Author: Mark Zides

Mark Zides, author of The # Pace, is founder of a company that specializes in sales strategies and marketing. (2022, inside back cover) They are named Katama. He is also CEO of CoreAxis an award-winning learning and development consulting agency. With over thirty years of expertise, he is able to target his skills toward creating customer success for small to medium sized businesses. He resides in Boston, MA with his wife, two labradoodles, and three children.

Zides says “Anyone can improve their ability to take things in stride instead of allowing bad news and conflict to offend them or knock them down.” (2022, p.5) To which he adds, “As people enter the workforce, they need to learn how to successfully navigate issues like rejection, loss, competition, regret, fatigue, burnout, and difficult clients without getting discouraged, and that means building grit, stamina, and perseverance.” (p.7) He offers several steps toward accomplishing this beginning with not taking things personally. (p.8)

In chapter two Zides introduces the reader to hustling as a lifestyle, finding what motivates you, and how to see opportunity in taking risks. (2002, pgs. 10 -19) He says you should job search every day just to keep in practice. Find your muse. Don’t take rejection personally. And don’t shy away from the tough choices. 

Chapter three tackles how networking can help you find the right fit. To which Zides says “I like to define it as a community, whether virtual or in-person, of working professionals who share advice, leads, and resources with one another in a symbiotic relationship.” (2022, p.23) He says you must ask for friends of friends who can help you find what you are looking for, look for any possibilities to meet other like-minded professionals, and, by all means, have a well-rehearsed elevator pitch. (pgs. 24-27) Never ever forget to follow-up. (p.29) 

Mindset has everything to do with your potential success is what Chapter four spearheads. (2022, p.35) When you have found the proper mindset you can begin to do a lot of other things to set yourself up like creating a personal brand. Branding means having polished and professional resumes and cover letters that can gain you entry into the places you hope to work. Zides shows you how to capture your skills, education, and community engagement so you can get your dream job!

I found this an interesting read and I believe you will too. Add it to your fall must read list, especially if you are considering a change in employment.