I was watching TV at the gym today and was captivated by a show called Food Network Star.
The show involves a competition where they’re looking for the perfect combination of cooking skills and an engaging personality. The winner gets their own show on Food Network.
In this first episode, each contestant has 30 seconds to get across their “unique culinary identity”. In other words, they need to share their message.
You’ll find their introductions below and the feedback from the judges. It was so intriguing, that I just had to share the highlights and the lessons learned as they apply to you, as a service based entrepreneur.
- Contestant #1 (Rosa) says she cooks Southern Italian cuisine and the judges said that not everyone knows what that is. Lesson learned: Speak the language of your ideal clients and avoid jargon.
- Contestant #2 (Arnold) sounded too prepared and didn’t share enough of who he is a person. Lesson learned: Make sure your message sounds natural and don’t be afraid to reveal the real you.
- Contestant #3 (Cita) cooks Soul Food and Italian food combined. The judges said she has great energy but her message isn’t clear. Lesson learned: It’s important to show who you are, but you also have to explain what you do.
- Contestant #5 (Michelle) was super nervous but the judges loved her because she was so genuine. Lesson learned: Be yourself and don’t be afraid to let your vulnerabilities show.
- Contestant #8 (Eddie) is a former professional football player and he focused more on football than on cooking. Lesson learned: Your story is important but you need to tie it in to your message.
- Contestant #9 (Emelia) sounds cold and robotic and didn’t let her personality shine through. Lesson learned: Share your message from both your head and your heart.
- Contestant #10 (Christina) thinks she’s at an advantage because she cooks many types of cuisine but the judges felt they didn’t get a sense of who she is and what her passion is. Lesson learned: Don’t try to be all things to all people, claim your area of greatest expertise and passion
- Contestant #11 (Matthew) is so busy putting everyone else down he doesn’t take the time to prepare his message. Lesson learned: Don’t be a jerk (sorry, couldn’t resist:)
Enjoy the show and be sure to share your lessons learned in the comments below. Thanks!
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