Business Honors students present their ideas to General Mills representatives.
In the fast-paced world of business, effective communication skills are important. In the Kelley School of Business Honors presentations course, students focus on delivering audience-centered messages, working collaboratively, and crafting compelling oral arguments. This year a partnership with General Mills, a leading name in the consumer goods industry, was invaluable to students working to master the art of presentation.
More than 400 students who were enrolled in the course participated in Q&A sessions with General Mills representatives. During these sessions, students gained valuable insights into the company’s corporate culture and brand values, which then guided them in preparing recommendations for innovation in the healthy cereal and snack bar space.
Dawn Wisher
Senior Lecturer Dawn Wisher highlighted the significance of General Mills’ emphasis on effective collaboration in a hybrid setting.
“They encouraged students to anticipate technological challenges while showcasing their personality during pitches,” Wisher said. “This project also enhanced students’ audience-tailoring skills, a key course objective.”
One of the highlights of the course was the opportunity for students to deliver team presentations virtually, followed by dynamic discussions with General Mills team members, who probed deeper into the presentations. These sessions not only honed students’ presentation skills, but also fostered their ability to think critically and respond to challenging questions in real time.
Paige Land
Senior Lecturer Paige Land emphasized the excitement of working directly with General Mills representatives who were also Kelley grads.
“Since the students can present their ideas directly to General Mills representatives, they can see firsthand how the skills they are developing in class transfer over into real business scenarios.”
The culmination of the course including the recognition of winning teams at a special reception, highlighting the significance of their achievements and contributions.
One Business Honors team paired General Mills with the popular character Bluey, from the Australian animated series of the same name.
Thanks to the collaboration with General Mills, students understand the power of hands-on, real-world learning experiences to prepare for success in the business world. Having Kelley grads who once experienced this same course interact with future leaders is a crucial connection, because working with someone who has been exactly where they are allows them to picture themselves as professionals.
After applying theoretical knowledge to practical scenarios, and engaging with industry professionals at General Mills, students are equipped with the skills and confidence needed to excel as a business communicator.
“We thoroughly enjoyed our partnership with C106 this school year and were impressed by the quality of ideas the students brought forward for our General Mills brands,” said Jill Schwartz, associate finance manager with General Mills and Kelley alumna. “The professors partnered with us to bring this case to life in a way that worked for us with a hybrid approach. We look forward to continuing our partnership with Kelley to continue bringing strong talent into General Mills.”
