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David James

This course provides insight into the key professional skills needed by managers at all levels of an organisation. You’ll learn key skills such as how to make a positive first impression; how to become a role model at work; effective time and resource management; and networking.

This course forms part of a specialisation from the University of London designed to help you develop and build the essential business, academic, and cultural skills necessary to succeed in international business, or in further study.

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This course provides insight into the key professional skills needed by managers at all levels of an organisation. You’ll learn key skills such as how to make a positive first impression; how to become a role model at work; effective time and resource management; and networking.

This course forms part of a specialisation from the University of London designed to help you develop and build the essential business, academic, and cultural skills necessary to succeed in international business, or in further study.

If completed successfully, your certificate from this specialisation can also be used as part of the application process for the University of London Global MBA programme, particularly for early career applicants. If you would like more information about the Global MBA, please visit https://mba.london.ac.uk/.

This course is endorsed by CMI

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What's inside

Syllabus

Creating A Positive First Impression
In week one we will look at workplace relationships and communication, including making a positive first impression, collaborative stakeholder relationships, verbal and non-verbal communication, and how technology can impact on these areas.
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Traffic lights

Read about what's good
what should give you pause
and possible dealbreakers
Develops interpersonal, time management, and networking skills, which are core skills for managers
Taught by David James, who is recognized for their work in management and organizational behavior
Examines key aspects of professional conduct, such as making a positive first impression and being a role model
Provides insight into building and maintaining relationships with stakeholders and colleagues
Suitable for managers at all levels of an organization, including those new to management roles
May be useful for professionals transitioning into management or those looking to enhance their leadership skills

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Reviews summary

Foundation in international business skills

According to learners, this course offers a solid foundation in essential professional skills for international business. Students find the structure clear and easy to follow, covering topics like making a positive first impression, time management, and networking. Many appreciate the practical tools and techniques provided, finding them immediately applicable. However, some feel the content can be too basic for those with prior experience, potentially lacking depth in certain areas. Overall, it's seen as a beneficial overview, especially valuable as preparation for further study or entry-level roles in international business.

Includes important interpersonal and self-management topics.
"The sections on making first impressions and being a role model were unique and helpful."
"Time management and networking are crucial skills covered well."
"Appreciated the focus on professional behaviors beyond just technical skills."
Well-organized and easy to follow week by week.
"The course structure was logical and easy to navigate through each week's material."
"Each week built nicely on the previous one, making it easy to absorb the information."
"Content was presented in a clear, digestible format with manageable modules."
Provides a good basis, especially for beginners.
"This course gave me a solid foundation in essential business skills needed for international settings."
"It was very relevant for getting started in the international business world."
"Good introduction to key professional areas like communication and self-management."
Focuses on immediately applicable skills.
"I learned how to use practical tools and strategies that I could apply immediately to my work."
"The techniques for time management were quite useful and easy to implement."
"The networking advice felt actionable for building professional connections."
Could be too basic for experienced professionals.
"For experienced managers, the content might be a bit basic and cover already familiar ground."
"I was hoping for more advanced techniques or case studies in time management."
"Some topics felt only superficially covered, needing more detailed exploration."

Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in Professional Skills for International Business with these activities:
Review basics of accounting principles
Some activities mentioned in these modules will require at least a basic understanding of accounting principles.
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  • Set aside time to review your notes or a textbook on accounting principles
  • Focus on areas such as debits and credits, financial statements, and accounting equations
Review interpersonal skills
Refining interpersonal skills will help you succeed in all modules and activities as the coursework heavily focuses on this topic.
Browse courses on Interpersonal Skills
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  • Seek out information to review principles of good interpersonal skills
  • Take notes or summarize findings in a way that can be reviewed often
Create a study group with classmates
Throughout the duration of the course, there will be group projects. This activity can help you begin developing a strong working relationship with peers.
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  • Reach out to classmates to gauge interest in forming a study group
  • Determine the best time and frequency for group meetings
  • Set clear expectations for participation and communication within the group
Five other activities
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Show all eight activities
Complete role-playing exercises
These exercises will provide you hands-on practice to improve your ability to become a role model in the workplace.
Show steps
  • Ask friends or family members to role-play scenarios to work on your communication skills
  • Reflect on your own experiences to identify areas where you could improve your role-modeling skills, and consider those for your role-playing
  • Use online resources or books to find additional role-playing exercises
  • Seek out opportunities to practice your role-modeling skills in real-world settings
Use time management apps
These apps can further enhance your time management skills and help you meet deadlines set forth in the workload.
Browse courses on Time Management
Show steps
  • Research online and ask instructors for time management app recommendations
  • Select a time management app that fits your needs and workflow
  • Set up and customize the app according to your schedule and priorities
Attend networking events in your field
Expanding your professional network will allow you to engage with others who may provide valuable insights on topics covered in the course.
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  • Identify networking events relevant to your career field and interests
  • Prepare an elevator pitch to introduce yourself and your work
  • Practice active listening and ask thoughtful questions when speaking with others
  • Follow up with individuals you met at the event to build relationships
Develop a personal development plan
The development of a personalized plan will help you keep track of your skill development and progress.
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  • Set goals for your professional development
  • Identify the skills you need to develop to achieve your goals
  • Create a plan for how you will develop these skills
  • Monitor your progress and make adjustments to your plan as needed
Become a mentor to students in related courses
This will not only allow you to refresh your knowledge, but it will help you develop your own communication and problem-solving skills.
Show steps
  • Identify opportunities to mentor students, such as through university programs or volunteering
  • Prepare materials and activities to support the students' learning
  • Provide guidance, feedback, and support to the students on a regular basis

Career center

Learners who complete Professional Skills for International Business will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:
Consultant
Consultants provide expert advice to organizations, helping them to improve their performance and achieve their goals. This course would be relevant to a consultant because it would provide them with the skills needed to build strong relationships with clients, manage their time and resources effectively, and communicate their findings effectively.
Project Manager
Project Managers are responsible for planning, executing, and completing projects. This course would be relevant to a Project Manager because it would provide them with the skills needed to manage stakeholders, communicate effectively, and make decisions under pressure.
Business Analyst
Business Analysts help organizations to improve their performance by identifying and solving problems. This course would be relevant to a Business Analyst because it would provide them with the skills needed to analyze data, identify trends, and develop solutions.
Marketing Manager
Marketing Managers are responsible for developing and executing marketing campaigns. This course would be relevant to a Marketing Manager because it would provide them with the skills needed to build relationships with customers, understand their needs, and develop effective marketing strategies.
Sales Manager
Sales Managers are responsible for leading sales teams and achieving sales targets. This course would be relevant to a Sales Manager because it would provide them with the skills needed to motivate and lead a team, negotiate effectively, and close deals.
Operations Manager
Operations Managers are responsible for the day-to-day operations of an organization. This course would be relevant to an Operations Manager because it would provide them with the skills needed to manage resources, improve efficiency, and ensure that the organization runs smoothly.
Human Resources Manager
Human Resources Managers are responsible for managing the human resources of an organization. This course would be relevant to a Human Resources Manager because it would provide them with the skills needed to recruit, train, and develop employees, and create a positive work environment.
Financial Analyst
Financial Analysts provide analysis and advice on financial matters. This course would be relevant to a Financial Analyst because it would provide them with the skills needed to understand financial markets, analyze financial data, and develop investment recommendations.
Account Manager
Account Managers are responsible for managing relationships with clients and ensuring that they are satisfied with the products or services provided by the organization. This course would be relevant to a Business Development Manager because it would provide them with the skills needed to build relationships, communicate effectively, and negotiate contracts.
Business Development Manager
Business Development Managers are responsible for developing new business opportunities for an organization. This course would be relevant to a Business Development Manager because it would provide them with the skills needed to build relationships, communicate effectively, and negotiate contracts.
Event Manager
Event Managers are responsible for planning and executing events. This course would be relevant to an Event Manager because it would provide them with the skills needed to manage stakeholders, communicate effectively, and make decisions under pressure.
Public relations manager
Public Relations Managers are responsible for managing the public image of an organization. This course would be relevant to a Public Relations Manager because it would provide them with the skills needed to build relationships with the media, communicate effectively, and manage crises.
Training and Development Manager
Training and Development Managers are responsible for developing and delivering training programs for employees. This course would be relevant to a Training and Development Manager because it would provide them with the skills needed to identify training needs, develop training materials, and deliver training programs.
Quality Manager
Quality Managers are responsible for ensuring that products and services meet quality standards. This course would be relevant to a Quality Manager because it would provide them with the skills needed to develop and implement quality management systems, audit quality processes, and resolve quality issues.
Risk Manager
Risk Managers are responsible for identifying and mitigating risks to an organization. This course would be may be relevant to a Risk Manager because it would provide them with the skills needed to understand different types of risks, assess the likelihood and impact of risks, and develop mitigation strategies.

Reading list

We've selected 13 books that we think will supplement your learning. Use these to develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a deeper understanding of the topics covered in Professional Skills for International Business.
Delves into the nature of management, detailing how to get results and build an effective team.
Great guide for someone wanting to improve their effectiveness as a manager. It encourages personal reflection and taking ownership of one's responsibilities.
Helps one to identify and leverage emotional intelligence to improve relationships and achieve goals.
Explores the importance of organizational culture and how the right culture can be cultivated.
Helpful reference for anyone who wants to improve their time management skills, with lots of practical advice.
Offers practical advice on developing leadership skills and helpful reference tool for those seeking to improve their management abilities.
Argues that maintaining a positive mindset can lead to a more successful and fulfilling life.

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