Did you know that the first pizzeria in the United States was opened in NYC in 1895? Or, that it would cost about $17,000 to take a cab from NYC to L.A.? Or, that the entire world’s population could fit in the state of Texas if it were as densely populated as New York City? If you did know, why would it matter?
Because you can use quirky facts like these strategically to grab attention and liven up your messages in sales and presentation situations to expedite a decision.
For example, take this fun fact, #32, from “60 Things You Probably Didn’t Know About New York City,” written by Matt Stopera: “There are ‘fake’ buildings in the city that are used for subway maintenance and ventilation. The building below in the middle, located in Brooklyn, has a fake facade. There is no brownstone within.”
Use This to Capture Attention
Suppose you are recommending an upgrade of a software system. You could begin your presentation with a boring litany of the failures of the current system or you can show the picture accompanying 
this post and ask,
You: What do you see?
Audience (Likely response): Buildings. (Or, brownstones)
You: Are you sure?
Audience (curious now): Yes, these are clearly buildings!
You: Think so? Yes, they look like buildings, but what if I told you the one in the middle is fake, that it is merely a façade for subway maintenance and ventilation?
Audience (more involved): Really? (Or, That’s amazing. It looks just like a building.)
You: Exactly. It looks like a building, but it isn’t—just the way our current software looks like it’s doing its job, but it isn’t. Projects are late. Communications are delayed, and breakdowns are on the rise. It is time to install a new software system, one that not only looks like what it’s supposed to be, but one that actually does what it is supposed to do.
And you would be off and running with your arguments, proof– and a fully engaged audience.
Keep a Watchful Eye
When you read, when you watch television, or when you are online, be on the lookout for oddball facts, articles, and images that you can adapt to your daily communication situations. Those oddball finds can become the keys to getting what you want.
Anne Miller
P.S. Full article, “60 Facts You Probably Don’t Know About New York City. Click here.
Want to keep your listeners riveted on your presentations? Call today for a free coaching, training, or speaking consultation. 212 876 1875. “I still use what you taught me thirteen years ago!” CEO, 1stDibs.com
Random Recommendation: “30 Recommendations for Data Visualization” Read about it in Fast Company