Business Personal Statement

Getting The Structure Right

A clearly though out structure will help the writing flow smoothly; making reading easier and improving clarity around why you wish to study.

Completing the questionnaire is the first step on the road to developing an excellent business personal statement.In this section we will learn how to provide a rough shape on paper on what you wish to covey. You need to make sure that you include practical illustrations and examples Introduction In this first sentence you should cover basic essentials – who you are, what you do, why you’re different.

If you have business work experience this will be a good time to introduce this during this section. Try to develop visual sequences in your mind and outline your experience during the introduction. This can make the copy far more powerful.

Introduction

Giving your personal statement a strong opening will engage the reader's attention from the outset. Common mistakes include the use of clichéd and overused sentences in the introduction.

For example, you should avoid starting your sentence with the following:

"Business has run in the family for many years."
"My passion has been to study for accountancy."

Below is an example of a powerful introduction:

"Whenever I have set a goal in life, my mind has always drifted to the example set by Lester Wunderman. Growing up poor amidst the Great Depression, he went on to become a marketing mastermind, responsible for innovative direct media techniques such as the insert card and 'Gold Box'.

Wunderman was never content to accept setbacks.When faced with a struggle, I have always sought to emulate him by emerging from obstacles--not with a sense of defeat--but with a renewed sense of determination and greater problem-solving skills". Notice how the student has used Lester Wunderman as a business icon to introduce their character.

The Body

It is well proven that the body of your copy is extremely powerful - if you pitch it right and combine themes with experiences you can greatly increase your chances of impact and retention. It is important to remember that your personal statement must proceed in a logical succession from one thought to the next, including micro features on your top five experiences that impacted your life would form a clear theme.

The body of the personal statement should lead in a convincing way from the introduction to conclusion.

The paragraphing can be used as a planning tool. The beginning of each paragraph should introduce the topic and the paragraph must end in a "hook" to the next paragraph. Whenever possible give the first sentence an interesting angle. Each paragraph should follow this general structure. Make sure your sentence is supported by actions. 1. Specific detail (action that supports the point). 2. Specific detail (action that supports the point). 3. Specific detail (action that supports the point).

The Conclusion

The conclusion is critical because this has a direct influence on the feelings that you leave the reader.We recommend that you conclude the personal statement with an attention-grabbing sentence. The main point of the conclusion is to underline your desire to study. Read the sample conclusion below. “Through my intensive schoolwork, hands-on work experience, and prolonged personal interest, I have demonstrated my considerable commitment to business”. Remember to keep the discussion personal. How much you revel about yourself is up to you.

Next: Draft Structure Outline.

Note: This guide is not intended to replace the advice of tutors, admissions officers, or teachers; Get Into Uni simply provides advice and exercises to help you write a compelling personal statement.