Mike Parkinson

MikeParkinson

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Mike Parkinson, CPP APMP Fellow (Class of 2008)

Principal
24 Hour Company

Bio

Mike is a geek. He is a CPP APMP Fellow, 1 of 36 Microsoft PowerPoint MVPs in the world, an internationally recognized communication and proposal expert, a best-selling author, and a professional trainer. Mike has spearheaded multi-billion dollar projects and created thousands of graphics resulting in billions of dollars in increased revenue for his clients. His keynotes, training, books (“Billion Dollar Graphics” and “A Trainer's Guide to PowerPoint: Best Practices for Master Presenters.”), and tools (www.Build-a-Graphic.com) help companies succeed while saving money and time. Mike owns Billion Dollar Graphics (www.BillionDollarGraphics.com) and is a partner at 24 Hour Company (www.24hrco.com), the premier proposal graphics firm.

Mike regularly conducts workshops and creates graphics, presentations, and content for companies like Microsoft, FedEx, Pfizer, Xerox, Dell, Subaru, Nestle, Lockheed Martin, Northrop Grumman, and Boeing, as well as at learning institutions and government agencies like NSA, CMS, OCC, the Army, and the SEC.

For fun, Mike is an artist, a pop culture connoisseur, enjoys exercise and fitness, and loves helping others achieve their goals.

What does being an APMP Fellow mean to you?

Being an APMP Fellow is an honor. It means that I will always be an advocate for positive change in our industry and help others find value within APMP.

What's your best memory from attending an APMP event?

So many "best" memories: meeting people who became my dearest friends, dancing at social events, and geeking out with my fellow proposal nerds. If I had to pick my best memory, it would be giving my At-a-Glance keynote at the APMP BPC 2019. What an amazing experience. The support and feedback exceeded my expectations.

What advice do you have for a proposal professional entering our field?

Two things that helped me... One, I found a mentor. Two, I eventually understood the "why" (the psychology) behind what and how we do what we do. Once I had a deeper understanding, SO many things clicked for me.

Anything else you would like to share?

Thanks, APMP, for being a wonderful organization with passionate members and staff!

The certifications, starting from the foundation to the professional level, help individuals from diverse timeframes in their careers.

Mayura Ravishankar, Proposal Associate

As a sales coach, the executive summary is vital for capturing and proposing management activities. This is an excellent addition to our members' professional standing, and I look forward to many more micro certifications.

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Suzanne Shields, CPP ES-M APMP

Being an active APMP certified practitioner allowed me to recognize my hidden potential multifold (40u40, BPC Awards, BPC Speaker) and give back to the profession through the APMP community.

Karthik Koutharapu, CP APMP

I love that my high scores in English and grammar from grade school finally paid off! I understand where I fit in professionally with a career that is rewarding on many levels. I owe all of this to APMP!

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Bette Sturino, CP APMP

The time was a good investment, and I expect to reap benefits now and in the future!

Kelly Erickson, CF APMP

Being a part of APMP, I get access to the knowledge and experience of great leaders and mentors from the community. I have learned a great deal from the webinars and conferences I attended on diverse topics from career progression in Proposal Management, trends (such as automation) in PreSales to achieving work-life balance, and handling burn-outs – all real-life experiences.

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Shubhada Kulkarni, CP APMP

Achieving certification sends a message to the world that I’m dedicated and accomplished as a proposal manager. I feel proud of earning this title and I encourage others to join our ranks.

Jessica Davis, CF APMP

I would advise new professionals to take advantage of the resources that APMP offers. Not only do you have access to conferences and seminars through your chapter, but the free webinars and the robust network of professionals are great benefits that can help advance one’s career.

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Valerie Kessie, CP APMP

Certification has enhanced my worth as a bid professional. It has validated the skills and experience I have and is proof of my bid management qualities and capabilities. It has given me a springboard to develop my career and aim for Professional certification.

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Aynsley Davidson, CP APMP

APMP has changed my professional life, elevating it to a standard that I didn’t know existed. Aside from the professional advantages of being certified as an APMP Professional, it’s the community of members who make it so special.

Rita Mascia, CPP APMP