There are times when I find myself wondering how different my life would be had I chosen another career path. It's not that I second-guess myself, because we all know "everything happens for a reason," right? Had I started as a ticket sales representative for the Magic when I was in myh early twenties, however, I can't even imagine how far I would have progressed by now.

Here comes the second overused cliche of this blog entry: it is what it is. Can't control the past or the future. So, let's look at the present. I started as a ticket sales representative at the ripe old age of 38 six months ago, about fifteen years older than everyone else in my position. Fortunately, they're a great group of people and I honestly love them all. I've busted my butt in my six months of being a TSR and am almost at the 1 spot in revenue for the company.

Now, to you the difference between the title "ticket sales representative" and "Season Ticket Account Executive" may not be all that significant. I fully understand that. However, in my world they're similar yet significantly different. I won't bore you with the details; I'll just say that being an A.E. has been my goal from day one.

The opportunity presented itself a few weeks ago. A lot of us interviewed for an open position and after a strenuous interview process including my first extended time talking to Dwight Howard (accidentally, see a previous blog entry), I found out yesterday that I got the job.

Wow. I'm still blown away. I wanted this so badly but I knew I had only been on the job for six months. Still, with the new events center opening in 2010 and last year's playoff run...my passion for my job naturally comes through and I think real sports fans can relate to it. I hustle my butt off and I've been fortunate to find some great people and help get them in awesome seats for this season.

I'm not too proud to say that I need your help. I have only the last six months of sales experience but I have learned at least one thing: referrals are the key to success. It's all about building relationships. That's something I took a lot of pride in regarding my radio career. Granted, I spent way too much time and energy destroying some relationships too...but I can say I've learned and grown a lot since.

My point is this: you're reading this blog because for whatever reason, you're interested in what I have to say. Maybe I met you in "real life" or perhaps you've listened to me for the better part of your time on the planet. I sincerely and thoroughly appreciate you regardless of the reason you come to this blog and read what I'm spitting out. It inspires me to write more and that is something I love to do.

I frequently utilized my radio show to help me out in times of need. Whether it was to emotionally cleanse myself by purging my thoughts or fears on the air or if I was simply looking for a CD I lost, my listeners have frequently come to my rescue. That is one of the top 3 things I miss the most about having a relatively commercially-viable radio show.

Well, I'm using this blog today because I need something: your help. As a Season Ticket Account Executive, we have insanely-high sales goals. I've done pretty well thus far as a ticket sales rep, but this is on a new level. If I'm going to chase the top dogs in my new department (and I must), I'm going to have to spread my network out there. That's you.

If you know anyone who wants to and is in a position to come to at least 5 home games this year, either send them my way or give me a way to contact them and I will hook you up. I get access to some cool stuff during the season and some great seats fall into my lap during the year. If you help me out, I'll help you out. Quid pro quo, as Dr. Hannibal Lechter emoted to Agent Starling.

If you're under the false impression that you don't know anyone who can afford 5 Magic games, I will say this: 7 games including the Lakers or Celtics for as low as $60 per seat. Sixty bucks total for 7 games! So, if it's not for you that's cool. I get it. But perhaps you know someone who loves live sports and wants to get some priority for our new arena seating? Email me at my aol addy thedrewsho@aol.com and drop me the phone number or email of any Magic fan or local business owner who would join the thousands in Orlando who use Magic tickets for their employees.

Thanks for your consideration. Making this professional jump is requiring me to utilize every single one of my resources. As a Magic fan for 20 years, I've always wanted to see more people at the games. Now, it's a vital component of my success. If you can help me out, I'll do whatever I can to help you out. Pay it forward, if you will.

I will.

The regular season starts in just over a month...the time is now!