Wednesday, February 29, 2012
What I Learned Wednesday for February 29th, 2012
This week's What I Learned Wednesday is brought to us by our Fearless Leader at the Robinson College of Business (RCB), Assistant Dean of Graduate Recruiting and Student Services, Toby McChesney!
For those of you who don't know Toby, you should certainly know this... Every day, he strives to enhance the lives of the students and the programs offered at RCB. (I can vouch for that because I work with him!)
Case in point, Toby recently sought "official" input from the students at RCB. (Rest assured, RCB'ers, he took that feedback seriously!)
Below, he shares what he learned from you that will lead to continuous improvement at RCB and in its B-school programs:
For those of you who don't know Toby, you should certainly know this... Every day, he strives to enhance the lives of the students and the programs offered at RCB. (I can vouch for that because I work with him!)
Case in point, Toby recently sought "official" input from the students at RCB. (Rest assured, RCB'ers, he took that feedback seriously!)
Below, he shares what he learned from you that will lead to continuous improvement at RCB and in its B-school programs:
- Academic advising sessions need to be held later in the day, particularly for those students who have class until 7 PM downtown.
- Academic Advisors are valued by the students, but students would like to have more exposure and access to their advisors if possible.
- Students need more assistance with concentrations and electives. The good thing is that RCB offers a lot of these concentrations and electives, but we need to be sure that relevant and pertinent information is easily accessible to all of our students.
- Students would like to see more social events for MBA students. The Graduate Business Association hosts several events for students each semester, and the GBA is open to all RCB graduate students and they host several events a semester. I want to ensure that everyone knows about these events.
Toby's bottom line?
I was reminded today that our students have a voice and have good ideas on ways through which we advise them. I am glad that I sent this survey out to gather feedback. Feedback is important for organizations to grow. I encourage everyone to remember this always! What great advice!
Navigating higher education is as difficult and complex as navigating business, so like any leader, Toby has to stay ahead of the game to meet the needs of his target market: a population composed of a diverse graduate student body of innumerable cultures who are divided among 19 concentrations and four graduate programs. Without a doubt, he is a very busy man! But Toby's unwavering desire to serve the students, or get involved whenever we need an ally, is strikingly reassuring. He is never too caught up in the whirlwind of his profession to answer emails or address concerns brought to his attention. As I'm sure you are familiar, it is refreshing to know that a person with power in an organization, like Toby for example, is willing to go to bat for you.
If you have any questions for Toby, please don't hesitate to leave a comment or two. I'll pass them along!
Tuesday, February 28, 2012
Thought Leadership: Who Do The Big Timers Listen To?
Have you ever considered who the Real Movers-and-Shakers in Business rely on for advice and thought leadership? How do these Big Timers and Headliners stay on top of their game? We grad students look to those Big Deal C-Suite Execs for advice and insights, but to whom do they turn for navigation in our fast-moving business environment?
If you're thinking Malcolm Gladwell or Michael Porter, you're spot on! But, according to Business Insider, there are TEN Thinkers that Executives actually listen to.
Check out their Top Ten List below:
- Malcolm Gladwell, award-winning New Yorker writer and one of Time's 2005 most influential people; author of The Tipping Point, Blink & Outliers.
- Don Tapscott, "one of the world’s leading authorities on innovation, media, globalization and the economic and social impact of technology on business and society" (says The Thinkers50) and author of one of the first books about how the Internet would completely change business. WHOA!
- Marcus Buckingham, a revolutionary thought leader advocating focusing on your strengths - not trying to be something you're not. (I like the sound of that!)
- Marshall Goldsmith, creator of "360-degree feedback" and the writer of The Leader of the Future and MOJO: How to Get It, How to Keep It, and How to Get It Back If You Lose It. (This book sounds great, and listen to this... the book focuses around creating and seizing "the moment when we do something that's purposeful, powerful and positive and the rest of the world recognizes it." Watch out, World! And Hello, Amazon.com WishList!)
- Roger Martin, known for his book The Opposable Mind: How Successful Leaders Win Through Integrative Thinking, The Design of Business and Fixing the Game: Bubbles, Crashes and What Capitalism can Learn from the NFL.
- Of course, the esteemed Michael Porter! Need I say anymore?
- Jim Collins, author of Good to Great & How the Might Fall: And Why Some Companies Never Give In, which identifies the five sequential stages of a business' decline.
- Vijay Govindarajan, or VG, one of the top experts on strategy and innovation who was GE's first Professor in Residence and Chief Innovation Consultant. His popular books include Ten Rules for Strategic Innovators and The Other Side of Innovation, which "focuses on how to turn an innovative idea into a successful commercial business." (I will be looking into this one to shed some light on Blue Oceans & starting my own business!)
- And speaking of Blue Ocean... W. Chan Kim & Renee Mauborgne, co-directors of INSEAD Blue Ocean Strategy Institute in Fontainebleau, France and authors of Blue Ocean Strategy, a thesis revealing that most companies are competing in overcrowded industries (Red Oceans), so it is better to innovate than compete. Sound familiar?
- Clayton Christensen, author of The Innovator's Dilemma, a book on every entrepreneur's reading list if not already on their nightstand. He has advised executives of many of the world's major corporations who used his guidance to generate tens of billions of dollars every year (!!!) from product and service innovations inspired by his research.
Having considered these thought-innovators and assessed the potential of the next generation (Us) to hop onto this list, we must raise the obvious question: Who is the next thought leader and advisor to the Movers-and-Shakers of today and tomorrow? IS IT YOU!?
Monday, February 27, 2012
Social Policy meets Social Media
Most of us associate social media as the medium through which we connect with our own community and circles of friends, or 140 character news feeds from celebrities and industry movers-and-shakers. But, the potential of these technologies has leapt outside traditional perspectives of their purpose.
Get a load of this! Economic Policy makers around the world are now marrying social media with social innovation movements to effect positive change in our world. A specific example, Speed Geeking.
We can all agree that social media has transformed the ways we communicate and connect due to its transcension of every border and boundary. It is, therefore, hardly surprising that policy makers and open source activists have taken an interest in leveraging these tools to help visualize and solve problems, such as coral reef destruction, mining activities near chimpanzee habitats, and the defense of our own personal information despite the complexities of the modern information space.
Consider Morocco's Director of Social Transformation, Sidi Maelainin. He interwove his vision for social and government policy changes with the groundswell of social media communities. The conference allowed for a quick overview of how technology can support the work he's trying to do.
A few feet away, a company touted new mobile technologies designed to help farmers in specific emerging markets. Other tech solutions allowed users to learn about, interact and participate in events leading up to Rio+20, the United Nations Conference on Sustainable Development in June.
Get a load of this! Economic Policy makers around the world are now marrying social media with social innovation movements to effect positive change in our world. A specific example, Speed Geeking.
We can all agree that social media has transformed the ways we communicate and connect due to its transcension of every border and boundary. It is, therefore, hardly surprising that policy makers and open source activists have taken an interest in leveraging these tools to help visualize and solve problems, such as coral reef destruction, mining activities near chimpanzee habitats, and the defense of our own personal information despite the complexities of the modern information space.
Consider Morocco's Director of Social Transformation, Sidi Maelainin. He interwove his vision for social and government policy changes with the groundswell of social media communities. The conference allowed for a quick overview of how technology can support the work he's trying to do.
A few feet away, a company touted new mobile technologies designed to help farmers in specific emerging markets. Other tech solutions allowed users to learn about, interact and participate in events leading up to Rio+20, the United Nations Conference on Sustainable Development in June.
Presenters, like Nathan Freitas of The Guardian Project, were excited to share innovative, yet simple apps used to protect mobile communications from "unjust intrusion and monitoring." Remember in some countries, mobile devices are tied to the real-life identities of their users. Imagine the implications in such environments where access to information is so tightly controlled by the government or identity theft runs rampant!
Perhaps my perception of the social media trend has been confined by my definition of "social." What an inspiring wake up call to discover that not only politicians, marketing mavens and international business leaders have embraced social media, but so, too, have leaders in emerging markets and public policy!
These individuals labor to improve accessibility and quality of life. They have continually and tirelessly explored the power of social media in the pursuit of positive change, and they have now spurred me to consider the future, and previously unimaginable, implications of social media.
So, what is next? What innovative social media solutions can we, will we, uncover that will allow us to navigate the interconnectedness of both business climates and global public policy? What do you see as the future of social media?
Friday, February 24, 2012
Are You Scared? Size Matters!
"Always go with the choice that scares you the most, because that's the one that is going to require the most from you."
- Caroline Myss, best-selling author, speaker and medical intuitive.
It seems we have a recurring theme about goal setting!
- Caroline Myss, best-selling author, speaker and medical intuitive.
It seems we have a recurring theme about goal setting!
Particularly for those of us looking to create our ideal life after graduate school, and even for those of us who create our ideal life everyday (BRAVO!!), the recent articles and quotes we've seen help provide direction and motivation.
For realistic implementation tips, especially if you are looking to advance your career during or after graduate school, check out your local career center or ask business leaders within your network for advice and guidance. They may further direct you to their own gurus and mentors for guidance or help networking! SCORE!
While navigating the job hunt, one thing I have certainly found to be true - time and time again - is a genuine interest among people to help. Others, such as faculty, business leaders and mentors, truly desire to give back. Seize opportunities to gain from any gurus', experts', busboys', and friends' inevitable tales of career glories and glooms, and listen to their mistakes. Use that wisdom to set (and bulldoze through) the BHAG's of your own career path!
One more thing to consider... To create balance and a snowball of success and motivation for yourself, think about setting goals in all aspects of your life. When you are inspired and invigorated in one area, it will inevitably dribble into the others, spurring you ahead to conquer every lofty, heart-palpitating, "eek!" goal. Who doesn't want that for themselves!?
In short, choose that which scares you! Dream BIG! If you fail, it's ok! Failure in an endeavor does not equate failure as a person, and people do not expect perfection. Being flawed and being equipped with any such experiences in your pocket, you will still forge ahead as a better person, a better friend, and a better leader. You will relate to others and motivate them to reach for the "impossible." After all, you did it, and look how far you've come!
For realistic implementation tips, especially if you are looking to advance your career during or after graduate school, check out your local career center or ask business leaders within your network for advice and guidance. They may further direct you to their own gurus and mentors for guidance or help networking! SCORE!
While navigating the job hunt, one thing I have certainly found to be true - time and time again - is a genuine interest among people to help. Others, such as faculty, business leaders and mentors, truly desire to give back. Seize opportunities to gain from any gurus', experts', busboys', and friends' inevitable tales of career glories and glooms, and listen to their mistakes. Use that wisdom to set (and bulldoze through) the BHAG's of your own career path!
One more thing to consider... To create balance and a snowball of success and motivation for yourself, think about setting goals in all aspects of your life. When you are inspired and invigorated in one area, it will inevitably dribble into the others, spurring you ahead to conquer every lofty, heart-palpitating, "eek!" goal. Who doesn't want that for themselves!?
In short, choose that which scares you! Dream BIG! If you fail, it's ok! Failure in an endeavor does not equate failure as a person, and people do not expect perfection. Being flawed and being equipped with any such experiences in your pocket, you will still forge ahead as a better person, a better friend, and a better leader. You will relate to others and motivate them to reach for the "impossible." After all, you did it, and look how far you've come!
Thursday, February 23, 2012
How's Your Aim?
"Aim for success, not perfection. Never give up your right to be wrong, because then you will lose the ability to learn new things and move forward with your life."
- Dr. David M. Burns, professor and best-selling author.
Wednesday, February 22, 2012
Goal Setting, All the Kids Are Doing It!
Goal setting is all the rage these days. Short term, long term, personal, professional, academic, physical, spiritual... No matter what area of life, we're all setting goals, and we should!
According to Lululemon, writing down a detailed vision for your ideal life (being as descriptive as possible) helps to identify the goals you need to achieve to realize your vision.
Their "secret sauce to success" encompasses SIX CORE CONCEPTS FOR VISION AND GOAL SETTING. Short, sweet and significant - sounds like a winning recipe to me!
Get a load of these tried, tested and true methods for making your pie-in-the-sky the pie on your plate!
According to Lululemon, writing down a detailed vision for your ideal life (being as descriptive as possible) helps to identify the goals you need to achieve to realize your vision.
Their "secret sauce to success" encompasses SIX CORE CONCEPTS FOR VISION AND GOAL SETTING. Short, sweet and significant - sounds like a winning recipe to me!
Get a load of these tried, tested and true methods for making your pie-in-the-sky the pie on your plate!
1. Possibility!
Audrey Hepburn once said, "Nothing is impossible. The word itself says 'I'm Possible'!" Don't become too grounded in your past or "perceived constraints." Let your mind soar because a "mindset of possibility" allows you see a life without self-imposed constraints. Let go of "I don't have the time," or "I don't have the money." Can't never Could, and Don't never Did.
2. Vision!
Creating a clear picture of your achieved outcome ("goal") will allow them to become powerful and meaningful to you! Articulate and envision your ideal life, scenario, job, etc. with as much detail, imagery and clarity as possible! We want it to be so real, it will get you out of bed in the morning! Check out lulu's definition of what composes "a powerful vision" for even more oomph on the matter.
3. Balance!
How often have we heard balance lately? Finding work/life balance, finding travel/health balance... Balance seems the theme of the week, and it matters (maybe even more so!) when you're breathing life into your goals. "Having balanced goals leads to a balanced life," so consider setting goals for all main areas in your life, like personal, professional & physical, so you don't leave any opportunities for fulfillment on the table.
4. Audacity!
This one is AWESOME! Goals must be BHAG's! Big Hairy Audacious Goals! Doesn't that just sound horrendously inspirational?! I have a wonderfully vivid mental picture of Maurice Sendak's Where the Wild Things Are every time I read this phrase. The trick to knowing how BH&A your G's are? You should be failing 50% of the time. It's exhilarating but completely terrifying!
5. Format!
Don't be wishy-washy! You're no wimp in life, let's not be one on paper! Use quantifiable, specific words in the present tense. Start big - at 10 year goals - and work your way to your short term goals - 1 year. (I wrote down a slew of goals on Post-It Notes, then organized them into time frames by making piles. I was less hindered and could get creative and a little free-flowy.)
Set deadlines for your goals, and use affirmative language! (don't use don't!) My favorite aspect to formatting is this: Be concise. Use as few words as possible; no justification is required. There is such freedom in those words.
6. Integrity!
You've done the brainwork; now it's time for the real work. You've now set your goals... How do you live them with integrity, integrating these goals into your daily life? What about creating a system to honor and serve your goals? Put them into your iCalendar, or set time aside to devote towards bringing them to life. Post them on your fridge. Also, enlist support! Get your family and friends on board so they know what you're working towards, what you stand for and how to support you. I read today that Oprah said, "Surround yourself only with people who will take you higher." Apropros, don't you think?
Lululemon's are just a few ingredients that will set you on your way to goal setting, and there are many more. But boy, did Lulu's get me going more any I've seen! I am already hopping to make my lists and create the life I've imagined! I hope you are, too!
For more on goal setting and a colorful vision-and-goals worksheet, check out lululemon's blog. Or share your own tips with us by posting comments!
Audrey Hepburn once said, "Nothing is impossible. The word itself says 'I'm Possible'!" Don't become too grounded in your past or "perceived constraints." Let your mind soar because a "mindset of possibility" allows you see a life without self-imposed constraints. Let go of "I don't have the time," or "I don't have the money." Can't never Could, and Don't never Did.
2. Vision!
Creating a clear picture of your achieved outcome ("goal") will allow them to become powerful and meaningful to you! Articulate and envision your ideal life, scenario, job, etc. with as much detail, imagery and clarity as possible! We want it to be so real, it will get you out of bed in the morning! Check out lulu's definition of what composes "a powerful vision" for even more oomph on the matter.
3. Balance!
How often have we heard balance lately? Finding work/life balance, finding travel/health balance... Balance seems the theme of the week, and it matters (maybe even more so!) when you're breathing life into your goals. "Having balanced goals leads to a balanced life," so consider setting goals for all main areas in your life, like personal, professional & physical, so you don't leave any opportunities for fulfillment on the table.
4. Audacity!
This one is AWESOME! Goals must be BHAG's! Big Hairy Audacious Goals! Doesn't that just sound horrendously inspirational?! I have a wonderfully vivid mental picture of Maurice Sendak's Where the Wild Things Are every time I read this phrase. The trick to knowing how BH&A your G's are? You should be failing 50% of the time. It's exhilarating but completely terrifying!
5. Format!
Don't be wishy-washy! You're no wimp in life, let's not be one on paper! Use quantifiable, specific words in the present tense. Start big - at 10 year goals - and work your way to your short term goals - 1 year. (I wrote down a slew of goals on Post-It Notes, then organized them into time frames by making piles. I was less hindered and could get creative and a little free-flowy.)
Set deadlines for your goals, and use affirmative language! (don't use don't!) My favorite aspect to formatting is this: Be concise. Use as few words as possible; no justification is required. There is such freedom in those words.
6. Integrity!
You've done the brainwork; now it's time for the real work. You've now set your goals... How do you live them with integrity, integrating these goals into your daily life? What about creating a system to honor and serve your goals? Put them into your iCalendar, or set time aside to devote towards bringing them to life. Post them on your fridge. Also, enlist support! Get your family and friends on board so they know what you're working towards, what you stand for and how to support you. I read today that Oprah said, "Surround yourself only with people who will take you higher." Apropros, don't you think?
Lululemon's are just a few ingredients that will set you on your way to goal setting, and there are many more. But boy, did Lulu's get me going more any I've seen! I am already hopping to make my lists and create the life I've imagined! I hope you are, too!
For more on goal setting and a colorful vision-and-goals worksheet, check out lululemon's blog. Or share your own tips with us by posting comments!
Sunday, February 19, 2012
Marketing & Networking: A Match Made in Heaven!
Did you know that 80%-90% of jobs are found through networking?
If you are a Marketing Maven, Marketing Master or Marketing MBA, get involved in your local chapter of the American Marketing Association! For those of us in Atlanta, check them out here.
Robinson College of Business has their own chapter, too! Check them out on Facebook! They are quite impressive at keeping you up-to-date on their local events and with other value-added posts.
If you feel you can't afford to get involved, volunteering with the AMA even offers you networking opportunities to further your success by giving you access to incredible speaker series and allowing you to rub elbows with marketing movers-and-shakers!
Interested in becoming an AMA member? Check out their website!
If you are a Marketing Maven, Marketing Master or Marketing MBA, get involved in your local chapter of the American Marketing Association! For those of us in Atlanta, check them out here.
Robinson College of Business has their own chapter, too! Check them out on Facebook! They are quite impressive at keeping you up-to-date on their local events and with other value-added posts.
If you feel you can't afford to get involved, volunteering with the AMA even offers you networking opportunities to further your success by giving you access to incredible speaker series and allowing you to rub elbows with marketing movers-and-shakers!
Interested in becoming an AMA member? Check out their website!
Saturday, February 18, 2012
Garbage In, Garbage Out?
You know the old adage, "Garbage In, Garbage Out"... Well, every time I turn around, this message is meeting me head on, leading me to consider my own speed and accuracy in information processing.
How have I been approaching decision making? How should I approach decision making in order to avoid a GIGO type situation, particularly with the real world quickly coming up on the horizon? I don't think real life leadership is a multiple choice exam, do you? If it is, I'm going to need a study guide, STAT.
But in all seriousness, I started to really think about this. Questions raced through my mind... Am I actively seeking quality input - paying attention in class, listening instead of just being ready with a response, thinking critically about the case assignments and readings? Am I doing enough to stay current and up-to-date on real business topics and trends? How can I possibly hope to deliver quality output through my perceptions, interactions, and decisions in the workplace & the world if I don't have all the information, all the current data? When it's time, how can I be a great leader, or even a good leader, if I don't have all of the facts? The world is go-go-go! How do these CMO's possibly make decisions in such a fast moving marketplace?
So, I leaned on some very insightful life gurus - Scot Safon, the Sensei of Critical Thinking, my mentor and recently, a veteran CEO - for some pretty solid advice, and here is the skinny:
Be a Life Long Learner.
Be a Sponge of Information.
... And Don't Expect Perfection. Aha! And There We Are.
Seeking critical, current knowledge about the business world and my own competitive environment (research on my target company, social media and marketing innovations, etc.) does allow me to stay informed, but how do I stay agile and relevant in a climate of constant change? There must be some sort of a balance between speed and accuracy. There is. Turns out "Garbage In, Garbage Out" isn't so cut and dry. "Garbage" is all relative.
Obviously, the ability to adapt and react quickly is key. Responding effectively and intelligently is invaluable. Together, we realize sometimes that means you make the best decision you can with the information you have. Yes, we want to make well-educated, decisions, but there is a clear difference between reacting and responding. We want to be in the middle.
Reacting too quickly and off-the-cuff leads us to making poor choices just to get the decision done; we may overlook critical information simply out of fear of missing an opportunity or waiting too long for more information risks living in the land of diminishing returns, missing an opportunity, letting go of a competitive edge, or missing out on a fun opportunity. The magic is in the middle. Go with your gut. Get as much information as you can without sacrificing too much of your favorite fleeting resource - time - and make the best decision you can.
Pondering this, I am the first to admit, I fly by the seat of my pants. In some cases, I will make a decision just for decision-making sake, thinking I need to move on to the next thing; let's get this done. Other times, I hem and haw over a dinner menu as though I'm selecting my last meal on earth. For me, I indeed recognize there is a need for more of a balance between the two, giving up being reactive to instead be responsive.
What about you? How do you balance agility with the need for speed?
How have I been approaching decision making? How should I approach decision making in order to avoid a GIGO type situation, particularly with the real world quickly coming up on the horizon? I don't think real life leadership is a multiple choice exam, do you? If it is, I'm going to need a study guide, STAT.
But in all seriousness, I started to really think about this. Questions raced through my mind... Am I actively seeking quality input - paying attention in class, listening instead of just being ready with a response, thinking critically about the case assignments and readings? Am I doing enough to stay current and up-to-date on real business topics and trends? How can I possibly hope to deliver quality output through my perceptions, interactions, and decisions in the workplace & the world if I don't have all the information, all the current data? When it's time, how can I be a great leader, or even a good leader, if I don't have all of the facts? The world is go-go-go! How do these CMO's possibly make decisions in such a fast moving marketplace?
So, I leaned on some very insightful life gurus - Scot Safon, the Sensei of Critical Thinking, my mentor and recently, a veteran CEO - for some pretty solid advice, and here is the skinny:
Be a Life Long Learner.
Be a Sponge of Information.
... And Don't Expect Perfection. Aha! And There We Are.
Seeking critical, current knowledge about the business world and my own competitive environment (research on my target company, social media and marketing innovations, etc.) does allow me to stay informed, but how do I stay agile and relevant in a climate of constant change? There must be some sort of a balance between speed and accuracy. There is. Turns out "Garbage In, Garbage Out" isn't so cut and dry. "Garbage" is all relative.
Obviously, the ability to adapt and react quickly is key. Responding effectively and intelligently is invaluable. Together, we realize sometimes that means you make the best decision you can with the information you have. Yes, we want to make well-educated, decisions, but there is a clear difference between reacting and responding. We want to be in the middle.
Reacting too quickly and off-the-cuff leads us to making poor choices just to get the decision done; we may overlook critical information simply out of fear of missing an opportunity or waiting too long for more information risks living in the land of diminishing returns, missing an opportunity, letting go of a competitive edge, or missing out on a fun opportunity. The magic is in the middle. Go with your gut. Get as much information as you can without sacrificing too much of your favorite fleeting resource - time - and make the best decision you can.
Pondering this, I am the first to admit, I fly by the seat of my pants. In some cases, I will make a decision just for decision-making sake, thinking I need to move on to the next thing; let's get this done. Other times, I hem and haw over a dinner menu as though I'm selecting my last meal on earth. For me, I indeed recognize there is a need for more of a balance between the two, giving up being reactive to instead be responsive.
What about you? How do you balance agility with the need for speed?
Thursday, February 16, 2012
You're a Social Media Expert?
As marketers and future MBA's, we all want to find ways to differentiate ourselves, don't we?
But look out for the pitfalls! While you're selling your strengths, be sure you know your stuff!
For instance, do you call yourself a social media expert? Yes? Then be sure to check out this commentary - short, sweet and a bit of levity! The article itself is from 2009, so, as a neophyte, I can safely say, in 2012, I have a lot of catching up to do!
One commentator, JP, had a few additional thoughts which revved my motivation to raise my social media savvy:
If you Google "how to become a social media expert," you will be intrigued by the industry insights into the perceived value, the legitimacy and the controversy over the relevancy of being a quote-unquote Expert in Social Media. Some of the commentaries, for this post especially, are of great interest!
But look out for the pitfalls! While you're selling your strengths, be sure you know your stuff!
For instance, do you call yourself a social media expert? Yes? Then be sure to check out this commentary - short, sweet and a bit of levity! The article itself is from 2009, so, as a neophyte, I can safely say, in 2012, I have a lot of catching up to do!
One commentator, JP, had a few additional thoughts which revved my motivation to raise my social media savvy:
- Their twitter feeds are primarily RT’s & tiny url’s.
- The last time they’ve updated their blog was in 2008.
- They advertise numbers of followers but can’t measure engagement. **Heads up, Marketers!
- They talk about content as if it’s a thing to be had and not a conversation.
- They talk to you about behavioral targeting, but cannot list more than two inherent social network behaviors. **
- They can't name a single market vertical based social network.
If you Google "how to become a social media expert," you will be intrigued by the industry insights into the perceived value, the legitimacy and the controversy over the relevancy of being a quote-unquote Expert in Social Media. Some of the commentaries, for this post especially, are of great interest!
What are your thoughts?
GO, THERE'S NOTHING STOPPING YOU! Tips for Career Growth from HLN's SCOT SAFON!
In case you are not aware, Mr. Scot Safon is Executive Vice President, CNN Worldwide/General Manager, HLN (Headline News), where he is responsible for the management of the HLN television network. Not only is he a distinguished business leader locally and globally, but he is renowned for being a dynamic, engaging, spellbinding speaker, and he did not disappoint!
Recently, Mr. Safon spoke at the 2012 AMA Collegiate Conference, and both his persona and presentation were captivating! He shared the remarkable story of his career path, which started with a dream of creating movie posters! Through the twists and turns, Mr. Safon stayed true to himself, his goals, his passion and just went for it - one wild opportunity after another! No one, not even the Long Island Native himself, could ever have imagined that the pursuit of his passions and his curiosity for life would lead him towards an illustrious career at a news network in Atlanta, GA!
As he wove the unusual story of how his career unfolded for the attendees, here is the advice he shared:
Know How To Write.
Whether it's technical, persuasive or trade writings, know how to write. Be concise and well-rounded. Familiarize yourself with all sorts of media and be able to decipher what is appropriate for each specific medium. Consider your audience and know how to communicate effectively. Know when to use industry lingo and when to "just talk."
Be Curious!
Listen to everyone and anyone's career story. You will learn many things from many people in many stations of life. Accept you don't know everything! The path can be weird, scary and unpredictable, and you may be asked to do things you don't want to do. You will not be handed your dream leadership role right away, and these experiences may be stepping stones in your career path. See them with a curious mind, and learn all that you can.
Stay a Student.
Don't be afraid or intimidated to learn new things. Always take stock of yourself and consider what you may have learned from your past as you look towards your future. Enjoy being a member of a team as much as you like being, or want to be, a leader. You can learn from sitting on both sides of the table. Ask questions, and be both enthusiastic and open to where your journey may take you.
Know What You're Talking About.
When you feel passionately, consider "why do I like or dislike this?" When you see something that works, ask yourself "why is this successful?" Have an opinion and be able to articulate it. Even if your idea is "off," it's best to at least have an idea. Voice that well-formed, passionate opinion and engage!
Bring Your Passion to Your Profession!
Whether your passion is serving others, or you're energized by an outside activity, like yoga (Scot's passion), let it waft into your professional life. Find a job that fufills your passion, or find a passion that propels you through every day. Passion is key!
DREAM B*I*G!
If you think you know what you want to do, DO IT! You can work in whatever you want to! But, again, know what you're talking about; have intensive and extensive knowledge of that industry, company, or role. Then GO! If you can dream it, you can do it!
Be True to Yourself!
Know what motivates you and know where you want to go. Pursue your goals and be comfortable saying no to an opportunity if it just doesn't feel "right." Be true to who you are and who you want to become!
As you forge ahead to carve out your own career to serve as a dynamic, enthusiastic, ebullient leader, consider these words from the wise. Be authentic, curious and open to possibility! Then just GO! There's nothing stopping you!
Recently, Mr. Safon spoke at the 2012 AMA Collegiate Conference, and both his persona and presentation were captivating! He shared the remarkable story of his career path, which started with a dream of creating movie posters! Through the twists and turns, Mr. Safon stayed true to himself, his goals, his passion and just went for it - one wild opportunity after another! No one, not even the Long Island Native himself, could ever have imagined that the pursuit of his passions and his curiosity for life would lead him towards an illustrious career at a news network in Atlanta, GA!
As he wove the unusual story of how his career unfolded for the attendees, here is the advice he shared:
Know How To Write.
Whether it's technical, persuasive or trade writings, know how to write. Be concise and well-rounded. Familiarize yourself with all sorts of media and be able to decipher what is appropriate for each specific medium. Consider your audience and know how to communicate effectively. Know when to use industry lingo and when to "just talk."
Be Curious!
Listen to everyone and anyone's career story. You will learn many things from many people in many stations of life. Accept you don't know everything! The path can be weird, scary and unpredictable, and you may be asked to do things you don't want to do. You will not be handed your dream leadership role right away, and these experiences may be stepping stones in your career path. See them with a curious mind, and learn all that you can.
Stay a Student.
Don't be afraid or intimidated to learn new things. Always take stock of yourself and consider what you may have learned from your past as you look towards your future. Enjoy being a member of a team as much as you like being, or want to be, a leader. You can learn from sitting on both sides of the table. Ask questions, and be both enthusiastic and open to where your journey may take you.
Know What You're Talking About.
When you feel passionately, consider "why do I like or dislike this?" When you see something that works, ask yourself "why is this successful?" Have an opinion and be able to articulate it. Even if your idea is "off," it's best to at least have an idea. Voice that well-formed, passionate opinion and engage!
Bring Your Passion to Your Profession!
Whether your passion is serving others, or you're energized by an outside activity, like yoga (Scot's passion), let it waft into your professional life. Find a job that fufills your passion, or find a passion that propels you through every day. Passion is key!
DREAM B*I*G!
If you think you know what you want to do, DO IT! You can work in whatever you want to! But, again, know what you're talking about; have intensive and extensive knowledge of that industry, company, or role. Then GO! If you can dream it, you can do it!
Be True to Yourself!
Know what motivates you and know where you want to go. Pursue your goals and be comfortable saying no to an opportunity if it just doesn't feel "right." Be true to who you are and who you want to become!
As you forge ahead to carve out your own career to serve as a dynamic, enthusiastic, ebullient leader, consider these words from the wise. Be authentic, curious and open to possibility! Then just GO! There's nothing stopping you!
What I Learned Wednesday For February 15th, 2012
Preface : Here's a new segment! Every Wednesday, keep a look out for wisdom and hints from current grad students, graduates and business leaders.
This week's What I Learned is brought to you by Steve. He is not only Vice President of Marketing for a MNC Telecommunications Company in Latin American, but also a Georgia State University MBA! On top of that, Steve manages his own Sports and Entertainment Firm, has a successful marriage and lovely children, coaches a soccer team, plays soccer himself in a rec league, and every week, tackles the adventures of international business & travel.
How the man manages to sleep, we'll never know!
When asked to share his thoughts on lessons he learned at Georgia State's B-School that he would like to pass on to other Robinson College of Business students, he said:
It is best to go to grad school after you have gained some real world experience. It puts academics into perspective, and you can better relate to case studies.
It is best to go to grad school after you have gained some real world experience. It puts academics into perspective, and you can better relate to case studies.
It is far better to focus on learning versus grades.
Few employers look at grades, and they never do after you have experience. After grad school, learning is secondary to productivity. (Good news to those Recovering Perfectionists out there!)
In group work, it is better to be in a leadership role versus rely on someone you don't know.
Take advantage of professors' knowledge by meeting outside the classroom from time to time.
For those of you studying international business, do an international internship if possible.
You will gain relevant experience, as well as differentiate yourself among your peers.
Short, sweet and significant! How will YOU infuse some of Steve's wisdom into your own B-school days?
Feel free to share your own sage advice! Your knowledge will benefit other students, faculty and graduates, as well!
Feel free to share your own sage advice! Your knowledge will benefit other students, faculty and graduates, as well!
Kindness Around Every Corner
Lily Tomlin once said, "I like a teacher who gives you something to take home to think about besides homework."
Yesterday, my International Trade professor gave me quite a gift to take home with me: kindness.
I am grappling with an Identity Theft situation, but last night was my International Trade exam. As a Recovering Perfectionist, I had, of course, studied myself silly and was anxious over the exam.
As Murphy's Law would have it, the ID Theft incident escalated yesterday afternoon; after that, I was a frazzled mess with high blood pressure barely remembering my own name, let alone Ricardian Theory and mercantilism, but I was still determined to pull myself together for the exam.
I am a firm believer in open-ish communication with professors - or bosses - always letting them know of extenuating circumstances. So, in that spirit, I told the professor what was going on, just in case I did not seem like myself or needed to step outside during the exam.
I was stunned when - without pause - he graciously offered to postpone an exam for me. In fact, he empathetically convinced me it was my better alternative. Can you imagine? He did not stick to the letter of the syllabus law: "No make-up exams." Nor did he objectify me as simply a student who was in a pickle.
I was in awe.
As I walked out of Aderhold, I was physically moved by such an immediate reaction of kindness and understanding, and I was certainly sent home with more to think about than homework, or Economics, but with an example of how to treat others with thoughtfulness, empathy, kindness and understanding. (Particularly when in a position of authority or leadership.)
That is the kind of professor I want standing in front of me in a classroom, and, as it turned out, standing behind me, too.
Yesterday, my International Trade professor gave me quite a gift to take home with me: kindness.
I am grappling with an Identity Theft situation, but last night was my International Trade exam. As a Recovering Perfectionist, I had, of course, studied myself silly and was anxious over the exam.
As Murphy's Law would have it, the ID Theft incident escalated yesterday afternoon; after that, I was a frazzled mess with high blood pressure barely remembering my own name, let alone Ricardian Theory and mercantilism, but I was still determined to pull myself together for the exam.
I am a firm believer in open-ish communication with professors - or bosses - always letting them know of extenuating circumstances. So, in that spirit, I told the professor what was going on, just in case I did not seem like myself or needed to step outside during the exam.
I was stunned when - without pause - he graciously offered to postpone an exam for me. In fact, he empathetically convinced me it was my better alternative. Can you imagine? He did not stick to the letter of the syllabus law: "No make-up exams." Nor did he objectify me as simply a student who was in a pickle.
I was in awe.
As I walked out of Aderhold, I was physically moved by such an immediate reaction of kindness and understanding, and I was certainly sent home with more to think about than homework, or Economics, but with an example of how to treat others with thoughtfulness, empathy, kindness and understanding. (Particularly when in a position of authority or leadership.)
That is the kind of professor I want standing in front of me in a classroom, and, as it turned out, standing behind me, too.
Perfectionists Anonymous
I met a gentleman yesterday who dreams of having a special gift: to have a "Pause" button for one day a month, where the world halts for 24 hours, but he carries on, using those moments for whatever he pleases. After those 24 hours, the world resumes its normality, but unbeknownst to anyone, he has had those secret 24 hours to himself! What a brilliant idea! Why, oh why, can we not hit pause for a brief moment when things get a little rocky?!
For instance, I have had my identity stolen and it is being ridden around the country like the proverbial "village bicycle." (Please note: I avoid the phrase "Victim of Identity Theft" because it rings with powerlessness, and I will not feel defeated by this thing!)
Needless to say, moments of disheartened frustration (along with bouts of tears and shortness of breath) are inevitable, but they have forced me to take pause.
Finally, exhausted, I tried to remove myself emotionally and recognize what I could learn from this and what I had the power to change.
Aha! The only thing I can really change is my attitude or myself, and it hit me! Throughout this entire minor disaster, I still expected perfection from myself in every other undertaking! But I think I've finally gotten the message! Perfection is both fleeting and overrated!
On that note, this is where you come in because I realize I am not the only graduate student (or human being) who struggles with such Perfection Affliction. (We really should have our own support group... "Perfectionists Anonymous...")
Each of us is driven to put forth effort and energy towards the things we care about, and perhaps we may get carried away. I mean, let's think about this. You are not motivated to do just enough to get a C on a test! You study yourself silly! You want the A! It is simply not in our nature to go half-way... in anything. But how can we give 100% of ourselves, 100% of the time?
With that said, I would like to encourage you to consider two things that have helped me cope, and I hope they offer you some value:
Recognize you are good enough.
Have faith in yourself, your talent and all that you have to offer. You have experienced so many successes already! Personal, professional, academic, athletic... Large or small, you have succeeded! Rely on that past performance and on your natural intellect and insightfulness.
Don't minimize who you are or what you can do!
You do not have to be perfect to be your fantastic, perfect-as-you-are self! You will succeed in whatever you choose. It is just part of who have become. Let go of any self-imposed pressure to be perfect. You are already good enough!
Along these same lines, I would also like to share this simple, yet significant "doodle with dialogue" in which I have found reassurance.
As business school students, as human beings, we struggle to manage all that we demand of ourselves, and we often demand perfection with each and every hat we may don. Not to burst anyone's bubble, friends, but it is impossible to be perfect in every endeavor! You are enough!
Sunday, February 12, 2012
Wednesday, February 8, 2012
What I Learned Wednesday for February 8th 2012
Preface : Here's a new segment! Every Wednesday, keep a look out for wisdom and hints from current grad students, graduates and business leaders. It's What I Learned Wednesday.
This week's What I Learned is brought to you by Emily, a current MBA grad student who works full-time, plays rec soccer, owns a home and is planning a wedding. Her concentration is real estate, which she chose to pursue because it is a true passion of hers.
Below she shares her thoughts on how to manage the many demands of health, career, life & of course, B-School!
Prepare for class, show up and actually listen.
The conversations & teachings are much more interesting when you're prepared and you're hearing them for a second time. Added Bonus: you won't need to spend so much time cramming later.
On that note... Cramming and all-nighters aren't all they are cracked up to be. Steady studying & sleep are key to succeeding in grad school.
Take the time to develop relationships with your classmates and teachers. Networking can change your life!
Sometimes it's best to bite your tongue.
Every group to which you are assigned will be dynamic, and while frustrations and inequities inevitably arise, sometimes you are better offer keeping quiet and carrying on. You never know when you might need a group members' help in the real world.
Your teachers want you to succeed!
Ask for help, continue a classroom conversation outside of class, and foster a relationship with your professors. While the challenging nature of grad school may lead you to believe otherwise, your professors truly do want you to grow.
The busier you are, the better you will do in graduate school.
I will admit that I have been forced to limit the late night partying and dinner dates, but juggling a full-time job, school, exercise, and an abbreviated social life isn't as hard as it sounds... And the busier I am, the better my grades are.
Exercise!
It clears your mind and refreshes you. My first semester of grad school I would miss workouts because of schoolwork. By my second semester I had found that I had time for both - working out let me escape my stresses, and when I returned the books, I was rejuvenated and much more effective.
... ... ...
Wow! Emily's own very valuable lessons seem easy enough to put into practice. You can follow her simple, sound advice to manage the high expectations you have for yourself while you find your own work/life balance during any high-pressure endeavor, like grad school!
If you'd like to hear more from Emily, or let her know how her life lessons have benefited you, be sure to leave us a note!
This week's What I Learned is brought to you by Emily, a current MBA grad student who works full-time, plays rec soccer, owns a home and is planning a wedding. Her concentration is real estate, which she chose to pursue because it is a true passion of hers.
Below she shares her thoughts on how to manage the many demands of health, career, life & of course, B-School!
Prepare for class, show up and actually listen.
The conversations & teachings are much more interesting when you're prepared and you're hearing them for a second time. Added Bonus: you won't need to spend so much time cramming later.
On that note... Cramming and all-nighters aren't all they are cracked up to be. Steady studying & sleep are key to succeeding in grad school.
Take the time to develop relationships with your classmates and teachers. Networking can change your life!
Sometimes it's best to bite your tongue.
Every group to which you are assigned will be dynamic, and while frustrations and inequities inevitably arise, sometimes you are better offer keeping quiet and carrying on. You never know when you might need a group members' help in the real world.
Your teachers want you to succeed!
Ask for help, continue a classroom conversation outside of class, and foster a relationship with your professors. While the challenging nature of grad school may lead you to believe otherwise, your professors truly do want you to grow.
The busier you are, the better you will do in graduate school.
I will admit that I have been forced to limit the late night partying and dinner dates, but juggling a full-time job, school, exercise, and an abbreviated social life isn't as hard as it sounds... And the busier I am, the better my grades are.
Exercise!
It clears your mind and refreshes you. My first semester of grad school I would miss workouts because of schoolwork. By my second semester I had found that I had time for both - working out let me escape my stresses, and when I returned the books, I was rejuvenated and much more effective.
... ... ...
Wow! Emily's own very valuable lessons seem easy enough to put into practice. You can follow her simple, sound advice to manage the high expectations you have for yourself while you find your own work/life balance during any high-pressure endeavor, like grad school!
If you'd like to hear more from Emily, or let her know how her life lessons have benefited you, be sure to leave us a note!
Tuesday, February 7, 2012
Are You Being Fresh?
As we consider what makes a good Global Leader, we should certainly acknowledge that such a role is no walk in the park! We have previously mentioned uncertainties and risk, but what are other upcoming challenges that we, too, should prepare for as we enter the world as leaders ourselves?
Therefore, I'd like to ask you: Are You Being Fresh?
With the constant changes and inevitable obsolescence of technology, companies and leaders are forced to stay relevant with not only products, but also marketing campaigns and customer interaction. It is obviously imperative that companies stay ahead in the competitive environment (which is now on a global scale). Moreover, a greater challenge may be engaging and retaining consumers who are flooded with options and stronger bargaining power.
Firms' competitive edge must constantly evolve and stay current, whether through superior product development, innovation, customer service or simply campaigns that keep them top-of-mind over the competition. In essence, differentiation, but how will they stay (or become) fresh? Now, consider what a challenge that poses in the global landscape. For instance, companies may have to more narrowly define their market, or consider shifting from a niche to mainstream to stay profitable. As you can imagine, there are strong implications to either path on profitability and brand image.
What do you think?
This is but one of the challenges Global Leaders, but I would love to hear yours! Leave some comments on the hurdles that you see awaiting Leaders and possible solutions!
Therefore, I'd like to ask you: Are You Being Fresh?
With the constant changes and inevitable obsolescence of technology, companies and leaders are forced to stay relevant with not only products, but also marketing campaigns and customer interaction. It is obviously imperative that companies stay ahead in the competitive environment (which is now on a global scale). Moreover, a greater challenge may be engaging and retaining consumers who are flooded with options and stronger bargaining power.
Firms' competitive edge must constantly evolve and stay current, whether through superior product development, innovation, customer service or simply campaigns that keep them top-of-mind over the competition. In essence, differentiation, but how will they stay (or become) fresh? Now, consider what a challenge that poses in the global landscape. For instance, companies may have to more narrowly define their market, or consider shifting from a niche to mainstream to stay profitable. As you can imagine, there are strong implications to either path on profitability and brand image.
What do you think?
This is but one of the challenges Global Leaders, but I would love to hear yours! Leave some comments on the hurdles that you see awaiting Leaders and possible solutions!
Do You Have What It Takes? You Will!
We've talked about the mentor program, which I have had the good fortune of experiencing. (Tip: Get a Mentor! Your life will never be the same!)
This specific mentor program, as you know, involves early morning meetings on a monthly basis where the mentors and the protégés (that's me) exchange ideas and get glimpses into relatively unfamiliar facets of the world. We hear about the lives of leaders on a global scale, and even Russian, Venezuelan, Chinese, and German ex-pats' tales of life abroad (which can be a real hoot or slightly terrifying!). And, let's just say this about that : Thank goodness they provide gallons of coffee because trying to function intelligently so early in the morning (7:30AM) is no picnic!
Now, to our topic of the day... Our most recent discussion crossed into What It Takes To Be A Good Global Leader.
Here are the main take-aways from that discussion that you can apply whether you're leadership role is in your personal life, your "All-American" organization, or your MNC looking to capture market share in every country across the Atlantic and beyond...
Adapt to Change and Uncertainty
On a global scale, we're talking cultural, political and currency risk, but every day, you face uncertainty. Your only option (well, the best option, at least) is to just go with it. Adapt the best you can, do the best you can, and move on. The key is just adapting. (Not sure if you've heard this, but - sadly - the world won't change to fit your needs. We are the ones who have to bend. Don't break, just bend. Life will be easier, and in business, you'll get a lot farther.)
Stay Healthy!
I cannot stress this one enough! Take care of yourself! Traveling alone can wear you out! (Planes? Hello, germs! Jet lag? Yikes!) Pair that with the demands of functioning in our fast paced world, managing stress (that stuff can kill you!) and just overall trying to be the best that you can be, and it's no wonder your health can get a little wonky.
Be sure to bring your running shoes, your yoga mat, your goggles and flippers, whatever, with you when you travel. Finding that balance between working the room and working out is invaluable because if you don't take care of your body, where will you live? There's only one of you! Take care of yourself!
Practice Diplomacy.
Realize you are a representative of your country, of your organization, of your family, etc. Recognize the differences in people's cultures and upbringings. Engage and communicate with others with humility and respect. Be curious instead of judgmental. (PS. That's not just a good business decision, but a good life decision.)
Use Your Time Effectively.
Be prepared. Pre-plan. Be clear about your objectives and keep them in mind as your guide. Don't lose sight of your goal, and do the brain work early so you can be efficient. You will always have time limits and other constraints. By being prepared, you'll not only be calmer, but more confident and better equipped to deal with those constraints and any other curve balls that come your way! (Cue Inevitable Uncertainties!)
Have Passion!
Holy moly, have I heard this as I slog my way through this job-search gig!
Here's the gist: If you are not passionate about what you're doing, get your tail outta there! Make a change immediately if not sooner! Buck up, cowboy! You're not where you should be! And your happiness in this short adventure we call life should not be on hiatus for a paycheck!
And on that note, consider this: Where you think you should be and where you really are meant to be may not look exactly the same, nor even look like what you thought. So, be flexible and adapt (ah, there it is again!) to unforeseen opportunities that come your way, particularly those that are outside a rigid definition of the "right" company or industry. Practice being open. In the words of Dr. Seuss, Oh the Places You'll Go! (But, before you go hightailing it, also be sure to Plan Effectively. Don't go jumping into any River Rapids without a Paddle! Follow your heart, but take your brain with you!)
. . .
I think we can all incorporate these ideas and practices into our lives, global leaders or not. Remarkably, you impact those around you more than you think. You are a leader in your own life, and you can set an example that will inspire and motivate others. Think of it like a ripple effect. You really can be the change you want to see in the world on your way to becoming the leader you dream of being!
This specific mentor program, as you know, involves early morning meetings on a monthly basis where the mentors and the protégés (that's me) exchange ideas and get glimpses into relatively unfamiliar facets of the world. We hear about the lives of leaders on a global scale, and even Russian, Venezuelan, Chinese, and German ex-pats' tales of life abroad (which can be a real hoot or slightly terrifying!). And, let's just say this about that : Thank goodness they provide gallons of coffee because trying to function intelligently so early in the morning (7:30AM) is no picnic!
Now, to our topic of the day... Our most recent discussion crossed into What It Takes To Be A Good Global Leader.
Here are the main take-aways from that discussion that you can apply whether you're leadership role is in your personal life, your "All-American" organization, or your MNC looking to capture market share in every country across the Atlantic and beyond...
Adapt to Change and Uncertainty
On a global scale, we're talking cultural, political and currency risk, but every day, you face uncertainty. Your only option (well, the best option, at least) is to just go with it. Adapt the best you can, do the best you can, and move on. The key is just adapting. (Not sure if you've heard this, but - sadly - the world won't change to fit your needs. We are the ones who have to bend. Don't break, just bend. Life will be easier, and in business, you'll get a lot farther.)
Stay Healthy!
I cannot stress this one enough! Take care of yourself! Traveling alone can wear you out! (Planes? Hello, germs! Jet lag? Yikes!) Pair that with the demands of functioning in our fast paced world, managing stress (that stuff can kill you!) and just overall trying to be the best that you can be, and it's no wonder your health can get a little wonky.
Be sure to bring your running shoes, your yoga mat, your goggles and flippers, whatever, with you when you travel. Finding that balance between working the room and working out is invaluable because if you don't take care of your body, where will you live? There's only one of you! Take care of yourself!
Practice Diplomacy.
Realize you are a representative of your country, of your organization, of your family, etc. Recognize the differences in people's cultures and upbringings. Engage and communicate with others with humility and respect. Be curious instead of judgmental. (PS. That's not just a good business decision, but a good life decision.)
Use Your Time Effectively.
Be prepared. Pre-plan. Be clear about your objectives and keep them in mind as your guide. Don't lose sight of your goal, and do the brain work early so you can be efficient. You will always have time limits and other constraints. By being prepared, you'll not only be calmer, but more confident and better equipped to deal with those constraints and any other curve balls that come your way! (Cue Inevitable Uncertainties!)
Have Passion!
Holy moly, have I heard this as I slog my way through this job-search gig!
Here's the gist: If you are not passionate about what you're doing, get your tail outta there! Make a change immediately if not sooner! Buck up, cowboy! You're not where you should be! And your happiness in this short adventure we call life should not be on hiatus for a paycheck!
And on that note, consider this: Where you think you should be and where you really are meant to be may not look exactly the same, nor even look like what you thought. So, be flexible and adapt (ah, there it is again!) to unforeseen opportunities that come your way, particularly those that are outside a rigid definition of the "right" company or industry. Practice being open. In the words of Dr. Seuss, Oh the Places You'll Go! (But, before you go hightailing it, also be sure to Plan Effectively. Don't go jumping into any River Rapids without a Paddle! Follow your heart, but take your brain with you!)
. . .
I think we can all incorporate these ideas and practices into our lives, global leaders or not. Remarkably, you impact those around you more than you think. You are a leader in your own life, and you can set an example that will inspire and motivate others. Think of it like a ripple effect. You really can be the change you want to see in the world on your way to becoming the leader you dream of being!
Saturday, February 4, 2012
Hot Topic : How Valuable is That Real World Experience REALLY?
There is constant debate, especially in our current economy, over whether to pursue an MBA straight out of the gate after undergrad or to enter the workforce and gain experience before going after that graduate degree.
Quite frankly, for me, it was a no brainer because I did not even consider going to graduate school immediately after graduating from college. I didn’t realize that was an option. In my experience, after people graduated, they got a “real” job and figured out that other stuff along the way. Looking back, it seems I unknowingly made the right decision to wait a few years before venturing out into Business school.
My experience in Corporate America benefited me in ways that surprised me throughout my entire time in B-school. The leadership, analytical, and communication skills that were honed during my years “climbing the corporate ladder” gave me a clear advantage over other students.
In fact, looking back on the last three years of robust class discussions, highly demanding team projects, extensive problem solving, and critical thinking, I am certain that the most meaningful contributions of knowledge and insights came from those students who have some work experience.
Notice that does not say extensive, relevant, or even lengthy work experience, but simply experience. Critical thinking, teamwork, problem solving, and leadership are all skills that are sharpened when you encounter situations unique to the workplace – any workplace – and are all put into practice while slogging through your MBA.
For instance, you will frequently, and without fail, fall back on your experiences to make sense of the curriculum and to enhance the other students’ comprehension. Students rely on each other to complement the class discussion and materials because a Business school education goes far beyond the boundaries of power point slides and textbooks. It encompasses learning from the real-life triumphs and tribulations that everyone brings to the table, and without these sorts of knowledge exchanges, an MBA would hardly differ from undergrad, let alone even be worthwhile.
Quite frankly, for me, it was a no brainer because I did not even consider going to graduate school immediately after graduating from college. I didn’t realize that was an option. In my experience, after people graduated, they got a “real” job and figured out that other stuff along the way. Looking back, it seems I unknowingly made the right decision to wait a few years before venturing out into Business school.
My experience in Corporate America benefited me in ways that surprised me throughout my entire time in B-school. The leadership, analytical, and communication skills that were honed during my years “climbing the corporate ladder” gave me a clear advantage over other students.
In fact, looking back on the last three years of robust class discussions, highly demanding team projects, extensive problem solving, and critical thinking, I am certain that the most meaningful contributions of knowledge and insights came from those students who have some work experience.
Notice that does not say extensive, relevant, or even lengthy work experience, but simply experience. Critical thinking, teamwork, problem solving, and leadership are all skills that are sharpened when you encounter situations unique to the workplace – any workplace – and are all put into practice while slogging through your MBA.
For instance, you will frequently, and without fail, fall back on your experiences to make sense of the curriculum and to enhance the other students’ comprehension. Students rely on each other to complement the class discussion and materials because a Business school education goes far beyond the boundaries of power point slides and textbooks. It encompasses learning from the real-life triumphs and tribulations that everyone brings to the table, and without these sorts of knowledge exchanges, an MBA would hardly differ from undergrad, let alone even be worthwhile.
Biding your time in Corporate America will also allow you to establish yourself and your professional contacts. When you finish the degree, you will then have a strong network and be more marketable, and from a financial perspective, time in the workforce allows you to build your savings to minimize the impact of student loans. Some employers even offer tuition reimbursement and/or promotions to help motivate you towards completing your MBA and staying with the company.
By jumping into an MBA program immediately after completing your BBA, you would not be exposed to these opportunities.
My advice to any potential graduate student considering Business school immediately after completing a BBA would be to look at the Universities and programs that interest you and notice their admissions requirements regarding work experience.
My advice to any potential graduate student considering Business school immediately after completing a BBA would be to look at the Universities and programs that interest you and notice their admissions requirements regarding work experience.
Next, identify companies and/or jobs that grab your attention, and see if they offer tuition reimbursement.
Apply to the jobs that are the best fit for you. Consider your long-term career goals and your short-term goal of being accepted into graduate school.
And then, just see where life takes you! You'd be surprised to see how your education from the real world will help you when you’re sitting in class on your first day of your MBA!
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