Present Yourself

Authentic Communication and Storytelling

Theme: Tell Your Story with Confidence, Clarity, and Purpose

Welcome to Module 10: Authentic Communication & Storytelling. One of the most powerful tools you have in this world is your story. Not the polished, filtered version—but the honest one. The one that speaks to where you’ve come from, what you’ve overcome, and where you’re going next.

When you learn to communicate with authenticity, you create connection. People don’t just respond to what you do—they connect to why you do it. Whether you’re introducing yourself at a networking event, writing a bio, or pitching your business idea, your story should reflect your truth and your transformation.

This module will help you embrace your voice, organize your story, and share it in a way that opens doors.

Why This Matters:

• Clarity in communication builds trust and opportunities.
• Your story is your foundation—it distinguishes you from others.
• Knowing how to talk about yourself prepares you for interviews, public speaking, and business.
• You become your own advocate—ready to show up boldly and truthfully.

In-Class Assignment: Your 30-Second Story Draft

1. Use the following prompts to create your introduction:
   • Who are you?
   • What have you overcome or accomplished?
   • What are you currently working toward or offering?
2. Practice saying it aloud in 30 seconds or less.
3. Share it with a partner or group for feedback.

Second Assignment: Create a Written Bio Using ChatGPT

You’ll now write a short personal bio you can use for your resume, website, social media, or professional events.

Instructions:

1. Open https://chat.openai.com and log in.
2. In the message box, type a prompt like:
   “Help me write a professional bio. My name is [Your Name], I have experience in [describe background], I’m passionate about [insert passion or purpose], and I’m currently pursuing [describe your current goal]. Please keep it under 150 words.”
3. Review the draft ChatGPT gives you. Revise it so it sounds like your voice.
4. Paste your final bio into your journal or share it in class.

If you’re not sure what to include, start with:

• Where you’re from
• Your past experience
• Your current goals
• What makes you unique

Your story is powerful—not in spite of your journey, but because of it. The way you communicate it is your bridge to new relationships, opportunities, and purpose-aligned spaces.

 

Professional Image and Branding

https://www.canva.com/design/DAGvExVlnXA/3QElfgccO_s4jBONG6gnmQ/watch

 

Theme: Show Up in the World as the Person You’re Becoming

Welcome to Module 11: Professional Image & Branding. This is where your inner transformation begins to show on the outside. Your professional image is the way you present yourself in the workplace, online, or in your business. It includes how you speak, how you dress, how you follow through—and how you tell your story visually and professionally.

Your brand isn’t just a logo or a business card. It’s the consistent message you communicate about who you are, what you value, and what others can expect from you. Whether you’re applying for jobs, building a business, or networking professionally, people notice how you show up—and it should match the vision you’re building.

Why This Matters:

• Your presentation either opens doors—or creates hesitation.
• A clear professional image builds trust, confidence, and credibility.
• You don’t get a second chance to make a first impression—on paper or in person.
• When your image aligns with your purpose, you attract the right opportunities.

In-Class Assignment: Brand and Image Self-Check

1. Answer the following in your journal:
   • Does my online presence (LinkedIn, email, etc.) reflect who I am becoming?
   • Do I feel confident in how I present myself professionally?
   • What part of my professional image needs upgrading—resume, profile photo, bio, clothing, or mindset?
2. Choose one area to focus on and write 3 action steps you’ll take to improve it this month.

Second Assignment: Use ChatGPT to Create or Update Your Resume

You’ll now begin crafting or refining a resume that reflects your growth, skills, and goals. If you’ve never created one before, don’t worry—this is where ChatGPT can help.

Instructions:

1. Go to https://chat.openai.com
2. In the message box, type a prompt like:
   “Can you help me write a resume? I am [Your Name], I have experience in [brief description], and I am looking for work in [industry or field]. Please create a simple, professional resume summary, experience section, and a few skills.”
3. If you already have a resume:
   • Ask: “Can you improve this resume summary and reword it to sound more confident?”
   • Or: “Can you help me tailor this resume for a job in healthcare/business/education/etc.?”
4. Copy the draft into a Word or Google Docs document, revise with your own tone, and save it for future use.

Optional: Share your updated resume with a mentor or peer for review.

The way you show up communicates more than your words—it speaks to your identity, preparation, and purpose. You don’t need to be perfect. You just need to be aligned.

 

 

Networking and Building Connections

 

https://www.canva.com/design/DAGvEycjwlk/RrGce87yQuugAIVW4p-5-Q/watch

Theme: Growth Happens Through Relationships

Welcome to Module 12: Networking & Building Connections. One of the greatest keys to progress is not just what you know—but who you know and how you engage with them. You were never meant to do life or purpose alone. The right relationships can support your growth, sharpen your thinking, and open doors you didn’t even know existed.

Networking is not about collecting business cards—it’s about building relationships that are rooted in mutual value, respect, and purpose. Whether you’re entering a new career, launching a business, or returning to school, the people you connect with can help you go further, faster.

This module will show you how to build intentional relationships, reach out with confidence, and surround yourself with people who align with your vision.

Why This Matters:

• Relationships are often the bridge to opportunities, resources, and new ideas.
• Healthy connections offer accountability, encouragement, and guidance.
• Being connected to the right people helps you grow in influence and direction.
• You were created to thrive in community, not isolation.

Your gift needs the right environment to grow—and the people you’re connected to can help shape that environment.

In-Class Assignment: Influential People Worksheet

1. List five people in your current life who influence you (positively or negatively).
2. Circle the ones who actively support your goals.
3. Write down one new type of person you need in your circle (e.g., a mentor, a business owner, someone in your desired field).
4. Discuss what it means to be intentional about who you allow to influence your decisions and direction.

Second Assignment: Connection Challenge

1. Identify one person you’d like to build or rebuild a connection with (this could be a potential mentor, an encouraging peer, or a professional contact).
2. Reach out with a simple message:
   • Example: “Hi [Name], I admire your work in [area] and would love to connect or hear more about your journey. I’m currently in a program focused on education/employment/entrepreneurship and would appreciate any insight you’re open to sharing.”
3. Journal your experience:
   • How did it feel to reach out?
   • What response did you receive (or what did you learn through the attempt)?
   • What’s one thing you’ll do differently next time?

Growth doesn’t happen in isolation. Your next opportunity, your next level, and even your next breakthrough may be just one conversation away. Keep building—with intention.