1. “We are what we repeatedly do.
Excellence, then, is not an act, but a
habit.”
- Aristotle
Professional
Development

2. Background

3. • As a Calexico High school alumnus, we can relate to most, if not all,
students who want to pursue a higher education yet feel overwhelmed.
• The goal of today’s presentation is to introduce you into the business world
and create the foundation for future personal and professional growth.
• It is impossible to condense into three days the knowledge that people spend
four years of their lives studying, however we will do our best to provide as
much value as possible.
Mission Statement

4. Unrealistic Goals & Realistic Execution
• Whether you want to become the
next CEO of a Fortune 500
company or a successful college
student you will need a consistent
work ethic.
• The key is to break down your
goals and execute them on a daily
basis.

5. Today’s Situation
• The world has become a
more competitive place,
both academically and
professionally.
• The difference between
great leaders and
exceptional leaders isn’t
knowledge rather the
embodiment of that
wisdom through their
character.

6. Lack of Exposure
• Notice how there are no
skyscrapers or big
corporations around us.
• You should not be ashamed
of your hometown, however
you should be aware that the
business world is bigger than
you think.
• Therefore, you should take
advantage of every
opportunity to increase your
exposure to it.

7. LinkedIn
• This is by far the most important
tool in the process of your
professional development.
• The “social media” of
professionals.
• Through this community you can
EXPOSE yourself to a variety of
different opportunities.

8. • Experience: Your work experience should be describe in great detail in order to
provide a holistic perspective to potential employers.
• Education: School background including course history as well as scores for
standardize tests and academic interest.
• Volunteering: State the uniqueness of your time commitment to a specific cause since
this will give future employers a detail insight on you.
• Skills and Endorsements: Linked In is a interactive community in which other
individuals can vouch for your skills in order to provide credibility.
• Accomplishments: Any significant award should be included in this segment in order
to show your abilities and your expertize within a particular field.
• Groups & Publications: As a Linked In member you can join multiple groups within
your area of interest as well as contribute articles which demonstrate your knowledge.
LinkedIn

9. Resume
• The importance of a resume is
seen in its overwhelming
presence throughout all fields.
• Think of the resume as your
introduction and the tool to
establish a good first impression.
• Whether you enter the business
world or not, a professional
resume will be expected of you.

10. Public Speaking
• One of the vital skills to forge a
successful character is the ability to
communicate effectively with your
audience.
• This is a learning process, thus do not
be discourage if progress is slow at
first.
• Good speaking skills can lead to a
variety of opportunities whether it be
through speaking engagements or one
on one meeting.

11. Networking
• If you can take one thing away from
this presentation let it be this slide.
• Networking is the key factor that can
skyrocket your success.
• Professional relationships result in a
mutually convenient partnership where
both parties provide value to each
other.
• LinkedIn has empowered young
individuals to network with
professionals across the globe.

12. Networking Effectively
• Understand what type of event it is
• Plan ahead
• Ask meaningful questions
• Talk with as many people as possible
• Be sensitive to topics
• Don’t overstay your welcome
• Get contact information and follow
up within 24 hours

13. Personal Brand
• Your personal brand is how you portray
yourself in social media outlets
• Be mindful that your personal brand can
influence peoples’ perception of you
• Once you post something online anyone can
see it and it could be brought to your
employer’s attention
• Know your audience
• Watch your tone
• If you would not do such a thing in front
of your employer do not post it
• When in doubt op out

14. Written Communication Skills
• Essential to your success
• Establish credibility
• Display professionalism, intelligence and competence
Verbal Communication Skills
• Help build a strong reputation
• Portray confidence
• Key to navigating the interview process successfully
Effective Communication

15. Professional Attire
• Gentlemen do yourself a favor invest time and effort into preparing your wardrobe
for the business world.
• Stay away from crazy ties, excess cologne, make sure your belt matches your shoes.
• It takes exactly seven seconds for someone to make their first impression of your.
Make sure your clothes aid your impression. Let them picture you as their future
employee.

16. Professional Attire
• Ladies you have the option of expressing your style through your ward drove.
• You will have more options than the men when it comes to styles and colors.
• Avoid short, and overly trendy outfits.
• Avoid showing too much skin and visible undergarments.

17. Words of Wisdom
• As first year college students it would be
foolish to state our own opinions as bullet
proof strategies for success.
• However, we can relate to every person in this
room and what we lack in knowledge we make
up in experiences and effort.
• Time management, a strong will and a
relentless work ethic are all vital to success.
• We won’t make unrealistic claims, college isn’t
easy but it is definitely worth it in the long run.
• As part of an underrepresented minority in
higher education you will face adversity but do
not be discourage.
• You will not be alone you will set the example
for generations to come.