Business students get advice from 'Cubicle to CEO' author

Students at The College of Business Administration learned that success in business is all about attitude during the Entrepreneurial Speaker Series on Wednesday. Guest speaker J. Jackson described his journey, which led him to become an entrepreneur, consultant, speaker and author. He shared information from his book, "Cubicle to CEO," as well as his personal experiences.

Born in Orlando, Jackson grew up around crime and other influences but managed to stay focused on his dream.

"Stay focused on your dreams especially in the beginning stages of your dream when you are most vulnerable to dream killers," Jackson said. "Find out what it is you are passionate about. Vision is the ability to see something that is invisible."

Jackson spoke of how his mentors were a great source of inspiration and advice when he needed them. He gave personal examples of how being fired from his first job led him to where he is today. He explained that sometimes dreams change with time but you must always look ahead and learn where you want to go in life.

Owning his own business became Jackson's dream after years of working for large corporations. He described how he stumbled upon his dream and the steps he took to make his dream a reality. He emphasized that before going into business for yourself you must know how the operation works. He also suggested learning from those who are successful at it. 

Jackson also emphasized that actions and how people are treated are what is important in becoming a successful entrepreneur.

"It is not about being cut throat, a good name in business will open doors for you," Jackson said.

Leading by example, Jackson is involved with such organizations as The Boys and Girls Club and Junior Achievement of Central Florida. He found ways to give back to the community even when he was starting to grow his first business.

According to Jackson's website, his plan for overcoming failures all begin with one's attitude:

·      You must become Action oriented

·      Take responsibility for your actions

·       Turn fear into focus

·       Imitate excellence

·      Transform negative into positives

·       Uncover your hidden talent

·      Develop yourself

·      Expose yourself to new opportunities

Other information and a link to his book can be found on J. Jackson's website www.thewordsofaction.com.

"Hearing Mr. Jackson speak of getting over his fears and taking the first step was very inspiring. I decided to go back to school in 2008 and it is really nice to hear about how he has stumbled and been able to pick himself back up. It was meaningful to hear because I too have had obstacles in my life that led me to come back to school," said Pearlene Flango, a senior business management major at the event.

Jackson ended his speech with a quote from one of his mentors, Harris Rosen.

"'Starting a business is like running a marathon. There are some who start the race and never finish, others who make it close to the finish line but become too tired to go on, and those who go through all the way to the end and finish,'" Jackson said.