This book provides excellent and practical advice for those looking to start, advance, or change their careers. Ken’s insights, though seemingly common sense, serve as a valuable reminder to take the most direct route toward our goals. I highly recommend this book without hesitation.

Top points I want to remember:

  • The right people + the right places = opps
  • The Professors
    • Determine which people are good at teaching what you need to learn, then make a list of the classes or opportunities available both locally and nationally
  • The Professionals
    • Research the pros who excel in your field -> decide who you want to connect -> identify alternative ways to learn from the pros you can’t meet in person
  • The Mentors
    • Think about what you want your career to look like in twenty years, then make a list of people you know whose professionals life matches your long-term career goals. Include why you admire them and how you want to be challenged by them or learn from them.
    • Determine what you want to learn from your potential mentor -> schedule a meeting
  • The Peers
    • Do we share the same values? Do they challenge me to aim higher? Do they give honest feedback?
      • Now, write the five peers that you need to spend more time with
  • The Producers
    • Make a list of companies and organizations in the desired field, then find out who the producers are
    • Determine exactly what you want to learn about their industry, then write down a few key questions you’d like to ask them
    • Schedule a brief meeting to learn about their industry
  • Everything you need can be found in your zip code! Go and turn every rock… you WILL find what you need!
  • Create a web of connections… and when you do, add value
  • Whatever role you have right now, do your best.. think of it as a cornerstone to your dream role
  • Mimic the pros in your field to then create your own style
  • Keep your eyes out for producers who are maxed out, overworked, or in need of extra help
    • How might you step in to add value to their business or operation?

This is an amazing book! This is one of the few ones I would recommend buying and keeping a hard copy on your bookshelf!

Happy Reading,

Gaby