RESPECT THE ACT

We took a tour down memory lane and watched The Beatles Anthology, a remastered and remixed 9-part documentary series covering this great band. Drummer Ringo Starr said of their last recorded album Abbey Road, “Out of the ashes of all that madness, this really great piece came together.” There were spats, but Starr noted that when the time came to play music, all personal tensions took a back seat to the act they had created, and they became The Beatles.

This rule of performance separates professionals from amateurs, whether in sports, acting, finance or any endeavor where more than one person presents as a unit. It is no small feat to put an act together, successfully present material, and keep it together for many years like the Beatles did from 1960 – 1970.

When your team presents, do it like the pros: first set an intention. Then divide up your roles or who does what. Rehearse with interruptions-- people leaving the room, as well as technical glitches so when you’re on, nothing can rattle you. Your act is a redoubt, a steadfast defense and comforting refuge. And never forget that the way you deliver material is more important than the material itself. If a finals presentation decision is close and your act is superior, you will win.