Dale Carnegie's book, "How to Win Friends and Influence People" is the most influential business book of the twentieth century. It's certainly worthwhile for anyone to read, or re-read this classic. In my opinion, it's required reading for anyone in the entertainment business… of course that includes magicians.

This information "gold" gives instruction on how to get people to like you. As basic as this seems, surprisingly, the masses don't have a clue of how important it is to get people on your side… to be the person that others want to be around and want to see succeed.

As an entertainer, we know that it's elementary to have an audience like you before you can impress them with your skill or talents. You may be able to perform the best Matrix on the planet, but if the crowd doesn't like you, no one will care how great the trick is. Now, let's take this one step further.

A performance of magic requires not only the magician to make a successful event, but others as well. The magic needs to be seen and heard properly which usually requires technicians to operate, or at least to set-up, the equipment. Even the most basic stage performance needs someone to monitor the lights and make sure the microphone has power and is properly configured. This takes people other than just the magician to make it happen, and happen correctly.

When I arrive at a venue, the first people I usually meet are the sound and light operators. I take time to introduce myself and smile when I meet them. I look into their eyes as I shake their hands and talk with them. I'm always sure to say "please" and "thank you" when these technicians carry out a task for me, even if it is their job. Oh yes, I also remember their names. Where did I learn this? Carnegie.

If those that are part of your performances are on your side and like to work with you, the odds of the show going your way increases dramatically. There are certainly many things that can go wrong during a show besides the tricks. The last thing an entertainer needs to do during his or her show is to worry about things that are out of his control. However, when you have everyone else on your team and they've "got your back", it's quite a satisfying experience of teamwork.

When something does wrong (notice I didn’t say "If"), at least I know my newfound friends on the technical side of the footlights will go beyond the call of duty to help their new buddy. I can tell you from experience this is true.

Carnegie was right.