On the 17th October 2008, I made a presentation at the SHIFT ‘08 Conference, which is an amazing conference on all things web here in Lisbon. I was invited by André Ribeirinho of Adegga.com. What was interesting was that we were both somewhat skeptical on my presentation as it related to sustainable buildings, not anything “web nor tec”. However, it was a good presentation and the audience seemed to have appreciated the content.

What was extremely curious is what happened next. After my presentation, I was approached by a quite young guy, who said something to the effect “…really liked your presentation…I have sent you an e-mail…let’s meet…I believe we can have lots in common and I have a project that you could be involved in…”

Sure enough, I received his e-mail to which I immediately responded with further contact information….but you know how it is after a presentation…we hear this stuff all the time…yes?

It was not until some 3 weeks after that I received a further contact. Turned out that the person was a Director of THE biggest Portuguese Private Bank, responsible for communicating all things sustainable in the bank. The bank has a private internal TV channel which goes out to some 10.000 branches daily, and throughout Europe.

We had a meeting in early November and what was really satisfying was that the Bank…with whom we have been talking to for years…had developed a programme on reporting on sustainability. And the person who saw my presentation (I have to say, this guy (and his team) all very dynamic) immediately saw synergies.

We had been looking for financing for 20 short videos for many months, based on the book published in November 2007.

So, perfect match…made by complete accident….we started filming the videos in December (we have completed 4 of them up to now) and all will be completed by April 2009.

The videos will be aired in the network of the Bank on our website www.construcaosustentavel.pt in the near future…

So…what’s the point I am trying to make…

Don’t ever underestimate the things you do…. A simple presentation (even out of context) (which I have done many, many times) turns into an opportunity worth about 50.000€.

Make each presentation as if it’s your first…with enthusiasm, interest and focus on the message…

I thank André and SHIFT 08 for the opportunity of sharing my thoughts at their conference…which (as it turned out) was pure Serendipity…

Share This