Career solutions
Jason Mckey finds satisfaction in the business of success, he recently sat down to share his story with the weekender.
What career did you dream of growing up?
Like most people I think I changed my mind thousands of times. For a while I wanted to be a lawyer or an actor, which I suppose aren’t too dissimilar. However, I was always interested in the idea of one day being my own boss. My parents have their own business and I could see how rewarding and often challenging it was.
Did schooling come naturally to you?
Not at all, especially the early days. It always appeared to me I had to work that extra bit harder and longer than everyone else. In saying that I’m glad I did, as I wouldn’t be where I am now. In high school I was your typical teacher’s nightmare and did not like the fact we did not question what we were taught. My thinking has always been that we have the right to question what is presented to us, which of course never went down too well.
How did your career unfold after school?
I left school at 16, much to my parents’ horror. I had been working at a pizzeria part time after school and they offered me full-time hours. Working there instilled in me an excellent work ethic and I was often left to look after the shop when the owners were away. Making sure everything ran smoothly was often a challenge, but I always made sure the shop was in top shape on their return.
What inspired you to go back to study?
I was about to turn 18 and realised I wanted something I could be really passionate about. I looked at university courses and applied via alternative entry. After a few months of studying I sat an exam and was accepted into my first choice.
What did you get more out of — learning on the job or from books? Learning on the job has taught me a great deal. However, the power of a good book should never be underestimated, especially for people who may not be good at school or can’t afford higher education. I have always read books and always will. I suppose books can be informative but they also help you escape the daily grind. I have books scattered everywhere and am always looking for the next good read.
How did you end up on the Sunshine Coast?
I came up to visit some family for the weekend and was instantly drawn to the area. I went back to New South Wales, packed up my belongings and more than four years later here I am. I couldn’t imagine living anywhere else.
What inspired you to set up Suncoast?
I had been working in hospitality as a qualified trainer and as a duty manager at a club. I then had the chance through a contact of mine to undertake further study as a business coach and purchase a licence. I jumped at the opportunity and am enjoying every minute of it. My main objective is to assist other businesses with their development, viability and growth. I get to meet and help amazing people. What more could I ask for?
What are your personal and professional goals for the next five years? Personally I want to find time for some more travel. I love visiting new places and learning about different cultures. Professionally, I am in the process of developing a customer service course, which I will be launching for businesses soon. As well as the business coaching program I am also adding to, and looking at other ways of, assisting businesses. I plan to undertake neuro linguistic programming training early next year so I can assist business owners/managers using NLP techniques. I am also planning to expand into south-east Queensland and northern NSW.
FAST FACTS
Name Jason Mckey
Role Suncoast Business Solutions owner
Qualifications Bachelor of business in tourism, certificate IV training and assessment, accredited Alchemy Network business mastery coach
No. 1 tip for success Strive for excellence, have a passion for what you do, believe in yourself
Story: weekender Issue 635, July 15th 2010
Jason Mckey finds satisfaction in the business of success, he recently sat down to share his story with the weekender.
What career did you dream of growing up?
Like most people I think I changed my mind thousands of times. For a while I wanted to be a lawyer or an actor, which I suppose aren’t too dissimilar. However, I was always interested in the idea of one day being my own boss. My parents have their own business and I could see how rewarding and often challenging it was.
Did schooling come naturally to you?
Not at all, especially the early days. It always appeared to me I had to work that extra bit harder and longer than everyone else. In saying that I’m glad I did, as I wouldn’t be where I am now. In high school I was your typical teacher’s nightmare and did not like the fact we did not question what we were taught. My thinking has always been that we have the right to question what is presented to us, which of course never went down too well.
How did your career unfold after school?
I left school at 16, much to my parents’ horror. I had been working at a pizzeria part time after school and they offered me full-time hours. Working there instilled in me an excellent work ethic and I was often left to look after the shop when the owners were away. Making sure everything ran smoothly was often a challenge, but I always made sure the shop was in top shape on their return.
What inspired you to go back to study?
I was about to turn 18 and realised I wanted something I could be really passionate about. I looked at university courses and applied via alternative entry. After a few months of studying I sat an exam and was accepted into my first choice.
What did you get more out of — learning on the job or from books? Learning on the job has taught me a great deal. However, the power of a good book should never be underestimated, especially for people who may not be good at school or can’t afford higher education. I have always read books and always will. I suppose books can be informative but they also help you escape the daily grind. I have books scattered everywhere and am always looking for the next good read.
How did you end up on the Sunshine Coast?
I came up to visit some family for the weekend and was instantly drawn to the area. I went back to New South Wales, packed up my belongings and more than four years later here I am. I couldn’t imagine living anywhere else.
What inspired you to set up Suncoast?
I had been working in hospitality as a qualified trainer and as a duty manager at a club. I then had the chance through a contact of mine to undertake further study as a business coach and purchase a licence. I jumped at the opportunity and am enjoying every minute of it. My main objective is to assist other businesses with their development, viability and growth. I get to meet and help amazing people. What more could I ask for?
What are your personal and professional goals for the next five years? Personally I want to find time for some more travel. I love visiting new places and learning about different cultures. Professionally, I am in the process of developing a customer service course, which I will be launching for businesses soon. As well as the business coaching program I am also adding to, and looking at other ways of, assisting businesses. I plan to undertake neuro linguistic programming training early next year so I can assist business owners/managers using NLP techniques. I am also planning to expand into south-east Queensland and northern NSW.
FAST FACTS
Name Jason Mckey
Role Suncoast Business Solutions owner
Qualifications Bachelor of business in tourism, certificate IV training and assessment, accredited Alchemy Network business mastery coach
No. 1 tip for success Strive for excellence, have a passion for what you do, believe in yourself
Story: weekender Issue 635, July 15th 2010
