The Skills Inventory and Gap Analysis presentation
BUS340: Week 2
Weekly Lecture
Introduction to Week 2
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During Week 2, we will focus on planning, writing, and successfully completing a business message.
While this process is one that many people take for granted, this week’s material will unveil the true importance of every step.
As such, we will be evaluating the entire process so we can rest assured that how we execute a written message is received how we intended.
Take advantage of interacting with your peers and adding value to the discussions by adding a new twist.
Consider offering compare or contrasting ideas.
Show your peers that you are one step ahead by sharing the latest research you’ve discovered via our library.
Week 2
Objectives for Week 2
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This week we will
Evaluate the process of writing a compelling message.
Prepare a skills inventory and skills gap analysis.
Discussion Question Tips
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The first discussion focuses on the intricate details of successful business communication. There are several questions embedded in this DQ. To receive full credit, it is paramount that you practice outstanding written communication skills – as the topic of this discussion question requires us to describe in writing what we may otherwise take for granted if we were in a face-to-face classroom.
The second discussion question piggybacks the first in many ways because it requires us to be familiar with the details of different communication practices. I highly recommend thoroughly familiarizing yourself with the links and sites involved in this discussion question.
Three-Step Process for Writing Effective Messages
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Step 1: Plan
Analyze the situation to accurately define the situation and purpose and garner a clear profile of our target audience. We are also gathering pertinent information we need to deliver to our audience. The last part of this step includes defining our core idea or main information and outlining the
content.
Step 2: Write
The tone, style, and mechanics are critical to preserving an appropriate written message. The words we choose, the sentences we develop, and the language we use all impact how our content is received and understood.
Step 3: Complete
Take some time to proofread and evaluate what we’ve written. It’s important that we edit when necessary or even rewrite for clarity. We also safeguard the professional appearance of our written correspondence.
Reference: Bovée, C. L., & Thill, J. V. (2021). Business communication today. (15th ed.). Pearson.
A Good Reminder:
Regarding the material we covered in Week 1, please note the importance of protecting your written communication or correspondence by safeguarding ethical and respectful content, style, and delivery.
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Week 2
Identifying Skills
This week will allow you to create a career skills inventory and associated gap analysis.
The goal is to present your current skills and identifiable gap in existing skills professionally to promote yourself as an ideal candidate for the career of your choice.
The information derived for this week’s assignment should accurately reflect your existing skills.
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Week 2
Identifying Skills
The primary goal of any company searching for a new hire is to secure an individual with the level of skill, knowledge, experience, and ability to communicate thoroughly and successfully.
This is true throughout the entire application-to-hire.
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Miscellaneous Tips
If you aren’t already doing so, I highly recommend using the Writing Center.
Discussion question responses should be substantial, show evidence of higher-order thinking, and use supporting documentation.
Discussion question responses and written assignments that rely on the overuse of direct quotes are ineligible for full credit. We value what the other authors have published, but the work must be primarily your own to earn credit.
Avoid fluff. Your instructor knows this material like the back of her hand, so it’s evident when information is inaccurate or ‘filler.’
When in doubt, ask. If something is unclear to you – chances are, it’s confusing to your classmates too. They will appreciate the fact that an answer is available!
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Greatest Tips
Will serve you well throughout your educational journey
If you have received a lower score (s) than you expected, review your instructor’s feedback. We all provide very detailed feedback. However, if something is unclear to you, please ask. This is a learning process, and it’s okay if something is confusing. We are committed to helping you succeed.
Make it a habit to check the Ask Your Instructor’s thread each time you log on. A question might be asked that hasn’t crossed your mind yet, but chances are – you might appreciate the answer.
If your professor has not responded within 48 hours, please resend your message. We all respond within 24-36 hours (up to 48 on rare occasions). Technology is terrific, but it doesn’t mean it’s error-free. If we haven’t responded, we might not have received your message. Please try again. We are committed to your success.
You’ve earned your right to be in this program. This means that we are expecting to see your best work. Your employer will also expect a lot from you with your new degree.
Lack of attention to detail will reflect in your grades.
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Amazing Support System
Take Advantage of Available Resources
Listed under the “Writing Center & Library” link in the left navigation are the following free supports:
Need More Help?
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You can also click on the “Help” icon within our course to access tech supports phone number, email, and chat options.
The Writing Center
https://writingcenter.uagc.edu/
Any questions about the content you’ve developed?
Formatting concerns?
APA questions?
I recommend getting into the habit of submitting all work to the Writing Center before submitting it for a grade. They will help you catch errors that will help you avoid introducing erroneous mistakes in your written assignments.
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Any Questions?
Click on the “Help” icon in the left navigation of your course and select the Ask Your Instructor a Question option. For private questions, be sure to reserve those for email correspondence.
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References
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Bovée, C. L., & Thill, J. V. (2021). Business communication today. (15th ed.). Pearson.