You might be wondering … who is Cavett?
As a professional speaker (who grew up in Australia and then relocated to the USA), I heard this term constantly within NSA – ‘the spirit of Cavett’ – and early in my career discovered that in 1972, Cavett Robert, CSP, CPAE, realized he was spending more to get bookings as a professional speaker than he was earning from them. (This information I found on the National Speakers Association website) He had a vision for an organization where professional speakers could come together to learn, exchange ideas and share experiences. He said “a desire to help others is our most noble attribute; it gives immortal momentum to life and is our only certain path to heaven.” He created the National Speakers Association (NSA) in 1973, and I am so grateful to him for that.
Cavett constantly inspired others and shared his wisdom and expertise generously.
The “spirit of Cavett” – his love, encouragement, generosity and wisdom – has continued to be part NSA and is often quoted around the halls of convention, chapters and online through social media. If you are new to NSA, or this summer in Philadelphia might be your very first NSA convention, the best way to understand the spirit of Cavett is to give first. When you meet someone give them your undivided attention, when you are with someone give them your creativity and authenticity, when you are talking with someone ask them about themselves (before you go on and on about you). Choose to give first, I imagine that’s what Cavett did.
Last October I was fortunate to speak for the Colorado NSA chapter and was approached by one of Cavett’s friends (a legend within NSA, a sweet gentleman and one of the founders of NSA Colorado) who came after my presentation, grabbed my hands in his, looked deeply into my eyes and said “young lady, Cavett would be so proud of you’. Today that still makes my heart melt and maybe just a little teary eyed.
Today, regardless of what industry you are in, choose to demonstrate the spirit of someone you admire and if you are speaker – choose to give first, just like Cavett did.
What are your ideas on how you can give more? Share your ideas with us here on our blog.
Neen- I love the stories of Cavett Robert and fully agree that we get more when we come together and help each other. He said something about not being worried about your slice of the pie…. But instead work to make a bigger pie (there is enough business for everyone).
I am surprised when speakers tell me they don’t participate in NSA because other speakers are not potential clients…. And they only network with those who can hire them. I would not be in business if it was not for all I have learned from friends like you that I met at NSA.
See you in Philly in 3 weeks!!!
Thom
G’Day gorgeous
You are such a success story and I bet Cavett would have loved you Thom! You have been so generous within the NSA community and of course as part of your every day! I admire you and am excited we get to hang in Philly for NSA this summer – it’s been too long my friend!