Jeff Blackman’s Hectic Schedule Leads Him to the ‘Fast Track’
(June 5) With 92 presentations to his credit, Glenview, IL, speaker Jeff Blackman is the latest recipient of the Vistage “Fast Track” Speaker Award. Of those 92 talks, 55 were done during the 2007 calendar year, reflecting growing popularity for his high-energy marketing and sales program.
When asked about his first reaction to receiving the award, Blackman displayed both humor and humbleness.
“When I first found out from Ruby [Randall] and Rob [Coull], I was surprised and thrilled,” he said. “I told them, it was ‘far cooler than when I was named Outstanding Camper of the Year in 1967!’"
“Recognition and awards are always flattering, yet I unequivocally know...this ain't a solo journey,” he continued. “So many folks have been incredibly helpful and gracious with invaluable advice and assistance. I literally wouldn't have become a Vistage speaker without the encouragement, recommendations and counsel of Mikki Williams, Chuck Reaves, Linda Swindling and the late Bill Brooks. The Vistage folks in San Diego are also great to work with, like Heather and Elena and their team of talented COAs: Lisa, Marie, Rachel, Kevane and Keith. In travel, Lisa and Anca. Abby in strategic alliances. Andrea in accounting, and the rest of the Vistage gang too.
“Plus, the Chairs and members make it a ball. They're smart. Challenging. And hungry for new ideas,” he added.
The designation, previously known as the Members’ Choice Award, is given to the speaker who provided the most presentations in a calendar year while maintaining a 4.5 or higher average score in both content and delivery. In addition, the recipient must be relatively new, with three years or less experience in the Vistage speaker program.
“Jeff is an invaluable resource for us not only through the value he provides to our members but in his assistance with NSA and helping Vistage to onboard new top talent,” said Chair Operations Manager Elena Vasquez, speaking on behalf of the COA team. “He is always willing to help Vistage in any way he can whether it be in referring member prospects or aiding in potential alliance opportunities.”
Jeff began speaking for Vistage in March 2006 and completed 55 presentations in 2007, for a total of 92 presentations to Vistage groups. Jeff shares his knowledge through his program “Peak Your Profits!” -- which helps members understand ways to increase their sales while building loyal relationships.
Jeff’s biography notes that he’s been a speaker, author, success coach, broadcaster and lawyer. For more than two decades he has shared his profit-producing strategies with CEOs, presidents, entrepreneurs and others. A business-growth specialist, Blackman’s customized the "Referrals: Your Road to Results" learning-system enables clients to generate more referrals and sales with less effort.
In addition, Jeff also is a published author and contributing columnist to numerous magazines and newspapers. His books include, "Opportunity $elling, RESULT$," "Peak Your Profits, Carpe A.M. • Carpe P.M.," and "Stop Whining! Start Selling!" -- which became an Amazon best-seller within a month of its release. He’s one of approximately 10 percent of professional speakers to receive the coveted CSP, or Certified Speaking Professional, designation from the National Speakers Association.
Jeff graduated with honors from the University of Illinois and the Illinois Institute of Technology Chicago Kent College of Law.
His advice to other Vistage speakers: Be well prepared.
“Don't wing it,” he cautioned. “Know it's about the audience, not you. Be a good listener, not just a great speaker.”
He then added, “Deliver meaningful content in a memorable way. Your purpose is simple: help Vistage members attain a more favorable future. Plus, be flexible. Every group and Chair is different. Adapt – fast. Be a gracious guest.
“And, at lunch, don't stuff extra desserts into your pockets. They have a tendency to crumble or melt on the way back to the airport!”