The review: Journey to the Bigger picture

The first part of the evening - The Great Debate - was fantastic and raised real issues enabling strong minded people to think about the other side of the coin; but I was completely captured by the second part of the event where David McQueen was invited as a motivational speaker. McQueen asked attendees to think about their position in the market and what they had to offer, but importantly this was not just about the job market but life in general. So to continue his message - what value do you bring? How are you described amongst your peers when you’re not in the room to defend yourself? Make sure you perform – because people pay more attention to what you do than what you say. To paraphrase: promise less, deliver more.

It seems obvious, but do we ever think about the steps we’re going to take and how we can achieve them? David McQueen’s advice to all attendees (and to you is) think SMART. Let your goals be Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Realistic, and impose a Time frame. Honestly, his words touched all; I saw numerous tweets and Facebook updates singing his praises. I am grateful to him for reminding me to not be so blinded by the ‘big picture’ that I forget the steps needed to reach it.

By inviting these speakers to the University, Surrey ACS has shown the commitment they have not only to bettering the opportunities for their members but their inclusiveness. Well done Surrey ACS.