124. Basketball Coach and Recruiter Turns Skills toward Ad Agencies
Michael Palma
Michael Palma has had five careers, each one building toward the next. “I’m a headhunter, rainmaker and matchmaker for creative people, agencies and brands. I work with top talent, the best agencies and brands.” Previously he was a Parade Magazine All American basketball player and a Division 1 college basketball coach.
How Did You Start Using Your Talents?
Recruiting and coaching are integral parts of Mike’s work today, as they were in his first job, coaching high school basketball and baseball, and basketball in college. At College of the Holy Cross in Worcester, Massachusetts, he continued to coach and was on the road recruiting at least 10 months each year.
The Most Impactful Turning Point?
With the birth of his son in his early 30s, life on the road was not an option. Fatherhood was calling. Long attracted to advertising copywriting, but unwilling to start at the bottom, he gave himself a crash course in the ad business. Soon he was placing writers in ad agencies.
The Most Powerful Lessons Learned?
Mike approaches his work as a calling, not a job, and maintains the mindset of a student, constantly learning. “Once I start thinking I’m an expert, or give into the temptation of not valuing everybody’s importance, that could hold me back. The only real obstacle to my continued success is me.”
On His Bookshelf
Connecting With Michael Palma
Email: Palma@mikepalma.com
Website: www.mikepalma.com
Facebook: Michael Palma
Twitter: @Mike_palma
LinkedIn: linkedin.com/pub/mike-palma/2/683/1b9
