It was about a decade ago, but the thoughts of two separate meetings in which my sales and leadership abilities were put to the test stay with me today. Both came at annual conventions of the New England Laundry Associa-tion.
 
Brevity, candor count
 
The first was an opportunity to make a short presentation on products, specifically napkins and tablecloths, at the time. All vendors were on the agenda, but by random selection. With names drawn from a hat, the first presenter was an ozone salesman who extended his pitch well beyond the time limit ...