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Week 13 - Weekly Reflection Entry #8: Final Reflection and Building on the E-Portfolio

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Week 13 - Weekly Reflection Entry #8: Final Reflection and Building on the E-Portfolio

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Summary

This semester’s Group Presentation Project has been instrumental in enhancing my skills in teamwork, intercultural communication, and leadership. Key learnings include the importance of leveraging team strengths, adapting to cultural differences, coordinating international efforts, and practicing empathetic leadership.

My e-portfolio will document this journey through project reports, reflection entries, skill evidence, feedback, and future goals. This comprehensive record will highlight my academic growth and prepare me for future challenges.

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Effective meetings are essential for productivity. Key elements include clear agendas, time management, and active participation. Challenges like off-topic discussions can be mitigated by strong facilitation and keeping discussions focused. Regular feedback helps improve meeting efficiency and outcomes.

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As an Interviewee: Interviewing initially felt intimidating, but preparation, like researching the company and practicing the STAR method, helped build confidence. Handling unexpected questions remains challenging, but staying calm and honest is key.

As an Interviewer: Creating a comfortable environment and asking open-ended questions are crucial. Avoiding biases and using structured interviews ensure a fair assessment of candidates.

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Steps:

1. Education and Skills Development:

- Obtain a degree in Agriculture, Agribusiness, or Hospitality Management.

- Gain hands-on experience in farm operations and restaurant management.

- Acquire certifications in organic farming, food safety, or sustainability practices.

2. Professional Experience:

- Work in roles that involve overseeing daily farm operations and managing restaurant operations.

- Develop expertise in sustainable farming practices, crop/livestock management, supply chain coordination, and customer service.

3. Networking and Relationships:

- Build relationships with local farmers, suppliers, and community stakeholders.

- Participate in industry events, farmers' markets, and hospitality associations.

4. Leadership and Management Skills:

- Develop strong leadership skills to effectively manage teams in diverse settings.

- Hone problem-solving abilities and decision-making skills to handle operational challenges.

5. Commitment to Sustainability:

- Demonstrate a strong commitment to sustainability and eco-friendly practices.

- Implement and advocate for sustainable initiatives in both farm and restaurant operations.

6. Continuous Learning and Adaptation:

- Stay updated on industry trends, regulations, and best practices.

- Adapt to evolving market demands and consumer preferences.

7. Passion and Dedication:

- Maintain a genuine passion for agriculture, food quality, and customer satisfaction.

- Dedicate yourself to achieving high standards of excellence and innovation in both farm and restaurant operations.

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Farm Operations:

1. Daily Oversight: Ensure smooth daily operations including planting, harvesting, irrigation, pest control, and equipment maintenance.

2. Sustainable Farming Practices: Implement practices such as crop rotation, organic fertilization, integrated pest management (IPM), and water conservation techniques.

3. Crop and Livestock Management: Manage crop selection, planting schedules, and livestock care. Monitor animal health, nutrition, and breeding programs.

4. Compliance with Organic Certification: Stay updated on organic farming standards and regulations. Maintain meticulous records and practices to meet certification requirements.

5. Team Leadership: Supervise farm workers, assign tasks, provide training, and ensure a safe working environment.

6. Financial Management: Develop and manage budgets, monitor expenses, and optimize resource allocation to maximize profitability while adhering to sustainability goals.

7. Community Engagement: Foster relationships with local community members, participate in farmers' markets, and promote sustainable agriculture practices.

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Dream job Restaurant Operations Requirements

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Dream job Restaurant Operations Requirements

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Restaurant Operations:

1. Overall Management: Oversee all aspects of restaurant operations, including front-of-house and back-of-house activities.

2. Supply Chain Coordination: Establish relationships with local farmers and suppliers for fresh, sustainable ingredients. Ensure reliable and timely deliveries.

3. Quality Control: Maintain high standards of food quality, presentation, and consistency. Conduct regular inspections and tastings.

4. Customer Service Excellence: Train staff to deliver exceptional customer service experiences. Handle customer feedback and resolve issues promptly.

5. Sustainability Initiatives: Implement eco-friendly practices such as waste reduction, energy efficiency, and sourcing locally-produced goods.

6. Staff Management: Recruit, train, and motivate staff. Create schedules, monitor performance, and foster a positive work environment.

7. Health and Safety Compliance: Ensure adherence to health codes, sanitation standards, and safety protocols. Conduct regular inspections and training sessions.

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Dream Job Skills and Qualifications Requirements

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Dream Job Skills and Qualifications Requirements

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Skills and Qualifications:

- Leadership: Ability to lead and motivate teams in dynamic environments.

- Problem-solving: Strong analytical skills to address operational challenges and optimize efficiency.

- Communication: Effective communication with employees, suppliers, customers, and community stakeholders.

- Organizational Skills: Ability to multitask, prioritize tasks, and meet deadlines in a fast-paced environment.

- Knowledge of Agriculture: Understanding of agronomy, livestock management, and sustainable farming techniques.

- Business Acumen: Financial management skills, including budgeting, cost control, and profit maximization.

- Customer Focus: Dedication to delivering exceptional customer experiences and maintaining high-quality standards.

- Adaptability: Flexibility to adapt to changing circumstances and market demands.

- Passion for Sustainability: Commitment to environmental stewardship and sustainable business practices.

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Dream Job Education and Experience Requirements

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Dream Job Education and Experience Requirements

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Education and Experience:

- A degree in Agriculture, Agribusiness, Hospitality Management, or a related field is advantageous.

- Hands-on experience in farm management, agricultural production, or restaurant management is highly beneficial.

- Certifications in organic farming, food safety, or hospitality management are advantageous.

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Dream Job: Farm Owner at Organic Farm and Restaurant Owner

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Dream Job: Farm Owner at Organic Farm and Restaurant Owner

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Oversee daily farm operations, implement sustainable farming practices, manage crop and livestock production, and ensure compliance with organic certification standards.

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Manage restaurant operations, coordinate with local farmers for supply chain, ensure high-quality customer service, and maintain sustainability standards.

``My family owns a farm and restaurant business, so I came to Canada to study and gain more knowledge on business management to better oversee our operations.``

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Reflect on Interpersonal Strategies and Skills

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Reflect on Interpersonal Strategies and Skills

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This week has been enlightening as I focused on enhancing my interpersonal strategies and skills. Recognizing the importance of effective communication and relationship-building in both personal and professional contexts, I dedicated time to refining these aspects of my interactions.

One significant insight I gained was the power of active listening. During conversations, I made a conscious effort to listen attentively without interrupting, allowing the speaker to fully express their thoughts and feelings. This approach not only deepened my understanding of others’ perspectives but also strengthened the connection between us. I realized that active listening is not just about hearing words but also about empathizing and responding thoughtfully.

Moreover, I explored different communication styles and adapted my approach based on the situation and the individual I was interacting with. This flexibility helped me tailor my messages effectively, ensuring clarity and resonance with the recipient. Understanding that communication is a two-way process, I also practiced asking open-ended questions to encourage dialogue and gather comprehensive insights.

In terms of interpersonal skills, I focused on empathy and understanding. By putting myself in others’ shoes and considering their emotions and viewpoints, I fostered more meaningful relationships. This approach was particularly valuable in team settings and collaborative projects, where mutual respect and cooperation are essential.

Looking ahead, I aim to continue honing these interpersonal strategies. I recognize that effective communication and interpersonal skills are not static but evolve through practice and reflection. By consistently applying these insights, I am confident in further enhancing my ability to connect with others, resolve conflicts constructively, and contribute positively to team dynamics.

Overall, this week’s focus on interpersonal strategies and skills has been pivotal in my personal and professional growth. I am excited to apply these learnings in future interactions and continue evolving as a more effective communicator and collaborator.

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I am excited to apply for the Operations Management position at Osmow's Shawarma, where I have gained valuable experience as a Restaurant Crew member since May 2024. My background includes successful retail management in the Philippines, where I achieved significant improvements in sales, efficiency, and customer satisfaction through strategic leadership and training initiatives. I am particularly drawn to Osmow’s Shawarma for its commitment to quality, innovation, and community engagement, and I am eager to contribute my skills in strategic planning and team development to support your operational goals. I look forward to discussing how my experience aligns with your team’s needs.

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Summary of my Resume

Experienced retail and social media marketing professional with over six years of proven success. Skilled in retail management, social media marketing, and customer service. Proficient in technical aspects such as hardware/software troubleshooting and POS systems. Strong background in digital content creation and operational efficiency. Demonstrated leadership abilities in team management and fostering a productive work environment. Currently seeking opportunities to leverage skills and contribute to business growth in an innovative company.

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Hello Everyone, my name is Joey Tan. I live in Toronto, Canada, and I am currently studying a Business course at Fleming College in Toronto.

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Section 1: Dream Job

Section 2: Table of Content

Section 3: About myself

Section 4: More About my Dream job

Section 5: Communication culture and work

Section 6: Listening/writing

Section 7: Verbal and non-verbal Communication

Section 8: Interpersonal Strategies and Skills

Section 9: Interviewing

Section 10: Cover letter and Resume

Section 11: Effective meetings

Section 12: Upload a copy of Newsletter assignment on Padlet

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Educational Background

I am currently pursuing a Diploma in Business at Fleming College in Toronto, with an anticipated graduation date in 2024. Previously, I completed a Bachelor of Science in Information Technology at Colegio De Dagupan in the Philippines, where I developed a strong foundation in technology and business principles. My academic journey is geared towards acquiring the skills and knowledge necessary to manage and grow my family’s farming business in the Philippines.

Skills and Talents i gathered for past 6 years of Work.

Retail Management: Over six years of experience, including inventory control and customer service.

Social Media Marketing: Developed successful campaigns to boost online presence and engagement.

Customer Service: Ensured excellent customer experiences and accurate cash handling.

Technical Skills: Proficient with Microsoft Office, POS systems, hardware, and software troubleshooting.

Digital Content Creation: Basic photo and video editing (Photoshop, Canva, Cap Cut, Vegas Pro).

Operational Efficiency: Improved store efficiency and financial stability.

Team Leadership: Trained staff and maintained a productive work environment.

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Reflect on Verbal and non-verbal Communication

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Reflect on Verbal and non-verbal Communication

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I. Reflect on the effectiveness of verbal communication

II. Reflect on the impact of non-verbal communication

III. Identify areas for improvement in verbal communication

IV. Identify areas for improvement in non-verbal communication

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I. Progress made in active listening skills

II. Challenges faced in improving writing abilities

III. Strategies implemented to enhance listening comprehension

IV. Techniques used to develop writing proficiency

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Fleming College Toronto on Instagram: "Before enrolling, you might have questions. Fortunately, our students, like Joey, have the answers. 😍

Before moving to Canada, Joey received a bachelor of science (B.Sc.) in information technology (IT) from the Universidad de Dagupan in his home country, the Philippines. 🇵🇭

Now, equipped with a Business Diploma from FCT, he’s gearing up to become a business owner. 

During his downtime, Joey enjoys reading. 📖

To chat with students like Joey, tap the link in our bio. 👆
____________________
#FCT #myFCT #FlemingCollegeToronto #InternationalStudents #StudyAbroad #BusinessDiploma #Toronto
https://bit.ly/3j4eGRr."

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48 likes, 0 comments - flemingcollegetoronto on March 5, 2024: "Before enrolling, you might have questions. Fortunately, our students, like Joey, have the answers. 😍

Before moving to Canada, Joey...". 

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View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Fleming College Toronto (@flemingcollegetoronto)

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Family Background

I come from a family in the Philippines that runs a farming business, managing nearly 35-40 hectares of land with over 20 operating machines and harvesters. My dream job is to take over and expand this family business. To prepare for this, I am gaining valuable knowledge and experience in Canada by studying Business at Fleming College in Toronto.

Work Experience

I have over six years of experience in retail and social media marketing. Most recently, I worked as a Retail Store Manager at Tribe Cycle Supply Marketing in the Philippines, where I significantly boosted online sales and improved overall store efficiency. I also have experience as a Social Media Marketing/Sales Associate at Power Star Cycle Center, where I developed successful marketing campaigns that increased online engagement and customer satisfaction. Currently, I am working as a Crew/Grill member at Osmow's Shawarma in Toronto.

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I. Reflect on the effectiveness of verbal communication

Verbal communication plays a crucial role in conveying messages clearly and building relationships. It involves speaking, listening, and understanding. For example, using active listening techniques like paraphrasing can enhance communication effectiveness.

Tone, pace, and choice of words impact how messages are received. Being mindful of these aspects can prevent misunderstandings and foster better connections.

Effective verbal communication involves being concise, relevant, and respectful in conversations.

Practice using "I" statements to express thoughts and feelings assertively while promoting open dialogue.

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Reflection on Communication Culture and Work

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Reflection on Communication Culture and Work

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I. Analyzing communication dynamics in the workplace

II. Exploring the impact of communication culture on team collaboration

III. Reflecting on personal communication strengths and areas for improvement

IV. Identifying strategies to enhance communication effectiveness in work settings

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II. Reflect on the impact of non-verbal communication

Non-verbal cues such as body language, facial expressions, and gestures can significantly influence communication outcomes.

Eye contact conveys engagement and sincerity, while posture and hand movements can reflect confidence or nervousness.

Being aware of non-verbal signals from others can help in interpreting messages accurately and responding appropriately.

Consistency between verbal and non-verbal cues is essential for building trust and credibility in communication interactions.

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III. Identify areas for improvement in verbal communication

Enhance active listening skills by maintaining eye contact, avoiding interruptions, and asking clarifying questions.

Work on expanding vocabulary and using diverse language to express thoughts more precisely and vividly.

Practice speaking clearly and confidently to ensure messages are delivered effectively.

Seek feedback from others to identify areas of improvement and implement strategies for enhancing verbal communication skills.

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IV. Identify areas for improvement in non-verbal communication

Pay attention to body language to ensure it aligns with your verbal messages and conveys the intended meaning.

Practice controlling facial expressions to reflect emotions accurately and enhance communication clarity.

Work on developing a confident posture and using gestures purposefully to support your verbal communication.

Seek opportunities to observe and learn from effective non-verbal communicators to improve your own skills in this area.

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I. Analyzing communication dynamics in the workplace

Effective workplace communication involves both verbal and non-verbal cues. Understanding the nuances of communication channels can prevent misunderstandings and improve productivity.

Communication hierarchies impact information flow within organizations. Recognizing power dynamics can help navigate communication challenges and promote transparency.

Cultural differences influence communication styles. Embracing diversity can enhance creativity and problem-solving within teams.

Feedback mechanisms are essential for fostering open communication. Regular check-ins and constructive criticism can strengthen team dynamics.

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I. Progress made in active listening skills

Actively engaging in conversations with colleagues and friends helped in honing my listening skills.

Implementing the practice of summarizing what others say before responding improved my ability to comprehend information.

Participating in group discussions and debates enhanced my listening skills by encouraging me to focus on different perspectives.

Watching TED Talks and listening to podcasts boosted my ability to grasp complex ideas through active listening.

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II. Challenges faced in improving writing abilities

Overcoming writer's block proved to be a major challenge in enhancing my writing skills.

Struggling to maintain a consistent tone and voice across different writing tasks hindered my progress.

Incorporating feedback from peers and instructors was challenging but essential for improving my writing.

Balancing creativity with clarity and conciseness posed a challenge in developing my writing proficiency.

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II. Exploring the impact of communication culture on team collaboration

Inclusive communication cultures encourage diverse perspectives and foster innovation. Team members feel valued and are more likely to contribute their ideas.

Clear communication norms set the tone for collaboration. Establishing guidelines for effective communication can streamline workflows and reduce conflicts.

Trust is fundamental in communication cultures. Building trust among team members promotes open dialogue and mutual respect.

Communication culture shapes team dynamics. A positive culture can lead to higher engagement and better outcomes for projects.

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III. Reflecting on personal communication strengths and areas for improvement

Self-awareness is key to improving communication skills. Reflecting on personal strengths and weaknesses can guide development plans.

Active listening is a valuable communication skill. Practicing empathy and attentiveness can enhance understanding and rapport with colleagues.

Confidence in communication promotes credibility. Assertiveness and clarity in conveying messages can command respect from peers.

Adaptability is crucial in dynamic work environments. Being open to feedback and willing to adjust communication strategies can lead to growth.

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III. Strategies implemented to enhance listening comprehension

Actively taking notes during lectures and discussions helped reinforce key points and improve retention.

Practicing reflective listening by paraphrasing and asking clarifying questions enhanced my understanding of others' perspectives.

Engaging in mindful listening exercises, such as focusing on nonverbal cues, deepened my comprehension skills.

Utilizing visual aids, like diagrams and mind maps, while listening to complex information facilitated better understanding and retention.

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IV. Identifying strategies to enhance communication effectiveness in work settings

Setting clear objectives for communication goals can align team efforts towards a common purpose. Clarity promotes efficiency and reduces misunderstandings.

Utilizing diverse communication tools caters to different preferences within teams. Employing technology and face-to-face interactions can improve accessibility and engagement.

Training programs can enhance communication skills. Investing in professional development opportunities can empower employees to communicate effectively.

Encouraging a culture of open communication through team-building activities and regular feedback sessions can create a supportive environment for sharing ideas and addressing concerns.

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IV. Techniques used to develop writing proficiency

Setting aside dedicated time for daily writing practice helped in strengthening my writing skills.

Experimenting with different writing styles and genres broadened my writing capabilities and creativity.

Seeking guidance from writing resources and workshops provided valuable insights for improving my writing proficiency.

Utilizing tools like grammar checkers and plagiarism detectors assisted in refining my writing mechanics and ensuring originality.