Shows
Create Distinction!Afternoon Chat with Scott McKainLet's talk!
Scott’s matchless experiences have continued throughout his life. They range from playing the villain in a Werner Herzog film that Roger Ebert called one of the 50 “great movies” in cinema history to being booked to speak by Arnold Schwarzenegger for an event on the White House lawn with the President in the audience; from being the author of business books named among the “year’s ten best” to membership of multiple Boards of Directors.
The tapestry of Scott McKain’s distinctive experiences have blended to create the inimitable content that makes him one of the world’s most in-demand b...2024-04-1112 min
Project Distinct PodcastDerivative but distinctive — an approach to stand outIs it really better to be different? Scott McKain says, “Maybe not.” The distinctive professional or organization finds unique approaches that creates more traction and higher engagement with customers. So, where do you find the best ideas on how you accomplish that difficult task? On today’s Project Distinct, Scott reveals that — as counterintuitive as it sounds — the way to be distinctive is to be derivative…and he shows you how.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices2021-04-1212 min
Project Distinct PodcastEncore Episode - Five Leadership Styles that Fail to Create Iconic ResultsWelcome to a second season of NEW podcasts on distinction with Scott McKain!
In today’s episode, Scott talks about the importance of leaders and discusses five leadership styles that fail to create the kind of iconic cultures that distinctive leaders should be developing.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices2021-03-1209 min
Project Distinct PodcastEncore Episode - Could you be guilty of the sin of micromanagement?You want to be certain your team or organization delivers on its promises — and that’s a good thing. But, what if — in your effort to succeed — you end up being too controlling of your team and micromanaging. Scott McKain knows the problem — he admits he has been guilty of it! On today’s PROJECT DISTINCT, Scott looks at what the dangers are of micromanagement — and how to break yourself of this habit for the benefit of you and your colleagues.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices2021-02-1409 min
Project Distinct PodcastEncore Episode - Six steps to taking charge in your workIn his recent book, ICONIC, Scott McKain revealed that organizations and professionals who achieve the highest level of distinction “play offense.” In other words, they take charge rather than focus on being reactive to situations in their respective marketplaces. On today’s PROJECT DISTINCT, Scott relates six steps to an offensive mindset that will allow you to take charge and become iconic.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices2021-01-2610 min
Project Distinct PodcastIs it easier to put a human on moon than to deliver the ultimate customer experience?With all of the celebration about the 50th anniversary of the landing on the moon, Scott McKain started wondering, “Why have we been able to put humans on the moon — yet, it seems impossible for humans to consistently receive an ‘Ultimate Customer Experience ®?’” On today’s PROJECT DISTINCT, Scott will reveal the five reasons the moon mission succeeded, but our efforts at the customer experience often fall short.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices2021-01-1712 min
Project Distinct PodcastGive them the pickle!When Scott McKain and friends visited a winery in Hunter Valley, Australia, they were denied the chance to sample one of the wines on the vineyard's menu because they were told, “We aren’t tasting reds today.” As they left without purchasing any of the wines they were selling, Scott was reminded of the great customer service story from Bob Farrell of the old Farrell’s Ice Cream Parlours: “Give ‘em the pickle!” That powerful story is at the center of today’s episode of Project Distinct.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices2021-01-0908 min
Project Distinct PodcastSales training in changing timesThe statistic caught Scott McKain’s eyes: “53% of sales professionals had not been to any type of sales training for five years!” In today’s Project Distinct, Scott looks at the importance of sales training — and how it has to change in the rapidly evolving world of selling. The movement from subscription to transaction means that sales professionals need training more than ever before. Yet, few look for what they really need — and scant organizations provide it. Today is a controversial and compelling edition of Project Distinct!
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices2021-01-0709 min
Project Distinct PodcastDerivative but distinctive — an approach to stand outIs it really better to be different? Scott McKain says, “Maybe not.” The distinctive professional or organization finds unique approaches that creates more traction and higher engagement with customers. So, where do you find the best ideas on how you accomplish that difficult task? On today’s Project Distinct, Scott reveals that — as counterintuitive as it sounds — the way to be distinctive is to be derivative…and he shows you how.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices2020-12-1612 min
Project Distinct PodcastLessons from extraordinary leadersFor about the 20tth consecutive year, Scott McKain will head to Malibu and Pepperdine University to be one of the speakers at the Youth Citizenship Summit. Every year, he has joined other speakers such as Jon Voight, Tommy Lasorda, Kathy Ireland, the late Art Linkletter, and — Scott’s favorite — boxing champion George Foreman. On today’s PROJECT DISTINCT, Scott will relate the critical messages he’s learned from this incredible group of people as they speak to the leaders of the future.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices2020-11-2000 min
Project Distinct PodcastHow to get startedSome of the questions that Scott McKain is constantly asked is, “How do I start to create distinction? How do I start to improve my business? What does it take to have a better life?” On today’s important episode of PROJECT DISTINCT, Scott reveals the way to start to grow your business and fulfill your dreams. Sharing his personal experience, what he learned working with Arnold Schwarzenegger, and the insights of others, Scott outlines what you need to do to launch a better business…a better career…and a better life.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoice2020-10-0111 min
Project Distinct PodcastHow Jody shapes the company cultureWhen the group Scott McKain is speaking to in Maui entered the ballroom for the conference's farewell dinner, they saw that Jody — who had served the attendees on opening night — was once again their bartender. Spontaneously, the group burst into applause at the sight of her. Her attitude and enthusiasm was infectious…to a degree that it uplifted both her customers and her colleagues. How can YOU attract more “Jodys” to your team? And, what role does your culture play in that effort? On today’s episode of PROJECT DISTINCT, Scott McKain will discuss WHY this is critical!
Learn more about your a...2020-09-2408 min
Project Distinct PodcastAre you disconnected from your customer's experience?On today’s episode, Scott McKain suggests that MOST organizations are disconnected from what their own customers are experiencing as they do business with them. And, this lack of understanding even spreads to the front line people on your own team! Learn what to do to reconnect your thinking with that of your customers — and, what Scott says is one of the “saddest shows on television” relates to this phenomenon.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices2020-09-2109 min
Project Distinct PodcastSleep soundly by preparing properly“Have a Little Faith?” by Mitch Albom was recently brought to Scott McKain’s attention — and, especially the story of the farmer and the new farmhand. Today’s PROJECT DISTINCT uses that story to ask, “How well are you prepared to grow your business and yourself?” In this episode, Scott will outline three important steps you need to take to ensure you’ll sleep soundly because you’ve prepared properly.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices2020-09-1809 min
Project Distinct PodcastFocusing your efforts through a High ConceptAs we continue on PROJECT DISTINCT to examine the importance of clarity and focus, today Scott McKain reveals a tool that can help you — the High Concept. As you seek to sharpen your clarity, the specific steps that Scott outlines today will help you center your efforts on what’s really important to your team and your customers.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices2020-09-1710 min
Project Distinct PodcastWhy is vision so important — and how can we become more visionary?We hear top leaders complimented all the time with the accolade that they are “visionary.” But, what does that really mean? Is it important to the success of our business or career? And, if so, how do we become visionary? On today’s PROJECT DISTINCT, Scott McKain focuses on a part of the new book, “Do Business Better” by his friend, Damian Mason. (https://www.amazon.com/Do-Business-Better-Actions-Succeed/dp/1119566282) In the episode, you’ll learn why vision is critical to your future — and some specific tactics required to become more visionary about your future.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphon2020-09-0908 min
Project Distinct PodcastI hate closingYou should never close the sale. Get ready — this will be a controversial episode of PROJECT DISTINCT. Scott McKain reveals why he HATES the term, “closing the sale” — and why you and your team should have a totally different perspective in these rapidly changing time.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices2020-09-0809 min
Project Distinct PodcastHire great teamsWe hear so much about the importance of hiring “A” players for our organization’s team. Is that truly the superior strategy? Inspired by a blog post on fs.blog, Scott McKain relates that sometimes in business — as in sports — the best players don’t always combine their efforts to produce the superior team. How we need to hire and work with one another is the important topic of today’s PROJECT DISTINCT.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices2020-09-0710 min
Project Distinct PodcastBlanchard CAREDr. Ken Blanchard — a former member of Speakers Roundtable, the mastermind group that has also been a part of Scott McKain’s career for two decades — is one of the world’s authorities on customer service, leadership, and organizational management. Blanchard’s companies teach a specific four-step approach to attaining a high level of customer service. On today’s episode of PROJECT DISTINCT, Scott takes a look at Blanchard’s approach and helps us understand what we need to do to keep customers coming back for life.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices2020-09-0611 min
Project Distinct PodcastHow frequently should we conduct training for our team — or ourselves?Training is a critical function for every organization — and each professional. To achieve maximum results, how frequently should we conduct training sessions? How often should training initiatives be launched? How quickly should attendees put the new information to use to be certain they take action? A surprising answer is in store for you from Scott McKain on today’s PROJECT DISTINCT!
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices2020-09-0511 min
Project Distinct PodcastThe 4 keys to designing a distinctive product or serviceWe all want the services we sell and the products we market to stand out from the competition. So, how do we incorporate distinction into the way we design our products and services? On today’s episode of PROJECT DISTINCT, Scott McKain reveals the four factors required to ensure that we are creating work that moves us to the front of a hyper-competitive market.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices2020-09-0413 min
Project Distinct PodcastBeyond product - creating a customer focusOn yesterday’s episode, Scott McKain discussed the problems that organizations and professionals create when they focus obsessively on their products and not on their customers. Today’s PROJECT DISTINCT discusses an all-important step: a customer focus in every phase of your business. Whether you’re a solopreneur or in a large corporation, this message can play an important insight for your success!
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices2020-09-0308 min
Project Distinct PodcastWhy we focus on product more than customersYou’ve probably had it happen to you — a sales professional that tells you more about the product than you want to know, while ignoring your needs. Why does that happen? Why do we often fall into the same trap with our customers? That’s the topic of today’s PROJECT DISTINCT with Scott McKain. We’ll take a look at the two major reasons that we often are so focused on our products that we don’t center our approach on our customers. It’s a revealing insight for you on today’s episode!
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit m...2020-09-0210 min
Project Distinct PodcastMore on storytelling as a business toolFollowing up on yesterday’s episode, Scott McKain dives deeper into the importance of storytelling, why you can never start as the hero, and why it’s so critical that you tell the story of your company, department, or team. In fact — you should be telling YOUR personal or professional story, too! That’s the subject for today’s PROJECT DISTINCT!
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices2020-09-0108 min
Project Distinct PodcastThe most important professional skill for the future? Storytelling.What’s the most important skill a business or professional can possess in the 21st Century? The ability to tell stories, according to “The Futurist” journal. Do you identify more with the airline started by two guys in a bar writing on a cocktail napkin — or a conglomeration of smaller brands you don’t remember with no narrative that’s told? Learn the importance of your story from Scott McKain on today’s PROJECT DISTINCT!
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices2020-08-2710 min
Project Distinct PodcastLatest trends in small business ownershipOn today’s PROJECT DISTINCT, Scott McKain reports on a new study by FreshBooks (https://www.freshbooks.com/press/annualreport) on the latest trends in small business ownership. Who does better — those entrepreneurs with…or without…a college degree? Who does better…those with or without multiple streams of income? All that and more on today’s episode!
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices2020-08-2609 min
Project Distinct PodcastThey forgot who they areIn a recent conversation with an Australian businessman, Scott McKain was surprised to learn of an American-based company that is rapidly losing marketshare. “They forgot who they are,” was the reason offered by the business leader. On today’s PROJECT DISTINCT, Scott discusses the importance of clarity — and why it’s critical to deliver to customers what they expect that we are…even as we grow and change for their benefit.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices2020-08-2507 min
Project Distinct PodcastWhat to do when you’ve made a mistakeEvery human being has made a mistake of some kind. Yet, some handle them well and turn them into learning experiences, others deny, delay, and — even worse — never let it go. Today’s PROJECT DISTINCT with Scott McKain looks at what you should do after you’ve made a mistake to ensure that you not only learn from your mistake, but grow from it to help create distinction.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices2020-08-2410 min
Project Distinct PodcastTwo approaches to employee engagementWe know that we’re more profitable and productive when our teams are engaged in their work. So, how do we hire and keep engaged employees? Today from Hong Kong, Scott McKain shows two different approaches — and provides insight on why one way is superior to the other. Which one describes your efforts? It’s today’s episode on PROJECT DISTINCT.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices2020-08-2308 min
Project Distinct PodcastSmaller, Faster, CompellingWhile working on the road this week, Scott McKain attended a rugby tournament — Hong Kong Sevens. A special version of the game of rugby — of which Scott freely admits he knows nothing about — gave him ideas for three specific steps we can take to make our businesses stand out: 1) Make your efforts smaller and more intensive; 2) Make it faster for your customer; 3) Make it more compelling to do business with you. It’s the formula that attracts tens of thousands of fans to the Sevens tournaments from around the world. It's today’s episode of PROJECT DISTINCT!
Learn more about your ad cho...2020-08-2206 min
Project Distinct PodcastThe three business lessons from WrestlemaniaOne of the world’s largest annual sporting events was recently held — although it’s technical classified as “sports entertainment.” It’s Wrestlemania! If you are a WWE fan — and especially if you aren’t — here are three serious business lessons that you can learn from the success of Wrestlemania 2019. It’s a “no hold barred” edition of PROJECT DISTINCT from the man in that corner, Scott McKain!
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices2020-08-2107 min
Project Distinct PodcastGive them the pickle!When Scott McKain and friends visited a winery in Hunter Valley, Australia, they were denied the chance to sample one of the wines on the vineyard's menu because they were told, “We aren’t tasting reds today.” As they left without purchasing any of the wines they were selling, Scott was reminded of the great customer service story from Bob Farrell of the old Farrell’s Ice Cream Parlours: “Give ‘em the pickle!” That powerful story is at the center of today’s episode of Project Distinct.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices2020-08-1008 min
Project Distinct PodcastSales training in changing timesThe statistic caught Scott McKain’s eyes: “53% of sales professionals had not been to any type of sales training for five years!” In today’s Project Distinct, Scott looks at the importance of sales training — and how it has to change in the rapidly evolving world of selling. The movement from subscription to transaction means that sales professionals need training more than ever before. Yet, few look for what they really need — and scant organizations provide it. Today is a controversial and compelling edition of Project Distinct!
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices2020-08-0608 min
Project Distinct PodcastDerivative but distinctive — an approach to stand outIs it really better to be different? Scott McKain says, “Maybe not.” The distinctive professional or organization finds unique approaches that creates more traction and higher engagement with customers. So, where do you find the best ideas on how you accomplish that difficult task? On today’s Project Distinct, Scott reveals that — as counterintuitive as it sounds — the way to be distinctive is to be derivative…and he shows you how.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices2020-08-0512 min
Project Distinct PodcastS2 E464: Encore Episode - Happy employees create happy customersWe all say we want happy customers — but, are we willing to make the effort to ensure we create happy employees who can deliver the type of customer experience that will help us achieve that goal? On today’s PROJECT DISTINCT, Scott McKain will review specific points that will help us create a culture of happy employees.
Here’s the link to the post Scott discusses today: https://supportyourcustomer.com/happy-employees-make-happy-customers-how-to-achieve-this
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices2020-07-0110 min
Project Distinct PodcastS2 E463: Encore Episode - Will AI dramatically change the customer experience?There’s so much talk about Artificial Intelligence and how it’s going to revolutionize everything from driving our cars to the experiences we have as customers. Yet, Scott McKain asks in today’s PROJECT DISTINCT, will it REALLY have a disruptive impact? Or, do we need to tap the brakes just a bit on what we think is the future of CX and AI? You’ll find out on this episode!
Here are the posts that Scott references during today’s show:
"How AI will -- and won't -- dominate customer service in 2019": https://betanews.com/2019/01/07/how-ai-will-and-wont-dominate-customer-service-in-2019/
"How AI Will Make C...2020-06-2910 min
Project Distinct PodcastS2 E458: Encore Episode - Could you be guilty of the sin of micromanagement?You want to be certain your team or organization delivers on its promises — and that’s a good thing. But, what if — in your effort to succeed — you end up being too controlling of your team and micromanaging. Scott McKain knows the problem — he admits he has been guilty of it! On today’s PROJECT DISTINCT, Scott looks at what the dangers are of micromanagement — and how to break yourself of this habit for the benefit of you and your colleagues.
Here’s the link to the blog post that Scott references in today’s program: https://www.feedough.com/micromanagement/
Learn...2020-06-2409 min
Project Distinct PodcastS2 E440: Encore Episode - Six steps to taking charge in your workIn his recent book, ICONIC, Scott McKain revealed that organizations and professionals who achieve the highest level of distinction “play offense.” In other words, they take charge rather than focus on being reactive to situations in their respective marketplaces. On today’s PROJECT DISTINCT, Scott relates six steps to an offensive mindset that will allow you to take charge and become iconic.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices2020-06-0210 min
Project Distinct PodcastS2 E432: Encore Episode - Is it easier to put a human on moon than to deliver the ultimate customer experience?With all of the celebration about the 50th anniversary of the landing on the moon, Scott McKain started wondering, “Why have we been able to put humans on the moon — yet, it seems impossible for humans to consistently receive an ‘Ultimate Customer Experience ®?’” On today’s PROJECT DISTINCT, Scott will reveal the five reasons the moon mission succeeded, but our efforts at the customer experience often fall short.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices2020-05-2411 min
Project Distinct PodcastS2 E417: Encore Episode - Lessons from extraordinary leadersFor about the 20tth consecutive year, Scott McKain will head to Malibu and Pepperdine University to be one of the speakers at the Youth Citizenship Summit. Every year, he has joined other speakers such as Jon Voight, Tommy Lasorda, Kathy Ireland, the late Art Linkletter, and — Scott’s favorite — boxing champion George Foreman. On today’s PROJECT DISTINCT, Scott will relate the critical messages he’s learned from this incredible group of people as they speak to the leaders of the future.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices2020-05-0409 min
Project Distinct PodcastS2 E389: Encore Episode - How to get startedSome of the questions that Scott McKain is constantly asked is, “How do I start to create distinction? How do I start to improve my business? What does it take to have a better life?” On today’s important episode of PROJECT DISTINCT, Scott reveals the way to start to grow your business and fulfill your dreams. Sharing his personal experience, what he learned working with Arnold Schwarzenegger, and the insights of others, Scott outlines what you need to do to launch a better business…a better career…and a better life.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoice2020-04-0311 min
Project Distinct PodcastS2 E383: Encore Episode - How Jody shapes the company cultureWhen the group Scott McKain is speaking to in Maui entered the ballroom for the conference's farewell dinner, they saw that Jody — who had served the attendees on opening night — was once again their bartender. Spontaneously, the group burst into applause at the sight of her. Her attitude and enthusiasm was infectious…to a degree that it uplifted both her customers and her colleagues. How can YOU attract more “Jodys” to your team? And, what role does your culture play in that effort? On today’s episode of PROJECT DISTINCT, Scott McKain will discuss WHY this is critical!
Learn more about your a...2020-03-2808 min
Project Distinct PodcastS2 E380: Encore Episode - Are you disconnected from your customer's experience?On today’s episode, Scott McKain suggests that MOST organizations are disconnected from what their own customers are experiencing as they do business with them. And, this lack of understanding even spreads to the front line people on your own team! Learn what to do to reconnect your thinking with that of your customers — and, what Scott says is one of the “saddest shows on television” relates to this phenomenon.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices2020-03-2509 min
Success Hackers | Empowering Entrepreneurs to Play Bigger in Business and Life087. Two time Hall of Famer, Scott McKain shares how to stand out, and be DISTINCTIVE in the market-place.Scott McKain is a globally recognized authority on how organizations and professionals create distinction to attract and retain customers. His expertise has been quoted multiple times in USA Today, the New York Times, Wall St. Journal, and International Herald-Tribune. In addition, Scott McKain was honored with induction along with Zig Ziglar, Seth Godin, Dale Carnegie and just twenty more in the “Sales and Marketing Hall of Fame.”2016-08-2932 minCreate Distinction!Episode 19: The role of “learning” in creating distinction…You cannot move from where you are now to where you want to be with only the information that you
currently possess. In today’s program, Scott McKain asks you
three critical questions to help you consider the importance of
enlightenment as a core value of distinction.2016-06-0400 minCreate Distinction!Episode 18: Differentiating the customer experience…If the experience that you deliver to
your customers is identical to the one the competition is creating,
it becomes impossible for you to be perceived as distinctive.
In today’s episode, Scott McKain relates three specific steps that
you can take to make your customer experience more unique.2016-06-0300 minCreate Distinction!Episode 17: More on changing your habits to succeed and create distinction…“Motivational speakers” have said for years it takes 30 days to
change a habit — however, research clearly demonstrates they are
WRONG. On this program, Scott McKain reveals the truth about
changing habits — it’s a process, not an event. And, we learn
the five specific steps it takes to move to a more dynamic and
distinctive life, both personally and professionally.2016-06-0300 minCreate Distinction!Episode 44: Dealing with being insanely busy…Our friend, Victoria Labalme (http://VictoriaLabalme.com) has a great phrase — she calls it, “Crazy, Busy, Nuts.” Know the feeling? You can’t create distinction if you are always overwhelmed. Today, Scott McKain gives you two great exercises to help you start taming the “busy” from your life.2016-06-0200 minCreate Distinction!Episode 43: Penguins in the lobby? No problem!On a trip to Hawaii, Scott McKain was reading an article in USAToday about Ritz Carlton (in which he was extensively quoted), with a penguin sitting by him at the Hyatt. Today’s episode is a commentary on how important it is to have something unexpected to delight your customer…and the people to maintain it.2016-06-0100 minCreate Distinction!Episode 42: Are you burying your distinctive point?Looking at competitive websites, Scott McKain noticed they all said the same thing — yet, one had a very distinctive fact buried deep in the copy. Are you presenting identical information as your competition — or, are you standing out?2016-05-3100 minCreate Distinction!Episode 41: The fine line of leadershipOften when we examine the “positive” attributes of leadership versus “negative” approaches of bad bosses, we fail to recognize that “fine line” that separates the qualities from one another. Today, Scott McKain talks about when good approaches turn bad for leaders and the companies they serve.2016-05-3000 minCreate Distinction!Episode 40: Dealing with a bad bossProbably at one time or another, we’ve all had to deal with a boss that was difficult and demanding. But, what if that boss crosses the line and becomes disrespectful? How do we deal with a bad boss? In today’s episode of Project Distinct, Scott McKain will provide a few ideas on the steps we should take.2016-05-2700 minCreate Distinction!Episode 39: Distinction lessons from Bryan CranstonWhether he’s playing a meth dealer, former President, or goofball dad, actor Bryan Cranston’s career teaches two important lessons about distinction: 1) it can come at any time in life; and, 2) the first step to avoid being “pigeon-holed” as a professional is to not think that way about yourself! Scott McKain has more in today’s “Project Distinct.”2016-05-2600 minCreate Distinction!Episode 38: The critical importance of the first impressionFrom a waiter on Valentine’s Day to a cab driver, first impressions set the tone of the customer experience — and, whether you know it or not, critical clues about your ability to create distinction. That’s the topic from Scott McKain on today’s Project Distinct!2016-05-2500 minCreate Distinction!Episode 37: Using your experience as a customer to enhance your customer’s experienceYour experience as a customer is deep (you have a lot of experience buying from certain vendors) AND wide (you’ve done business a lot of different places). Scott McKain focuses today on how you can leverage your experience as a customer to help create an Ultimate Customer Experience.2016-05-2400 minCreate Distinction!Episode 36: Are you assuming that your way is the customer’s way, too?A recent Pew Research study revealed that only 15% of Americans have ever used Uber or Lyft. It also uncovers other startling information for those of us who actively engage online. This causes Scott McKain to question: are you assuming the way YOU do things is the way that the customer does, too?2016-05-2300 minCreate Distinction!Episode 35: “Great service” won’t differentiate you!In research in the field of financial services, Scott McKain learned the critical aspect of clarity — and why just having “great service” isn’t inspiring customers to move their business to you. Today’s episode tells you why...2016-05-2000 minCreate Distinction!Episode 34: Activity ranking and the plan for success…Today’s episode begins with Scott McKain discussing the four-step method of activity ranking — and concludes with how it will create a plan for personal and professional success!2016-05-1900 minCreate Distinction!Episode 32: 4 steps that screw up your customer experience...Today, Scott McKain provides insight on four critical things that companies, leaders, managers, and professionals do that mess up their ability to deliver a great customer experience. How many of these are you inadvertently doing in your organization?2016-05-1700 minCreate Distinction!Episode 30: The 3 strategies of differentiationAccording to Harvard professor Michael Porter, there are only three ways for you to compete against other businesses — and, if you want to differentiate, there are only three strategies you can employ. Scott McKain discusses those three, and reveals the importance of each…and how they impact you on today’s PROJECT DISTINCT.2016-05-1300 minCreate Distinction!Episode 29: Overcoming failure to create distinction...Rowland Hussey launched four businesses over a twelve year period -- and all of them failed. He kept a diary of what he had learned from his failures, and tried yet again. Scott McKain shares the story of what happened next...2016-05-1200 minCreate Distinction!Episode 28: Your lack of employee engagement is hurting your business!Based upon a recent whitepaper by Cornerstone, "only 40% of your employees know your organization's strategy and priorities for success!" Based on their research -- as well as Scott McKain's own work -- here is one important step to help you repair your engagement problems...NOW!2016-05-1100 minCreate Distinction!Episode 27: The four elements of distinctive design for any aspect of your businessWhether it's designing a product, how you'll serve your customer, or even your website...you want it to be distinctive! Today, Scott McKain shows us the four critical elements required for distinctive design -- no matter what it is that you are creating!2016-05-1000 minCreate Distinction!Episode 26: Three requirements of an Ultimate Customer Experience ®There are many aspects that a business must understand to deliver an experience so compelling to customers that loyalty is the result. Scott McKain today reveals the three requirements that are essential to create an Ultimate Customer Experience ®, regardless of your business or marketplace.2016-05-0900 minCreate Distinction!Episode 24: Ideas vs. execution: Which is most important?Which is most critical to your success
in creating distinction? Ideas...or execution? Scott McKain
has a very precise viewpoint on one of the other -- and it's the
subject of today's episode of Project Distinct!2016-05-0500 minCreate Distinction!Episode 22: The BIGGEST PROBLEM research says is facing your business…CareerBuilder.com surveyed leaders in financial services,
retail, and technology companies to find out what they determined
were the biggest challenges facing their organizations.
Surprisingly, they were very much alike — and will be revealed by
Scott McKain on this episode, along with a simple strategy to begin
to solve the problem.2016-05-0300 minCreate Distinction!Episode 21: The two currencies that customers are using to pay you…What some airlines don’t understand is that some customers use
more than just money to purchase a ticket. And, whether the
hotel is a Hampton Inn or a Four Seasons, customers always have a
right to a great experience. Scott McKain reveals what the
second currency is…and how it might even be more important than
cash.2016-05-0200 minCreate Distinction!Episode 20: When customer loyalty is an accident…When Scott McKain totaled his Hertz
rental car in New York City traffic, it was the beginning of a
remarkable experience that created a customer for life. Learn
how they did it — and how you can duplicate it, without the
accident!2016-04-2900 minCreate Distinction!Episode 01: Introduction to Project DistinctIntroductory podcast for Project Distinct with Scott McKain.
n this podcast, Scott McKain reveals the critical reason why creating distinction is the most important step you can take in your professional life. Today we begin the journey by hearing Scott McKain’s personal story of a life-changing tragedy, and how that inspired him to discover the formula for creating distinction.2016-04-2600 minCreate Distinction!Episode 16: Are your habits preventing you from creating distinction?One of the most powerful aspects of both your personal and professional lives are the habits that reinforce consistent behavior. The tension between how you are now — and how distinctive you want to be in the future — can create significant challenges. Scott McKain beings our exploration into habits in today’s Project Distinct!2016-04-2500 minCreate Distinction!Episode 15: No customer has EVER said…On today’s episode, Scott McKain informs us of something that NO customer in recorded history has EVER said…and why. He also gives us a single, simple step to take to help us create distinction in a hyper-competitive marketplace.2016-04-2200 minCreate Distinction!Episode 13: What’s the difference between differentiation and distinction?The terms “differentiation” and “distinction” are NOT interchangeable, according to Scott McKain — and it’s vital to know why. In this program, he enlightens us about the Pyramid of Distinction, why “Level One: Sameness” is about price, and why you can’t get to “Level Three: Distinction” unless you have something compelling that sets you apart from the competition.2016-04-2000 minCreate Distinction!Episode 10: Distinction and the organizational cultureFrom a one-person business to an organizational behemoth, every company has a “culture.” A recent story about Amazon leads Scott McKain to provide his insights on how a distinctive culture internally creates distinctive experiences for customers externally.2016-04-1500 minCreate Distinction!Episode 06: Differentiation Destroyer #2: Change that creates competitionFast food restaurants assembled by the exit on the new Interstate Highway System — and wreaked havoc on local diners. Today, as Scott McKain relates, it’s the Internet that’s doing the same to your business! How do you survive and thrive given this new competition?2016-04-1100 minCreate Distinction!Episode 05: The first “Destroyer of Differentiation” — Copycat Competition and Incremental AdvancemeIf your competition gains an advantage, the first response is to imitate it. However, that dilutes any distinction you have in the marketplace — and fails to inspire customers or employees. Today, Scott McKain examines the first of the three “Destroyers of Differentiation."2016-04-0600 minCreate Distinction!Episode 01: Introduction to Project DistinctIntroductory podcast for Project Distinct with Scott McKain.2016-04-0400 min
Create Distinction with Scott McKainCreate PERSONAL Distinction: IntroductionWant to become more distinctive in whatever you do? Have a desire to stand out and move up, regardless of your age, career, or goals?In this short, five-minute program, bestselling author and Hall of Fame speaker Scott McKain introduces his program that is a GIFT to YOU to start the New Year right!"Create PERSONAL Distinction" is a 14-day program designed to help you step up to the success that you desire. You won't be setting the old "New Year's Resolutions" that never seem to be accomplished -- instead, you'll be discovering what it REALLY takes to create the di...2013-12-2805 min
The Scott McKain ShowCreate Distinction-Creativity-Step OneThe importance of creativity in growing your business and career can't be overstated -- but, have you ever thought: "But, I'm not creative!"? There are three steps to becoming more creative -- from the book named as one of the "Top Ten Business Books" of the year -- and, in this session, the bestselling author and Hall of Fame speaker, Scott McKain begins with the first step that can make a major impact upon your level of creativity.Despite the 200,000 books on the subject of creativity on Amazon...it's just not THAT hard! Find out what...2013-11-2305 minCreate Distinction with Scott McKainCreate Distinction in Sales & Customer Service: Creativity - Step OneThe importance of creativity in growing your business and career can't be overstated -- but, have you ever thought: "But, I'm not creative!"?
There are three steps to becoming more creative -- from the book named as one of the "Top Ten Business Books" of the year -- and, in this session, the bestselling author and Hall of Fame speaker, Scott McKain begins with the first step that can make a major impact upon your level of creativity.Despite the 200,000 books on the subject of creativity on Amazon...it's just not THAT hard! Find out what YOU can do to de...2013-11-2305 minCreate Distinction!Create Distinction in Sales & Customer Service: CREATIVITYEver read or hear of the importance of creativity in growing your business and career — and think, “But, I’m not creative!“?
Here’s a single idea that can make a difference — this short broadcast will reveal one approach that can make a major impact upon your level of creativity. Despite the 200,000 books on the subject of creativity on Amazon…it’s just not THAT hard! Find out what YOU can do to develop more innovative ideas by listening to this short on-demand radio blog from bestselling author and Hall of Fame speaker, Scott McKain! AND, to sign up for our FREE webinar on...2013-10-3000 minThe Scott McKain ShowCreate Distinction: CREATIVITYEver read or hear of the importance of creativity in growing your business and career -- and think, "But, I'm not creative!"? Here's a single idea that can make a difference -- from the book named as one of the "Top Ten Business Books" of the year, bestselling author and Hall of Fame speaker, Scott McKain, reveals one approach that can make a major impact upon your level of creativity.Despite the 200,000 books on the subject of creativity on Amazon...it's just not THAT hard! Find out what YOU can do to develop more innovative ideas...2013-10-3006 minCreate Distinction with Scott McKainCreate Distinction: CREATIVITYEver read or hear of the importance of creativity in growing your business and career -- and think, "But, I'm not creative!"?
Here's a single idea that can make a difference -- from the book named as one of the "Top Ten Business Books" of the year, bestselling author and Hall of Fame speaker, Scott McKain, reveals one approach that can make a major impact upon your level of creativity.
Despite the 200,000 books on the subject of creativity on Amazon...it's just not THAT hard! Find out what YOU can do to develop more innovative ideas by listening to this sh...2013-10-3006 minCreate Distinction!Create Distinction is Sales & Customer Service -- Episode 8In this edition of "Create Distinction in Sales & Customer Service," bestselling author and Hall of Fame professional speaker Scott McKain reveals why a "commitment to awareness" is a primary step in creating the "Ultimate Customer Experience" so you can sell more uniquely and serve more compellingly.
Create distinction -- and grow your business!
http://ScottMcKain.com2013-09-3000 minCreate Distinction!Create Distinction in Sales & Customer Service! Episode 7In this edition of "Create Distinction in Sales & Customer Service," bestselling author and Hall of Fame professional speaker Scott McKain reveals why eliminating the confusion that customers experience because we often offer them too many options can be a critical element to ensuring continued sales success and lifelong loyalty.
Create distinction -- and grow your business!
http://ScottMcKain.com2013-06-0300 minCreate Distinction!Create Distinction in Sales & Customer Service! Episode 6In this edition of "Create Distinction in Sales & Customer Service," bestselling author and Hall of Fame professional speaker Scott McKain reveals why eliminating the confusion customers experience because of disinformation delivered by your competition can be a critical element to ensuring continued sales success and lifelong loyalty.
Create distinction -- and grow your business!
http://ScottMcKain.com
2013-06-0300 minCreate Distinction!Create Distinction in Sales & Customer Service! Episode 5In this edition of "Create Distinction in Sales & Customer Service," bestselling author and Hall of Fame professional speaker Scott McKain reveals why eliminating "unforced errors" can be a critical element to ensuring continued sales success and lifelong loyalty.
Create distinction -- and grow your business!
http://ScottMcKain.com2013-05-3100 minCreate Distinction!Episode 4: Create Distinction in Sales & Customer ServiceIn this edition of "Create Distinction in Sales & Customer Service," bestselling author & Hall of Fame professional speaker Scott McKain reveals the 3 aspects of persuasive communication.
To sell and serve your customers more profitably -- learn the 3 aspects to be more distinctively persuasive.
Create distinction -- and grow your business!2013-05-3100 minCreate Distinction!Episode 3: Create Distinction in Sales & Customer ServiceWant to vaccinate your sales career against unforseen problems and challenges?
Want to discover how to make customers stick with you, even when something goes wrong?
In this edition of "Create Distinction in Sales & Customer Service," bestselling author and Hall of Fame professional speaker Scott McKain reveals why an "Ultimate Customer Experience ®" is THE critical element to ensuring continued sales success and lifelong loyalty.
Create distinction -- and grow your business!
http://ScottMcKain.com
http://CreateDistinction.com2013-05-1500 minCreate Distinction!Create Distinction in Sales & Customer Service! Show 2How do you stand out in order to sell more and serve effectively? What does it take to gain customer loyalty and lifelong referrals?
In this next edition of "Create Distinction in Sales & Customer Service," bestselling author and Hall of Fame professional speaker, Scott McKain shares more strategies and action steps!
Each of these programs is short -- about five minutes -- and provides you with a jumpstart to achieving higher sales and more productive experiences for your customers!
Create distinction -- and grow your business!2013-05-1300 minCreate Distinction!Create Distinction in Sales & Customer Service!Welcome to the first of our new series of short programs on how YOU can be more distinctive in selling and serving customers.
Scott McKain, author of "Create Distinction: What to Do When 'Great' Isn't Good Enough to Grow Your Business," will be hosting an ongoing series with ideas on what YOU need to do in order to stand out and move up in a hyper-competitive marketplace.
Why do some sales professionals achieve more recognition than others -- even though they are seling the same product?
Why do some professionals develop lifelong customers -- and endless referrals -- while others...2013-05-1000 minCreate Distinction!Create Distinction! How to stand out in a sea of samenessWhat do you do when "great" isn't good enough to grow your career or your business?
Maybe you're doing all the right things -- but, for some reason, you aren't getting noticed for your efforts on a personal or professional level.
Perhaps your products and services are great...but, for some reason, customers just aren't responding in the manner they should.
It's not that you aren't terrific...it's that you aren't distinctive!
From his bestselling book -- named by thirty major newspapers as one of the "Ten Best Business Books" of the year -- author and Hall of Fame professional...2013-01-2600 minCreate Distinction!Distinction and the Courtesy of Customer ServiceHow is "distinction" different than "differentiation"? What is a critical element to achieving marketplace distinction?Why is "market share" not what a distinctive business is aiming for in today's highly competitive world?What is the essence of attracting customers?
ALL THIS AND MORE in just fifteen minutes from the leading expert on distinction -- and author of one of the "Top Ten Business Books" of the year (according to the Miami Herald and many other newspapers) -- SCOTT McKAIN!
Listen in -- and learn!
http://ScottMcKain.com
http://ProjectDistinct.com and http://McKainViewpoint.com (blogs)2012-04-0600 minCreate Distinction!Steve Jobs, Jeff Bridges, & ALL Business is Show Business!Steve Jobs' resignation...Jeff Bridges' country music album fails to sell...it's all a reminder that "ALL Business is Show Business," as bestselling author and Hall of Fame speaker Scott McKain has long noted.
This program will explain why "publicity" doesn't mean the same as "marketing" -- and why YOU need to understand the important concepts of creating the "Ultimate Customer Experience ®" for your organization.2011-08-2900 minCreate Distinction!Seven Keys to Professional & Personal Growth! (Key 1: SHOW!)Bestselling author and Hall of Fame professional speaker Scott McKain examines seven keys to professional and personal growth.
In this first program on the subject, Scott centers his remarks on the first key: You drive growth by how you "SHOW."
You MUST grab attention before you can deliver message and meaning that drives personal and professional growth. Using principles of "show business," Scott illuminates some ideas on growth.
If you want to improve your professional skills -- and enhance your personal life -- listen to these keys and talk with Scott!
Scott McKain has spoken for literally hundreds of companies a...2011-08-1600 minCreate Distinction!Creating the Ultimate Customer Experience! Step OneIn his series of programs on creating an Ultimate Customer Experience ®, bestselling author and Hall of Fame professional speaker Scott McKain reveals the first step necessary to truly connect with customers in today's challenging marketplace.2011-04-3000 minCreate Distinction!Introduction to the Ultimate Customer Experience ®From the introduction of Scott McKain's latest book, "The Ultimate Customer Experience," you'll hear the story of Taxi Terry, the amazing cab driver who presents an example of how we should ALL treat our customers!2011-04-1700 minCreate Distinction!When things collapse...What do you do when things collapse in your personal or professional life? What causes a collapse to occur?
From the research and insights of his #1 Amazon.com bestselling business book, "Collapse of Distinction" (named as one of the "Top Ten Business Books of 2009" by the Miami Herald and many other publications), author Scott McKain will reveal, in part, why things collapse...and what you need to do now.
There are Three Destroyers that contribute to creating challenges...and Four Cornerstones you must start working on to move you from "collapse to creation" of a better life.
If you've had...2010-03-1800 minCreate Distinction!The Mainstream is a Sideshow!In today's world, "everything to everyone" is no longer an acceptable business strategy. Noted business leader, bestselling author, and Hall of Fame professional speaker Scott McKain will show you how the way to success today is being a big fish in a small pond.2009-09-1500 minCreate Distinction!Scott McKain's Labor Day Weekend Special!Ready for the final one-third of 2009? Labor Day marks the start of the year's final chapter...and bestselling author, Hall of Fame professional speaker and business leader, Scott McKain will show you how to stand out and move up -- no matter what you experienced in the first part of this year!
And, you'll hear a great exchange on leadership with expert Mike Henry, Sr. calling in from Oklahoma!
It's a great way to start the final part of your year, as you'll learn how attitude makes a significant difference in YOUR economy!2009-09-0600 minCreate Distinction!Welcome to the Scott McKain Show! Opening Episode!It's the first episode of our new show! We'll talk about "Collapse of Distinction: Stand Out & Move Up While Your Competition Fails" -- and show you how to become more distinctive to build your career and your business!2009-09-0400 min