MBA alumnus publishes second book
There is no shortage of talent among Athabasca University (AU) online MBA alumni, and many find themselves sharing what they have learned to help others reach their full potential.
Mike Mack (MBA 2002) is one example. He recently published his second book: Relationships for Keeps: How to Build Powerful Relationships in Business and in Life, which has already found its way onto Amazon’s best-seller list.
“It’s about building and maintaining relationships that last,” he said. “Probably the famous line that comes out of it, and I coined it years ago, is LRT—like, respect, and trust. And you have to give it before you get it, sometimes. That’s paramount.”
He said his successful business career, which includes his role as founder, president, and managing partner of X5 Management, was launched in no small part due to his time spent studying with AU.
While working in a different career, Mack was looking at enhancing his education with an MBA. Many in his network, including fellow MBA alumnus Curtis Stange, recommended the program.
“It worked well for me with my busy schedule. I had young kids and a busy career,” he said. “It was a really incredible experience, being busy but being able to work online remotely.”
It was not just the confidence it gave him, nor just the credibility that comes from having an MBA. Rather, he said the course work he did helped prepare him to work with a diverse group of people spread across multiple time zones, leveraging technology to make that happen—something that he continues to do in his professional life today.
“Without question, I hold it in very high regard. It was a lot of work, but it was incredibly rewarding,” Mack said. “I’m grateful that I did it, there’s no question.”
His work as a consultant, trainer, and speaker has propelled him into the spotlight on more than one occasion. His first book, Remarkable Service: How to Keep Your Doors Open, was a best-seller. And a recent interview with Ryan Jespersen on 630 CHED has also garnered some attention.
You can learn more about the Athabasca University Faculty of Business, and our innovative online MBA program, on the Faculty of Business website. Learn more about Mike Mack on his LinkedIn page.
