[quote style=”boxed”]The one thing I do on a consistent basis is focus on one goal at a time.[/quote]
Derrick Parks is the President and CEO of Metropolitan Protective Services, a successful Physical Security company that focuses on safety, excellence in performance, customer service and client satisfaction. Under his leadership, the company has grown into a multi-million dollar organization and he continues to oversee the day –to-day operations of MPSI.
He used to be the assistant chief of police for a town locally in Maryland.
Metropolitan Protective Services, Inc. is dedicated to protecting the communities of the United States of America, whether it be retail, construction sites, residential or government facilities they are all in the communities we live and work in and it is our goal to services the property, people and assets of those communities. That’s why we are staffed with experienced personnel, that brings over 40 years of combined security, police and military experience to this company. It is this experience that allows us to provide our customers with consistent and reliable service, quick-response management, and security offices who convey trust and confidence.
What are you working on right now?
Currently I am working increasing the growth of this organization
Where did the idea for Metropolitan Protective Services come from?
The idea originally came to me from an indebted passion to protect and serve for my community.
How do you make money?
Quite simple… Supply and demand. My product is catered specifically for clients in need of the service(s) I provide. When there is a demand for security services I supply high quality goods that all of my clients have come to expect.
What does your typical day look like?
If I had to call a day typical – I would say that it begins with my Executive Staff briefing on any situations that may be taking place in my organization. My Executive Staff is efficient in handling most situations before they make it to my attention, however, there are some instances where my guidance is needed. Furthermore, I continue with scheduled appointments, luncheons, interviews, press releases, etc.
One thing I must say is that there is never a dull moment.
How do you bring ideas to life?
Most times I have a clear vision on how to bring my visions to life. What I have found, through the great minds I surround myself with, bouncing my ideas off of these individuals gives me a opportunity to have clarity by understanding the idea through their perspective.
What’s one trend that really excites you?
Politics. Be it as it may, a great deal of my business is generated in direct correlation of what is going on in the government.
What was the worst job you ever had and what did you learn from it?
I don’t believe in any job being the worst. From each position I have held, I have gained skills and traits that have groomed me to be the leader I am today.
If you were to start again, what would you do differently?
The one thing I would do differently is gain more experience in proposal writing, contracting and acquisitions.
As an entrepreneur, what is the one thing you do over and over and recommend everyone else do?
The one thing I do on a consistent basis is focus on one goal at a time.
What is one failure you had as an entrepreneur, and how did you overcome it?
In each failure there is an equivalent seed of success. I have grown from such instances.
What is one business idea that you’re willing to give away to our readers?
I recommend you getting clear on what it is you have a passion for and spare no expense to go wholeheartedly in pursuit of it.
If you could change one thing in the world, what would it be and how would you go about it?
I would change the attitudes of those who feel that someone owes them something. Work hard and then work harder and then work even harder. Anything worth having in this world is worth working for
Tell us a secret.
If you would like to have a meeting with me I would prefer to do it over Crab Cakes from Jerry’s Seafood.
What are your three favorite online tools or resources and what do you love about them?
Google – This search engine allows me to type just about anything I am in search of and find it in a matter of seconds.
Facebook – This social media platform has allowed me to keep my finger on the pulse of what is happening in my community.
World Star Hip Hop – This website is a way for me to get my mind off of the every corporate dealings so that I can refresh my thinker and come back to the table to fresh ideas.
What is the one book that you recommend our community should read and why?
I recommend reading Think and Grow Rich by Napoleon Hill. Principles suggested in this book are those of successful individuals and if you adopt these principles you are sure to see an increase of success in your own life.
When was the last time you laughed out loud? What caused it?
I have a great laugh everyday. This is due to my view on the world. Life is too short, I have learned this through many experiences in my life. With that being said, I find humor in the smallest thing.
Who is your hero?
My hero(s) would be the one who goes and serves for a purpose greater than his own. I salute our troops!
How do you measure your success?
The numbers of lives I am able to impact in a beneficial manner measures my success. I get satisfaction in knowing I have helped someone achieve financial security and my company was the vehicle to make it happen.
What makes you feel valuable?
I believe my value comes from me making others around me feel valuable.
Connect:
Mario Schulzke is the Founder of ideamensch, which he started a decade ago to learn from entrepreneurs and give them a platform for their ideas.