Tag Archives: Ken Olsen

The making of a minor communication disaster (1): It’s not what you say, it’s who you are

It was fairly early in my career. I was the de facto lead speechwriter for Digital Equipment Corporation (DEC) – at that time, the number two computer company in the world. The event was DECWorld, a one-company trade show that … Continue reading

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The making of a minor communication disaster (2): It’s not what you say, it’s who you are

How did Gates do it? How did a powerful Microsoft message emerge from his homespun talk about his home? The answer is rooted in the nature of communication itself. Simply put, all communication comes across on three basic levels: content … Continue reading

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The making of a minor communication disaster (3): It’s not what you say, it’s what you symbolize

Bill Gates had finished his presentation to a healthy round of applause and appreciation. Ken Olsen got up from our table and started walking toward the stage to thank Gates and end the evening. But just as he started walking … Continue reading

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