2_HernandezP

Dear Professor Kim,  I am writing to discuss my strengths as well as my weaknesses in hopes of improvement through this class. Communication skills are very important in today’s business environment not only through written word but also face to face interactions. Upon completion of this course it is my goal that my writing skills will be on par with that expected in a professional business environment. I would also like to make an effort to improve my networking abilities. In addition, I would like to fine tune my already formidable speaking and presenting skills.  I believe, through my public speaking courses and work experience, my conversational abilities are strong. I know the importance of good posture and body language not only when speaking or presenting, but also when listening. It is important to stand up straight and command the floor when presenting in front of an audience. Making eye contact with your audience is also very important to maintain their attention. Whether presenting to a large group, or having a professional conversation with your boss, professional language, tone and etiquette are a must. I feel that this area is one of my strong suits and with just a few minute tweaks, I will be ready for a business career.  An area that I would like to work on is writing. I feel I have a solid background in writing as it pertains to a college level English class but business writing it slightly different. Formats concerning letters, emails and memos are topics I need to work on. While punctuation and grammar is consistent throughout all levels of writing, I have learned that business writing should be more direct and concise than a term paper. I feel I need to improve in these areas so that it does not take an hour to draft and send a simple email.  Another area in which I lack is networking. You stated in an earlier class that networking is essential in getting ahead in the business world. I currently fall into the category of people who view Cal Poly as a “commuter school.” I come to class, listen to a lecture, and go home. I have yet to build any professional contacts with either fellow students, or professors. I am beginning to hear in many of my business classes that networking is very important though I have yet to build my own network. I would like to leave this class with some sort of connection that I may use in the future. I would like to have a contact, whether a student that may be able to help me while I am enrolled here or an administrator that may help me in securing a job in my future.  Thank you very much for your time. I look forward to honing my business skills throughout this quarter and beyond.  Sincerely,   Phillip Hernandez