In the first company conference I attended after joining, I was asked
to do a presentation to everyone (about, oh, 200 people & all the
company founders) about what it meant to work for them. Struggling for
ways in which to put my feelings to words, I drew a Kermit on the flip chart and said: Well, this place; everyone here - it's like the
Muppet Show.
(Laughter. Confused looks).
I continued by explaining that there seemed to be a myriad of colourful, big personalities in the room with a bunch of different talents. And that the company was a big variety show with a great leader at the helm.
Mark (figurehead of company, co-founder, co-owner): "So, are you calling me a Muppet?"
(Silence).
Me: "Well, yes. But coming from me, that's a big compliment!"
(Everyone is holding their breath).
Mark: "Oh, I quite like being compared to Kermit. At least you didn't say Napoleon."
(Relieved laughter).
TRUE STORY.
