Developing Business Practice - Coursework Example

Developing Business Practice Regular Assignment SID Word count (total) 6929 Word count (main body PDP+Development Analysis) 2929 TABLE OF CONTENTS Section I: Personal Development Plan 3 Section II: Development Needs Analysis 7 Introduction 8 Development Needs Analysis 9 Strategic Learner 10 Communication skills 11 Cognitive skills (critical thinking, analysis & synthesis 11 Personal management skills 12 Team-working skills 12 Self-awareness 13 Academic Strategy 13 Conclusion 15 References 16 Section III: Appendices 18 Appendix 1: Relevant Skills 19 Appendix 2: Job Advertisement 20 Appendix 3: Self-Assessment Core Skills Ranking and SWOT 21 Appendix 4: Presentation Test (Pearson 2010) 24 Appendix 5 Time Management Test (Pearson 2010) 26 Appendix 6: Learning Journal 27 Appendix 7: Research Proposal 29 Appendix 8: Curriculum Vitae 30 Appendix 9: Cover Letter 31 Section I: Personal Development Plan Name: XYZ Covering the period from: 6th October 2014 To: 12 December 2014 My Goals: I intend to achieve high grades in all the modules taught during this period so that I am closer to my final goal of passing the graduation with excellent scores. I would then like to implement the knowledge gained in my future career of an entrepreneur. My Personal Development Plans are all designed to exploit my management skills and my experience received from CULC for becoming a successful entrepreneur. PDP Serial No. What do I want/need to learn? What will I do to achieve this? What resources or support will I need? What will my success criteria be? Target dates for review and completion. How have I chosen these dates? 1 Communication Skills: It is one of the most important skills that help individuals to convey thoughts and ideas to the others with clarity and with ease. Thus, getting proficiency in the verbal and written English would be my priority area. Non-verbal behaviour would also be focused (Refer appendix 1 and 3) 1. I will try to get involved in all types of discussions in the classroom and take part in debates, presentations and seminar at University 2. I will do comprehension exercises. 3. Make efforts to understand cross cultural values to improve social interaction that also require non-verbal communication. 4. I will be getting regular feedback from my peer group, teachers and friends to achieve the level of proficiency on the assignments for written skills and presentations for verbal skills (Refer learning journal) I would be extensively be exploiting the resources from the library and the electronic database of EBSCO for reading pertinent academic journals and books related to communication. It will help update my knowledge and skills of communication that can be applied in the debates, presentations and seminars. ‘Improve Communication Skills’ by Marcela Enos is an excellent book that would be used along with other books as suggested by the tutor. Indeed, reading reference book like ‘Reduce Stress With Increased Assertiveness’ by Elizabeth Scott is a great asset to enhance one’s competencies. I will also strive to interact with diverse populace for improving non-verbal communication Improved communication with colleagues and team members resulting in more efficient team management. Greater confidence level is seen in the improved competency for receiving and sending messages. Better social and academic relationships as non-verbal communication is developed. 10th December 2014 would be my target date to review my proficiency in the verbal, non-verbal and written English as I would have finished my two terms and I would be confident in my communication vis-à-vis assignments, presentations and group discussions. Moreover, communication skills would help my internship and promote career success. 2. Personal Management Skills: Effective time management is hugely vital aspect of planning and organization of the different activities in different spheres of life. Self-motivation promotes timely achievement of targets as assigned with the activities. I will be using ‘Priority Grid’ where different tasks are arranged as per their importance/ urgencies. It would help prioritize tasks and facilitate completion of assigned work within the timeframe. The grid would be implemented in studies and at work to achieve targets. (Refer appendix 5) The constant reflection and feedback would be an essential part of support from the tutor and the peer group. It would help me to assess the effectiveness of the planning and organization of the activities within the two terms and later at the work. It would significantly help to improve my time management skills and motivate me to finish work within the given timeframe. ‘Getting Things Done’ by David Allen is hugely helpful book that I would be using it to improve my time management skills. Timely completion of my tasks including assignments and presentations. It would also be major motivation for cultivating personal management skills which have wide-ranging future implications leading to higher achievement. 6th Oct. 2014 would be the target as it coincides with the end of the first term. I would be able to identify my strengths and weaknesses and therefore be better equipped to improve my all-round performance in the second term. Reflection and feedback would ensure better time management. 3. Cognitive Skills: Cognitive skills promote critical thinking and in-depth analysis of actions and the reading material. When used within the course curricula, they help to make effective recommendations for higher performance outcome. (Refer appendix 1) I will be taking notes of the time bound case studies in order to think critically on the important issues/ points of the case studies. It would help to make important decisions and give suggestions for effective outcome of the problems in the case studies. The same also would apply within the personal and professional arena, leading to higher productivity. An in--depth study of theories and models would help to give wider perspectives of the issues discussed in classroom assignments, literature review, case studies etc. and help critical thinking while presenting our ideas. In the book, ‘What Great Managers Do” managers also apply critical thinking in day to day problems of the organizations, including organizational strategies to make appropriate recommendations. I would also be inculcating the traits of critical thinking making empowered decisions based on informed choices. Clear and well-defined ideas on the case studies reveal the use of critical thinking. Moreover, discussions in seminars and debates encourage deeper retrospection on the issues and theories and promote consistent critical appraisal of the same. 12th December 2014 as it would mark the end of the second term and show the extent of my critical thinking in the assignments and presentations. Indeed, it would be correct to assume that the art of critical thinking would be considerably enhanced over the period of time through analysis of case studies etc. 4. Teamwork skills: Teamwork skills are critical to promote team spirit of working together amicably having shared goals. It is important to ensure that all team members are motivated to achieve final goals of team-based projects. (Refer learning journal 4) 1. Focus on members work progress and motivate them for time-bound performance through regular feedback. 2. Attend workshops on motivation and management at CULC. 3. Participate in group-tasks like ‘Synergy Business Challenge’ where mandatory teamwork ensures profit and improved business outcome. 1. Read books like ‘You Can Win’ by Shiv Khera and develop skills for self-motivation. 2. Participate in motivational workshops in University and elsewhere where professors and industrialists share their experience. 3. work on group work to strengthen my motivational skills. Better coordination across group members and impacting their morale to achieve higher team performance. Feedback from team member would also help assess my motivational skill. 12th December 2014 would be target where group presentations and assignments would reveal the level of my teamwork skills through grades. 5. Self-awareness skills: These are vital skills that promote emotional intelligence and help understand the outlook and feelings of others. Use Grid model of important/ urgent areas that help identify unknown/ hidden areas of knowledge. It would help address the weakness and exploit one’s strength to cover gap in the knowledge. It is very useful for group work as it promotes better understanding across people. Respect diverse viewpoint without losing cool. 1. Using SWOT table and twos matrix to review my inner skills after 2 weeks. 2. Use innovative measures like online questionnaires for exploiting more areas of personal and professional growth. 3. Use Johari’s model to know hidden skills and potential of the self which I am not aware of. 1. Emotionally confident by knowing my strengths and weakness. 2. Working in groups amicably without getting aggressive. 3. Higher level of self-confidence before peer group and tutors. 4. Developing more sensitive approach towards the views of others. 12th December 2014 would mark the end of my second term and it will equip me with necessary emotional intelligence to interact with people with greater understanding. It is a skill that would be useful for life and therefore, regular review of my strength and weakness would be carried out at all stages of life. Section II: Development needs analysis 1. Introduction In the fast changing and highly competitive world, constant endeavour for personal and professional growth becomes the essential ingredients of success. A relentless pursuit for improvement helps to identify and evaluate personal traits and skills that would help meet the challenges of time. Sloman and Philpott (2006) assert that personal development plans are important tools that facilitate in developing well-defined and well-structured strategy for self-development activities. Moreover, PDP fundamentally relies on assessing current levels of skills, knowledge and attributes, thus making it easy to identify gaps in learning (Adair & Allen, 2003). It is hugely pertinent exercise within the career enhancement process as it analyses the personal, academic and professional capabilities of individuals to improve and acquire necessary skills for growth. PDP within academic programs greatly boosts the learning process and significantly reduces stress while seeking career options after the studies. It equips the students with the early knowledge and awareness of his/her weaknesses and strengths. Consequently, a student is able to work on them and improve his prospect of achieving his/her personal and professional goals in life. Indeed, applying the learning outcome to real life situations test the veracity of the acquired skills and traits and make students more confident and adept at facing challenges in life. Thus, personal development is closely linked to regular assessment and monitoring of the changing requirements that necessitate developmental activities to fill the gap in the requisite skills and knowledge. 2. Development needs analysis The PDP which I have developed would address the developments that need to be taken before the end of the term. It would equip me with essential skills and achievements so that I would be more confident in tackling the final term which is work-based project. Most importantly, it would hugely help to understand and acquire competencies for my professional career that I intend to take up in future. The research proposal has increased my awareness by giving important insights into the skills required in businesses of industries from different sectors so that I could focus on acquiring those skills for my chosen career. At the same time, I believe that my learning journals would continuously help me to evaluate and monitor my development progress by comparing them to the success criteria and target as per my PDP Entrepreneurs play critical role in the development of societies through job creation and creation of new resources that promote nation-building processes. McMullen et al., (2007) assert that entrepreneurs have a tendency to transform ideas into new opportunities of growth. Indeed, they tend to look at the paradoxes of life with totally new perspective of hidden opportunities. Entrepreneurship therefore, is an ability to think critically and evolves novel ways of creating wealth for oneself as well as for the society (Lumsdaine & Binks, 2007). It involves individuals to not only use and apply their knowledge critically but also experiment with network of ideas and exploit their inherent creative impulses and behaviour for greater productive outcome. Consequently, effective communication, critical thinking, problem solving expertise and empowered decision-making emerge as vital skills for entrepreneurs in particular, and the soft skills like personal management and reflective practices in general add to the success of the individuals (AGA, 2006). 2.1 Strategic learner Strategic learner broadly refers to individual who defines, plans and implements a set of developmental activities for his/her personal, academic and career growth. This corroborates with the concept of meaningful learning of Kolb (1984) who asserts that meaningful learning promotes integration of myriad interacting of human actions vis-à-vis feelings, perception, thoughts and actions. Kolb’s learning cycle includes: concrete experience; reflection; conceptualization; and experimental actions. It encouraged scholars to evolve learning styles like activist, reflector, theorist and pragmatist that address different skills for the diverse career options (Honey & Mumford, 1982). After taking relevant test, the learning style identified was that of pragmatist who are open to new ideas and are eager to experiment to find out their efficacy in real life situation for best outcome (Fee, 2011). They tend to look at linkages between objects and real life problems/ issues and categorize their observations into specific pattern to generate creative outcome. They thrive on exploiting opportunities to test new territories and feel stifled in conservative environment where traditional work methodologies are preferred. Thus activist learners have highly innovative approach to business and work process that is distinct in their positive attitude and turning adverse situations into new opportunities of growth. 2.2 Skills analysis 2.2.1 Communication skills Effective communication skills are the most desired and also the most important skills for a professional who has to interact with myriad people in order to communicate important ideas and build relationship based on mutual trust and understanding (Mullins, 2010). Entrepreneur has to interact with all types of people and convince them of their great plans and projects. They need to be succinct in their presentation which has all the pertinent information. Thus, effective communication skill becomes highly relevant for entrepreneurs and professionals. The assessment in Coventry University would facilitate in the development of my skills. The time-bound presentations, project reports prepared as part group tasks and individual assignments etc. would serve as critical tools for my personal development, especially my written and verbal communication skills. The feedback would help to evaluate and analyse my performance. 2.2.2 Cognitive skills Cognitive skills comprise of critical thinking, analysis and synthesis of ideas into practice in real life situations. Lamarre (2006) believes that cognitive skills become essential ingredients of success as they help individuals to apply old ideas and theories into the changing paradigms of business successfully. The seminars and group activities in the term 1 and term 2 will require critical thinking where different business case studies will be discussed. My skills would be improved considerably in identifying the challenges within the case study and finding innovative solutions. 2.2.3 Personal management skills Personal management skills are crucial elements of personal and professional growth which encourage focused approach for achieving targets and goals. The five elements of management as described by Fayol are still very pertinent for business (1912). Each of these elements plays a role in the academic and professional success. Forecasting and planning Organizing Commanding and implementing Coordinating Controlling and monitoring (Fayols’ 5 elements of management) Urgent/ Important grid is yet another tool for time management that would be very useful for planning and organizing. The PDP also gives information about implementing and networking efforts for developing requisite skills and competencies. Learning log or journal is also used for reflecting on the progress and addressing the shortcomings. 2.2.4 Skills for effective teamwork Effective teamwork is important paradigm of contemporary work environment that requires coordinated work to achieve organizational goals timely and efficiently to maintain competitive advantage within the industry. Team dynamics have evolved into crucial success factors for teams in university as well as in business. It brings the challenge of working with diverse people and necessitates exceptional inclination to understand each other so that they can work together for shared goals. Completion of project work by students depends how fast students develop common goals and share tasks to complete it. The regular group assessment was important for me because it had required establishing rapport with other group members from the week 1 itself. 2.2.5 Self-awareness Self-awareness skills are vital for personal development (QAA, 2002). SWOT analysis of the self is highly recommended for exploiting one’s strength to overcome weaknesses and use opportunities as leverage to reduce threats. Johari window (Halpern, 2009) is very useful as it promotes feedback from colleagues and peer group so that blind areas can be reduced and public area is widened over hidden area. Johari window 2.3 Academic strategy I have found Cameron’s model to be most appropriate for completing my academic and career goals. The first stage ‘know your skills and strengths’ is most pertinent for personal and professional development. The awareness and understanding of one’s skills and personal strengths would correctly help make strategic development plans for improving and acquiring requisite skills for success. Developing SMART goals are important part of developmental plans and they are included in PDP. The next stage is ‘contact your customers’ should be done after thoroughly researching the industry and sector which interests him and can best employ his/her skills. The research proposal has helped to identify customers for my entrepreneurial venture. I can work on my skills and academic presentations for my personal development which corresponds to the current situation in the industry and sector where my interests lie. Third stage is ‘present yourself professionally’ which would be done after the successful implementation of PDP. It would significantly enhance my skills and competencies to meet the challenges of the current times. Indeed, presenting my work with confidence and good feedback would indicate development of professional attitude with appropriate skills. The last stage is ‘present yourself successfully’ which includes different self-marketing tools like curriculum vitae, effective cover letter, communication skill, smart sense of dressing etc. While curriculum vitae gives details of my academic and non-academic achievements and skills, the cover letter informs succinctly why I am the best personal to develop business links with. Most importantly, elevator pitch or smooth communication skills help to build rapport with different people for team activities. 3. Conclusion It can therefore be concluded that development is an integral part of success in academic and professional areas. This assignment has helped me to address the areas which needed to be developed for high academic performance and successful career. The research proposal had identified the skills necessary for getting new customers and venture capitalist because I would like to be an entrepreneur and start my own business after completing studies. The PDP was designed to improve and improvise one’s skills. Finally the actions plans helped to analyse the developments that I had made on mentioned skills and academic strategy that had followed Cameron’s model. (words: 1649) Reference Adair, J and Allen, M. (2003) Concise Time Management and Personal Development, London: Thorogood Publishing house. Association of Graduate Recruiters (2006) Graduate market remains buoyant but predicted salary rise lowest for five years [online] available: [2 December 2014]. Cameron, S. (2009) The Business Student’s Handbook: Skills for Study and Employmen, 5th edition, Harlow: Pearson Education Limited Fee, K. (2011) 101 Learning and Development Tools: Essential Techniques for Creating, Delivering and Managing Effective Training, London: Kogan Page. Halpern, H. (2009) ‘Supervision and the Johari window: a framework for asking questions’, Educ Prim Care, vol. 20 no. 1, Jan. pp. 10-14. Honey, P & Mumford, A, (1982) The Manual of Learning Styles. Maidenhead, London: Peter Honey Publications. Lamarre, H.M. (2006) Career focus: A Personal Job Search Guide, Ohio: Pearson Education Limited. Lumsdaine, E. and Binks, M. (2007) Entrepreneurship from Creativity to Innovation; Effective Thinking Skills for a Changing World, Oxford: Trafford Publishing. Kolb D A (1984) Experiential Learning: experience as the source of learning and development Upper Saddle River, NJ: Prentice Hall. McMullen, Jeffery S., Lawrence A. Plummer, and Zoltan J. (2007) ‘What is an Entrepreneurial Opportunity?’ Small Business Economics vol. 28, no. 4, pp. 273–83. Mullins, L. J. (2010) Management and Organisational Behaviour, 9th edition, London: Pearson Education Limited. Sloman, M. and J. Philpott (2006) Training and Learning in the Knowledge and Service Economy, Journal of European Industrial Training vol. 30, no. 3, pp. 240-250 Quality Assurance Agency (2002) Quality Assurance in Education 10(3), Pg. 139-44 [online] available: [2 December 2014] Section III: Appendices Appendix 1: Relevant skills Skills required for (business entrepreneurship) Skills Explanation Communications Skills Effective communication becomes necessary for disseminating critical information in a concise way which shows its relevance to the people. It is very important skills for writing reports as well as convincing people with regard to one’s ideas and creative inputs, especially for an entrepreneur who needs to develop clientele for his/ her business enterprise. Problem solving skill For an entrepreneur, problem solving skills are necessary to resolve workplace conflicts quickly as well as using the technique in qualitative and quantitative data for evaluating problems and exploiting information for business gain. Team-working skills All business projects require strong teamwork and therefore the skills are not only an integral part of a successful entrepreneur but it also ensures that workforce is constantly motivated for higher performance outcome. Cognitive skills These are hugely pertinent skills for an entrepreneur as they need to develop paradoxical views on the issues and problems to maintain an edge in the market. Their ability to think critically and evolve challenging solutions becomes the key of their success within the highly competitive business dynamics of the contemporary times. (Refer appendix 2). Self-awareness skills Self-awareness is essential to understand one’s weakness and strengths as it helps to exploit the strong points and improve upon one’s weakness for effective teamwork. Moreover, it helps to develop a more sensitive approach to other people’s ideas and suggestions without resorting to violence or aggression which significantly enhances teamwork. i Appendix 2: Job Advertisement Sussex Place Ventures Location: London, UK Targeting: UK Bio: Sussex place ventures are a London based venture capital firm, focusing on information technology and science based companies. With close ties to the London Business School, they ought know the right people to put you in contact with. Investment Level: £100,000 – £1,000,000 seed and early stage investment. Portfolio Companies: Sine Wave Entertainment, Infinitesima, Skimlinks - a complete list is available here. Contact/Apply: The contact details are at the bottom of every page on their website here. What were looking for Early stage software and SaaS businesses Early stage IP-rich technology companies – often University spin-outs Digital businesses with evidence of user traction or a viable business model Turnover from zero to £2m Pre-profit / pre-revenue Initial Investment £100k to £1m INITIAL INVESTMENTFOLLOW-ON INVESTMENTDISCOVERYVALIDATIONEFFICIENCYSCALE Diagram based on Startup Genome Report by Marmer, Herrmann, Berman Sussex Place Ventures is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority Appendix 3: Self-Assessment Core Skills Ranking and SWOT Self-Assessment Core Skills Ranking The following template used to rate skill level against each of the QAA Core Skills for International Business Students. For more information, refer to page 7-8 in Cameron (2009). Core Skill Skill Rating (1–10) Low =1 – High = 10 Evidence Insert an example to support your rating Cognitive skills: critical thinking, analysis and recommendations 5 Reflecting on the assignment of International Business Strategy proved critical as it required repeated reviewing to look at the study from different aspect and make suggestions. Problem solving and decision making: using quantitative and qualitative data 8 In group meeting at CULC for Business Synergy challenge workshop, I helped solved the problems related to the logistics of supply chain. But more practice is required for using data adequately. Research and investigative skills: as part of individual assignments and team projects 9 Using investigative research methods to write a management brief for a case study during business strategy class. Information and communications technology skills: applying wide range of business applications 8 As business administrator, I had efficiently exploited online web surfing and various technology based applications like Microsoft office applications and other software like Saber and Galileo (Refer Appendix 6) Numeracy and quantitative skills: data analysis, interpretation and extrapolation 9 Demonstrated good numeracy and quantitative skills during competitive presentation on Business Synergy with lots of graphs and data table. Communication skills: using multimedia for verbal and written English. 5 In the feedback for International business Strategy module my tutor told me that I speak very fast which makes it difficult for the audience to get the information that I want to convey. Interpersonal skills: talking, listening and negotiation 8 My negotiating skills were very much appreciated in my last job when I had brought a very lucrative project. It is also appreciated by my peers at university who appreciate my listening and talking skills as a team leader. Team-working skills: leadership, team-building, influencing others 6 My team had not performed very well in the group assessments at CULC as two of the group members did not co-operate. I was the group leader and I could not motivate them to finish their task within the given deadline. Personal management skills: time management 6 I need to improve on my time management. Learning skills: Reflective, adaptive and collaborative 9 I always do reflection on week’s studies during weekends. It helps me to improve and adjust and adapt to new environment and learning zones which are quite different from my previous college. I have already adapted and collaborated in CULC. Self-awareness: emotional intelligence and sensitivity towards others’ ideas and ideologies. 5 During Business Synergy symposium, I had realized that I am not very open to other’s ideas which considerably restrict my learning. SWOT Analysis and TOWS Metrics The following section is my Personal SWOT & TOWS (some parts cited from assignment 1) My Strengths (S) 1. Pragmatic learner 2. High numerical skills 3. Strong technical skills 4. Adaptive learning skills 5. Negotiating skills My Weaknesses (W) 1. Lacks motivation 2. Lack organizing and planning skills 3. Not efficient at managing time 4. Not consistent at Critical reading 5. tends to stall/ delay work My Opportunities (O) 1. Enhance presentation skills 2. Personal management skills in meeting deadlines of assignments and presentations. 3. Opportunity to work with multi-cultural groups and interacting with peer group. Use Strengths to take advantage of Opportunities - Use of numeracy skills can help in developing presentation skills (S2 & O1). - Being realist will help me during the presentations and assignments, as I learn by doing things and improve (S1 & O2). Overcome Weaknesses by taking advantage of Opportunities - Personal management skills will facilitate in better organization and forecasting (O2 & W2). - Working in groups will keep me motivated (O3 & W1). My Threats (T) 1. Self-awareness skills are essential 2. Time pressure as various modules have same deadlines, leading to low scores. 3. Case studies as it need critical thinking skills. Use Strengths to reduce Threats - Identifying the learning skill that complement my work methodology so that task can be completed sooner and reduce time pressure and work stress (S1 & T2) - Good IT skills would help me exploit online resources more efficiently. (S3 & T3) Minimize Weakness & avoid Threats - Need to manage time properly to avoid time pressure (W3 & T2) - Must develop Critical skills for effective use of online resources. (W4 & T3) Appendix 4: Presentation Test (Pearson 2010) During a presentation, use the following guide to assess your presentation when you practice. Serial No. Aspect Mark 1 2 3 4 5 Rating Good/ Average/Poor 1 Introduction 5 Very good 2 Sticking to the topic 3 Average 3 Range of information covered 4 Good 4 Usefulness of visual aids 3 Average 4 Number of visual aids 2 Poor 6 Speaking style 4 Good 7 Overall pace 3 Average 8 Dealing with questions 4 Good 9 Encouraging audience involvement 3 Average 10 Summary and conclusion 3 Average Comments The introduction of the presentation was very good that helped captivate the attention of the audience. It had clearly demonstrated the understanding of the framework and the theories that underpinned the theme of the presentation. But the weak analysis was quite distracting and deviating from main topic in middle of presentation. More audio and visual aids would have significantly added to the impact of the presentation. The presenter had confidently given relevant and concise information to the questions. Though the conclusion could have been more effective with detailed synthesis, the overall presentation did manage to retain the attention of the audience. Areas that need some work Not much effort and skills were applied in the presentation which was limited in its analysis and synthesis of information. The areas introduced within the introduction should have been described in details in the middle of the presentation with appropriate examples and audio-video clips. More focus should have been used in the visual aids in the form of Bar charts, Line Graphs and pie charts to grasp the attention of the audience rather than lengthy discourse of the theories. Though wide range of information was covered and was consistent but it adversely influenced its impact as it lacked focused approach on few salient points rather than considering large database of information. The analysis and synthesis of few important points would have greatly enhanced its impact and demonstrated its relevance to the overall theme more emphatically. Some slides had too much text, some of which was not even relevant. It was the main reason for digression from the topic in the middle of the presentation. Better teamwork is required to develop effective presentation which not only clearly validates the outcome but it is clear in its focus on main points and maintains the pace of the presentation with the same concise but relevant contextual audio/video aids. Overall the presentation was average. Appendix 5: Time Management Test (Pearson 2010) Have a look at the following statements and rate how accurately they describe the way you study. Often Sometimes Occasionally Never I find I am behind with work assignments. I have several pieces of work half finished. I can‟t find notes and things when I need them. I get distracted from work by other things. I spend a lot of time trying to make things perfect. I am often late for lectures or seminars. I put off tasks I do not really like the look of. I feel stressed because I am short of time. Most people would give mixed responses comprising of often, sometimes, and occasionally. This is a good starting point to look at new ways to develop better time management skills. Appendix 6: Learning Journal PDP Serial No. Date What I did Why I did it What I learnt How or where I could apply it Any improvement or development required 1 08-10-2014 Used questionnaire on group activity based on VAK learning style. The assessment scoring was indicated as individual’s ways of learning on the different learning styles. It was also good method to develop and measure the efficacy of one’s learning style. (Refer appendix3) It was the first time that I had heard of this theory and I want to explore it more as assessment offers wide scope of improvement. I learnt the theory mainly by learning different styles. Visual- learn by seeing Audio- learn by listening Kinaesthetic - learn by doing I came to know that I learn better through visual aids as my assessment learning score was same. It was also close to being a Tactile learner which was a new term for me. Using VAK helped me to realize that my learning style was visual and tactile. I can apply these styles within academic and professional arena to improve outcome. I can utilize the styles to become a better learner and improve my assessment score. I would like to adopt these styles to strengthen my learning. I need to become advanced visual and tactile learner. I would also like to apply and develop my Auditory learning style for personal and academic growth. 2 22-10-2014 Led my team during the group activity of International Business Strategy. It started with a brief speech outlining experience and work based knowledge of each group member. It was followed by voting. (Refer PDP II) I am a doer and love to take initiative so I wanted to become team leader. I would get the work completed on time with effective teamwork. I was the only student having an experience of leadership in study and work place.(Refer appendix 8) I learnt to coordinate with diverse student populace. Who had come from different race, culture, colour and nationality. The group members with different competencies helped me to improve on my power point skills.(Refer appendix 4) As leader of a group in CULC and in future career, it would motivate me to finish the assignments within the given deadline. My presentation would also improve through enhanced knowledge about PowerPoint. Reflection on these activities and experience would help develop more effective leadership traits. Learning skills on PowerPoint had increased my confidence for future assignments and presentations which I believe would be more power packed. 3 07-11-2014 Knowledge cast was important for explaining critical reading, thinking and writing. Critical reading and writing assessment questionnaire were used in group activities and seminar. To become aware of my critical thinking skills. Critical thinking is essential element of academic and professional growth. Critical reading will give insight into different aspects on subject matter.(Refer PDP 3) Critical thinking encourages in-depth knowledge to understand the sources, concepts and the context of any article before reading. It provides a clearer picture of the target audience so as to arrive to definite conclusion and make recommendations. It has helped in understanding the purpose of reading and assumptions that writers make. Critical reading would promote wider perspectives of theories and models which can be applied within course assignments and presentations as well as at workplace. It would be hugely useful to me as an entrepreneur where I need to develop paradoxical views to innovate, identify and exploit new opportunities of growth. Need to be persistent in developing and applying the skills of critical evaluation. I need to develop effective mechanisms like taking notes to enhance the skill. 4 17-11-2014 It is a part of lifelong learning. The reading on fixed mind-set and growth mind-set were very helpful during presentation and I could understand different outlooks. I realize that one must constantly to improve and therefore needs to a lifelong learner. In the fast transforming business dynamics, an open mind set considerably helps to meet new challenges of time with greater efficiency. This was important part of business practice. After reading I realized that I have certain qualities of fixed mind set which need to be changed to the open mind set. Growth mind-set encourages discussion on diverse ideas and promotes critical evaluation. It can be applied in my assignments and presentation to make them more effective. An open mind set is growth oriented and promotes excellence at all areas of life. I need to develop more traits and characteristics of growth mind-set and let go of the qualities of fixed mind-set that restricts advancement in life. 5 22-11-2014 I had analysed my presentation skills with a video of test presentation on International Business Strategy module.(Refer PDP 4 and appendix 4) Feedbacks were taken on the presentation from peers and tutor. It was revealed that it lacked time management as some group members were not collaborating fully. I also realized that my part was taking lot of time. I needed to be more concise. I learnt time management techniques and being concise and relevant. Frequent rehearsing in front of the mirror helped to improve my presentation and time management skill. Time management is key skill that needs to be applied in all walks of life including academic and career. I would be applied in future presentations and assignments. (Refer PDP I) Rehearsing helped me to time out my portion which gave others more opportunity to put their views. Appendix 7: Research Proposal Title: E-commerce Literature review: The internet has emerged as one of the most popular medium of communication with wide range of applications that need to be exploited by entrepreneurs for business. It transcends the concept of geographical borders and helps provide huge opportunities for entrepreneurial ventures. E-commerce has been conceptualized as an important way of establishing business relationships and trading through online communication including payments etc. It has therefore been increasing become an intrinsic part of a business strategy. E-commerce uses safety measures for online trading to inculcate confidence amongst the partners and customers. It becomes a very pertinent platform for innovative business propositions and at the same time provides the customers with wide choices to get the best deal. Research subject: E-commerce based management consultancy in export-import business Research question: 1. What are the potential benefits of e-commerce based management consultancy? 2. How can the efficacy of recommendations offered be established to the customers? 3. To what extent the e-commerce validates management consultancy in export-import business? Research objectives: The knowledge management and management consultancy considerably reduces the risk to e-commerce transactions. It is also important for businesses to understand the various issues and legal constraints in the export and import of material things which further complicates the business operations for the budding business. The e-commerce based management consultancy therefore has huge opportunities and the study would explore the myriad aspect of the same within the context of export and import business. It would encourage usage of e-commerce based management consultancy amongst small and medium businesses. Research methodologies: It would be a quantitative research but would also use tenets of qualitative research such as interview schedule. Quantitative data: It would use secondary resources like libraries, commercial bibliographic databases for peer review, internet resources and e journals. It would also use online questionnaires to explore the views of small businesses regarding online management consultancy. Qualitative data: Interview schedule with three on-campus businesses like college canteen owner, vendors and recruitment agency that is used by college for recruiting staff. Appendix 8: Curriculum Vitae NAME CURRENT ADDRESS Mobile: +44?????? email: ????? PERSONAL PROFILE I am very confident and self-motivated rational being. I am also very passionate about my work and academic excellence. I also believe that my leadership qualities and my academic qualifications would help me make empowered decisions in life and promote critical thinking to explore innovative areas of new opportunities of growth. EDUCATION & QUALIFICATION Currently pursuing Post Graduate Degree in Business Management from Coventry University London Campus, London, United Kingdom WORK EXPERIENCE Business Administrator (3 months) 2011 Oguz Holding, Baku Responsibilities Organising staff responsibilities and targets Responsible for all major imports and exports Revise imports strategy Deal with pricing of imports with fluctuating fuel prices. ACHIEVEMENTS First place in boxing championship 2010. (Baku) Student of the Year 2009. (Baku) Won mathematics competition 2007. (Baku) SKILLS Team Working And Leadership Skills: The job of business administrator had enhanced my team-working skills where we worked in groups, having defined targets and deadline to projects. I had held the ‘Position of London chair’ which is a prestigious position for students’ union at the university that reflects on my leadership skills. It had inculcated great confidence and I had been an enthusiastic and motivating leader who had promoted the causes of the student fraternity. Information Technology Skills: I acquired IT skills by attending IT classes in my under graduation and have been extensively using MS- office regularly at my college for assignments. I am also well-versed in other office applications like Galileo, Saber, World span and Amadeus. Communication And Networking Skills: I have good communication skill which was exploited in my previous job as an administrator I am also a member of alumni group of my previous college. I have an account on linkdin.com that facilitates business networking. INTERESTS Training, travelling and reading books are my major interests. I also enjoy horse riding. REFERENCES Oguz Holding Baku,Azerbaijan Mirali Gashqai st.94 Contact: +994124493809 Appendix 9: Cover Letter The Sussex Place Ventures London UK 10th December 2014 Re: Venture capital for my entrepreneurial venture To Whom It May Concern, I am a highly motivated and creative individual who would like to start one’s own enterprise in the field of information technology. In the digital age, information technology considerably contributes to the success of the business. Moreover, innovative spirit and a critical approach to the diversity of the business imperatives have been major source of inspiration for me to become an entrepreneur rather than a job seeker. I have a Business Management degree from CULC, which is renowned for its highly creative curricula and global perspective. I am aware that often the legal and political constraints can hinder business expansion across the globe. I also believe that my strong leadership qualities and knowledge regarding global perspective of business would be an asset for the small and medium business to overcome these problems within their business operations. I am therefore looking forward to starting my own E-commerce based management consultancy in the area of export-import business in UK. Your company is renowned for supporting entrepreneurial ventures in the IT field. I am confident that my IT based management consultancy has huge scope not only as an entrepreneurial venture but also as a contributor to the success of small businesses that struggle for want of good advice and knowledge about legal, political and social constraints that adversely impact business performances. I am confident that I will be able to contribute to the development processes and sincerely look forward to hear from you. Yours sincerely, XXXXXXXXXXX Read More