Business Fundamentals: Developing Skills for Success Duration: 10 weeks Overview: This course is designed to provide learners with a comprehensive understanding of key business principles, practices, and strategies that are essential for success in today's competitive business environment. Participants will learn about various functional areas of business, such as marketing, finance, operations, and human resources, as well as key skills for effective communication, leadership, and problem-solving. Week 1: Introduction to Business • • • • Understanding the role of business in society Key concepts in business management Different types of businesses and business models Introduction to the business plan Week 2: Marketing Fundamentals • • • • Defining marketing and its role in business Understanding consumer behavior and segmentation Developing effective marketing strategies Creating a marketing plan Week 3: Financial Management • • • • Understanding financial statements Financial planning and budgeting Managing cash flow Financial ratios and performance metrics Week 4: Operations Management • • • • Understanding operations management Quality management and process improvement Inventory management and supply chain management Project management Week 5: Human Resource Management • • • • Understanding human resource management Employee recruitment and selection Performance management and employee development Workplace diversity and inclusion Week 6: Effective Communication • • • • Understanding the importance of effective communication in business Different modes of communication Communication barriers and strategies to overcome them Active listening and feedback Week 7: Leadership and Management • • • • Understanding the difference between leadership and management Different leadership styles and their impact on organizational culture Building and leading effective teams Conflict resolution and negotiation skills Week 8: Strategic Planning • • • • Understanding the importance of strategic planning Creating a mission statement and setting objectives SWOT analysis and environmental scanning Developing and implementing a strategic plan Week 9: Entrepreneurship and Innovation • • • • Understanding entrepreneurship and innovation Identifying opportunities and assessing feasibility Developing a business model Protecting intellectual property Week 10: Business Ethics and Social Responsibility • • • • Understanding business ethics and social responsibility Ethical decision-making in business Corporate social responsibility and sustainability Balancing profitability and social impact Delivery format: The course can be delivered in-person, online, or in a hybrid format. The course content can be delivered through a combination of lectures, case studies, discussions, group activities, and guest speakers. Assessment: Assessment can be done through assignments, quizzes, and a final exam. Learners can also be assessed based on their participation in class discussions and group activities. Certification: Participants who successfully complete the course can receive a certificate of completion, which can be used to demonstrate their knowledge and skills in business.
