Jeff Henderson is one of the most gifted communicators in the world. Don’t believe me? In this article, Forbes named Jeff one of the 20 Speakers You Shouldn’t Miss The Opportunity To See. But what is Jeff Henderson truly known FOR?
Speaking to over 200 business and non-profit leaders this morning, Jeff taught from his book . I have known Jeff for several years and heard him speak on the subject many times. You can read one of these previous sessions by clicking Orange One-Day: 35 Leadership Quotes And Lessons From Jeff Henderson.
But it was what he did prior to speaking which made the greatest impact on me. This is what I will always remember him FOR.
Jeff’s speaking time began at 8:00 AM. A breakfast buffet was provided for the audience as part of their ticket price. Approximately 30 tables seating eight people each filled the room. I looked up as I was eating and noticed Jeff clearing the tables, picking up people’s trash, and putting it in the garbage cans stationed around the auditorium.
I was shocked in a positive way!!! I had never seen the keynote speaker of any of the countless conferences I’ve attended clearing off the tables of the audience prior to speaking. Most remain in the green room awaiting their introduction prior to taking the stage.
Think about this for a moment. The keynote speaker, one of the Top 20 communicators in the world, the author of the book, the one people paid to see, dare I say the celebrity, was picking up their trash!!!
What an incredibly humble and selfless act by a wonderful human being!!!
When Jeff came to our table and began picking up the paper plates, plastic forks and knives, I said, “You know you’re killing someone right now.”
He said, “Who?”
“Simon Sinek,” I responded. “Leaders Eat Last my eye! Leaders clean off tables!”
Jeff smiled and said, “You should tell him that.”
So Simon if you’re reading, it’s time to update your book. Leaders now don’t just eat last, they clean off the tables.
Jeff’s actions taught me three things about public speaking and leading:
- The lobby is the new green room. I have spent my fair share of time in green rooms prior to speaking but Jeff reminded me of the importance of connecting with the audience prior to speaking.
- Picking up their trash allows you to hear their trash. Jeff was doing his own reconnaissance. Picking up the trash allowed Jeff to hear what the people were talking about. He was learning about their expectations, desires, and struggles.
- Connecting prior to speaking makes it easier to connect while you’re speaking. It is true that people don’t care how much you know until they know how much you care.
Jeff taught those in attendance a lot about marketing, customer service, and using their business to make a positive impact in their community.
But what I will remember most about this morning will be the power of humility and service to others.
That is what Jeff Henderson is known FOR to me.
It is also what I want to be known FOR to others.
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