double-edged sword, particularly for seasoned professionals who might worry about remaining relevant in a rapidly evolving market. Here’s how to reflect on your achievements and use them to foster continuous renewal:
Analytical Reflection: Examine your past successes to understand the qualities that distinguished you then and consider how these can be adapted or expanded upon to meet current trends and expectations.
Feedback Loops: Engage with peers, mentors, and trusted clients to get feedback on your current offerings. This can provide insights into how the market perceives your relevance and where there might be opportunities for innovation.
Personal Branding: Update your personal branding to reflect both your legacy and your adaptability to current market demands. This shows that while you respect and acknowledge your past work, you are also fully engaged with your industry’s present and future.
Continuous Learning: Embrace a mindset of continuous learning and curiosity. Being open to new ideas and approaches not only enhances your skill set but also signals to your industry that you are a dynamic and evolving leader.
Embracing Reverse Mentoring for Fresh Perspectives
Another powerful strategy I’ve employed to stay engaged and relevant during quieter times is reverse mentoring.
This involves partnering with younger professionals who not only value my experience but also challenge my thinking with their fresh, generationally unique perspectives. Here are four reasons why reverse mentoring is a critical element of staying motivated and relevant:
1. Cross-Generational Insights
Reverse mentoring allows for an exchange of ideas across generations, fostering a deeper understanding of emerging trends and consumer behaviors that are shaped by younger demographics. This can be particularly valuable for tailoring our strategies to meet the expectations of a broader audience.
2. Challenging Established Norms
Young professionals often bring a different approach to problem-solving and innovation. By engaging with reverse mentors, seasoned professionals can challenge their established norms and potentially outdated methods, ensuring that their strategies remain dynamic and adaptable to new market conditions.
3. Fostering Inclusivity
Reverse mentoring encourages a culture of inclusivity by validating the contributions of younger team members. It demonstrates a commitment to hearing diverse voices within the organization, which can inspire loyalty and a positive work environment.
4. Mutual Benefits
While reverse mentoring is designed to benefit the more experienced professional, it’s a reciprocal relationship. Young professionals gain from exposure to the seasoned insight and strategic thinking of their mentors, enriching their professional growth and understanding of the industry.
Incorporating reverse mentoring into your professional life not only bridges the gap between generations but also injects new zest into your career.
It’s a testament to the idea that learning and motivation are lifelong processes, invigorated continually by new challenges and perspectives.
Every professional will experience cycles of peak activity and slower periods. The key is to use these quieter times as strategic periods of growth and development.
By embracing these lulls as opportunities for strategic planning, learning, and innovation, you can ensure that you remain motivated and ready to meet the challenges and opportunities of your next busy season.
