Jerome Dees Jr.
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About
Jerome is a sales leader and believer in networking and volunteering. Having been impacted by the kindness of others early in life, I’m hyper focused on giving back and helping others.
I’ve worked in restaurants for over 20 years and have been in sales for 15+. I started my own company, I am an Author and Public Speaker.
Jerome’s Career Stories
When you were a student, did you do anything outside of school to build skills or get knowledge that has helped your career?
I went to school in West Oakland; which was a pretty rough environment. I took a chance to act as a mentor for kids in elementary school which came with a $50 monthly stipend (felt rich at the time lo). I also was given an opportunity to participate in a Leadership in Training program during the summer months. I did that for 3 years and by the time I went to graduate, I had experience working in a kitchen, managing sports and rec and landscaping. By taking advantage of the opportunities around me, I was able to explore many things and one of those led to my career where I have been a Regional Manager, Director, Senior Director and eventually a VP of Sales by the age of 33. Explore as much as you can! You may just find something you are passionate about.
What is the one piece of career advice you wish someone gave you when you were younger?
What you know is important, but WHO you know can have a HUGE impact on your career. When you graduate from High School and begin your college career, start your LinkedIn page. Add fellow student and past teachers. Ask for recommendations and start building your online persona. I didn't do a great job socializing while going to college and I feel like I could have done a better job getting out there. Schools have TONS of clubs and associations that you can join. That small investment in time can pay off huge down the line!