About the Book

Careers By the People: Real World Insights Into More Than 100 Careers

Careers By the People offers real-world insights on 101 different occupations from 101 people ranging from CEO to beekeeper, and everything in between, along with Mike’s own unique perspectives on career choice and how to achieve and sustain a great career.

Occupations are broken down by Holland Occupational Themes and reimagined for the modern world.

• Enterprise: The Ballers (the leaders).
• Realistic: The Hustlers (the people who get things done).
• Investigative: The Einsteins (the thinkers).
• Artistic: The Rock Stars (the creators).
• Social: The Good Kids (the helpers).
• Conventional: The Perfectionists (the organizers).

Careers By the People has been recognized as an Amazon best seller, won an IPPY award, and an Axiom Award.

You’ll glean actionable insights into a wide range of professions with honest reflection that ranges from funny, to thought-provoking, to downright depression. All, though, offer key insights that can help readers prepare for the careers of their dreams.

Who Will Benefit From This Book?

• High school students thinking about what they are going to do after graduating.
• College students sifting through the myriad of occupational opportunities to find a great fit.
• Veterans transitioning from the military into civilian life.
• HR leaders, sociologists, and managers hoping to better understand the thought process of workers.
• Workers hoping to find new career opportunities.

Mike’s Story: A Journey to Career Success and a Fulfilling Mission

I’ve always been fascinated by the idea of having a career I could truly enjoy. That curiosity drove me to spend years researching occupations and exploring what makes work fulfilling. With over 30 years of experience—and a sociology degree that’s finally earning its keep—I’ve dedicated myself to helping others navigate their own career journeys.

A Passion for Helping Others Achieve Career Satisfaction

While writing Careers By the People and immersing myself in the world of career exploration, I discovered a lot about myself. For instance, I learned that I’m considered a “First-Generation” college student. And while my parents and I were proud of that accomplishment, I wasn’t exactly an academic standout. Some classes captured my interest, while others left me bored, resulting in inconsistent grades.

Later in life, I realized this was due to undiagnosed ADHD. While it made focus a challenge, it also gave me the ability to hyper-focus on things I was passionate about—a trait that’s far more valuable than being average.

Attending UMass Amherst was transformative for me. It instilled in me a sense of boldness and ambition that I didn’t get growing up in my hometown. My academic journey wasn’t linear—I started at UMass Boston, transferred to UMass Amherst, took a class at Amherst College, and even attended Quincy College along the way. Four colleges later, I earned my Bachelor of Arts degree.

Whether you’re a student or recent graduate trying to figure out your path, or someone seeking a mid-career pivot, this book is here to guide you with honest advice from real professionals. Wishing you all the best—and much aloha—as you embark on your own journey.

Career Path Exploration

My professional career began at Fidelity Investments, but I quickly realized I wasn’t being challenged and wanted to advance faster. This led to frequent job changes. After struggling in Boston, I moved to Los Angeles and found success in technology sales, outperforming expectations. But it wasn’t until the idea for Careers By the People struck me that I found something truly captivating—something that has held my attention for years and that has become my passion project.

Career Guidance and Career Tips for Students

I hope this book and the stories within it inspire you to make better career choices than I did early on. Whether you’re a student or recent graduate trying to figure out your path, or someone seeking a mid-career pivot, this book is here to guide you with honest advice from real professionals. Wishing you all the best—and much aloha—as you embark on your own journey.