Jordan Olsen

Positioning Assignment

I am very interested in working for a humanitarian non-profit organization. I would like to work in either the marketing or public relations side of an organization. As I have been a part of the journalism department at Utah State University I have developed an interest in helping solve some of the global issues that we face. I have been involved with an organization on campus called Aggies for Africa. We have done many different types of fundraisers in order to start a micro-finance project in Gisenyi Rwanda.

In order to work for a humanitarian non-profit organization I need to secure a position as a public relations intern working with the communications director of the Genocide Intervention Network or other similar organization. I want to get a job as a public relations specialist and eventually work my way up to communications director for a humanitarian NPO.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment of public relations specialists is expected to grow by 18 percent from 2006 to 2016, faster than average for all occupations. In 2006 there were about 243,000 public relations specialist positions in America. The median annual earning for a public relations specialist was $47,350 in May 2006.

One of the goals that I have is graduating from Utah State in spring of 2010 with a bachelor’s in journalism with an emphasis in public relations and also a bachelor’s in speech communication. I would also like to pursue a Master’s in communication. I would like to finish graduate school in the fall of 2012.

Another goal I have is to make contact and build a relationship with three different public relations firms and three NPO’s before I graduate. This will help me achieve my goals of:

· Getting an internship for the summer of ’09.

· Contacting and sending my resume to eight potential employers.

· Interviewing with three of those organizations.

Focusing on these goals that I have set will help me stay focused on my schooling and eventual employment with a humanitarian NPO. They will also help me achieve a competitive advantage over other potential employees by making contacts early on and understanding and becoming a part of the industry.

Talking Points

Communication Skills

· I am able to express new ideas to a diverse group of people.

· I enjoy listening to other’s ideas and concerns and helping resolve any problems.

· I am very outgoing and enthusiastic and relate well with people.

Leadership

· I have been involved in many leadership positions academically, religiously, and civically.

· I am willing to lead where I see a need but also be a follower when appropriate.

· I enjoy motivating others to accomplish goals and tasks.

Personal Interest and Involvement

· I am very involved with a group at Utah State University that raises awareness and money to stop the genocides that are occurring in Africa.

· I have read books and keep myself informed with the current situations through magazines, internet, and newspapers.

· I am very passionate and dedicated about humanitarian work.