Several years ago I used to frequent a place called Supreme Macaroni – Guidos Restaurant in New York City. Aside from the great food they served there, I really liked the many photos of well known celebrities that adorned the wall. One time, instead of settling for an autographed picture on a wall, I got to meet the real thing when I ran into Alec Baldwin. What an encounter it was. 

Since I’m from Massapequa - Long Island, it was easy for me to get a conversation started with Alec Baldwin. You see Alec Baldwin grew up in Massapequa, and his family still lives here.

As Alec left his table, and began walking toward me, I stopped him and simply mentioned to him that I was from Massapequa too. That was about all it took. From there our conversation took off, and we spoke for about 15 or 20 minutes like we were old friends. We talked about things in our home town Massapequa, and about his experiences making the movie Pearl Harbor at the time. But our conversation really took flight when I told Alec that I was a salesman, and that I loved his sales meeting tirade in the movie ‘Glengarry Glen Ross’. I did my best to mimic the part of Blake, as I recited a few lines to Alec like, “Put that coffee down'! and "A.B.C. - Always Be Closing – Always Be Closing"!  He laughed like hell…

As a 'pavement pounding' sales rep in New York City I have met my fair share of celebrities over the years. I bought Robin Williams a drink at the Hard Rock Café. I had Dick Clarke as a client when he owned USA Networks. I even sparred a little on a city sidewalk with Carl Weathers. (Remember Apollo Creed from Rocky?) But nothing, and I mean nothing compares to my encounter with Alec, and my short skit as 'Blake' having a helluva time telling the restaraunt patrons to put their coffee down, and letting them know that third prize means you're fired"!

Who ever said that a career in sales is only about cold calls and chasing the number was dead wrong. It’s not just a job – it’s an adventure, and sometimes a damn good time!