Interested in what you can do with a degree in Asian Studies? In our Alumni Spotlight Interview Series, we ask our alumni about their career paths, how they became interested in Asian Studies and for any advice they would give to current students. This interview features Michael Zipursky UBC Asian Area Studies BA 2004. Micheal is currently the CEO of ConsultingSuccess.com, a training and coaching company.
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How was the experience of studying and living in Japan?
Japan is a wonderful country. I spent time there before deciding to do a year of exchange studies at Kansei Gakuin University, located between Osaka and Kobe. I’ve always been involved in business, so during my year of exchange I worked with a marketing and research firm as well as consulted for several large Japanese organizations. Living these two lives, as a student and consultant, gave me a great view into the many levels of Japanese education, culture and commerce. I loved the experience so much that I went back to Japan after getting my Bachelors from UBC and stayed several years growing my business there.
How did you get your first job in your field?
I started my first company with my cousin just out of high school. This allowed me to rapidly gain new skills and experience and led to working within many industries and companies around the world.
Could you go into some detail about your career path until now?
Before University I worked all kinds of jobs. From retail sales and customer service, to moving boxes in a warehouse and laying sod (those big squares of grass) for a lawn care company. Next came the web design company which lasted for a few years and went well. We transitioned that company into a branding and design firm. When I went to Japan I established that company there and worked with some of Japan’s top companies as a consultant and advisor. When I came back to Vancouver after several years in Japan I started a strategic marketing consultancy. Over the last 5 years I’ve established two successful online businesses, FreshGigs.ca a jobsite specializing in Marketing, Advertising and Design jobs in Canada, and ConsultingSuccess.com, a training and coaching company that helps consultants land more clients, increase their income and become more successful.
How has an Asian Studies degree helped you in your endeavours?
The knowledge and appreciation I received as part of the program was valuable. It’s not the piece of paper, rather the life lessons and knowledge that you gain through such a program that when applied lead to success.
Are there any opportunities in your field?
The consulting and online business fields are growing rapidly and there are many opportunities for people that want to become successful consultants or launch an online business. Both can take time and effort, like anything worthwhile in life, but the rewards are worth it. The cost of getting started in business has never been so low, meaning anyone can go this route if they so choose.
What can students/recent graduates do to get a foot in your industry?
Any student or recent grad that wants to get into business for themselves should find a market where they see an opportunity to solve a great problem or add significantly more value than the market is currently receiving. Then put their plan of action around how they will solve that problem and add value. Meet with their ideal clients or customers and confirm that is really something they want. Once you’ve confirmed that people are willing to pay for your product or service, it’s all about marketing and selling more of it to grow the business. Those are the first steps everyone must go through.
In your field what does a typical entry level position entail?
Every new business owner needs to do everything at the start. That’s just the way it is. As your business grows you’ll be able to hire people you can delegate areas of work you shouldn’t be doing. That will allow you to focus on the areas that you can produce the greatest value for your company.
Do you have any other advice that you would like to impart to students/recent graduates?
Figure out what you want to achieve and where you want to go. Then put your plan into action. You can achieve everything you set your mind to and take action on.
Links to Michael’s businesses:
