Microsoft Antagonizing Partners at Ready To Rock Roadshow

Microsoft often talks about how they do not sell software and how its partners are their sales force. So every now and then they have feel-good roadshows (TS2) where someone actually listens to the small business owners, OEMs and SMB partners and sends that feedback up to Microsoft. TS2 guys are pretty compassionate and they know what they are talking about.

But when you stick an arrogant jackass in front of the audience that lacks all of the above qualities… fireworks happen. I’m at the Orlando Ready to Rock Roadshow watching the Microsoft presented getting grilled from all angles and really taking it with no grace whatsoever. Guess nobody told this guy that he’s presenting to his sales force.

Now I’ve been with the TS2 guys to Miami which is know for its….. hospitality. I have never, ever, seen audience members openly talking about kicking the presenters ass, another presenter saying where you can find the guy behind the building after the event and then having a partner stand up to take the odds or better yet, decide who goes first.

Aside from this being sad and funny at the same time, it is a good lesson to learn: Do not antagonize your partners, sales and customers.