The article presented several points on the ethics of publishing pictures and data, truthfully and realistically. Even though information is correct it can still be misleading. The example of the salary graph demonstrated that all of the salary curves appear to be the same, however the range of salarys and spacing of the curves mislead the eye and caused the reader to interpret the wrong information if they did not read the descriptions closely.

     The sample business plans that we reviewed were good examples of several of the rules that Luntz presented in the selected chapter. The first was rule two Brevity: Use Short Sentences. The presented business plans were direct an to the point and did not use excessive and verbose language. This keeps the message simple and the reader on track with the intended points of the document. This is the same as a picture is worth one thousand words.

     After reading the article I can think of several areas in my resume that I need to work on. Because I want to be an airline pilot, the job I am looking for is very specific. I did however fall into the trap of trying to fit everything I possibly could onto one sheet by playing the margin game . The article made me realize that I need to draw the HR persons eye to important details through proper spacing and organization.  Another thing that could use work is to cut out excess verbage and unclear descriptions.

     The two people I voted for had good ideas that were also well presented. I chose these two after I had narrowed the list of pitches I liked down to about five. What made the two pitches stand out to me was the quality and feasibility of the idea and the passion they demonstrated for the idea. The knowledge and excitement the person brought to the pitch was more important to me than how they appeared.  

     In my presentation I wanted to keep it short and to the point. I started by introducing my idea and introducing my qualifications.  I then presented my idea and outlined the market the potential for growth. I dressed casually because you can not always plan on the situation you will be meeting a prospective employer.

1. Self Starter

2. Risk Taker

3. Good Communicator

4. Creative

5. Can work solo and in a  team

6. Quick to act

7. Experience in field

8. Flexible

9. Know limits

10. Organized

11. Leader

12. Can take criticism

13. Willing to be different

14. Accountable

      I believe that being able to communicate and express yourself clearly is one of the cornerstones of successful business. Good communication is a must when dealing with any part of your business; from shareholders to employees. Excellent personal writing and communication skills are even more important as an entrepreneur, because you often are the face of your small business. If your writing and speaking is not polished and professional it will definately have a negative impact on your company.

     My name is Rob Lombard from Bridgton Maine. I am a senior in Aviation Technology and plan on getting the entrepreneurship certificate. In this class I want to develop my business writing skills so that my writing is more polished and businesslike. In my spare time I enjoy restoring cars and flying.