How to secure an ovation

The Merriam-Webster dictionary defines an ovation as “an occurrence in which a group of people at a play, speech, sporting event, etc. show enthusiastic approval or appreciation by clapping their hands together over and over. Although one might say that the ‘etc’ would cover anything else not cited in that definition, I would for sure include the small businesses in that selection.

Why? An entrepreneur deserves ‘enthusiastic approval’ not only at the end but also at the beginning of his/her pursuit – if nothing else, for the sheer courage of sailing in unknown waters. I know from experience that entrepreneurs don’t usually get any kind of wider recognition for a very long time – and maybe only if they manage to achieve something truly astounding.

We entrepreneurs could take a tip from musicians here. At a show, many performers look to engage their audiences early by using a very simple technique. They get the audience to clap along, in time to the music. It works brilliantly. Audiences love a show in which they take a part. ☺

It works in business, too. I learned this approach when I was working for a Swiss company. Get your colleagues and customers, metaphorically, to ‘clap along’. Whether it’s an internal decision about staff or processes, or an external issue that affects customers, make sure that the people you are addressing feel they have a say.

You might even get a standing ovation.

See how it’s done by Sergey Zhilin, as he conducts Moscow City Symphony: Libertango

Song of the week: Moloko – Sing It Back (1999)