Tell us something fun about yourself. I love video games, from classics like Super Metroid and Final Fantasy VII, up to current masterpieces like Red Dead Redemption 2 and Elden Ring. Currently playing Ghost of Tsushima and looking forward to God of War: Ragnarok. I also love languages, Japanese is my favorite. I enjoy cultural exchange in general and love meeting people from around the world. I also love art, from Kuniyoshi and Bernini to more contemporary artists like Malcolm Liepke and Aiden Kringen.
If you could go back in time, what would you tell yourself as a new CSM? I would tell myself to get in the habit of documenting everything thoroughly. It’s a good habit in general but without an awareness of our impact, we do ourselves and our employers a disservice. As Kelvin’s quote goes: “What isn’t measured cannot be improved.”
What book, podcast, or influencer do you recommend checking out? Seeing The Big Picture by Kevin Cope. It’s a small book that will orient anyone on the essentials of how businesses operate. I can see myself reading it at least 2 more times. Again, we need to understand how what we do as CSMs impacts revenue.
What is the one tech tool you can't live without? Zoom. Yeah, I said it. It's not a flashy pick but it is essential. While I have your attention, MUTE YOURSELVES. I’d rather tell people to unmute than to mute.
How can those looking to break into CS get started? Take self-inventory and do research. Know why you want to work in CS as opposed to sales or marketing. Understand that CS is a new discipline, so the role can be very different depending on the maturity of the department.
What’s something you recently learned the hard way? What's stopping me from trying again? Rejection is part of life, so it’s certainly part of our careers. Sometimes the ‘no’ is really ‘not right now’ and it’s important to continue moving forward. The next opportunity may be someplace I initially didn’t get an offer for.
You can find JP on Linkedin here.
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