2. Takeaways Since The Midterm
• The most impacting knowledge I gained since
the midterm, would be how to write a formal
internal proposal. Requesting a large sum of
money to fund a new program or idea takes a
significant amount of research and persuasion.
To make the proposal successful, the writer must
be prepared for and consider all directions of
questions, concerns and rebuttals that could be
thrown at their idea.
3. What Made it Stick?
• By writing my personal new program
proposal, I was able to replicate the
creative thinking and extensive research
process that goes into a formal internal
report. I went through the trials and
tribulations of writing drafts, revising and
then editing again to improve my clarity
and professional tone. I also spent a decent
amount of time outlining my approach and
viewing my proposal from every possible
audience. I had to play the role of “fortune
teller” to have relevant questions already
addressed in the proposal.
4. Why Does it Matter?
• Proposals are an extremely important
component in the business world. In order to
grow in a competitive industry, changes will be
inevitable. With proposals, individuals can
effectively and professionally present their fresh
ideas to higher authorities.
Essentially, proposals can be considered as the
lowest but most important building blocks
needed to expand a company into new avenues.
5. Applications to My Future
• In the family business, I am seen as the “light of change” in a company
that has been operating for 40 years. Being the youngest employee and
the only one receiving a college education, it is expected that I will bring
many fresh ideas to the table. The only way our business will flourish
and reign above competitors, is if we accept change.
However, presenting new ideas to the “elders” of the business (my
father and two uncles) has provided a challenge. The three of them are
traditional and set in their ways, as they have been for decades. With my
new knowledge of proposals, I can present changes in a positive and
clear manner, that will answer each of their questions before they can
even ask them. I can provide budgets, benefits, revenues, timelines and
so forth. I will grow as a leader and business woman as I prepare these
proposals because of the time and research put in, as well as my
authority as a contributing owner.
