I'm not sure how I landed the contract in 1994/1995 to develop and deliver training for NeXT Computer's inside sales organization. I had just launched my company and this client was a big win. I remember the NeXt offices were located off the Seaport Exit in Redwood City. They were cool, sleek, modern, and filled with bright faces. The kitchen always had something interesting and ther company gatherings were fun. The entire upstairs was Steve Job's domain- big comfortable chairs, couches and workstations filled the place.
Coaching and training the inside team had some challenges because NeXT was a tough sell- not only was this very progressive computer very pricey but Steve wasn't very popular at the time. Customers were hesitant but the team excitement and energy was infectious.
One day while I was delivering training for their Customer Service team, this guy strutted into my session late. He was wearing shorts and Birkenstocks and had stringy hair. He looked around, looked at me and the people around the room. Suddenly, the entire room became silent in anticipation. I didn't recognize him immediately and thought he was late for the training so I said, "welcome, would you like to have a seat?"
After carefully scanning the room and hearing some embarassing laughter, I realized it was Steve Jobs. I quickly informed him this was a Customer Service training and something to the effect of the importance of our customers. He smiled and thanked me and walked out of the room.
My thanks to you - Steve Jobs RIP
"Being the richest man in the cemetery doesn't matter to me ... Going to bed at night saying we've done something wonderful... that's what matters to me." [Steve Jobs, The Wall Street Journal, May 25, 1993]