Happy Commonwealth Day To All in Sales #teamcommonwealth

Today is  Commonwealth Day.

Sir John Major making an address at 
memorial gates on 11th  March 2014 
Commonwealth Day

The aim of the Commonwealth Day Observance is to celebrate the unity, diversity and linkages of the modern Commonwealth and foster greater understanding of the Commonwealth.

Studies have shown a 20% reduction in the costs of doing business between Commonwealth members, linked to similarities in their legal systems and common use of the English language.

You tube Clip of fanfare and salute by Household Cavalry on Commonwealth Day at Hyde Park Corner

Today I witnessed, along with a handful of tourists ,the gathering of the good and great at the memorial gates at  Hyde Park Corner where wreaths were laid to remember the huge sacrifice which the countries of the Commonwealth made in World War 1 and 2.

An al fresco refreshing cup of tea accompanied
 by the Coldstream Guards' Band

It was a beautiful and colourful occasion both serious but also exuding with palpable goodwill.



 After the ceremony the guests were offered tea and refreshments in a tent – so very British !!!

Sir John Major former PM on his way to the gathering

Sir John Major shares a joke with the guests

It was a positive occasion and in his short keynote address, former PM Sir John Major  reminded us that on the memorial gates is a quote by the writer Ben Okri

“ Our future is greater than our past”

Although I was merely a bystander to this event it got me thinking.

Four Chelsea Pensioners arriving with their wreath

I have been lucky enough to have conducted a number training courses in a few of the countries of the Commonwealth. 

Some extraordinary and memorable  experiences in Nigeria and South Africa come to mind.

  Over the years I have trained many gifted salespeople from all over the commonwealth in courses.

And  now many also connect via social media and follow this blog.

Before the Commonwealth ,  Great Britain had its Empire.

It was much about global trade, where British companies such as East India Company or Hudson's Bay Company facilitated intercontinental business.

See the selling story of 400 year ago of John Saris of the East India Company

That is why the countries which are members of the Commonwealth, all the members are there purely of their own accord, were in most cases initially interlinked with each other by way of trade.

The theme for 2014 is #TeamCommonwealth, which expresses the spirit of friendship and motivation towards the shared goals and values that exist within the Commonwealth .

The Commonwealth is a unique, hugely diverse team - and therein lies its strength. 

A thoughtful bishop of London ,
who gave a moving address and culturally sensitive prayers.
One based on the Upanishads. 

The Commonwealth must work hard to ensure that it remains as powerful , relevant and as effective organisation as it has always been.

The Commonwealth is a voluntary association of 53 independent countries.  

Various Dignitaries  off to the tea tent afterwards .

The Commonwealth is home to 2.2 billion citizens and over 60% of these are under the age of 30. 

The Commonwealth includes some of the world’s largest, smallest, richest and poorest countries, spanning five regions. 

Thirty-one of its members are small states, many of them island nations.

Back to Knightsbridge barracks

Commonwealth policies are shaped by member countries, who have an equal say on decisions affecting them. 

Commonwealth organisations put these decisions and plans into action.

 “ Our future is greater than our past”

Perhaps the Ben Okri quote has  an appropriate mission for those in selling to and within the Commonwealth. 

Good Selling to my friends across the Commonwealth and  happy Commonwealth Day !