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HELLO, I'M

Zach Matis.

Communication Expert, Leader, Investigator & Instructor

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Zach Matis

B.A. in Organizational Communication

San Francisco Bay Area

Connect with me on LinkedIn.

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About

About

MY BACKGROUND

I’m an honorably retired detective from a fast paced city in the Bay Area where I fine tuned my communication skills in high stakes situations, helping my team and community reach safe outcomes. My foundation for communication was built before my career started when I pursued a B.A. in Organizational Communication. I now combine my skills and knowledge of communication to contribute to corporations in the private sector.

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"I firmly believe that actively listening to the person you are speaking to is equally, if not more important, than what you express. Employing active listening skills when engaging with others not only helps them feel understood, but also provides you, as the listener, with a valuable opportunity to gain insights into their perspectives and thoughts." 

Zach Matis

Articles

Please take a look at the articles I have written.

I write articles on how hostage negotiation skills translate to the private sector and discuss topics such as:

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  • The Behavior Change Stairway Model

  • Active Listening Skills 

  • The Negotiation White Board

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Education & Experience

Education

UNIVERSITIES

2010-2011

California State University, East Bay – Hayward, CA

Bachelor of Arts; Organizational Communication

Magna Cum Laude

Experience

PROFESSIONAL BACKGROUND

2025 - Present

Hightouch

  • Sales Development Representative

2013-2023
2010-2011

University of California, Davis - School of Law – Davis, CA

King Hall Outreach Program (Consecutive Summers)

Police Department in the Bay Area

  • Hostage Negotiation Team Leader

  • Police Detective

  • Strategic Communications Instructor

  • Field Training Officer

  • Police Officer

2008-2009
2011-2012

Los Medanos College - Pittsburg, CA

Associate of Arts; Liberal Arts

Graduated with Honors

Wai & Connor, LLP

  • Legal File Clerk

2009

California State Senate

  • District Intern

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"Zach’s ability to communicate effectively is a valuable asset to any organization. His attention to detail, ability to function both independently and on a team is proven."

Senior Level Co-Worker

Interests

Musician

Forever a Student

Family

Fitness and Sports

Music has been a large part of my life. I play multiple instruments such as guitar, piano, and violin.

I'm always learning. Books, podcasts, and talking with others keeps my knowledge expanding.

Being a husband, father, brother, and son is a rewarding gift for me. Family is what makes it all worth it. 

Keeping my body in shape helps me mentally and physically. Going to sporting events is a great way to bond.

Awards

Commendation

2019

Exceptional communication skills related to multiple critical incidents.

Meritorious Service Award

2015

Public safety actions taken on behalf of the city during an entire year.

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