Just as firms have capabilities and resources, so do YOU. And, just like firms, you need to have a strategy if you want to be successful. For this assignment,  I want you to think of more than just corporate, business, and functional level strategy. I want you to think about YOUR personal strategy for success.

Part 1: Watch this video and reflect

The first step is understanding what is your true “Why”  We talked about this on the first day of class, but I want you to take 20 mins and listen to this talk from a guy I really admire: Tony Robbins.

TED Talk Why we do what we do – Tony RobbinsLinks to an external site.

Still stuck on this after listening?  Take 2 more minutes and listen to our friend Simon Sinek give you another angle.

Simon Sinek – How to find your why.Links to an external site.

Now that you have done that, I want you to reflect on it and come up with your WHY.

1. Reflect on what your driving force(s) is/are. (Your motive)
   1. Certainty, Uncertainty, Significance, Connection, Growth, Contribution (or pick your own force)
2. Reflect on what your guiding force(s) is/are (Your meaning) (Why it’s your driving force above other

For me, when I started out, my driving force was connection.  I realized that I really loved connecting with people and believed that every person I met either had something to teach me or I needed to teach them or both.  And my guiding force was that I knew I needed to get back to Latin America. I had just returned from living in Latin America and I wanted more of that culture and its people. I felt it in my bones that there was something calling me back there.

Part 2: Draft a professional statement that goes at the top of your resume that connects your career path to a driving force.

What’s a professional statement?  It’s those five sentences at the beginning of your resume just under your name and contact info (see Resume Template for ideas)

A good professional statement does three things (usually in five sentences)

1.It mentions your current job title and professional experience.

2.It says how you want to help the employer achieve their goals.

3. It convinces them by highlighting info on your passions and achievements to prove you can deliver results when hired.

Let’s face it, you’re graduating and a little light on job experiences.  You can connect them to your why.  Here’s an example of what I might write (I’ll highlight my driving force).

Haslam Résumé Template Blank.docxDownload Haslam Résumé Template Blank.docx

PROFESSIONAL SUMMARY

“I am a candidate for the Bachelor’s of Science in Business Administration with an emphasis in Marketing. I am seeking a job in international sales to assist (insert company name or industry name) to achieve its international expansion and market share goals in Latin America. I will utilize my passion for connecting with people and cultures along with my academic masteries to deliver results for my team and the organization. My proven track record in the past includes several achievements in both leadership and project management.”

To earn the points, you need to do 3 things:

1. Give me a couple of paragraphs about which diving force you identified with and why.

2.  Send me your professional summary

3.  Tell me what company or industry you are targeting to work in after you graduate and if you believe this will connect you with your driving force.

Can you please help me with this.

ANSWER

Unveiling My Driving Force: A Journey Towards Contribution

Part 1: Discovering My WHY

Upon listening to Tony Robbins’ TED Talk and Simon Sinek’s insights on finding one’s “Why,” I embarked on a reflective journey to uncover my true driving force. As I delved deep into my motives, I found a profound connection with the force of Contribution. The idea of making a positive impact on the lives of others and the world around me has always been a source of inspiration and fulfillment. It brings me immense joy to know that I can contribute to the growth and well-being of individuals and communities alike.

Throughout my life, I’ve felt a burning desire to connect with people from diverse backgrounds and cultures. Each encounter is an opportunity to learn, to share knowledge, and to foster meaningful connections. I believe that every person has a unique story and perspective to offer, and these interactions enrich my understanding of the world. Moreover, I am passionate about utilizing my abilities to empower others, be it by helping them overcome challenges or assisting them in achieving their goals.

Part 2: Professional Summary

As a recent graduate with a Bachelor’s in International Relations, my mission is to make a difference through a career in international development. I am seeking opportunities in the nonprofit sector, particularly with organizations focused on sustainable development and social impact in Latin America. With a background in international relations and fluency in multiple languages, I aspire to support these organizations in their endeavors to expand their reach and improve the lives of underserved communities.

PROFESSIONAL SUMMARY

“I am a recent graduate with a Bachelor’s in International Relations, specializing in cross-cultural communication and sustainable development. I am enthusiastic about joining a reputable nonprofit organization committed to creating positive social change in Latin America. My driving force of Contribution fuels my desire to work alongside diverse communities, addressing their unique challenges and fostering sustainable development. Through my international experience and passion for connecting with people, I am confident in my ability to contribute meaningfully to the organization’s mission and goals.”

Part 3: Target Industry Alignment

The nonprofit sector, with a focus on international development and sustainable impact, aligns perfectly with my driving force of Contribution. Working in this industry will enable me to channel my passion for connecting with diverse cultures and making a positive difference in the lives of others. Through collaboration with like-minded individuals and organizations, I aim to contribute my skills and knowledge to address social and economic challenges, ultimately empowering communities to thrive.

In conclusion, understanding my driving force of Contribution has provided me with a clear sense of purpose and direction for my professional journey. By seeking opportunities in the nonprofit sector, particularly in international development, I am confident that I can align my career path with my passion for making a meaningful impact in Latin America and beyond. Embracing my WHY will guide me towards a fulfilling and successful career, as I continue to strive for positive change in the world around me.