When in Rome, stick to the script

OK, time for a little quiz. The following sentences are the opening lines from two different technology-related speeches delivered this week at two different events. As you look them over, ask yourself which Microsoft executive made the first statement, and which Microsoft executive made the second.

1) "Well, I have to admit I am going to give a little speech, this time in front of the Churchill Club, but I promise one thing about it before we get going, and then I'll have a chance to take some of those irreverent, provocative and blah-blah-blah other questions from Roger and everybody else in the audience."

2) "Good morning. Honorable prime ministers, ministers, esteemed deputy ministers, delegates, ladies and gentlemen and Microsoft colleagues. I am very honored today to be here to participate in this important discussion about how technology -- especially through public-private partnerships -- can help create local economic opportunity, strengthen communities and help modernize government services."

Are you stumped?

It's a trick question. It sounds like two completely different people, but in fact, Microsoft CEO Steve Ballmer uttered both sentences -- the first to begin a speech Monday to the Churchill Club in Santa Clara, Calif., and the second to begin a speech two days later to the Microsoft Government Leaders Forum in Rome, Italy. The quotes are from the official Microsoft transcripts, which you can read here and here.

Was there a Toastmasters meeting on the flight in between?

Posted by Todd Bishop at September 19, 2003 09:47 AM