Ted Talk: How Great Leaders Inspire Action Review

One company that I feel follows the “why, what and how” structure is Nike.  Nike specializes in everything that has to do with sports and physical activity.  In the video, Simon says people buy into why you do it, Nike’s focus are athletes.  This had led the company to creating a lifestyle brand.  Consumers purchase Nike products even if their not athletes.  They buy for comfort, style and general physical activity.  I feel Nike is in it for the “why” and it reflects in their continued success over the years.  We also see Nike displaying “why” with the people that endorse their brand.  They have Michael Jordan, LeBron James and Tiger Woods to name a few, which are all major athletes.  We see Michael Jordan shoes not only being used by athletes, but in fashion for all ages and genders.

When purchasing Apple products, I would consider myself closer to the late majority.  I did not buy my first apple product until I bought the iPhone 4s and did not have a MacBook until I attended Full Sail.  I thoroughly enjoy these products and will continue to purchase, but do not plan to be first at buying them.  When it comes to music, I have always been an early adapter.  Growing up, I was always the one that heard the new artist first and able to tell what the next hit song would be.  Unlike most people now, I still purchase CD’s during the first week of sales.  This year alone, I have already purchased 10 CDs.

One Million Cups Review

For the “One Million Cups” video presentation, I watched the pitch from the “Rally Makers” and “Live Music Tour.”  Rally Makers works with charities to make a sustaining impact into the community.  One of the components of the company was to collaborate with organizations and mentor them.  This gentleman had a well-prepared presentation.  He seemed to be comfortable throughout the presentation and was able to present without any note cards.  He always made sure to engage with the crowd by making eye contact.  Visually, I feel he should have used a PowerPoint slide.  He did a great job of drawing what the business was about, but I am not sure that everyone was able to clearly see it.  This could lead to the audience not fully understanding your business.  Next time I recommend using the projector screen.  As far as the business, I feel it is important to build more of a presence.  The presenter stated that if you want to get updates on the company follow them on social media “because they are not great at telling folks.”  Some investors are older and not involved in social media, it is important to consider all potential clients.  

Live Music Tutor was in the business of being an online music tutor.  They offered lessons on playing various instruments along with vocal training.  The speaker was well prepared, he was very comfortable and the presentation was clear and informative.  He began the presentation with a brief video description of the company and incorporated key information such as revenue streams, key partners and services offered.  Although he did a great job, there were areas I felt he could have improved.  The presenter had a stack of papers in his hand that were a distraction during his presentation; he also used the podium to lean on.  I suggest keeping his hands free next time and not leaning on the podium.  For the business, I suggest giving a trial session before making the customer commit.  This allows the customer to see if this is something they really want, and allow them to test the connection.

Overall, both were great speakers and had companies that could really make a difference.