Social worker to motivational speaker

She'll tell you what to do

By Karen Tina Harrison | Special to amNewYork

July 2, 2007

Cassandra Mack. (Handout Photo / July 1, 2007)

The Big Career Switch: From social worker to motivational speaker

Who Pulled It Off: Cassandra Mack, 39

What She Does: Mack gives speeches and conducts workshops through her company, Strategies for Empowered Living.

What She Used To Do: Mack was a social worker at a Lower East Side youth center.

Why She Switched: "I got tired of seeing promising young people become victims of the streets," she says. "I hoped I could reach them another way, and I'd always felt comfortable as a speaker."

How She Did It: "I got into the world of motivational speakers. I read books, took workshops and learned about speakers like Zig Ziglar, Anthony Robbins and Iyanla Vanzant," Mack recalls. "I created empowerment programs for teens at the youth center, and before long I was giving workshops at other centers. Eventually I quit my job and started my business."

What Motivational Speakers Do: "Half your job is marketing your business and attracting clients," says Mack. "The other half is preparing and giving speeches and workshops. I work with teens, parents, teachers and women. I tell them how to let go of destructive habits and take charge of their lives. I'm also busy with a website, radio show and books."

Who Does This Job Best: "A motivational speaker must understand people and have a unique, powerful message," she says. "You need charisma to attract audiences and convey your message. And running a business requires financial and marketing savvy."

How's The Money? "It's good to have another source of income at first, while you're honing your craft and building a client base," advises Mack. "If you become an in-demand speaker, you can make six figures."

What About Perks? "No two days are alike, and it feels fantastic to reach people," she says. "You get to travel all-expenses-paid, and you meet all kinds of characters."

What Else You Should Know: "A motivational speaker has to prepared for people to hug and kiss you and tell you that you changed their lives."

Where To Find Out More: www.strategiesforempoweredliving.com