OGL 482 Pro-Seminar II

Unit 3 Assignment:
Networking Plan

Section 1: The Career Decision Matrix

As you move through the data-gathering phase and begin to generate options for potential jobs
and potential employers, this is when you can build and use a Career Decision Matrix. Following
the information from Harrington & Hall text, Career Management & Worklife Integration,
Chapter 4, pages 92-94, you will research, gather, and analyze information from your self-
assessments (i.e. the Kuder assessments in Unit 1, in particular), thematic analysis (themes),
career resources and more to create your Career Decision Matrix.

Career options are broader than jobs. They are paths you can take to get to where you want to be.
Here is a resource that can assist you in determining:
https://careerwise.minnstate.edu/careers/pathways.html

Answer the following:

1) As you have gathered your data take the time to share and fully describe your top
four (4) possible career options. You want to be specific, as this creates a more
meaningful matrix. Describe each career with as much detail as possible. Consider
the following to be used in your 2-3 paragraph response per career option: career
field / organization / job-related responsibilities / opportunities for advancement /
future outlook of the career field. These responses need to demonstrate that you
have gathered your research and analyzed it, so there should be citations
referencing where you got your information, using APA standards. Remember to
include why you are choosing each career option.

a. Data Analyst in Healthcare:

For my first career option, I am considering becoming a Data Analyst in the healthcare

industry. This career involves working in various healthcare organizations, such as

hospitals, insurance companies, or research institutions. As a Data Analyst in healthcare,

my responsibilities would include collecting and analyzing patient data, financial data,

and operational data to improve decision-making processes and optimize healthcare

services. I would use statistical software and data visualization tools to identify trends,

predict patient outcomes, and support evidence-based practices.

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 According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the future outlook for data analysts in

healthcare is promising, with a projected growth rate of 31% over the next decade. This is

due to the increasing emphasis on data-driven healthcare decisions and the demand for

professionals who can interpret and manage healthcare data. Opportunities for

advancement in this field include roles such as Senior Data Analyst, Data Scientist, or

Data Analytics Manager. I'm choosing this career option because I'm passionate about

healthcare and believe that data analysis can significantly improve patient care and

outcomes.

References:

U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. (2023, September 6). Medical and Health Services

Managers : Occupational outlook handbook. U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.

b. Environmental Policy Analyst:

My second career option is to become an Environmental Policy Analyst. This role can be

found in government agencies, non-profit organizations, and consulting firms

specializing in environmental issues. As an Environmental Policy Analyst, my job would

involve researching and analyzing environmental policies, regulations, and their impact

on the environment. I would work on developing strategies to address environmental

challenges, including climate change, pollution control, and conservation.

The job outlook for Environmental Policy Analysts is promising, with a growing

emphasis on sustainability and environmental protection. The field is expected to expand

in response to the increasing global concern for the environment. Advancement

opportunities could include roles like Senior Policy Analyst, Environmental Consultant,

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 or positions within government agencies. I'm inclined towards this career option because

I am deeply committed to environmental conservation and believe that effective policy

analysis is essential to address pressing environmental issues.

References:

Opportunities for students and recent graduates | US EPA. (2023, May 22).

https://www.epa.gov/careers/opportunities-students-and-recent-graduates

c. Software Engineer in Artificial Intelligence:

My third career option is to pursue a career as a Software Engineer specializing in

Artificial Intelligence (AI). This career can be found in various tech companies, research

institutions, and startups. As an AI Software Engineer, I would be responsible for

designing and developing AI algorithms and systems. This would involve working on

projects related to machine learning, natural language processing, computer vision, and

autonomous systems.

The future outlook for AI Software Engineers is exceptionally promising, as AI

technologies continue to evolve and impact various industries, from healthcare to finance.

The demand for AI professionals is on the rise, and career advancement opportunities are

abundant, with the potential to become a Machine Learning Engineer, AI Research

Scientist, or Chief AI Officer. I'm drawn to this career option due to my passion for

cutting-edge technology and its potential to shape the future of multiple industries.

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 References:

Chui, M., Manyika, J., Miremadi, M., Henke, N., Chung, R., Nel, P., & Malhotra, S.

(2018, April 17). Notes from the AI frontier: Applications and value of Deep

Learning. McKinsey & Company.

https://www.mckinsey.com/featured-insights/artificial-intelligence/notes-from-

the-ai-frontier-applications-and-value-of-deep-learning

d. International Human Rights Lawyer:

My fourth career option is to become an International Human Rights Lawyer. This career

path involves working with law firms specializing in international law, non-governmental

organizations (NGOs), or international courts. As an International Human Rights Lawyer,

my responsibilities would include advocating for individuals and communities whose

human rights have been violated, conducting legal research on international treaties and

conventions, and representing clients in cases related to human rights abuses.

The future outlook for International Human Rights Lawyers is driven by the ongoing

need to address global human rights violations. While it is a challenging field, there is a

growing awareness of human rights issues worldwide, which is expected to increase

demand for legal experts in this area. Advancement opportunities include becoming a

Senior Human Rights Lawyer, specializing in a specific area of international law, or

taking on leadership roles in prominent human rights organizations. I am considering this

career option because I am deeply passionate about social justice and human rights, and I

want to contribute to the protection and promotion of fundamental rights on a global

scale.

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 References:

Fellner, R. (2023, June 18). How to become a human rights lawyer. Human Rights

Careers. https://www.humanrightscareers.com/magazine/how-to-become-a-

human-rights-lawyer/

Now that you have determined these four options, take a step back and share a fifth
UNTHINKABLE (UT) career option, that you would never do, but are trained for
by what you have learned by earning your degree. Think about skills you have
acquired while earning your degree, which would be transferable to something
completely different.

A fifth UNTHINKABLE career option would be to become a professional chef or

culinary expert. While it may seem unrelated, the skills and knowledge gained during my

academic pursuits have provided me with certain transferable skills that could be applied

in the culinary world.

 Leadership and Team Management: Organizational leadership has equipped me with

skills in managing teams and coordinating efforts. These skills are valuable in a high-

pressure kitchen environment where chefs need to lead a team effectively to prepare and

serve meals efficiently.

 Project Management and Time Management: Project management principles involve

effective time management, a crucial skill in a busy kitchen where multiple dishes must

be prepared simultaneously. The ability to prioritize tasks and manage time efficiently is

a transferable skill.

 Problem Solving and Decision-Making: Both organizational leadership and culinary

arts require quick decision-making and problem-solving. Chefs often face unexpected

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 challenges in the kitchen, and the ability to adapt and make decisions under pressure is a

shared skill.

 Attention to Detail: Attention to detail is essential in both fields. Just as project

management requires meticulous planning and execution, culinary arts demand precision

in measuring ingredients and presentation.

 Communication and Customer Service: Effective communication and customer service

skills are valuable for chefs when interacting with staff and customers. These skills can

enhance the dining experience and customer satisfaction.

While becoming a professional chef is not something I would personally pursue, it's

intriguing to see how the skills developed in my academic journey can have relevance in

such a different field. This exercise highlights the versatility of transferable skills and

their potential to open doors to careers one might not have initially considered.

2) Using the information you have gathered and shared above it is time to fill in your
Career Decision Matrix. You can find an example in Table 4.2 on page 93 of our
text. When you complete the matrix below, be sure to remove any unnecessary
labels.

a. Down the left hand side of the matrix, you will list your ten (10) life themes
from your thematic analysis. You can also add more that were not part of
your presentation as Theme 11 and so on.

b. Across the top of the page, you will list the five (5) career options you are
considering.

c. Next, fill in each cell with a high (h), medium (m), or low indication of the
match between that theme and the alternative under consideration.

d. Calculate your Career to Theme Consistency Points (CTCP) aka Summary,

by assigning high = 5, medium = 3, and low = 1, and then adding them up to
determine the ranking of your career choices to your themes. Not all themes
can have high designation (if everything is important, nothing is important).

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 The goal is to identify how your career options align with your life themes, so
you have better information to determine which aspects are most important
to you in your next career step.

Data Environmenta Software Internationa Professiona

Analust in l Policy Enginee l HR Lawyer l Chef
Healthcar Analyst r in AI
e

Passion for H L L L L
Healthcare

Commitment to L H L L L
Environmental
Causes

Interest in L L H L L
Cutting-edge
Technology

Dedication to L L L H L
Social Justice
& Human
Rights

Public L L L L L
Speaking &
Presentation
Skills

Project L L L L H
Management &
Planning

Attention to L L L L H
Detail

Adaptability & L L L L H
Problem-
Solving

Leadership & L L L L H
Team

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 Management

Communicatio L L L L H
n & Customer
Service

CTCP 13 13 13 13 26
(Summary)

3) Now that you have determined these career options in relation to your life themes:
a. Reflect to what extent your Career Decision Matrix development process has
helped your career development decisions.

The Career Decision Matrix development process has been an invaluable aid in

guiding my career development decisions. This structured approach has brought

much-needed clarity to the alignment between my potential career options and my life

themes. It has enabled me to clearly see how each choice corresponds to my values,

priorities, and interests, making it evident which aspects of my life truly matter in my

career. By assigning high, medium, or low ratings to each theme for every career

option, I was compelled to prioritize these themes, helping me understand their

relative importance in my decision-making process. This approach also prevented any

personal bias from influencing my choices, promoting an objective evaluation.

The quantitative comparison provided by the Career to Theme Consistency Points

(CTCP) calculation allowed me to gauge the alignment of my career options with my

life themes in a structured manner. Surprisingly, it revealed that all four of my

primary career options had a comparable level of alignment with my life themes,

which offered a fresh perspective on my choices. Additionally, by considering an

"unthinkable" career like becoming a professional chef, I became more aware of the

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 transferable skills from my academic background that could be applied in unexpected

ways, expanding my horizons regarding the adaptability of my skillset. Ultimately,

this process has empowered me to make informed decisions about my career based on

a comprehensive understanding of my values, skills, and personal priorities.

b. Share which career option(s) you feel would be worth researching more and
pursuing as you begin to think about your networking plan.

I believe the career option of "Data Analyst in Healthcare" is worth researching more and

pursuing as I begin to think about my networking plan. This choice aligns with my background

in data analysis and my passion for the healthcare field. Data analytics plays a crucial role in

improving healthcare outcomes, and I see significant potential in this domain. To enhance my

prospects in this field, I intend to research further, explore relevant networking events, and

connect with professionals in healthcare data analysis. By doing so, I aim to gain insights into the

industry's specific needs, challenges, and opportunities, all of which are essential for my

networking plan. Additionally, I will seek to establish connections with professionals who can

provide guidance, mentorship, and potential job leads in the healthcare data analysis field. This

approach will help me gather valuable information and build relationships that can assist me in

pursuing this career option.

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Section 2: Networking Plan
Now that you have completed your Career Decision Matrix we now need to move forward and
develop a networking plan that you can use to help you reach your career goals. Review
Harrington & Hall text, Career Management & Worklife Integration, Chapter 4, pages 77-83.
Developing and managing your network of people who can help you is an important ongoing
process whether or not you are currently happy in your career.

The purpose of this activity is to:

• Help you assess and enhance (extend or strengthen) your developmental network relative
to major challenges you will face in the next 1-3 years
• Help you develop a networking strategy that will work for you
• Help you develop a specific plan to pursue over the next 6 months to 1 year
• Create an accountability mechanism

Research on leadership development has demonstrated that people benefit from a variety of
developmental relationships, including short-term and long-term alliances with bosses, peers,
senior executives, coaches, subordinates, and family members, the more diversity and depth
there is in your developmental network, the better. Depending on our dominant learning tactics,
we are more or less likely to pay attention to the quality of our developmental network.
This assignment was adapted by Professor Kathy E. Kram from a worksheet developed by
Professor Deborah Kolb, Simmons Graduate School of Management. Adapted by permission.

Answer the following:

1) As you think about the major changes that are likely to take place at your place of
work in the next few years, what major challenges and opportunities do you foresee
that you will need to deal with in the next 1-3 years?

Describe and explain why these are your top three (3) of Challenges here:
As I anticipate major changes in my place of work in the next few years, I foresee

several significant challenges and opportunities that I will need to address in the

next 1-3 years.

a. Adoption of Advanced Technology: One of the major challenges I foresee is

the rapid adoption of advanced technology in the workplace. As I have an interest

in cutting-edge technology and am considering a career in software engineering,

staying updated and proficient in emerging technologies will be crucial. With the

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 workplace increasingly relying on automation, artificial intelligence, and data

analytics, I must ensure that I remain technologically competent to be competitive

in my field. My network should include professionals who can guide me in

staying current with technological advancements and provide insights on how

these changes are shaping my industry.

b. Environmental Sustainability Initiatives: The growing global concern for

environmental issues presents an opportunity and challenge. As I contemplate a

career in environmental policy analysis, the focus on sustainability and green

initiatives opens doors for impactful work. However, this also means that I will

need to keep abreast of changing regulations, international agreements, and

innovative environmental solutions. Building a network of environmental experts,

policymakers, and organizations will be essential to navigate these evolving

dynamics.

c. Human Rights Advocacy and Legal Developments: If I opt for a career in

international human rights law, one of the significant challenges is staying

updated on legal developments and advocating for social justice. The evolving

landscape of human rights, international law, and the geopolitical context requires

ongoing engagement and education. In my network, I should include human

rights lawyers, academics, and organizations with expertise in this field to provide

me with valuable insights and connections in this dynamic arena.

These challenges represent both obstacles and opportunities in my potential career

paths. Networking with professionals who can offer guidance, share experiences,

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 and provide resources in these areas will be crucial to navigating these challenges

effectively and leveraging the opportunities presented by these changes.

Describe and explain why these are your top three (3) of Opportunities here:

In addition to the major challenges, there are several key opportunities I foresee in

my workplace over the next 1-3 years:

a. Cross-Disciplinary Collaboration: One significant opportunity is the

increasing emphasis on cross-disciplinary collaboration in the workplace. With

my background in organizational leadership and project management, this trend

opens doors for me to bridge gaps between diverse teams and facilitate effective

cooperation. The ability to connect professionals with different expertise and

facilitate interdepartmental projects can be a valuable skill. By expanding my

network to include professionals from various disciplines and fostering

collaborative relationships, I can position myself as a facilitator of such cross-

functional endeavors, contributing to my own professional growth and the success

of my organization.

b. Career Advancement in Emerging Fields: As I consider career options in

technology and environmental policy analysis, I recognize the potential for rapid

career advancement in emerging fields. Technology continues to evolve, and

professionals who can keep up with these changes are in high demand.

Additionally, the increasing focus on environmental sustainability offers

opportunities for professionals who can devise and implement effective policies

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 and solutions. By building a network of mentors, leaders, and industry experts in

these domains, I can gain guidance on navigating these career paths and seek

advice on strategies for career progression in these growing sectors.

c. Social and Global Impact: Another compelling opportunity is the potential for

making a significant social and global impact. Whether in technology,

environmental policy, or human rights law, these fields provide a platform for

meaningful contributions. In technology, innovations can transform industries and

improve lives. In environmental policy, advocating for sustainability can have far-

reaching environmental and societal benefits. In human rights law, advocating for

justice can affect lives on a global scale. By connecting with individuals and

organizations that share a commitment to making a positive impact, I can align

my career goals with like-minded professionals who are passionate about creating

a better world, amplifying the potential for meaningful change.

These opportunities align with my skills and interests and provide a platform for

professional growth and impact. By proactively building a network that

capitalizes on these opportunities, I can position myself to leverage these trends in

the workplace, contribute meaningfully, and advance my career in a direction that

resonates with my values and goals.

2) Given these challenges and opportunities, what type of help are you most likely to
need? Check one and explain why.
a. Help in getting the job done ______
b. Help in advancing my career ______

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 c. Emotional support ______
d. All of the above ______

I am most likely to need help in advancing my career. The challenges and

opportunities I've identified, such as staying updated on technology,

environmental regulations, or legal developments, require a focus on career

growth and professional development. Building a strong network of mentors,

industry experts, and experienced professionals who can provide guidance, share

insights, and open doors to new opportunities is essential. Advancing my career in

these dynamic fields would benefit significantly from the support, advice, and

connections provided by such a network. While emotional support and assistance

in getting the job done are important, my primary need in this context is career

advancement to make the most of the opportunities and overcome the challenges

I've identified.

3) If your major challenge or opportunity is related to your work, how well positioned
are you to get information, advice, and resources about new opportunities and
possibilities? Check one and explain who can help you and why.
Very Well ______ Okay ______ Need to Expand My Network ______

While I have a basic network in my current field and some connections in my

areas of interest, I acknowledge that I need to expand my network further to fully

leverage the new opportunities and possibilities in my potential career paths.

Specifically, as I consider career options in technology, environmental policy

analysis, and human rights law, I need to connect with more experienced

professionals, industry experts, and mentors who can provide valuable insights,

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 guidance, and support tailored to these specific fields. By expanding my network,

I can tap into the knowledge and experience of individuals who have successfully

navigated these paths and gain access to the latest information, advice, and

resources critical for advancing my career in these dynamic domains.

4) If your major challenge or opportunity means making a move into a leadership

position, do you have relationships with people who can give you advice and
effectively advocate or champion you for important assignments or other
developmental activities? Check one and explain who can help you and why.
Yes ______ No ______

I have developed relationships with individuals who can offer advice and

effectively advocate or champion me for leadership positions and other

developmental activities. These relationships include mentors, senior colleagues,

and individuals who hold leadership roles within my current or past workplaces.

They have demonstrated a willingness to provide guidance and support in my

career progression, offering valuable insights and endorsements when relevant

leadership opportunities arise. These advocates can vouch for my skills and

potential, which is essential in making a successful transition into leadership roles

and taking on significant developmental activities.

5) If your challenge or opportunity means that you will need emotional support, to
what extent do you have people who can give you support? Check one and explain
who can help you and why.

a. I have a strong support network to help me. _____

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 b. I don’t have people to help me through changes I will have to make. ____

I am fortunate to have a strong support network that can provide emotional

support as I face challenges and seize opportunities in my career. This network

includes family members, close friends, and trusted colleagues who understand

my aspirations and are willing to provide emotional support during times of

change and uncertainty. They have been a source of encouragement and

reassurance in the past, helping me navigate through various transitions in my

professional life. Their unwavering support and understanding play a vital role in

bolstering my confidence and resilience as I pursue new opportunities and

overcome challenges.

6) If your challenge or opportunity means that you will need help getting the job done,
advancing your career, or getting emotional support, do you have people in your
network who can fulfill these functions? Check one and explain who can help you
and why.
Yes ______ No ______

I have individuals within my network who can fulfill these essential functions.

These include colleagues, mentors, and friends who possess a wealth of

experience, expertise, and knowledge that can assist me in various aspects of my

career development. For getting the job done, I have colleagues and team

members with whom I've successfully collaborated in the past, making them

valuable resources for task-related assistance. For advancing my career, I have

mentors and senior colleagues who have been instrumental in providing guidance,

sharing career insights, and advocating for my professional growth. Additionally,

for emotional support, I have close friends and family members who have

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 consistently offered a strong support system during both personal and professional

challenges. This network is well-rounded and well-positioned to provide the help

I may require in my career journey.

7) What is your approach to building relationships? How are you at initiating

relationships? In what settings are you most comfortable meeting people?

a. Joint or shared work, projects, and committees ______

b. One-on-one appointments, with specific agendas ______
c. Informal “no agenda” social settings ______
d. Going for coffee, lunch, or drinks ______
e. Leisure activities such as golf, tennin, or theater ______
f. Other ______

In professional contexts, I find that one-on-one meetings with specific agendas are

my preferred approach for initiating and building relationships. These structured

conversations allow for focused discussions about mutual goals and professional

development. They provide a platform for clear communication and the exchange

of valuable insights, making them an effective way to establish connections, seek

advice, and collaborate with others. This approach aligns well with my goal-

oriented and strategic approach to relationship-building.

8) What is your preferred style?

a. Occasional phone calls or e-mails just to ask “how are you?” ______
b. Phone calls, e-mails, or visits with specific requests or questions ______
c. Holiday cards and letters ______
d. Dropping in or calling when you’re in the neighborhood ______
e. Arranging in advance to get together at professional meetings ______
f. Relying on the chance that your paths will cross ______
g. Inviting people to join you for lunch, coffee, golf, and so on ______
h. Contacting people when you find some information, an article, or an opportunity that
might interest them ______
i. Other ______

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 My preferred style for maintaining and nurturing relationships is to stay in touch

through phone calls, e-mails, or visits with specific requests or questions. I find

that clear and purposeful communication is key to maintaining productive and

meaningful relationships. When I reach out, it is often to discuss specific topics,

share information, or seek advice or collaboration on projects. This approach

ensures that interactions are mutually beneficial and allow for efficient exchanges

of knowledge and support. It reflects my appreciation for the value of time and

respects the priorities and expertise of the individuals I'm connecting with.

8) Now turn your attention to the “Action Planning” part of the exercise (top of page
82). Respond to the following questions:

a. What are your goals in developing a professional network? Be specific.

My primary goals in developing a professional network are quite specific. First

and foremost, I aim to gain invaluable insights and knowledge about the

industries and fields I am passionate about, including technology, environmental

policy, and human rights law. I believe that a well-rounded understanding of these

domains is essential for making informed career decisions. Additionally, I seek to

identify and connect with potential mentors and advisors who can offer guidance

and support as I embark on my chosen career path. Their wisdom and experience

are crucial for my professional development. Moreover, I intend to leverage my

network to create opportunities for collaboration and partnerships in projects or

initiatives related to my career interests, as well as to stay updated on industry

trends, job opportunities, and professional development prospects. Finally, my

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 network will serve as a vital support system, offering assistance in navigating

both emotional and career-related challenges that may arise.

b. How will a well-developed network of contacts help you achieve your career goals?

A well-developed network of professional contacts is instrumental in helping me

achieve my career goals in several ways. First, it provides me with access to

industry insights, best practices, and emerging trends in my chosen fields, which

is essential for staying competitive and informed. Second, it opens doors to

mentorship and guidance from experienced professionals who have successfully

navigated the paths I aspire to follow. Their mentorship can provide me with the

wisdom and advice necessary to make sound career decisions. Additionally, a

strong network offers the opportunity for collaboration on projects and initiatives

that can enhance my skills and expand my portfolio. Furthermore, my contacts

can serve as a source of referrals to potential job opportunities or provide valuable

career advice. Finally, my professional network acts as a crucial source of

emotional support, fostering a sense of belonging in the professional world and

helping me navigate the emotional challenges that often accompany career

growth.

c. What are some of the characteristics of the people you are looking to include in your
network?

The individuals I am actively seeking to include in my professional network

possess certain characteristics that align with my career goals. I am interested in

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 connecting with experienced professionals in my target industries (technology,

environmental policy, and human rights law). These individuals can provide

valuable insights into the day-to-day realities of these fields and offer practical

advice. I am also keen on identifying mentors and advisors who have the

willingness and capacity to guide me along my career path. Individuals with a

shared passion for social and environmental causes are essential, especially in the

context of environmental policy and human rights law. Collaborators and

potential project partners are valuable to facilitate joint initiatives. Lastly, thought

leaders and experts in specific areas of interest are indispensable for in-depth

discussions and knowledge sharing.

d. Where might you come in contact with these people? How will you grow your network /
initiate contact with new potential networking contacts?

To come in contact with the individuals who meet the criteria for my network, I

will engage in various activities and settings. Networking events, conferences,

and seminars related to technology, environmental policy, and human rights law

are excellent opportunities to meet like-minded professionals. Online platforms

and communities focused on these areas can facilitate connections, especially in

this digital age. Leveraging my alumni associations from my educational

institutions can create a sense of familiarity and trust. Work-related seminars and

workshops offer opportunities to interact with professionals in my field.

Additionally, seeking introductions from my existing connections within my

network will be an effective approach, as recommendations often carry a

significant degree of trust and credibility.

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 e. Who in your network are you looking to enhance your relationship with? How will you
go about enhancing these relationships?

Enhancing existing relationships within my network is a priority, especially with

mentors, advisors, and colleagues who have been instrumental in my professional

growth. To strengthen these connections, I plan to maintain regular

communication and provide updates on my career progress. Seeking their advice

and guidance on specific challenges or decisions demonstrates my commitment to

learning from their experiences. Offering assistance and support in return, when

possible, creates a sense of reciprocity, fostering a mutually beneficial

relationship. Furthermore, showing genuine appreciation for their mentorship and

insights through regular expressions of gratitude will help nurture and enhance

these valuable relationships.

f. How can you leverage your existing network? Might some of your existing networking
contacts know others who you should be in contact with?

Leveraging my existing network is a strategic approach to expanding my

connections. Many of my existing networking contacts likely know other

professionals who could be of immense value in my career journey. By actively

seeking referrals or introductions, I can tap into the extended network of my

existing contacts. The process of leveraging my network is twofold; it not only

opens doors to new contacts but also enhances the trust and credibility of my

network. By making use of the recommendations and introductions from my

current connections, I can further broaden my network and access valuable

resources, insights, and support that I may not have encountered otherwise. This

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 proactive strategy is an effective way to maximize the potential of my existing

network.

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Section 3: SMART Career and Networkings
Using a SMART goals-based approach, as well as project planning and management skill best
practices, create a detailed project plan for at least two specific goals. At least one must be
related to your Career Plan, and the other related to your Networking Plan. Both of these goals
need to be things that you are passionate about accomplishing.

Your selected goals and SMART plan (see SMART goal information provided in the Unit)
should be structured based on a one to two-year timeline. It should include specific milestones,
action items, sub-tasks as well as task-related interdependencies as applicable. With respect to
each goal, critically think about what specifically are the things you will do in the next one to
two years to achieve these goals.

Develop a clear and detailed SMART plan, with facilitating goals and steps/actions required
to accomplish your selected goals. It should be evident, by looking at the format and structure
of your plan, that you have developed some significant skills respect to project management.
Include Gantt charts or other visual project representations as you see fit, and be sure to address
your approach to tracking/measuring your progress.

1) What is your Career Goal?

1. Career Goal: Obtain a Certification in Data Science

a. Specific: My career goal is to obtain a certification in data science, which involves

gaining proficiency in data analysis, machine learning, and data visualization. This

certification will enable me to transition into a data analyst role in the healthcare industry.

b. Measurable: I will measure my progress by tracking the completion of specific courses,

projects, and assignments required for the certification. Additionally, I will monitor my

growing expertise in data analysis by tracking my performance on practice datasets and

real-world healthcare data.

c. Attainable: This goal is attainable because there are reputable online platforms offering

comprehensive data science courses, and I have a strong background in mathematics and

statistics, which are foundational skills for data science. I also have access to resources

and support to aid my learning, making the goal feasible.

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 d. Relevant: This goal matters to me because it aligns with my passion for data-driven

decision-making and the healthcare industry. Data science skills are in high demand in

healthcare, and this certification will open up opportunities for me to contribute to

improving healthcare outcomes.

e. Time-Based: I plan to complete this goal within 18 months. This includes enrolling in

relevant courses, completing assignments, working on practical projects, and taking the

final certification exam.

Gantt Chart for Career Goal - Obtain a Certification in Data Science:

Task Start Date End Date

Research and select online data science courses 11/15/23 12/15/23

Enroll in chosen courses 12/20/23 01/10/24

Complete foundational data science courses 02/01/24 05/01/24

Work on data science projects 05/15/24 11/15/24

Study for and take certification exam 12/01/24 03/01/25

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 Task Start Date End Date

Receive Data Science Certification 03/15/25 03/15/25

2) What is your Networking Goal

Networking Goal: Expand My Professional Network in Environmental Policy Analysis

a. Specific: My networking goal is to expand my professional network in the field of

environmental policy analysis. This involves connecting with at least five experts

and attending a minimum of three relevant environmental policy events or

conferences.

b. Measurable: I will measure my progress by tracking the number of new contacts

made within the environmental policy analysis field, monitoring my attendance at

relevant events, and assessing the depth and quality of conversations and

connections made.

c. Attainable: This goal is attainable as I have the foundation of an existing

professional network and the motivation to expand it. Additionally, there are

various environmental policy events, seminars, and conferences that I can access,

both in-person and online.

d. Relevant: Expanding my network in environmental policy analysis is vital as it

aligns with my career aspirations in this field. It provides me with opportunities

for collaboration, learning, and career growth.

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 e. Time-Based: I will complete this goal within 12 months.

Gantt Chart for Networking Goal - Expand My Professional Network in

Environmental Policy Analysis:

Task Start Date End Date

Research and identify key events and conferences 11/15/23 12/15/23

Register for environmental policy events 01/01/24 02/15/24

Attend first environmental policy event 02/28/24 03/01/24

Initiate contact with environmental policy experts 03/01/24 06/01/24

Attend second environmental policy event 06/15/24 06/16/24

Attend third environmental policy event 10/01/24 10/02/24

Foster deeper connections and collaborations 06/01/24 11/30/24

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