Without question, and especially in the complex and fast-paced world of global finance, one is bound to make a mistake.
And quite often, if one is to truly learn a lesson, the mistake might very well have been fairly huge and costly. Certainly mine was.
While working at Deutsche Bank, I in advertently placed an incorrect order when buying shares for a client. Naturally, when the client encountered the mistake in his account, he became very angry and expressed this anger to his Relationship Manager at the bank. When I learned of the incident, I was horrified of course. But I immediately approached the Manager and explained that it was my error which had triggered the client's anger. I called the client right away, explained that I had made a mistake and apologized profusely. To my surprise, the client was more than willing to accept my apology. He told me not to worry, that he understood that mistakes happen, and that he appreciated my willingness to take responsibility.
This was an eye-opening resolution. It confirmed my instinct, which was to resolve that the only way to atone for a mistake is to take responsibility for it immediately. This is the only way to proceed toward repairing the damage. Anybody can make a mistake, but it is how we confront it that makes the difference. Also, of no small importance, I learned to be that much more careful when dealing with sensitive information, and to always re-check before submitting any kind of information.
3c.
What area of the world are you most curious about and why?
No doubt stimulated by my brief introduction through my time in India, I have developed a deep interest...
One of the most richly diverse cultural expanses in the world, Asia is remarkable for merging centuries of preserved identity with a business sensibility that makes it perhaps, currently, the most emergent global region.
Its pace of business growth is identifiable in such contexts as China, the effects of whom on the world stage, I find singularly intriguing and telling of our future. Its rapid pace of infrastructural development, its manufacturing prowess and its increased openness to such regions as Latin America is creating a bilateral advancement for both continents. For me, the opportunity to take part in this type of progress is absolutely invaluable.
3d. What is your career vision and why is this choice meaningful to you?
As I have begun to travel the world, I have done so always with the intention to return to Chile with that which I have learned. My family business is my greatest priority, even as I gather experience and knowledge as far afield as Asia and the United States. I believe that I can prepare best for contributing to the family's success by developing in the increasingly globalizing context. Even after I earn my MBA at Harvard, I do intend to proceed to either Europe or Asia to continue to develop my geo-economic literacy.
What skills will you try to develop?
A expect that the Harvard MBA program will be the greatest possible context in which to sharpen such tools as my economic savvy, my intuitive personal integrity and my managerial talents. And by studying in the finest academic institution abroad, I believe I will place myself in a great position to hone my international focus.
