Development of a Retention Plan

In order to ensure that hiring standards are not lowered and discrimination of employees is avoided, an organization needs to develop a plan for selecting a particular candidate for a job. This plan should consist of a list of the predictors to be used in the assessment of each required KSAO’s for the target position. It is strongly recommended that a selection plan be done not only for internal selection but also when selecting persons from outside the organization (external selection).

The narrowing down of candidates should take place by using three main assessment methods that all occur at different stages of the selection process. These methods include Initial assessment, Substantive assessment and Discretionary assessment. The plan developed for the target position (operations manager) identifies and evaluates the elements on which the candidate will be selected.

Initial Assessment Method in the Selection Procedure The Initial Assessment method, of the three Internal Selection Assessment methods, which should be used by the Jamaica Public Services Co. Ltd. to screen out applicants who do not exceed the minimum qualifications needed for the job of an Operational Manager, due to the time and cost of the selection procedure. that are used for internal recruitment comprises of the following predictors, skills inventories, peer evaluations, self-assessments, managerial sponsorship, and informal discussion and recommendations. These predictors are vigorously used by organizations to get relevant data available on internal candidates. This is the first stage in the selection process.

Skills Inventory Firstly, Skills Inventory refers to a screening device, which is used by the Human Resource Manager in assessing applicants, by using existing personnel files. These files are normally stored electronically and non-electronically on employees’. This information may include their job knowledge, seniority and experience among other factors. Organizations depend greatly on skills inventory methods, in storing data. This method has three categories the traditional skills inventories, upgraded skills inventories and customized skills inventories.

Traditional Skill The Traditional Skill Inventory is the listing of current employees KSAO’s listed in genetic categories, such as education, experience, and supervisory training received. HR personnel should update the traditional system on a periodic basis, for great results. The maintenance of this database is often a low prioritized project, moreover, traditional skills inventories, does not regularly reflect present skills held by employees.

Updated Skill Inventory Updated Skill Inventory, is where managers record the latest skills required by employees into the system, as soon as they are developed, and also individuals skills are entered, when their  are received. Hence, even though sometimes a person may not get hired for the position; their will be on file for future references where they may match the qualifications needed.

Customized Skill Inventory The final inventory is the Customized Skill Inventory, which is a hybrid of both traditional and upgraded skill inventory. Specific Skills are recorded for specific jobs. The skills identified in this method are critical to the job success. This inventory should be kept for each employee. As the person gains additional skills they are entered in the appropriate dimensions. Individuals are qualified for a job when they acquire all the necessary skills in the relevant dimensions.

Peer Assessments Secondly, Peer Assessments is where the evaluation of peers or coworkers can be used to appraise and promote internal applicants. In this case a variety of methods can be used in evaluating, include peer ratings, peer nomination, and peer ranking. Advantages Peer assessments, is that they rely significantly on the rater who is very familiar with the applicant KSAO’s due to the regular contact on a daily basis with the person. So, peers/ coworkers are more likely to feel comfortable with the decision because they have played a part in such a decision that was made.

On the other hand, assessment may not always be made clear, which should identify carefully the necessary skills required for successful performance on the job, for this to be achieved the job requirements matrix must come into play. The evaluation may involve friendship bias, where a coworker may not want his/her coworker to be promoted, so they try to pull down each other.

Self-Assessment refers to a person evaluating his/herself to be promoted for a better position in an organization. This approach should be combined with other internal selection procedures as employees may have the tendency to over rate him/herself. Managerial Sponsorship Managerial Sponsorship takes in a top manager who does not supervise the person who is being rated, where that manager will identify and develop the KSAO’s, in other words to coach or sponsor the applicant. In firms there are formal mentorship programs where employees are assigned coaches, sponsors and mentors. This program will help employees to mature in the firm and become a greater asset.

Informal Discussions and Recommendations Lastly, Informal Discussion and Recommendations where employees are recommended and discussed by customers with senior management about the level of success by the employee, this often occurs outside the normal channel. These discussions are normally informal or job related. Recommendations Of the five Initial Assessment methods, which was stated in detail, the Jamaica Public Service Company Ltd. should be evaluated to help in the process of screening internal applicants thoroughly to produce a list of candidate.

The Assessment methods, we would like to employ are the Skill Inventory, Peer Assessment and the Informal Discussion and Recommendations. The skill inventory is where the Jamaica Public Service Company Ltd. Human Resource Personnel should use this database to periodically update and store employees’ files in the firm when they receive an achievement. So, when there is a position to be filled it will be easier for management to select applicants for the position with the requisite qualifications that are required.

According to Heneman III, 2007, researchers stated that Skill inventories and the Informal Discussion methods are used by many organizations intensively, this focuses mainly on closed internal recruitment rather than open. Skills inventories may be costly (expense incurred using the predictors), but it is somewhat reliable (consistency of measurement) and valid (the strength of the relationship between the predictors).

A negative impact on both the Informal method and the Skill inventory is that, it may cause discriminatory impact on minorities and women. At JPS programs should be put in place to alleviate such problems that may arise. The main Assessment method that should be used at Jamaica Public Service Company Ltd. for the position for operations manager is the Skills inventory, because of its reliability and validity. This method will provide an assessment of all the necessary skills for the Target position.

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Personal development plan sample

Objectives What do I want to be able to do or do better? Success criteria How will I recognize success? How will I review and measure my improvement? Actions What methods will I use to achieve my learning objectives? Implementation How will I practice and apply what I learn? I would like to improve my Anger- management I will recognize success when I m able to control my anger in difficult situations.

For example when being interrupted during work time and carrying on doing my Job ignoring any interruptions or distraction. I will review and measure my improvement by having a second opinion from a manager or a higher class employees to see any change in my behavioral performance in any complicated situation. I will take a timeout before reacting a tense situation, in other words I will leave the person or situation that may cause my anger. I will think before speaking.

I will ask myself” What am I really angry about” this action will help me to identify the real source of frustration and communicate my anger better. I will check in my counseling area if they are running a free therapy for anger robbers in order to learn more about my reasons and identify triggers for my anger, and also learn tips and techniques for managing my anger. I will get some exercise (running, swimming, yoga and meditation) to stimulate various brain chemicals that could lead me to an increase of happiness and more relaxed than when I was before working out.

I will practice and apply my improvement to manage my anger when I m dealing with a difficult customer and as soon a I feel myself becoming heated I will simply request to my college to handle the situation. I will practice and apply my improvement to manage my anger. When I am in a heated discussion I will listen carefully to what the other person saying and I will take my time before answering instead of saying the first thing that comes into my head.

I also will practice and apply my improvement to manage my anger by bringing down my general stress levels with exercise and relaxation like yoga and meditation this activities will help me to reduce my stress and get rid of irritation and anger. I want to improve my communication skills I will recognize success when I’ m able to communicate negative or difficult messages without creating conflict or destroying trust. An example of recognizing success will be in a situation when the customer I am communicating with can understand the information being communicated.

I will review and measure my improvement by observing how the customers acts and feels about what is being said. And also getting a feedback from my boss. I will use body language for example standing up straight, shrouded back this position will shows that I am feeling confident of myself. I will create an environment where everyone can feels free to express opinions, ideas and feelings by clarifying information, to avoid conflicts and misunderstanding. I will use the right words for example ( Good morning; Thanks you so much for you patience; I am going to do my very best to help you Mrs. Harness) .

And finally I will search in internet from some techniques of effective communication. I will practice and apply my improvement in communication when I have an to deal with my manager, for example I could use a positive body language as an indicator of high self-confidence. I will also practice my improvement in communication when I have to deal with a customers complains by listening actively so it will show to the client that I really care about his/ her situation.

I will apply my communication skills when applying for a Job, for example I will speak appropriately , listen effectively and write with clarity and clearly. I would like to improve my time management I will recognize success when I will able to do everything that I need to do without rush. An example of recognizing success will be in a situation when I have to combine the pressure of intensive study with finding the time to do my errands (pays bills, doctor appointment, meeting with my friends, work ….. Etc) I will review and measure my improvement when I will find freedom from deadlines erasure and from stress in general I will use a time log to write down what I need to do in each hour of the day for times of pressure. I will create a daily list to remind me the things (appointments, pay rent, go to library, etc ) that I need to do during the day. I will set goals realistic and achievable but for do this I will examine my present situation and assess what goals are important to me and what action I need to take to achieve my target. I will postpone unnecessary activities ( gym, meeting friend, dates.. Etc) until my assessment is done. I will prioritize my assignments by beginning with the most difficult subject because I will be fresh and have more energy to take it I will implement my time management skill when I have to do my assessment by postposition unnecessary activities ( gym, meeting college, dates,…….. ) until my assessment is done. I will also implement my time management when I have a lot of things ( pay rent, appointments, meeting friend …… ) to do during the day by creating a daily list to remind me what I need to do during the day.

I will apply my time management skill when I have many task to do in my workplace eke customer complain, training new employee, checking delivery by setting realistic goals and achievable but for do this I will review my present situation and assess what goals are important to me and what actions I need to take to achieve my target. I would like to improve my organization skills I will recognize success when I sort out what I want to achieve. An example of recognizing success will be in a situation where I can combine work, study and social life.

I will review and measure my improvement by checking my schedule every day to make sure that I must begin to work towards the deadlines. I will use a diary to priorities my activities for example I will do first the things that will give me the most benefit ,related to my Job I will do first what my manager needs urgently it could be review the employee’s paper work for human resource kept up to date, organizing food generally, or training an new employee. I will organism my personal area to make sure the space is big enough and appropriate to work. I will create a ‘To Do’ list for each day, then keep the list with me, and refer to it often.

I will cross things off when they are being done and completed. I will look at my planner and notes each night so I’ II be ready for the next day. I will implement my organizational skills when I have a task that must be completed within a specific period of time. An example will be when I have to train an employee I will create a list about what I need to teach him/ her and I will priorities the activities that I have to teach him/ her for instance How the tills work, cleaning operations, dealing with customers complaints. I will practice my organizational skills when I have to organize the manager’s office documents. r example human resource documents, business records, Curriculum vitae, delivery orders and sales orders by providing a quick, logical system in an alphabetical order. I will apply and practice my organizational skills when I have many task to complete during the day at work, for example to check the delivery order, training new staff, keep human resource documents updated and customer complains by delegating some of my responsibilities to the employees this will saves me time and will motivate, feel valued and respected the employee that is helping me I would like to improve my customer services.

I will recognize success when I’m able to demonstrate a good service to the client. An example of recognizing success will be in a situation where I can calmly handle all customers, even the most negative ones. I will review and measure my improvement by discussing my performance with the costumer, to ensure their complete satisfaction with my service and product. I will be a great listener. This will surely show that I care and want to offer the right solution. I will be calm and have patience. This will help me to deal with disgruntled and confused customers.

I will keep my promises to ensure that any promise I make for a customer can be delivered. To do that I’ll stay up to date with the company policies. I will be honest and transparent with the customers, which will prove the concern and care about their happiness and satisfaction. I will practice and apply my improvement in customer services when I am dealing with the customer, selling a product or providing a service. Also, I will practice and apply my improvement in customers services for example by listening carefully, being calm and patient to solve a problem in difficult situations.

I will practice an apply my customer services improvement by doing more than what a customer expects an example will be giving an extra information about the product , this will show to the client my professionalism and experience. I would like to improve my Computer Skills. I will recognize success when I’m able to understand how programs and software like (Microsoft word, Microsoft Excel, Microsoft Power Point, My SQL) are being used by the company operators. An example of recognizing success will be in a situation where I can produce business’ memos, letters and spreadsheets.

I will review and measure my improvement in computer systems by being evaluated every two weeks by a high level information engineer. I will take online tutorial to improve my computer skills. I will keep my computer programs updated so I won’t get behind on my technical skills. During the work hours I will consider to ask to my college if he could give a specified and useful training to help me to do my Job. I will read computers books to help me improve my knowledge in the I. C. T. World. I will practice and apply what I learnt when my manager asked me to produce a resources and newsletters to employees.

These tasks often involve the use of publishing software like ( Microsoft Publisher, Adobe Endings, Aircraft Print Creations 3) as well as other programs and software used by the company. I will also implement what I learnt when I have to keep updated the database for daily operations, such as searching suppliers database and customer database. I would like to improve my ability to be self-started I will recognize success when I get things done, without being told or reminded. An example of recognizing success will be in a situation by being aware of projects and opportunities in my workplace.

I will review and measure my improvement by beginning to compile an impressive list of accomplishments that will show ways of achieving my goals and making worthwhile contributions. I will put my conscientiousness on display by doing my best with tasks and projects. I will be flexible by adapting to change, reapportioning without balking. I will be a social person by being respectful, helpful and by working cooperatively with my colleagues. I will imagine new possibilities in my work place for example get a better position which will give me an extra motivation.

I will practice and apply my ability to be self-started when I talk to my colleagues to find out what they are involved in and offer to assist them with help, even if the task doesn’t relate to my Job. I will show my assertive side by taking the lead even if others don’t follow. I will speak up in a constructive and tactful way when I see an opportunity to improve my workplace and to share some helpful ideas. I will practice and apply my ability to be self-started by starting my projects early. I would like to improve working under pressure I will recognize success when I will be able to deal with an emergency.

An example of recognizing success will be in a situation where I can reorganize responsibilities in a group task if one member unexpectedly drops out. I will review and measure my improvement in working under pressure when I could maintain a sense of calm and order in situation when I feel like work is getting on top of me. I will learn some techniques from “Manage stress before it manages you” I will develop an understanding of management’s role about reinforcing, supporting and recognizing. I will develop techniques to work with people who are uncooperative.

I will use Bellini’s team roles to help me improve on my natural working style. I will practice and apply my improvement by working under pressure and by managing well in situations when work is unexpectedly busy or short staffed. I will also practice when unexpected events, problems or challenges could often occur, regardless of how well-planned or organized I am . I will apply my improvement in working under pressure when I have to deal with a lot of stress for example in work, exam periods or times of family stress by maintaining a sense of calm and priorities the most important task that I need to finish.

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Reflection and Personal Development Planning

The review will focus on the theories that inform and contribute to the process of personal development planning (PDP) and how these theories encompass and relate to the personal aspect of self-reflection and progress.

What is the meaning of personal development planning.

The Quality Assurance Agency has defined personal development planning as

[A] structured and supported process undertaken by an individual to reflect upon their own learning, performance and/or achievement and to plan for their personal, educational and career development.

What does the PDP process involve.

Personal development planning involves an individual going through a certain process of continually developing and refining skills and constantly reflecting upon their own learning experiences. PDP can be developed to support coincided with academic, personal and career progression. The process of PDP includes looking at you own progression, enables an individual to assess their skills and recording these achievements.

Record of Achievements (RoA) has an important role within PDP, as this profile/recording progress provides the means for students to improve their skills through RoA, it allows individuals to relate to the learning experiences, to review and reflect upon their learning experiences. This process gradually develops students to be aware of their skills, which initially gives them more confidence. This is achieved through reflecting and reviewing learning experiences that help students make targets and actions plans within profiling. By profiling it turns reflecting into a learning process, learning from experiences.

The profiling process can be beneficial to the student as it allows them to think in what career path they would like to pursue in.

“Profiling can be used by a student to focus in on particular career options, or it can be employed as a device, within the workplace, for thinking about professional development.”

So not only does profiling help the individual whilst in Higher education but also gives an advantage in their career aspects of PDP.

Is PDP important?

PDP is of importance as it encourages an individual to reflect, review and set goals for themselves, this process helps an individual to develop their confidence and self awareness which is vital within the educational and work place settings.

Any theories underpinning the process of PDP?

These ideas and strategies, which contribute to PDP have been influenced and put into practice by theories from a wide rang of theoretical perspectives and approaches.

Theories and idea’s which will be looked at in this review are:

* Peter Honey and Alan Mumford’s Learning Styles.

* David Kolb

* Dewey

* Moon

* Illich

* Bently.

Theories that have contributed to PDP

Theories

Honey and Mumford

What have they said

Within their theory, Honey and Mumford had said that we, as individuals learn through different ways, for example we are not all passive learners, so we may not learn through that particular method of learning. They had categorised the learning styles into four main categories, so an individual was either one or the other.

These categories where:

* Activist

Activists are individuals, are active learners and enjoy challenges and being involved when learning something.

They tend to learn effectively and with enthusiasm when they are involved and taking apart in something. However activists turn off and lose interests in learning when they are not actively involved and are being taught passively.

* Theorist

Theorists are those who always want to know how things go together within a logical structure. They like to use theories in order to get their views across to others and to relate situations and ideas to the theoretical side of things.

They use theorise to understand things and put theory into practice in situations. Theorists tend to mistrust claims or views, which have doubts or a weak foundation to it. Also they find it hard to learn when they cannot look into depth in something or relate it to theory.

* Pragmatist

These individuals learn through putting theory into practice, enjoy the practical side of learning. They like proving the theory, for instance testing out something based on the theoretical perspective and seeing how that incorporates within the practical framework.

Also they may switch off from learning if they cannot see why they are doing something or for what purpose it is that they are doing something.

* Reflector

The reflectors seem to learn from their experiences, always thinking off how this could be done or what ifs and then putting these into their learning. Taking time when thinking things through and always making use of time. Also reflectors find it hard to cope with when running out of time, for example when trying to meet a deadline.

Honey and Mumford suggested that to find out which category of learning styles a person falls into they would have to complete a number of statements, where in the end of the questioner you will be able to indicates which type of learner you are.

How is this related to PDP

Honey and Mumford’s theory of learning styles is linked to PDP, as it focuses on individuals and how a individual can develop their skills through knowing what type of learner they are and most importantly how knowing how they can learn best and what are the best ways to learn. The learning styles can indicate an individuals strengths and weaknesses. By knowing how you learn best can have a huge impact on PDP. As you can plan and reflect upon yourself and see if you really are a theorist or a reflector and what makes you like this, so this is a type of reflection and also how from knowing how you learn can help you progress and develop your skills.

How effective is it to PDP and own development

Looking at these learning styles from a personal perspective, I myself had completed the learning styles questioner and discovered that I was a Theorist. This has been beneficial towards myself and PDP as at first when I read what it takes to be a theorist, that I could relate to that and I felt that that was my learning style, learning through wanting to know about the theories behind anything for solid proof.

Has it been useful?

However when I read up the other three learning styles I thought I was a bit of all of them put together. I know that I learn through reflection and I like to take time out and analyse what has happened and also that I fine it extremely hard to work when I have a limited amount of time. So I feel that I am limited to a certain extent if I say that I am a theorist because that is not completely true as I have the characteristics for the reflector style of learning as well.

Any other links to other theories?

The learning style theory was partially based on Kolb’s learning cycle and adapted from the four main stages within Kolb’s learning cycle.

David Kolb’s

* Kolb

* Dewy

* Moon

* Illich

* bently

*

Conclusion

Which theory overall has been most effcetive when considering my own learning why should we include PDP in our degree is it useful?

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Business: management and personal development plan

Table of contents

I finished high school , left the small town , attended college and received not one, but three agrees . The object of goal setting is to make sure the goals are attainable and realistic. The personal goals I have set for myself are to complete the coursework and dissertation for this DAB program , by December 2016. In order to achieve these goals , I must do my best in the coursework assignments, work on becoming a better writer , and continue to stay focused and determined . According to Tuttle (1998), “Long-term goals can be broken down Into two parts .

Conceptual, which are your wants and needs , and operational, which are the steps you take to meet those wants and needs. The professional experience I have come from customer service within the retail industry and student financial services , within the outwear college system . A part of me has always wanted to Journey to the other side of things with the college system . Instead of dealing with students on a daily basis , I want to make the decisions that affect the college but benefit the students . I could be a Director of a department within the college system .

The second professional goal is to transition over into an Adjunct professor . Even though I have a MBA; I do not have the 18 hours in a certain area that required . I have checked Into courses such as; Business Communications and Small Business Management. As of now my specialization is self-design. I am on the fence about switching over to finance . I know timing Is of the essence . Hopefully by the end of this year I am capable of making a choice that Is right for me. Enrolling Into Wallet’s DAB program Is sure to give me the educational skills to reach my 2 goals .

Strengths , weaknesses, opportunities, threats (SWOT) analysis

According to Frenzy (2013) “A SWOT analysis can offer helpful perspectives at any stage of an effort . In the workplace, managers or supervisors might use SWOT for employee reviews . The employees , themselves can conduct a personal SWOT analysis to maximize their effectiveness”. Self- you . However , this is a time to admit your short comings , ways to turn weaknesses into strengths , and execute them, in order to progress .

Strengths

The strengths I have listed are whom I am as an individual .

I am Independent, organized , pro-active, analytical , and time management . I show my strengths in my personal and professional life . However , in order to enhance my strengths in my professional life , I should utilize my opportunities . It is good to analyze your individual strengths , but hen it comes to the workplace, put oneself in the employer ‘s place when considering strong points.

Weaknesses

Sarasota (2009) states , “Understanding your weaknesses is important because our weaknesses are what we tend to focus on more often “. My weaknesses are; overbearing, demanding , and I am uncomfortable speaking in front of large audiences . In order to turn my weaknesses into strengths , I will do the following , be more opened minded , better listener , less critical , and practice speaking in front of friends and family ; in order 1 to become a polished speaker . Once I accomplish that , I can then move on to speaking in front of larger crowds .

Opportunities

External forces are the opportunities listed. I can use my opportunities to minimize my threats .

Example , continuing to further my education could assist me with moving up within the company , or help with transitioning to another position at a different company . If you need a push in your career advancement or search , use a personal SWOT Analysis. This will give you the ability to enhance your strengths , understand your weaknesses , acknowledge opportunities for progress , and overcome your threats.

Threats

Acknowledge your threats and then figure out how to overcome them. There will always be challenges and hurdles to cross .

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Personal development Plan

Target dates for review and completion. How have I chosen these dates? Efficient team 22ND June 2012 -will be management with a target date to review on improved communication my communication skills skills. As I would have ended The aptitude to feel self- my two terms by then assured on message sent and will be confident in out and also, receiving a communicating in form page | 3 (Refer appendix 1 and Ask for feedback from 3) tutors and peers to attain level of proficiency on the assignments for written kills and on presentations for oral skills. Refer learning journal IX) Ones, Marcella) will help me to update my knowledge. So, as to be a part of discussions in group activities and presentations Other than from the books and links informed by tutor I believe I should widen my knowledge by reading reference books like Reduce Stress with Increased Assertiveness’s By Elizabeth Scott, M. S. Message without any barriers. Of assignments and presentations. It will be the time close to my internship which will necessitate me to highly have this skill. Personal management skills Planning and

Organizing the activities and most crucial managing time along with it. Solidification at all times is vital to achieve end goals (Refer appendix ) The constant feedback from peers and tutors will help in excelling on outcomes which will reflect upon my planning and organizing skills. (refer learning journal Ill) Keeping the time frame as crucial aspect a constant awareness in managing time will be important to accomplish assignments in Completing a task in time and without rushing them for last minute of submission deadlines.

This can be motivating to attain the personal managing skills and their implication in further goal at study and at work in future. 2ND Appraisal-Which is end on first term. By then could reflect back on to the shortcomings in first term which may include delay in submissions or working till last minute. I would than use these as motivational circumstances for terms ahead and prioritize my time more efficiently. In one of the knowledge cast We Were taught on important/urgent grid, than applied this model in relevance of the tasks had to do with their priorities.

This grid can be implemented in studies and at work as it helps to accomplish the goals set in time (Refer Page | 4 appendix 5) a comfortable time p. Presentations are time sensitive as well which needs peers to time us during the rehearsals can help managing. Reading books like “Getting Things Done by David Allen” on personal management other than allocated text books can be initiative on enhancing these skills.

Cognitive Skills The articles and case Studying in depth the Critical Thinking and studies provided during theories and models, then Analyzing of all the the course of seminars writing an assignment on readings that are and group activity will same will make us think done. Analyzing and elf to portray on critically when presenting making subject matter in depth. Our ideas. Recommendations as a The specific time bound Also, studying case studies part of critical reading case studies will help us like one done in module , writing (Refer critically taking notes International Business appendix 1) on thinking of it.

Strategy based on During the final answer Licensing of Subway will on case study, it will be make us think critically on important to think the business strategies critically in order to incorporated in an The clear idea while presenting and the accuracy of case study answers shows critical thinking. The discussions in seminars on various theories can be criticized with consistency in them. 1 5th Jejunely-Near to finish line of second semester will mark the decision on depth of my critical thinking with the final task at hand to submit.

Over this period at seminars we will come through to various case studies and theories to analyze which will further enrich the critical in depth thinking to be part of all my readings in Page | 5 Team Working Skills: motivation and management all the colleagues of the group and keep them motivated to attain the final goals. Refer learning journal IV) come to final decision and make suggestions to company. (Refer learning journal VI) organization. Even read articles from recommended readings by tutors and critically analyze them like What Great managers Do? L Concentrate on each group members performance and as a group leader helping them with adequate feedback to attain the high assessment outcomes. Attend the various workshops on management at CUL. Participating in various group tasks at university like “Synergy Business Challenge” where working as team to make profits as business was To comprise appropriate knowledge of ways to attain self motivation I will read books like “You Can Win” by Ship Cheer and also, book my place for seminars on motivation and management at CUL by tutors and external Professionals who share their experience to make it more relevant in understanding.

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Personal Development Plan for Pragmatist

Table of contents

Introduction

This study report covering various aspects of personal and professional development of the professional student, who is going to practise all the skills and abilities in the real business world at very next step when student completes professional degree course. This report aims to fulfil the requirement the student to be professional in reality presenting the views of student on the basis of research using books, lecture notes understanding and online study material from various websites.

It helps a student how to run the cycle of continuous personal and professional improvement and development to compete the globalisation. It suggest the personal development plan using time logs and carry out certain regular exercise to monitor the progress like filling questionnaire, maintain task diary and records, seeking feedback using 360 degree assessment. Professional and personal development support the body of a career and profession progression like a backbone, enabling the person to stand and touch and maintain the highest position in their working area.

It can only ensured by continuous learning and observation process. Learning and observation process makes aware the person about his values, abilities, skills, attitude, learning style and hidden talents and how to use it for excellent performance. Professional and personal development and learning process starts with identifying the personality, position and learning style of the person.

I would like to presents the views that how a student can be effective leader or manager acquiring professional skills namely time management, meeting, presentation and stress management. Leader/Manager: Successful professional should be effective leader and effective manager to lead positively to grow the profession and goodwill by competing with global challenges. In every organisation, each level of the hierarchical structure have leaders and managers. Managers and leaders are distinct personality with ultimate goal is to achieve organisational goals.

A leader and A manager can be identified as per Waston (1983) and Hollingsworth (1999) suggestions with four distinct styles: A leader is a person who emphasis the right way of work focusing on people, sharing goals with them using their skills, inspire them to innovate and develop new style and skill which supports to achieve own as well as organisational objectives. A manager concentrating on the subordinates, system and composition, administer and manage them by controlling them to achieve the strategic objectives set by the management of the organisation.

A manager stress on doing the appropriate task by result oriented strategies and systems.

  1. The Autocratic Leader/Manager: He does not value the subordinates’ skills and opinions. He has centralised power to ascertain dilemma, makes decisions and tells it to subordinate to execute task.
  2. The Semi-Autocratic Leader/Manger: He is partially autocratic, but seek some reflection from the subordinates who are going to practices it and try to convince to follow his decisions.
  3. The Democratic Leader/Manager: He just identifies the problems and seeks suggestions and recommendations from the group and then decide the solution.
  4. The Laissey-Faire Leader/Manager: He identifies the problems and set boundary within which decision must be fall and pass it to the performing group and make the correct suitable decision being with them.

Democratic and Laissey faire leadership style is preferred in this globalisation and dynamic business world. Professional Skills: Time Management: Time is a money once you spent it you will never get back so right job at right time yields better fruits. Evaluation: Ask following questions to yourself: Have you followed your prioritised to-do list?

Have you meet the deadlines? What effects on the final result due to incomplete task? Have you got the full participation colleagues and subordinates as per the job assigned? Do you have any spare time for contingency and further planning? If most of the answers is no, then start finding the gaps and lacking to use time effectively. Gap finds because of not exercising following activities. Acquisition: Habit to prepare and analyse the workload and prioritize it daily and weekly by preparing to-do list categorising the task as must do, should do and would like to do.

Therefore, flitting will be less.  Set the deadlines and stick to it to complete the task, which helps him to allocate enough time to other task and be stress free as the task finish along with the spare time to plan further or allocate it to any unfinished task or contingency. Identify the best time and do hard and important task within best time. Divide the job into small discrete part and delegate it to the suitable person with all the necessary guidance and information specifying the rewards.

It will motivate the subordinates by participation and decrease the workload and stress level of delegator which saves his time and energy. Conduct meetings for monitoring the progress of work as and when necessary. Avoid procrastination and time wasters which ensures needed attention to the work. Do not spent long time for perfection of the job on the cost of other activities. Maintain proper records by backup and filling, which can be used as vital tool while planning next time.

Understanding about the assigned job and take responsibility as per the calibre to complete it within deadlines. It helps him to manage stress and utilize time productively. Running successful Meetings: Evaluation: Ask following questions to yourself: Have you met the goals set? Has meeting was enjoyed by the members and equally participated to express their views? Did all the mentioned agenda discussed and come to the solution? Did the meeting follows the time allocation and rules like quorum? Did the minutes recorded properly?

Did you have announced the next meeting date and when members get the former meeting details? If most of the answers is no, then start finding the gaps and lacking to run meeting effectively. Gap finds because of not exercising following activities: Acquisition: Set the purpose, time, date, right place with proper infrastructural and refreshment arrangements with meeting start and end time. Prepare agenda mentioning required items with next meeting date.  Inform members about the purpose and agenda of the meeting well in advance.

Allot sufficient time to each agenda including hidden agenda and stick to it. Specify the chair person and ensure the opportunity to express opinions. Be sure about the technology and tools used in meeting Arrange minute recording and procedure to sent to the members of the meeting. Set the disciplinary rules to be followed by members during meeting. Ensure the chair person being unbiased and objective having ability to control and negotiate. This way manager can conduct fruitful meeting which enables the organisation to achieve the objectives.

The fruitful meeting will increase the morale and productivity of members saves time and efforts by proper attention to each item. Effective Presentation: Evaluation: Ask following questions to yourself: Have you met the goals set? Did your audience enjoyed and gained knowledge presentation? Did it organised in terms of matter, tools used and time bound? Did your body language and communication style attract the audience? Have you allowed audience to participate? If most of the answers is no, then start finding the gaps and lacking to present attractively.

Gap finds because of not exercising following activities: Acquisition: Set the time, date, place, topic of presentation. Identify the audience and its expectations Be prepared and rehearse, support the matter with authentic data Be sure about the tools and facilities required Have confident and friendly body language with smiley face Stick to time and spare time for Q/A from audience For effective presentation, nerve control is vital because it fails the presentation no matter how strong paperwork or other skills you have. Stress Management: Evaluation: Ask following questions to yourself:

Have you facing any physical or habitual disorder? Is there any financial or family problem which adversely affect your performance? Are you facing problem to deal with technology and people? Have you adjusted yourself in this working environment? Are you aware about your ability, skills, role and responsibilities? If answer of first 3 question is yes, then identify stressors and try to accept it and be free from it by following ways: Acquisition: Prime necessity is to accept the stress problem Identify the stressors and take steps to reduce it and remove it.

Have some refreshment activity like change task, eat food, listen music Some concrete steps which may take long time like redesign the task/role/work environment, encourage subordinate involvement, set flexible employee friendly policy, provide social support and share reward Undergo some psychological exercise as per expert opinion like workshops, seminars Conclusion: Each above mentioned skills are interconnected with each other like, proper time management reduce the stress, increase productivity, Participation of employees in meeting and presentation encourage them to take initiatives with high moral.

Personal Skill Audit

The further step is how I can apply professional skills discussed in previous section to be very profitable and easy going personality. The application can be done in better and accurate way by findings positive and negative points of his personal qualities and skills. Hence, personal skill audit comes into the picture of personal development. Personal skill audit refers to the findings about the personal skills. It can be done by identifying strengths and weaknesses of the person. For that, which learning style the person have must be identified.

To identify the learning style of the person, there is some tools like questionnaire and learning surveys by Peter Honey and Alan Mumford(ARPT), David Kolb(VAK), Carl Jugg and Mybers Briggs(type E/I,S/N,T/F,J/P). The student has followed Learning Style Questionnaire by Peter and Alan , on the basis of that the student identified his learning style ‘Pragmatist’: Strengths: Eager to try out ideas, concepts Realistic, and practical, Likes experiments Strive to meet preset goals Works autonomously Go through available options and assess it Weakness: Task oriented, does not value people Impatient ant centralize power work without any precaution tendency to take over others’ task independent working style do not involve the people Pragmatist can develop by exercising the work where person is: Problem and chances to progress is attached with the job Show the practical techniques to do right thing at a time Take chance to try out theories in practice supported by feedback from expert Showing the experts and models to follow them Equipped with techniques and knowledge useful for job Offer opportunity for progression and experiments Focus on practical matters by suggestions, tips.

Pragmatist find difficulties to improve his skills, where Job is not related to identified important requirement or not any practical gain Learning is far from real practical issues just theoretical concepts without clear guidance People not getting any point just going round and round Political diplomatic personal bias barriers to put thing into practice No proper reward for outstanding performance Some findings helps me to be effective and role demanding personality like using people by delegating task can manage the time and stress fruitfully.

Giving values to the people in organisation can ensure high moral and motivation to work. Forecast the possible results of experiments before acting and use if it is beneficial to the organisation and people who practices it. Autocratic way to manage the people is discouraging, so its better to be a democratic or a member of the performing group. Team approach helps me to overcome from impatient and self centric personality by working in team and respecting human values and ability. Once finds out the lacking and gaps , he can use detective skills to find the ways to fill it.

And come up with best suitable method by evaluating each available options to him, as very keen to use techniques, apply it to job to make it easy, speedy and accurate and recognise the use of the advance resources applicable in job. Strive to meet the specified goals and act accordingly is the great strength which differentiate his personality. He learn from the trail and error by experimenting various concepts in practice. To delegate the job to subordinates, he shows his skills of persuading presentation of idea and conduct meeting to convince the subordinate to work on it to meet the targets.

Like this way, interconnecting his strengths to overcome his weaknesses he can be prove himself as effective personality at work place or anywhere. Thus, I would like to focus on the team work approach, learn to delegate the task and value others being diversified personality. At the end, knowledgeable, team friendly, stress free, happy, open and flexible, initiative and motivating work approach gives ripe fruits to individual and the organisation. Personal Development Plan: As per the discussion in previous sections, now I am going ahead to develop the own personality development plan.

Where learning style identified is key to design personal development plan with the professional skills required to gain from the global challenges. In today’s ever-changing world, to be an effective manager core skills namely effective time management, running successful meetings, making effective presentation and managing stress tactfully is prime necessity. As per the previous discussion, now I am well aware about my strengths and weaknesses as a pragmatist regarding the achievement of organisational and personal objectives to ensure continuous growth.

For deep understanding about my learning style and personal traits, i would like to do SWOT analysis of my personal traits. SMART objectives will help me to use the SWOT beneficially in practice. Using SWOT analysis, I analyse my strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats to the personal skills and traits considering four core competent skills discussed in first section. At the end, I present a personal development plan to use, which suggest the practical way to utilize the personal attributes profitably and draw attractive picture of my personality and organisation as a whole.

In section two, I have already identified my strengths and weaknesses to put the things into practice and achieve desired result. Strengths and weaknesses are the own internal favourable and unfavourable points which helps the person to rise up. It can only improved by self observation and improvement. The analysis introduce my following strengths and weaknesses:

Strengths

Practical and realistic way to solve the problems by evaluating all the possible alternatives Like to experiment different theories and ideas ascertained using detective skills Set the goals and work autonomously to act upon

Weaknesses

Being self centric and impatient under values other people and their ability to perform better. Strive to do other’s work without taking into account the personal feelings. Work independently without seeking participation of others. Not arrive at the possible results and like to experiment proves wrong. Being a task oriented does not take care of personal feelings.

Opportunity and Threat are external forces influencing the personality positively as well as negatively.

This has connection with internal forces like strengths and weaknesses of the person to attain personal and organisational objectives as well. As a result of this analysis, now, I know my following would be opportunities and threats: Opportunity: Chance to get and test knowledge in business world. Learn by experiments and arrive at the best suitable practical solution to make easy business complexity Less chance of work error as work independently, evaluating PESTAL factor Chance to use advanced technology in practice

Chance to undertake other projects and explore gaps to use it profitable as I have time bound working style Drive all the forces to attain preset goals and emerge with distinct personality Less chance to fail in planning due to practical and realistic work practice considering all the available alternatives Threats: Be frustrate and nervous if goals are not attain within time frame due to impatient attribute. As working autonomously sometimes decisions or analysis may prove wrong Diversified market needs and expectation of global business world Emerging business complexity and customer awareness

Now, after performing self appraisal, I have a feasible knowledge of my positive and negative points to be an effective administrator or an effective manager to face the global challenges and create my own value in the organisation and business market as well. At this stage, SMART will help me as powerful tool to overcome my weaknesses and turn them into positive force to touch the sky of business world. S-Specific: On the basis of the weaknesses, i arrived at the solution that although I have practical and realistic work approach, sometimes decisions proves wrong and cannot complete the task within time limit set.

This can be improved by adapting team working style emphasising on co-ordination and co-operation with and of colleagues and subordinates in the organisation. Therefore, focus on work delegation and team work is necessary to work within deadlines and try to get optimum using all the available resources. M-Measurable: to delegate the job, it is necessary to design proper job description and draw the skills required to perform it by using various techniques like feedback of the colleagues, looking at other company.

Set the system and ways to measure the performance of people and the system laid down to achieve the objectives. So, it ensures active participation with clear understanding of job and achievements. A-Achievable: To do the task within time frame the right job should be assigned to a right person,. For that, I have to value the other person’s ability to perform specific job and assigned him that job with required guidelines and data to perform productively. The meeting and effective presentation of the delegated job to each subordinates and colleagues is necessary to achieve the goals.

So here comes the presentation and meeting skills to convey the idea and communicate regarding the role they have to play to drive towards the achievements of objectives. So, here I have to concentrate on my interpersonal skills and getting co-operation and co-ordination with colleagues and subordinates to perform time bound duties. R-Relevant: It should be take care that subordinate have no ambiguity relating to his roles and targets to be met as a team member and organisational goals. Therefore, all the efforts must be towards the achievement of organisational objectives.

The roles and targets can be communicate by way of successful meeting and effective presentation by the manager. As it saves time, efforts, money of people and organisation as well. T-Time Defined: If all the things are right doing in right way by the right person, it is also necessary that it should be complete within time defined. Because time is money, and to be successful it should be utilize effectively by allocating sufficient time to each an every activity as per its importance to do.

Evidence of Monitoring and Feedback

As per the outcome of the SWOT and SMART, I have to follow the diary and records of the subordinates and colleagues achievements and skills to perform better. Other necessary thing is to is maintain and analyse time log until I follow the proper time schedule as prepared. Periodic performance review by 360 degree assessment which aware me about my improvements and necessity to improve. With all this, unbiased regular self assessment using SWOT helps me to ride the cycle of continuous development. Likewise, I can get measurable, achievable, relevant time bound active participation of the specific subordinates.

I am following time log daily as well as weekly when i was explained in class lecture and now at the end of this 9th week I found that I am very much nearer to follow the time schedule set weekly. And I followed daily time log and I achieved time frame in working day not in weekends and I am trying to achieve it. I am taking feedback at workplace using 360 degree assessment when I finished one project and before starting new project and from my family members that how I am successful to meet their expectations. Without such monitoring and feedback one cannot have a clear idea about his improvement and progress. This is the vital axes of the progress chart of personal skill development.

Review and Conclusion

At the end of the personal development process, I noticed that above discussed matter draw the conclusion that time management, stress management, running meetings and presentations are supportive pillars of the building effective personality and achieve personal and organisational goals. This is the basic necessity of today’s global dynamic business market and learned customers. This report reveals the successful professional career as an effective manger can be ensured by aligning personal objectives with organisation’s objectives.

Reference

  1. Pedler Mike, Burgoyne John and Boydell Tom,(2001), A Manger’s Guide to Self Development, 4th edition, McGraw-Hill,ISBN-0-07-709830-7
  2. www. decs. sa. gov. au(Accessed on 27/10/2009) www. nwlink. com (Accessed on 27/10/2009)

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Evaluate the Value of the Personal Development Plan

When creating my personal development plan I found many advantages and disadvantages that could occur. Even though I know the best ways that I learn and know what I need to do to improve my personal development plan to make it the most effective it could possibly be. There are many advantages of the personal development plan. Once creating the personal development plan you can always go back and change it, add improvements or completely change the aspects of the plan to apply to certain events or challenges throughout your life.

This means that when you go through the life you are always able to have the same plan with you so you will be able to just keep adding to it and improving it. Having the personal development plan throughout your life will show any weakness that you may have or weaknesses that may occur often, meaning you can see the pattern and change what you do to effectively sort it. However keep seeing the same weakness may have a negative effect on you as you will start to believe that you cannot improve on it.

This could get people down as they will feel that you can’t achieve personal goals you have started or created. Personal development plans are very beneficial to each person and have to be individual. Everyone could not have the same personal development plan as individuals are so different to one another. One person’s strengths may be another’s weakness and vice versa. Your own strengths and weaknesses make you who you are meaning that you have different goals and targets which you want to achieve.

I don’t think that anyone else could ever write a personal development plan for someone else, for example a teacher writing one for a pupil. I think this as only you know your true strengths and weaknesses even though you may not always want to admit them. A teacher may make several weaknesses and smart targets for you to work on but may not give you a long enough time scale. Only you as the individual know how long you will take to complete the task or target and having these set by someone else may put unneeded pressure upon yourself.

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