How To Succeed at Creating Engagement with Corporate Events

Nashville's own Benji Harris, a gifted songwriter and composer, joins us to unravel the profound influence of music on the corporate world. From his early days forming a band in middle school to sharing stages with country stars, Benji has skillfully woven his experiences into his work with Song Division—pioneering a unique approach to employee engagement and company culture through music. Prepare to be captivated by his journey and insights on using music to transform attitudes and behaviors within corporate environments.

Explore the power of musical team-building exercises where skepticism morphs into enthusiasm and teamwork. Benji sheds light on the science behind these experiences, from the release of dopamine and oxytocin, to the tangible shift in mood and collaboration among team members. He emphasizes the fun factor with engaging elements like costumes and props, which break down barriers and foster genuine connections. This approach not only reinforces core values but also creates a memorable shared experience that lingers long after the event.

Our conversation goes beyond music to reveal how Sandler training techniques can revolutionize communication, both in sales and personal interactions. We touch on the concept of "planned spontaneity," where preparation meets intuition for a seamless presentation style. Whether you're aiming to boost team cohesion or enhance your leadership skills, the insights shared in this episode offer a fresh perspective on nurturing a cohesive work environment. Tune in to discover how music and communication strategies can lead to meaningful professional and personal growth.

(00:02) Music in Corporate Culture
(11:31) Musical Team Building Experiences
(20:07) The Power of Musical Team Building
(33:27) Effective Communication Techniques in Sales
(46:03) Podcast Promotion and Copyright Protection

(00:02) Music in Corporate Culture

This chapter welcomes Nashville-based songwriter, composer, and educator Benji Harris, who shares his journey from discovering the emotional power of music as a child to becoming a professional musician. We explore Benji's path, from forming his first band in middle school to performing with country stars and eventually finding his place in Nashville. The conversation shifts to his involvement with Song Division, a company that brings music into the corporate world to enhance employee engagement and company culture. Benji explains how Song Division uses music as a universal language to foster connection, bonding, and retention among teams through unique musical experiences at corporate events. The discussion touches on the synergy between music and corporate culture, highlighting how music can influence attitudes and behaviors, aligning with concepts like Sandler's success triangle of behavior, attitude, and technique.

(11:31) Musical Team Building Experiences

This chapter explores the transformative power of music in team-building activities within corporate environments. I discuss how music can effectively convey core values by not only highlighting their importance but also illustrating the consequences of not adhering to them. By engaging participants in a unique song-writing exercise, where initial skepticism and discomfort give way to excitement and camaraderie, teams experience a tangible shift in behavior and mindset. This process leverages the science of music to foster dopamine and oxytocin release, enhancing mood and bonding among team members. By providing fun elements like costumes and props, we encourage participants to embrace the experience fully, resulting in improved collaboration and lasting connections.

(20:07) The Power of Musical Team Building

This chapter explores the transformative power of music in building team cohesion and enhancing leadership development. We discuss the often-overlooked element of trust within new teams, emphasizing its critical role alongside technical aspects like roles and responsibilities. The chapter highlights a unique program that uses music as a tool to foster trust and understanding among team members, allowing them to connect on a deeper level by sharing personal motivations and values. Through songwriting, teams create a shared experience that breaks down workplace barriers, encouraging open communication and strengthening company culture. We reflect on the reactions of executives who witness the unexpected yet powerful impact of this approach, affirming the importance of innovative strategies in nurturing a positive and cohesive work environment.

(33:27) Effective Communication Techniques in Sales

This chapter explores the transformative impact of Sandler training on both professional and personal interactions. I discuss how the Sandler method has revolutionized my sales approach by providing a structured way to guide conversations with potential clients, emphasizing the importance of asking the right questions and allowing the client to do most of the talking. This methodology extends beyond the sales environment, influencing personal relationships and interactions. We also examine the concept of "planned spontaneity," where preparation and practice allow for a confident, flexible presentation style that appears spontaneous to the audience. Sharing experiences from being on stage, I highlight how self-deprecation and audience engagement create a relaxed atmosphere, making presentations more relatable and enjoyable. Through these strategies, the chapter underscores the value of preparation, intuition, and adaptability in effectively connecting with an audience.

(46:03) Podcast Promotion and Copyright Protection

This chapter is an introduction to the How to Succeed podcast featuring Benji Harris. I invite you to stay tuned for our upcoming episodes, which will be available for download on your favorite podcast platforms. Our goal is to provide valuable insights and strategies to help you succeed in your endeavors. I look forward to sharing more content with you soon, and until then, I wish you good selling.