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The Secret To Success
Harold Bond was a terrible salesman. His job was selling magazine subscriptions over the phone. After 6 months, Harold had sold only three subscriptions.
His colleague Leila was different. Leila could sell ice to an eskimo. In fact, on a typical work day, she usually sold three subscriptions before 9.30 am.
“How do you do it Leila? What’s your secret?” asked Harold.
“Sorry Harold, but you can’t teach an old dog new tricks,” responded Leila.
Harold returned to his desk. He knew he was operating in a dog eat dog environment. There were no friends. Only competition.
Later that day, Harold’s colleague, Tom, approached him.
“You still don’t know the secret to success, do you Harold?” said Tom.
“Please help me Tom,” replied Harold. “I’m on thin ice. The boss will fire me if I don’t perform like Leila.”
Tom smiled. “Oh Harold, you beautiful fool. Leila’s drunk! We all are. How else do you think we can speak to so many strangers on the phone?”
Tom had dropped a bombshell. Harold finally knew the big secret!
For the next two years, Harold drank like a fish. He quickly became the top salesman in the company. Six months later he died, due to alcohol related complications.
Further examples:
Misha can sell ice to an eskimo, she’s been our top performer for the last five years.
I don’t know why they haven’t fired Ben yet, he has no idea how to use the new technology and you can’t teach an old dog new tricks!
The finance industry is a dog eat dog world, don’t expect anyone to help you.
You’re on thin ice pal, one more mistake and I’m going to fire you!
Henry dropped a bombshell when he announced his divorce in the middle of the party.
I’m worried about Frances. She’s been drinking like a fish recently.