ASME Fellow Arthur Ware to Receive the Zamrik Medal

ASME Fellow Arthur Ware to Receive the Zamrik Medal ASME Fellow Arthur Ware to Receive the Zamrik Medal ASME Fellow Arthur Ware to Receive the Zamrik MedalArthur G. Ware Arthur G. Ware, P.E., Ph.D., an ASME Fellow and active Society volunteer, will receive the 2014 S.Y. Zamrik PVP Medal on July 23 during the ASME Pressure Vessels Piping (PVP) Conference in Anaheim, Calif. The conference will take place July 20-24 at the Hyatt Regency Orange County.Established as the Pressure Vessel and Piping Medal in 1980, the award was renamed the S.Y. Zamrik PVP Medal in 2010. It is bestowed for outstanding contributions in the field of pressure vessel and piping technology including, but not limited to, research. The award recognizes Dr. Wares numerous services to ASME and the Pressure Vessels and Piping Division, as well as his significant contributions to the design, analysis, licensing and license renewal of nuclear power plants worldwide. Ware began his career at the Bettis A tomic Power Laboratory in West Mifflin, Pa., and the Naval Reactors Facility in Idaho Falls, where he specialized in the design, analysis and operation of naval nuclear plants. After a brief period with the Babcock Wilcox Co., the majority of his career was spent at the Idaho National Laboratory, where he performed structural and safety analysis for Department of Energy (DOE) test reactors. There, he also conducted research for the Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC), contributing to the development of ASME Code Case N-411 (nuclear piping damping), resolution of Generic Issue 113 (large bore hydraulic snubbers), and a license renewal procedure for fatigue analysis of reactor components under environmental conditions. A private consultant since 2001, Ware has reviewed and performed DOE performance category 3 and 4 seismic analyses, conducted engineering marketing, delivered seminars, and reviewed new reactor licensing and licensing renewal applications for the NRC. During this peri od, he also worked part-time as the principal analyst for Applied Engineering Services Inc. of Idaho Falls. Ware currently serves on the ASME Technical Communities Operating Boards Committee on Administration and Finance, which he chaired in 2013-2014, and the Manufacturing Technical Group Operating Board. He was a member of the Nominating Committee, which he chaired in 2011, and the Leadership Task Force in 2011-2012. Since 2001, Ware has served on the Pressure Vessels and Piping Division (PVPD) Senate and Financial Committee, and on the Seismic Engineering Committee since 1989. He previously he served on the PVPDs Executive Committee and Honors Committee. He has been the recipient of many ASME certificates of recognition and appreciation between 1991 and 2012, as well as the PVP Literature Award in 1991 and the ASME Dedicated Service Award in 2009. Ware received his bachelors degree in engineering mechanics from Virginia Polytechnic Institute in 1965. He earned his masters degre e in engineering mechanics and his Ph.D. in applied mechanics from Stanford University in 1966 and 1970, respectively. He is a registered professional engineer in the state of Idaho.

5 Strategies for Finding a Winter Break Internship

5 Strategies for Finding a Winter Break Internship5 Strategies for Finding a Winter Break InternshipWinter break is a time that college students look forward to early on during their first week on campus.When course schedules and commitments get busy, and students begin feeling a little (or a lot) overwhelmed, theres a small voice that may begin popping up in their head that says, I cant wait until winter break when I can sleep in and leid have to be accountable to anyone. While students at this juncture believe this little voice in their head, many students also find that they recover quickly and begin questioning what they are going to do for the next three or four weeks that they are home from college. If they have not made any plans, they may find themselves bored and start looking for ways that they can best occupy their time. It is why planning early and looking for an internship or volunteer experience during the fall semester for winter break, makes sense to many college stu dents. Job shadowing is also a great way to gain exposure and make connections for one or mora days during winter break. Gaining relevant work experience during winter break can be invaluable to a college student hoping to break into a particular career field or industry. Winter Research When researching winter break internships, you will probably find that very little comes up on the internet. For a number of reasons, many employers dont even think about hiring college students during this time of year. For one, far fewer students seek internships during this short period of time. Also, many employers feel that theres not much a student can accomplish in a three to four-week time span to make it worthwhile for either the employer or the student. So while employers may be busy with holiday shutdowns or year-end reporting, students are spending their time sleeping in and catching up with friends and family or watching TV marathons to get caught up on their favorite shows. Althou gh college students anticipate winter break long before it happens, many of them tell me that after the first two weeks they find themselves ready to return to college. So why not use this time to gain valuable knowledge and skills in a field of interest and as a way to make important networking contacts within an organization for future references or to help land a future internship or job? In the past, you may have found the competition tough when looking to land an internship in your field of interest.Thousands of students compete heavily for some of the fruchtwein prestigious, competitive internships in the country. Even in smaller communities, there are many students looking to find summer work in their hometown or in their local college community. When seeking a winter break internship, the challenge is more about connecting with employers and making them see your services as valuable to them during this time of year. Start Early You will want to begin your search early. C ontacting an employer the second week of December and inquiring about a winter break internship, is just not going to work. Its important to begin your search and start contacting employers around October or early November of the fall semester for a winter break internship. Networking Networking is the 1 job search strategy out there, and it works well for finding internships as well.You may start by contacting people in your personal network family, friends, faculty, previous employers, etc., and then move on to a more formal network of alumni and/or parents provided by your college or through social networking sites like LinkedIn. Letting people know about your interests and your skills will put you on their radar screen when thinking about how you might be of assistance during this wither very busy or downtime of the year. Previous employers are another source for potential short-term internships and a way to stay in touch with past connections that youve made.Doing an inte rnship during winter break will also help to keep you in close proximity to an employers future needs for upcoming internships and jobs. Prospecting Although you may find a handful of organizations offering internships during winter break, you are most likely going to have to make your own experience happen by networking or prospecting with individuals currently working in the field. Identifying places in which youd like to work is the first step, followed up by emailing and calling the company and letting them know that you are a college student interested in finding work over winter break. Selling Yourself Since most employers dont think of hiring college students during this time of year, you will need to convince them of how you will be an asset to their organization even if its only for a short period of time during winter break.Always focus on the employers needs and be sure to do your research on the company so that you can offer ways that you might be able to help th em for this short period of time.As a college student, you have many of the skills that some of their full-time employees may lack especially when it comes to technology or using social media to advance their presence online. Volunteering Volunteering is another way to fill up your time with useful activities that will make you feel good while benefiting others at the same time.Volunteering is also another great experience to have on your resume. When speaking to employers about potential candidates for internships or jobs, many of them state that previous volunteer experience or studying/interning/working abroad are things that they find favorable when hiring college students for employment. So, if you are looking to do something meaningful over winter break, these strategies can be helpful since you probably wont find many opportunities listed online. By being prepared with a short elevator speech to introduce yourself to employers you also want to have a script ready about wa ys you can impact an organization during this short period of time.

4 Tips for Successful Online Networking

4 Tips for Successful Online Networking 4 Tips for Successful Online Networking Pin1Online networking can be one of the most successful tools to boost any job search. We’ve all experienced the trials, tribulations, and all around time-consuming nature of a job search, yet when we smartly employ the techniques of online networking, our struggles can be greatly reduced. Successful online networking is possible with some work and patience. It is first important to understand the practice of online networking. Online networking does not entail networking with your friends around current sports or events; rather, professional online networking focuses on one thing: career success. Because you’re either trying to land a new job or find a promotion within your current company, professional networking must remain exactly that- professional at all times. Professional in your speech, appearance, online communication, and social media presence. Follow the guidelines below to develop a successful online networking strategy. 1. Create an Online Profile The days of using a word processing software to design your resume are quickly coming to an end. Consider joining this shift by building an online profile. Many professionals are turning to LinkedIn for its resume building tool, as well as its accessible networking features. If your work involves a visual component, consider using Pinterest or Instagram to support your message. Other options include Facebook, Twitter, or building your own website. 2.  Watch Your Words Before initiating any kind of online communication with industry professionals, be sure that you’re being clear, direct, and original in your language. Starting with the subject line, does it draw enough attention to catch someone’s eye? Is the body of your message concise, and are there elements that make it memorable? As you close your message, did you include a call to action or a clear request? It is also important to be mindful when initially forming working relationships with other professionals. As you continue to develop your relationship, you can dive into more details about your professional relationship and potential jobs, but jumping in with both feet and asking outright for a job will only hurt your chances of success. Before you start firing off questions, you might request an informational interview. Taking these small steps will demonstrate your interest and dedication to the company, and will display respect for the time and consideration of the professional you are contacting. 3.  Choose the Right Connections Before you reach out to any professional, consider how politics might come into play, as they frequently do in business, and if you’re reaching out to the appropriate person. There is often a pecking order of who talks to whom, and if you are a mid-level professional trying to reach out to CEO and executive-level professionals exclusively, you may be hurting your chances of forming any valuable connection. Connect with professionals on a similar career level to you; this way, you will foster relationships with the people that truly matter- the ones who can influence hiring decisions. In addition to online networking, joining a professional association in your area is a great way to network in your industry. 4.  Considering your Existing Network Reaching out to existing connections is a successful way to network online for several reasons. For the newbie networker, it can offer a greater sense of support and connection simply because of an already present mutual connection. No one looks forward to making that cold call, especially those new to networking. LinkedIn also has a convenient tool that allows your current connections to introduce you to their connections with whom they think you would benefit from knowing. Networking is one of the most complex aspects of being involved in the professional world. There are endless methods, tools, and platforms associated with the practice and it can be difficult to decide where and how to start. One constant about networking, however, is that it is about the practice of building relationships over time. There is never a right time to start networking, rather it’s something you should be developing throughout your career. You should never wait until you are out of work to start networking. Take the time to successfully network online using the tips above, and the results will be worth the wait. Readers, what are your tips for successful online networking? Share with us below!

The Intersection of Art and Engineering

The Intersection of Art and Engineering The Intersection of Art and Engineering The Intersection of Art and Engineering 2011 > 10 > If youve ever tried designing and building a model of the inner ear the size of an airplane hanger and capable of firing off bursts of propane in 56 places, then you know that, whatever the source of inspiration, such a project requires considerably more engineering than art. Take it from Mike Prados, who helped build just such a structure for this years Burning Man, the annual week-long party in Nevadas Black Rock Desert that took place August 29-September 5 this year, and which celebrates wildly diverse forms of self-expression. The most substantial parts of the piece are these canals that are depicted as very large curved trusses, says Prados. Assembled, the sculptures foot print is about 80x 40 feet, with a total weight of between 20,000-25,000 pounds. Its substantial, says Prados. Prados is one of forty-odd Flaming Lotus Girlsa loose-knit troupe of artists, engineers, and anyone else, who have, for the past 11 years, conceived of, designed, and built massive-scale, fire-breathing works that come to life at the annual party in the desert. By day, hes the director of hardware engineering at Earthmine, a company that makes the tools to produce the Street View on Google Maps. Tympani Lambada at night. Photo courtesy of Michael Prados. Prados and his compatriots are Girls rather than People because they are a female-positive group, he says. We try to emphasize having women in leadership positions. The goal can often be difficult to achieve, given the lopsided ratio of men to women in the engineering field. The group has made an effort to educate itself, even if we bring in a few experts who are male. Regardless of the gender of the people at work on it, a piece as large, complex, and twisted as Tympani Lambada, as the work is called, requires a certain kind of determination and a certain kind of expertise. Specifically, a large, gangly structure needs both a structural engineer and one of the mechanical sort. For these big weird organic forms, mechanical tools are sometimes better, explains Prados. The bread and butter of most structural engineers is big, boxy buildings like what you and I are sitting in right now. Tympani Lambada features propane and liquid fuel fire effects, sequenced LEDs, and sound hammers. Photo courtesy of Michael Prados. Starting with the simple concept of reproducing the inner ear in gargantuan proportions, a form dictated by nature, the group went through dozens of ideas of how to go about it before settling on that most efficient of structures, the truss. To give the structure its particular form, the Lotus Girls linked the trusses with 140 joints they call space pigeons (thanks to their shape that resembles the common bird in astronaut garb; Someone was up too late, elucidates Prados). The trusses that the space pigeons hold are propane-carrying pipes. There are 56 fire effects and 28 accumulator tanks. Solenoid valves release propane into what the group calls poofer boxes, because they, in turn, release giant poofs of propane. Over the course of an event we go through thousands of gallons of propanea pretty serious amount of fuel. Poofers, pigeons, and everything between were fabricated by the Lotus Girls. An example of a “space pigeon.” Photo courtesy of Flaming Lotus Girls. To translate the project from conception to reality (and make sure it wouldnt fall down), Prados used many of the same tools he uses at his day job. Most of the geometry was constructed in solid works, then exported into a structural analysis program. Certainly the laws of physics are the same, says Prados Whats different is the shift from the technical to the tactile. In a world where manufacturing infrastructure is falling apart or moving elsewhere, people find it therapeutic to come in and do things in a manual wayto go into this big messy shop and grab an angle grinder, says Prados. I was surprised that anyone could do a project of this scale on a volunteer basis, he says. I was very pleasantly surprised at how effective it can be. I hope there are lessons here for the larger world. Michael Abrams is an independent writer. If you’ve ever tried designing, and building, a model of the inner ear the size of an airplane hanger and capable of firing off bursts of propane in 56 places, then you know that, whatever the source of inspiration, such a project requires considerably more engineering than art.

Where The Federal Jobs Are - Department of State

Where The Federal Jobs Are - Department of State Where The Federal Jobs Are - Department of State Where The Federal Jobs Are Department of State “WHERE THE FEDERAL JOBS ARE” FEDERAL AGENCY SERIES PART 11:   WHAT YOU SHOULD KNOW ABOUT The DEPARTMENT OF STATE (State Department) Website:   state.gov/ Secretary:   John F. Kerry (2013 â€" present) DID YOU KNOW:   The first Secretary of State was Thomas Jefferson, appointed by President Washington in 1789.   Headquarters:   Washington, D.C. with many Embassies and Consulates abroad.   The State Department’s Civil Service employees are located in the U.S. (primarily in D.C., but also other offices across the country), while its Foreign Service employees travel through assignments (generally rotational) abroad. Mission:   Shape and sustain a peaceful, prosperous, just, and democratic world and foster conditions for stability and progress for the benefit of the American people and people everywhere.  This mission is shared with the USAID, ensuring we have a common path forward in partnership as we invest in the shared security and prosperity that will ultimately better prepare us for the challenges of tomorrow. TIP 1:   The State Department was ranked 3rd (tied with the Department of Justice) among 19 large federal agencies in the Partnership for Public Service’s 2015 edition of “The Best Places to Work in the Federal Government.”   The Department’s “agency subcomponents” were not separately rated.   Strategic Goals: The Department of State (and U.S. Agency for International Development) Strategic Plan for Fiscal Years 2014-2017 includes 5 goals: strengthen America’s economic reach and positive economic impact strengthen America’s foreign policy impact on our strategic challenges promote the transition to a low-emission, climate-resilient world while expanding global access to sustainable energy protect core U.S. interests by advancing democracy and human right and strengthening civil society modernize the way we do diplomacy and development   Number of Civilian Employees:   Total number of State Department employees is over 73,000.   Of those, approximately 11,000 are Civil Service employees.   Approximately 14,000 are Foreign Service employees and close to 48,000 locally employed (LE) staff (foreign nationals and other locally resident citizens) at the 275 embassies and consulates worldwide. State Department Organization Structure:   The State Department is the diplomatic wing of the federal government, responsible for promoting foreign policy.   The Secretary of State is supported by 2 Deputy Secretaries, the Executive Secretariat, Counselor, Chief of Staff, 6 Under Secretaries, and many functional and management Bureaus and Offices. BUREAUS AND OFFICES:   REGIONAL BUREAUS Bureau of African Affairs. Advises the Secretary of State on issues relating to 50 sub-Saharan African countries, focusing on consolidating democratic gains among African nations, expanding economic growth, and stemming the spread of HIV/AIDS. Bureau of East Asian and Pacific Affairs. Carries out diplomatic relations with 31 foreign governments addressing issues including security, counter-terrorism and free trade. Bureau of European and Eurasian Affairs. The largest geographic bureau in the Department, the Bureau is responsible for implementing U.S. foreign policy in Europe and Eurasia.   Conducts diplomatic affairs with more than 50 foreign governments.   Issues include NATO enlargement, energy, and terrorism. Bureau of Near Eastern Affairs. Responsible for U.S. foreign policy and diplomatic relations with 19 Near Eastern and North African countries addressing policy issues including the war in Iraq, Middle East peace, terrorism, weapons of mass destruction, and political/economic reform. Bureau of South and Central Asian Affairs. Handles U.S. foreign policy with 13 South and Central Asian countries including India-Pakistan relations and Afghanistan. Bureau of Western Hemisphere Affairs. Staffs and operates embassies and consulates throughout the Western Hemisphere (in more than 40 countries and dependencies), implementing U.S. foreign policy, coordinating foreign aid and formulating policy. U.S. Permanent Mission to the Organization of American States (OAS). The only U.S. diplomatic mission  housed at State Department headquarters in Washington, D.C.   U.S. Mission’s core functions are to promote democracy and democratic institutions; to strengthen OAS security initiatives; to improve social conditions; and to contribute to the creation of the Energy and Climate Partnership of the Americas.   OAS has 35 member states and is the world’s oldest regional international organization. INTERNATIONAL ORGANIZATIONS AND BUREAUS Bureau of International Organization Affairs. Develops and implements U.S. policy in the United Nations, its agencies, and other international organizations.   Advances the President’s vision of robust multilateral engagement as a crucial tool in advancing U.S. national interests.   Its engagement spans the full range of important global issues, including peace and security, nuclear nonproliferation, human rights, economic development, climate change, global health, and much more.   The Bureau has missions to international organizations in Geneva, Vienna, Rome, Paris, Montreal and Nairobi where major international organizations are headquartered. U.S. Mission to the United Nations (USUN). Reports directly to the Secretary of State.   Includes the Office of the U.S. Permanent Representative (Ambassador) to the UN.   The U.S. Mission assists the President and the Secretary of State in conducting U.S. policy.   Located in New York (across from UN Headquarters), the Mission employs approximately 150 staff representing U.S. political, economic, legal, military, public diplomacy and management interests.   Jobs include political affairs officers, policy officers, economic affairs officers, agricultural, fishery and animal production officers, climate change officers, quality managers, program managers, financial officers, and IT specialists. TIP 2:   In addition to the United Nations, the U.S. also has Missions in locations noted above under the Bureau of International Organization Affairs and Missions to numerous organizations including e.g., the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO), the World Health Organization (WHO), the Organization of American States (OAS), the U.N. Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO), the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO), the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD), the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe (OSCE).   For a comprehensive list of international organizations, see http://iocareers.state.gov/Main/Content/Page/international-organization-contact-information.   Eligible federal employees and Foreign Service Officers may be detailed or transferred to certain international organizations.   Most International Organizations follow the U.N. Common System grade structure that is comprised of base salary and post adjustment (generally based on the GS scale plus a 10-20% adjustment).   To learn more about careers with international organizations, see http://iocareers.state.gov/Main/Home. U.S. Embassies, Consulates, and Diplomatic Missions (see usembassy.gov/index.html). United States Agency for International Development (USAID). Although an independent agency, the Administrator of USAID also reports to the Secretary of State.   USAID is the lead U.S. Government agency working to end global poverty and enabling democratic societies to realize their potential.   Career opportunities exist for a full range of positions (including civil service, foreign service, and private sector contracts/consultants). OTHER BUREAUS AND OFFICES (alphabetical with brief mission statements if not apparent) Bureau of Administration. Includes, among others, Office of Logistics Management, Office of Procurement Executive, Office of Language Services, Office of Directives Management, Office of Overseas Schools, and Office of Emergency Management. Bureau of Arms Control, Verification and Compliance. Ensures that appropriate verification requirements and capabilities are considered and integrated into the development, negotiation, and implementation of new arms control, nonproliferation, and disarmament treaties, agreements, and commitments.   Serves as the main liaison to the U.S. Intelligence Community and other key policymakers for verification and compliance issues. Bureau of Budget and Planning. Prepares and submits the Departments budget requests; manages operational resource requirements, and ensures that operational planning and performance management is synchronized with resource requirements. Bureau of Comptroller and Global Financial Services. Provides technical and policy advice on all issues related to the Chief Financial Officer’s Act and other key financial management legislation. Bureau of Conflict and Stabilization Operations. Advances the Department’s understanding of violent conflict through analysis and planning; monitoring, evaluation, and learning; and targeted, in-country efforts that help the U.S. government anticipate, prevent, and respond to conflict and promote long-term stability.   Approximately 170 staff. Bureau of Consular Affairs. Provides consular services to protect U.S. citizens, ensure U.S. border security, facilitate the entry of legitimate travelers, and foster economic growth.   Formulates and implements policy relating to immigration and consular services and ensures efficient overseas consular services.   Issues passports for American citizens intending to reside, conduct business, study or travel abroad.   Provides alerts and warnings concerning potentially dangerous conditions in foreign countries and assists US citizens abroad on a variety of issues, including helping those who want to vote by absentee ballot when they’re out of the country, those who are involved in international adoptions, or those who fall victim to crime, accident or illness.   Provides services to citizens of other countries seeking visas to visit or reside legally in the United States.   Serves as a liaison between the State Department and overseas embassies and consulates on visa matters.   As o ne of the Department’s largest Bureau, Consular Affairs employs more than 12,000 “direct hire and contract employees in 300 offices worldwide.” Office of Children’s Issues. Develops and coordinates policies and programs relating to international child abduction; coordinates policy and provides information on international adoptions.   Approximately 40 staff. Bureau of Counterterrorism. Coordinates U.S. Government efforts to improve counterterrorism cooperation with foreign governments.   Develops, coordinates, an implements counterterrorism policy.   The primary mission of the Bureau is to forge partnerships with non-state actors, multilateral organizations, and foreign governments to advance the counterterrorism objectives and national security of the United States.   Takes a leading role in developing coordinated strategies to defeat terrorists abroad and in securing the cooperation of international partners.   Approximately 150 employees. Bureau of Democracy, Human Rights, and Labor. Prepares annual country reports on human rights practices around the globe and have the reputation of being among the most trusted and comprehensive sources of information The Bureau also administers a multi-million dollar grant portfolio, including the Human Rights and Democracy Fund, financing a wide range of human rights and democracy programs worldwide.   Carries out programs regionally or on a country-specific basis, focusing on issues such as press and religious freedom, civil society building and democratic reform, labor rights and women’s initiatives.   Helps formulate and implement US policy abroad- especially with regard to the State Department’s increased emphasis on democratizing “transitioning countries. Bureau of Diplomatic Security. The Bureau is part law enforcement agency and part intelligence operation.   As one of the largest components of the State Department, it is responsible for protecting the personnel, information and property associated with U.S. embassies and other diplomatic posts.   Provides protection in the U.S. for the Secretary of State, the U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations and specified foreign dignitaries who visit the United States.  Employs approximately 34,000 staff (foreign and civil service), including Foreign Service special agents serving in more than 150 countries.   Has field, satellite and resident offices throughout the U.S. Bureau of Economic and Business Affairs. Serves as a leading voice for promoting US economic interests across the globe.   Implements policies involving international trade, investment and finance, economic development and sanctions, intellectual property, debt policy, terrorist financing, energy security, telecommunications and transportation. Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs. Brings together students and professionals from the U.S. and across the world in hopes of building stronger relationships between countries.   The Bureau funds and sponsors many programs for international education exchanges to promote their objective of cultural learning and mutual understanding. Bureau of Energy Resources. Ensures that diplomatic relationships advance the Nation’s interests in having access to secure, reliable, and ever-cleaner sources of energy.   Has 3 core objectives:   energy diplomacy; energy transformation; and energy transparency and access. Bureau of Human Resources Bureau of Information Resource Management Bureau of Intelligence and Research. A member of the U.S. Intelligence Community, the Bureau’s primary mission is to harness intelligence to serve U.S. diplomacy.  Utilizing all-source intelligence, the Bureau provides independent analysis of events to U.S. State Department policymakers; and ensures that intelligence activities support foreign policy and national security purposes.   Serves as the focal point in the State Department for ensuring policy review of sensitive counterintelligence and law enforcement activities around the world.   Over 300 staff. Bureau of International Information Programs. Main information arm; produces and distributes information about the United States to an international audience.   Created after the US Information Agency was abolished and merged into the State Department.   Approximately 300 staff are associated with providing public diplomacy materials. Bureau of International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Affairs. The Bureau is not a “law enforcement” organization; rather, it combats the worldwide drug trade and other major crimes through managing large law enforcement training programs involving other federal agencies and countries.   Although anti-drug operations are its dominant mission, jurisdiction includes serious cross-border crimes, such human trafficking, and modernization of foreign criminal justice systems. Bureau of International Security and Nonproliferation. Manages a broad range of U.S. nonproliferation policies, programs, agreements, and initiatives.   Combats Weapons of Mass Destruction (WMD) threat through bilateral and multilateral diplomacy.   Leads the Department’s efforts to prevent the spread of WMD whether nuclear, biological, chemical, or radiological and their delivery systems. Bureau of Legislative Affairs. Coordinates legislative activity for the Department of State and advises on legislative strategy. Bureau of Medical Services. Provides healthcare to U.S. government employees and their families assigned to U.S. Embassies and Consulates worldwide.   Advises Embassy and State Department officials about health issues throughout the world.   Has over 200 health professionals working in over 170 countries. Bureau of Oceans and International Environmental and Scientific Affairs. Responsible for the integration of matters relating to the environment, science, and technology into United States foreign policy.   Works closely with the White House, Congress, US government agencies, universities, non-governmental organizations, and private citizens, as well as other State Department bureaus.   Represents the U.S. in its agreements with other nations including: bio-terrorism, climate change, conservation, fisheries, forests, international health issues, oceans, the use of outer space, and wildlife. Bureau of Overseas Buildings Operations. Responsible for the buildings that house America’s overseas embassies, consulates and missions.    Utilizes domestic contractors to building of new embassies. Bureau of Political-Military Affairs. Provides policy direction in the areas of international security, security assistance, military operations, defense strategy and plans, and defense.  Builds security partnerships to advance U.S. national security objectives. Bureau of Population, Refugees, and Migration. Responsible for helping refugees around the world through assistance to international and non-governmental organizations and by admitting refugees to the United States.   Administers and monitors U.S. contributions to international and non-governmental organizations to assist and protect refugees abroad.   Oversees admissions of refugees to the U.S. for permanent resettlement in coordination with Department of Homeland Security (DHS) U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).   Approximately 130 staff. Bureau of Public Affairs. Communicates information to domestic and international media, including strategic and tactical communications planning to advance the Nation’s foreign policy interests. Office of Authentications. The State Department issues certificates of authenticity for a variety of documents to individuals, institutions and government agencies.   Many documents for use abroad may require authentication (such as powers of attorney, treaties, extraditions, or bylaws). Office of Chief Economist. Created to augment diplomacy and advance strategy, capacity building and outreach.   Provides strategic advice and analysis to the Secretary and serves as an analytical resource for the Department, embassies and consulates. Office of the Chief of Protocol. Advances foreign policy goals by creating an environment for successful diplomacy.   Promotes cross-cultural exchange. Office of Civil Rights. Advances diversity within the Department and ensuring equal opportunity to all employees. Office of Executive Secretariat. Coordinates the internal work of the Department and serves as liaison between Bureaus and Offices.   Handles the Department’s relations with the White House, National Security Council and other Cabinet agencies.   Includes the Department’s   “Operations Center,” providing senior policy makers with alerts and briefings on world events on a 24/7 basis. Office of U.S Foreign Assistance Resources. Ensures the strategic and effective allocation, management, and use of foreign assistance resources.  Assists in coordinating U.S. Government foreign assistance strategy, including multi-year country specific assistance strategies and annual country-specific assistance operational plans. Office of Foreign Missions. Ensures reciprocal treatment of U.S. diplomatic and consular missions and personnel as well as privileges and benefits to the foreign mission community.   Protects U.S. public from abuses of privileges and immunities by members of foreign missions; regulates foreign missions to protect U.S. foreign policy and national security interests.   Has 6 regional offices. Office of U.S. Global AIDS Coordinator. Leads implementation of the U.S. Presidents Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief. Office of Global Criminal Justice. Advises on issues related to war crimes, crimes against humanity, and genocide.   Helps formulate U.S. policy on the prevention of, responses to, and accountability for mass atrocities. Office of Global Food Security. Advances global food security, including the causes of hunger and under-nutrition.   Works with other governments, multinational institutions, NGO’s and private companies to advance country-led actions to improve food security and drive economic growth. Office of Global Women’s Issues. Ensures that women’s issues are fully integrated in the formulation and conduct of U.S. foreign policy.   Promotes stability, peace, and development by empowering women politically, socially, and economically around the world. Office of Inspector General. Inspects each of the approximately 260 embassies, diplomatic posts, and international broadcasting installations throughout the world to determine whether policy goals are being achieved, and the interests of the U.S, are being represented and advanced effectively.   Performs specialized security inspections and audits to ensure effective, efficient, and economical operation.   Investigates instances of fraud, waste, and mismanagement. Office of Legal Advisor. Advises on all domestic and international legal issues in the course of the Departments work.   Includes assisting Department principals and policy officers in formulating and implementing U.S. foreign policies and promoting the development of international law.   Provides direct legal support to the various regional and geographic offices and functional offices.  Employs approximately 200 attorneys and 100 support staff. TIP 3:   For information regarding “Practicing Law in the Office of Legal Adviser” including the organization structure and employment procedures, go to state.gov/s/l/3190.htm. Office of Management Policy, Rightsizing, and Innovation. The Department’s central management analysis organization.   Comprised of three entities as noted in the Office title. Office to Monitor and Combat Trafficking in Persons. Employs diplomatic, economic, political, legal and cultural tools to combat global human trafficking through prevention, protection, prosecution and prosecution. Office of the Ombudsman. Handles workplace conflicts that are not currently in a formal process and helps employees identify mutually satisfactory solutions Office of Policy Planning and Resources for Public Diplomacy and Public Affairs. Provides long-term strategic planning and performance measurement capability for public diplomacy and public affairs programs.   Includes the Evaluation and Measurement Unit and the Office of Global Youth Issues. Office of the Science and Technology Adviser. Provides a focal point for science and technology as a key component of U.S. foreign policy interests.  Links the Department with the science and technology community in the U.S. and abroad. Office of Terrorism Finance and Economic Sanctions Policy. Coordinates: (a) efforts to build international support for efforts against terrorism finance; (b) efforts related to unilateral sanctions as they relate to the changing international situations; and (c) domestic and international efforts to disrupt and dismantle the Somali pirate enterprise.   Develops strategies for implementing aspects of sanctions regimes.   Provides foreign policy guidance on specific commercial and licensing  issues to the Treasury Departments Office of Foreign Assets Control and the Commerce Departments Bureau of Industry and Security. CENTERS AND INSTITUTES: Center for Strategic Counterterrorism Communications. Coordinate, orients, and informs government-wide foreign communications activities targeted against terrorism and violent extremism, particularly al-Qaida and its affiliates and adherents.   The Coordinator for Strategic Counterterrorism Communications leads an interagency staff drawing on whole-of-government knowledge, skills, and resources. Foreign Service Institute. Governments primary training institution for U.S. foreign affairs community officers and support personnel.   Prepares American diplomats and other professionals to advance U.S. foreign affairs interests overseas and in Washington, D.C. Quadrennial Diplomacy and Development Review. Joint effort of the Department of State and USAID.  Identifies major global and operational trends that constitute threats or opportunities, delineates priorities and reforms, to ensure our civilian institutions are in the strongest position to shape and respond to a rapidly changing world. CAREERS:   TIP 4:   SEVERAL CAREER PATHS.   The State Department’s workforce consists of both Civil Service and Foreign Service employees.   Application and selection processes vary accordingly. CIVIL SERVICE.   The Department employs approximately 11,000 Civil Service employees.   Most of the civil service opportunities are located in the U.S., but some “hard to fill” overseas positions may be open to Civil Service “bidders.”   Civil Service vacancies ARE competitive positions subject to Federal Civil Service laws and are posted on USAJOBS.   Applicants submit their federal resume and on-line application though USAJOBS and the information is transferred to the State Department online automatic hiring system “Gateway to State Automated Application System” that streamlines the process.   The job selection process is identical to that for other federal career civil service jobs.  Opportunities exist in 11 job categories:  Foreign Affairs (Job Series 0130) , Human Resources (Job Series 0300) , Management Analysis (Job Series 0343), General Accounting and Administration (Job Series 0500), Budget Administration (Job Series   0500) , Legal Counsel (Job Series 0905), Passport Visa Services (Job Series 0967), Public Affairs (Job Series 1035), Contract Procurement (Job Series 1100), and Foreign Language and Professional Training (Job Series 1712).   Employees may perform responsibilities including: compiling and analyzing reports from overseas, providing logistical support to posts, informing the Congress about foreign policy initiatives and policies, formulating and overseeing the budget, issuing passports and travel warnings, and keeping the American public informed.   TIP 5:   The State Department often announces its positions as “Agency Wide” rather than for a specific Bureau or Office.   FOREIGN SERVICE OFFICERS AND SPECIALISTS are State Department direct-hire career employees who serve in overseas assignments at U.S. embassies and consulates (with some domestic postings).   The Foreign Service Corps includes approximately 14,000 employees. FOREIGN SERVICE OFFICERS represent the U.S. worldwide, analyzing and reporting on political, economic, and social trends in the host country; and responding to the needs of American citizens abroad. Foreign Service Careers require candidates to pass the Foreign Service Officer Test.   These jobs are NOT posted on USAJOBS as there are no immediately available jobs posted.   The application process begins with selecting one of 5 career tracks (Economic Officer, Management Officer, Consular Officer, Political Officer and Public Diplomacy Officer)  and registering for the Foreign Service Officer Test.   Candidates register to take the multi-choice Foreign Service Officer Test administered online at designated test centers.   The test measures knowledge, skills and abilities (KSAs) including assessing writing skills with an essay on an assigned topic.   If you pass the test, you will submit a Personal Narrative for review by a Qualifications Evaluation Panel.   The next step in the proces s is a day-long oral assessment that measures your ability in to succeed in the position.   Successful candidates will then complete a background investigation that is reviewed by a Suitability Review Panel.   If an applicant receives a conditional offer of employment, their name will be added on the Register in the chosen specialty according to prescribed ranking criteria. TIP 6:   For specifics on the Foreign Service Officer test and selection process, see http://careers.state.gov/work/foreign-service/officer/test-process.   FOREIGN SERVICE SPECIALIST opportunities exist overseas (at embassies and consulates) and in the U.S. for managerial, technical, healthcare, and administrative professionals. Vacancies ARE posted on USAJOBS but the application and selection process differs from other civil service positions.   Specialist positions are grouped into 8 TRACKS: Law Enforcement and Security (including Special Agents, Security Engineering Officers, Security Technical Specialists, and Diplomatic Couriers), Information Technology (Job Series 2000) , Office Management (Job Series 0318), Administration (Job Series 0300), Medical and Health (Job Series 0600), Construction Engineering (Job Series 0801) Facility Management (Job Series 1176), and International Information English Language Programs (Job Series 4300).   After an applicant chooses a career track and applies for a position on USAJOBS, the application is reviewed by a Qualifications Evaluation Panel.   If a candidate moves forward from that point, they take the “Foreign Service Oral Assessment” â€" a writing exercise, structured interview and exit interview to assess whether they demonstrate the essential dimensions to succeed in the position.   Successful candidates then complete a background investigation reviewed by a Suitability Review Panel.   If the candidate receives a conditional offer of employment, their name will be added to the Register in their chosen specialty according to prescribed ranking criteria. TIP 7:   For specifics on the Foreign Service Officer test and selection process, see http://careers.state.gov/work/foreign-service/specialist. LIMITED NON-CAREER APPOINTMENTS (LNA): Foreign Service LNA opportunities range from 15-27 months with renewal contract for up to 5 years.   The positions supplement the work of career Foreign Service employees serving abroad.   Based on the needs of the Foreign Service, positions are currently limited to: Foreign Service Consular Fellows (formerly known as Consular Adjudicators) with specific language skills; Country Coordinators; Registered Nurses; and Licensed Clinical Social Workers.   These opportunities are posted on USAJOBS with the application information transferred to the State Department online automatic hiring system “Gateway to State Automated Application System.”   The recruitment, selection and hiring process is similar to those of Foreign Service Offices or Specialists.   A panel determines whether the applicant will move forward to the oral assessment phase.   For more information, see https://careers.state.gov/work/foreign-service/lna. LOCALLY EMPLOYED (LE) STAFF, currently numbering close to 48,000, support the more than 270 embassies and consulates. LE staff are foreign nationals and other locally resident citizens (including U.S citizens) who are legally eligible to work in the particular country.   S. Citizen eligible family members and Veterans (assigned to the specific Mission) receive hiring preference. TIP 8:  Vacancies are posted on specific post websites that may be accessed at http://usembassy.state.gov.   Applicants submit a special application (DS-174) directly to the U.S. Mission’s Human Resources Office.   Each Mission is responsible for its own recruitment of locally employed staff.   Individuals should contact the Mission’s HR office or website as the State Department’s Office of Overseas Employment does not maintain a centralized database of job vacancies.   Most missions have personnel assigned from other executive branch agencies in addition to those from the Department of State.   Department of State employees at missions comprise U.S.-based political appointees and career diplomats, and Foreign Service Nationals. PROFESSIONAL FELLOWSHIPS.   There are many fellows programs for mid- and senior-level professionals.   For specifics on the various programs, see https://careers.state.gov/work/fellowships. Current Vacancies:   There are currently 16 Department of State General Schedule (GS) vacancies for civilian positions posted in USAJOBS for “U.S. Citizens.”  Many are between the GS-11 and GS-15 levels.   As noted above, the Department also has a large contingent of employees (e.g., Foreign Service Officers) where vacancies are not posted via USAJOBS.  Occupations with the most current vacancies are: Program or Management Officer (Job Series 0301) Program Analyst (Job Series 0343) IT Specialist (Job Series 2210) Budget Analyst (Job Series 0560) Procurement Analyst (Job Series 1102) Foreign Affairs Officer (Job Series 0130) Visa Specialist (Job Series 0967) Engineer (Job Series 0800) As with all Federal Agencies, most current or former Executive Branch competitive service Federal civilian employees, Veterans eligible for veterans’ preference, and persons with non-competitive appointment eligibility (referred to as “Federal Employee” applicants) enjoy broader eligibility for federal jobs than those who do not.   This latter category of applicants (referred to as “U.S. Citizen” applicants) is limited to applying for jobs open to the general public.  There are many more vacancies for “Federal Employees” than for “U.S. Citizens.”  This is also the case for the other Executive Branch Departments and Agencies overviewed in this series of Blogs. Need Help with your Federal Resume for the Department of State? Complete our Request Quote for Federal Resume to ask for a QUOTE for professional writing services for your federal resume. THE NEXT BLOG IN THE FEDERAL AGENCY SERIES WILL FOCUS ON THE DEPARTMENT OF LABOR. Federal Resume Guidebook 6th Edition New January 2016! For federal employees seeking new positions Our flagship title is completely updated for 2016. With a focus on writing the best Federal Resume for USAJOBS and other online federal resume builders, the Federal Resume Guidebook provides comprehensive, in-depth guidance on how to craft the perfect federal application to change jobs or get promoted. The sixth edition also includes information for individuals in the fields of Information Technology, Acquisition Management, and Management and Program Analysts, as well as for those seeking a career change. Order in print or ebook Ellen Lazarus is a Resume Place Certified Federal Job Search Trainer, Federal Resume Writer and Career Coach.   She is a former Legislative Branch senior executive.

How to solve silent problems Dont avoid conflict; solve it

How to solve silent problems Don’t avoid conflict; solve it How to solve silent problems Don’t avoid conflict; solve it “It’s unbelievable how much you don’t know about the game you’ve been playing all your life.” - Mickey MantleThe most important role of a leader is to face reality.Understanding what lies ahead is critical to making the right decisions. Accepting reality requires to remain open to new information - especially the one that challenges what we know for sure.Avoidance doesn’t make issues go away - sugarcoating the truth only makes them worse. Surprisingly, denying reality is the main reason CEOs get fired. A team can only solve the problems they talk about.Denial Is dangerous“The health of an organization is measured by the lag time between when you feel it and discuss it.” - Joseph GrennyFreud referred to denial as “the state of knowing but not knowing.”I see this all the time when coaching teams - people know what’s wrong at their organization but they act as if they didn’t. Fear and lack of support have turned everyone silent - rather than speaking up; th ey operate in denial.Defense mechanisms help us survive losses or dramatic news. We deny something terrible happened because we can’t accept it to be true. If data is showing our business is having problems, we tend to believe the information is incorrect - we are not wrong, the data is.Denial helps us cope with grief. However, when we can’t move past denial, we become ignorant.Overconfidence and sticking to what used to work fuel denial. Once a team has solved a problem more than once, they stop looking for new ways to solve it. Acting in denial is why most CEOs lose their jobs- they fail to deal with the realities of change, underperforming employees, customers’ needs and reality itself.Why CEOs Get Fired, by Mark MurphyThere’s a much bigger problem than CEOs acting in denial: When their teams follow the same pattern. Silencing problems become part of the culture.Operating in denial is not a one-off, but a pattern that develops through time as Richard Tedlow, explains in his book Denial: Why Business Leaders Fail to Look Facts in the Face.The Harvard professor believes that denial is the major reason why most companies disappear. He provides the example of how the ‘great’ grocery chain AP was sunk by executives who celebrated only the statistics they liked. Or how many struggling, but respected, companies erect monuments to themselves (like the Sears Tower) instead of tackling their real challenges.Does your organization silence problems?Denial goes hand in hand with short-term and autopilot thinking - we choose to get rid of issues rather than addressing the root cause.When the real problems become silent, organizations end solving the wrong ones. Is denial endemic to your company? Use this checklist to assess how your team operates. Are people ignored or silenced when they speak up? Do most of your team members stay quiet during meetings? Do they agree too easily? Are water cooler conversations animated only until the manager shows up? Are conflicts avoided? Does your company promote silence over tough conversations? Does your organization like to celebrate past successes but fail to address the new reality? Do your team members blame other departments or external factors when things go wrong? Do you tend to sugarcoat bad news or problems rather than confronting reality as is? If you answered ‘yes’ to two or more, your company might be silencing problems.A team can only solve what they talk about. Tedlow suggests that the time to deal with denial is right now. The sooner you address silent problems, the better.He recommends separating rock solid truth from the surrounding haze of assumption. That’s what Jim Burke, CEO of Johnson Johnson, succeeded in doing when Tylenol was mysteriously poisoned in 1982.Here’s how to start addressing silent problems: Name the problem: you can only solve what it’s made explicit. Share the responsibility: when everyone is equally accountable for solving a problem, there’s no room for blame. Destigmatize problems: most organizations associate problems with weaknesses. However, denial is the true sign of being weak - problems are opportunities to improve your game. Create a culture of problem-solving rather than avoidance. Promote healthy conflicts: tensions keep teams at the top of their game. Positive friction creates energy that propels teams forward. Challenge groupthink: successful teams benefit from having a devil’s advocate. Promote diversity of thinking, rotate roles, listen to the power of quiet people - everyone is a sensor that can detect both threats and opportunities. How to solve silent problemsAvoidance is usually rooted in a company’s culture - to make silent problems explicit; you must encourage open dialogue and healthy debates.1. Promote psychological safety:Fear brings the worst out of a team. People avoid discussing the elephant in the room because they are afraid of being ridiculed, criticized or punished. Providing a safe space is the foundation to build open dialogue.Safe doesn’t mean being protective; it’s providing the right conditions for people to behave as adults. Let them name the real problem, address it, and solve it - remove the fear of being fired for speaking up.2. Lead with questions:Leaders prefer to be right than to acknowledge they don’t know. The mighty fall because they deny the new realities - most organizations rather stick to what worked in the past that to admit they don’t have an answer.Let go of perfectionism and promote a culture of curiosity. In a fast-paced and unpredictable world, asking the right questions is what matters the most. No one knows for sure what will work tomorrow.“If I leave the company, what would you like the new CEO to change?” “How can we play better?” versus “What’s driving our success?”Lead with questions, not with perfect answers. Encourage your team to challenge your thinking - success requires not taking anything for granted.3. Encourage continuous feedback:The more you avoid problems, the worse. Anticipate the snowballing effect - it’s easier to address small issues before they get out of hands. Many companies keep silencing their problems because they are afraid of facing them. However, postponing that conversation only makes things worse.By encouraging ongoing feedback, people feel comfortable discussing issues as they arise - it’s easier to speak up about small issues than complicated ones. Feedback is a gift - making it a regular practice turns an avoidance culture into one of dialogue.4. Celebrate mistakes, not just wins:There’s nothing wrong with celebrating wins. But, when acknowledging the great stuff is the only thing that’s addressed publicly, people tend to hide the n ot-so-good news.Celebrating mistakes is not saying that errors are okay - it’s the lesson that counts. Mistakes are a required stop, not the final destination - they are necessary for learning and experimentation. Embrace them as part of the innovation journey.5. Turn naming problems into a habit:You can’t afford to deny denial - become comfortable with addressing it. Create regular spaces to encourage people to talk about silent problems. Here are a couple of effective ways to get started.Mindset Check-in: an intentional practice to create team awareness at the beginning of regular meetings. Each participant shares “what’s got your attention?” before the work conversation starts. When people can name the real problems, it’s easier to focus on getting the job done. Learn more.Anxiety Parties: Google developed this practice to encourage teams to unload both individual and collective anxieties. Openly discussing what’s causing stress is an effective way to make proble ms explicit - it’s better to focus on the solution than to be the victim of silent anxieties.- - - You can’t afford to deny denial. Solve your silent problems. Learn to recognize avoidance. Silencing issues will not make them disappear; it will only make things worse.Naming problems is the first step toward solving them. Encourage your team to speak up - curiosity and resolution are the way to go.Improve your change fitnessDownload a free copy of my guide “7 Ways to Improve Change Fitness.”This article first appeared on Medium.

How to plan ahead so you can splurge all summer

How to plan ahead so you can splurge all summer How to plan ahead so you can splurge all summer It’s mid-June, which means that we’re in full swing for summertime! Although summer is never as fun as it was when we were in school and had the summers off, it’s still a time that encourages us to spend more time with friends and more time outside. It’s also a time of year that inspires us to spend more money, since we’re being more social and often traveling more.It often seems like you either have to be a hermit during the summer to stay on budget or just blow the whole thing and go off track for months. But I don’t think it has to be an either/or situation. There are ways to plan ahead in the winter and spring so that you’re financially ready for summer. Do these things so you can feel like you’re “splurging” all summer!Follow Ladders on Flipboard!Follow Ladders’ magazines on Flipboard covering Happiness, Productivity, Job Satisfaction, Neuroscience, and more!Maintain a fun fundI’m a huge proponent of the fun fund. Basically, this is a savings account that is created and funded just for fun things for you. This could be anything, but some examples are: shopping, traveling, getting your nails done, going to a bottomless brunch, etc. I most often use my fun fund for buying new clothes or taking a weekend trip. It’s really great to just always know that I have money set aside for these things as they pop up. Of course, you have to continue funding this fund in order to maintain it, or else you’ll just deplete it over time. Assign a monthly amount that you want to deposit into this account year-round. As long as you’re not withdrawing constantly all year, you’ll have plenty of money to use once summer comes. Of course, if you get to summer and don’t have as much money saved as you’d like, you should increase your monthly savings amount for the next year.Prioritize activitiesGet clear on what the most important activities are going to be for you. Is it making sure you can get in on those weekend trips out of town? Or is it goi ng to be jazz in the garden every Friday night? As the summer is getting started, identify those things that you want to make sure you can always do (or plan ahead for a big weekend trip). If you decide which things are must-haves, you can more easily say “no” to the things that aren’t as exciting or impactful to you.Be creativeHaving fun during the summer doesn’t just have to look like going out for drinks on a rooftop bar or going on a weekend trip to the beach. You can have a great time doing things that are more cost effective. Throw a tiki-themed happy hour on your own patio or in your apartment. Host a potluck where everyone brings their favorite summer dish. It takes a little more effort to be creative and come up with new ideas, but it can be even more fun when you aren’t spending more than you can afford.Cut back in other areasIf you want to live it up this summer and do the things you love the most, you might have to cut back in other areas. Identify the things t hat you don’t value and see how you can lower or eliminate your spending on them. For example, a former client of mine realized that she was spending literally thousands of dollars on Uber and Starbucks. Those are not services and products that she deeply values, and that money could be going to other priorities, like travel and getting out of debt. What are the things that you’re spending on that aren’t moving you towards the things you love? How can you cut back?Have a fantastic summer! And share your summer budgeting hacks in the comments below!You might also enjoy… New neuroscience reveals 4 rituals that will make you happy Strangers know your social class in the first seven words you say, study finds 10 lessons from Benjamin Franklin’s daily schedule that will double your productivity The worst mistakes you can make in an interview, according to 12 CEOs 10 habits of mentally strong people

2016 IT Hiring Trends Technology Blog

2016 IT Hiring Trends Technology Blog 2016 IT Hiring Trends Technology Blog What hiring trends can you expect this year? Every six months, Robert Half Technology releases a hiring forecast based on a CIO survey around their hiring plans for the upcoming six months. At first glance, our most recent hiring index doesn’t reveal any dramatic shifts in hiring for the first half of the year. However, there is a subtle transition the data reveals, and one hiring trend that we are hearing about more frequently from our clients: A move from hiring more full-time IT professionals to hiring IT consultants.   One of the key points revealed in the report is that 22 percent of U.S. CIOs plan to expand their IT teams in the first six months of 2016. This number matches plans  from the prior six-month period, and is up three percentage points from one year ago. Sixty-three percent of CIOs intend to hire only for open IT roles, 13 percent anticipate putting hiring plans on hold, and two percent expect to reduce their IT staff in the first half of the year. Most CIOs plan to maintain or reduce headcount So, while 22 percent of CIOs expect to increase their team size by hiring additional full-time employees, the majority of executives plan to either maintain or reduce head count. Yet, we continue to see various reports showing strong demand for technology professionals and the ongoing ‘war for talent,’ so how does one reconcile those two hiring trends? It's expensive to hire full-time employees if you don't have a full-time need. Yet, organizations must still maintain a competitive advantage.     The fact is,  it’s very expensive to hire a full-time employee if you don’t have a full-time need. Yet, how do organizations continue to support technology initiatives that create a competitive advantage in the marketplace? We are seeing more organizations embracing a flexible staffing model, enabling them to have the full-time staff levels they need to maintain average workloads, but also bring in highly-skilled subject matter experts to augment their existing staff for peak workloads, as well as fill specific skill gaps in teams. A flexible staffing approach is cost efficient while remaining nimble as technology initiatives move through typical phases of planning, implementation and support. Flexible staffing is on the rise The results of the most recent Robert Half Technology survey add further credence to the transition we see taking place in organizations across North America. Companies are embracing a workforce model that maintains a baseline of full-time headcount roles, but are more comfortable utilizing a flexible staffing approach based on workload levels and unique skills required. Additionally, a variable staffing model is becoming easier  for organizations to deploy as more IT professionals are moving into roles that enable them to enjoy the benefits of the consulting world, such as the opportunity to work on a variety of initiatives across a broad spectrum of industries, or choose the projects they’re most interested in working on. Flexible staffing has become much more acceptable and easier to implement as more organizations are open to this approach, and a qualified pool of IT professionals are available to meet the workload demands. Find out more about the hottest IT positions in the coming year, and how to attract and retain top IT pros.

6 tips when you feel taken for granted

6 tips when you feel taken for granted 6 tips when you feel taken for granted Often, we go about our lives thinking our relationships at work and in life are ok while under the surface a subtle ember of discord is burning. Then one day it bursts into a full blaze and we do or say something that rips at our presence. At work, this is particularly difficult when it strips your executive presence.One of the subtle feelings that shreds our peace is the feeling that we have been taken for granted.Follow Ladders on Flipboard!Follow Ladders’ magazines on Flipboard covering Happiness, Productivity, Job Satisfaction, Neuroscience, and more!Name what you’re feelingYou might think you hate your boss or that a colleague is self-absorbed but that is focusing on their behavior and not your feelings. What does their behavior make you feel? Small? Disregarded? Disrespected? Undervalued? Naming the feeling disarms its power.Draw healthy boundariesYou know you want to draw healthier boundaries when you feel taken advantage of, taken for granted, responsible for someone else ’s happiness or blatantly disrespected. To understand the power of health boundaries first imagine that you are on a big farm. You have all the people you know inside one white fenced pasture. You notice one of the people is troubled and kicks you or the people you care about. So, you remove yourself from that pasture and go inside another white fenced pasture where he/she cannot get past the gate. Others may choose to follow you there, but the injuring party cannot. Either way, you can still see and interact with the troubled person through the fence if it is necessary, but they cannot harm you. You are safe.Boundaries are invisible lines between what you will and will not allow. You are only responsible for your happiness and your opinion of yourself. No one else’s happiness or opinion of you matters because it is outside of your control.Know what you needLeaders are problem solvers. They often don’t want to generate the solution to your feelings, especially to a problem the y don’t see. But, when given a choice between two solutions they can generally make a good choice. And they can support a solution you generate.Share your feelings with the injuring party using “I” not “You” statements.Launch the conversation with grace. “Jonathon, I realize you aren’t purposefully being hurtful but when (describe his/her behavior or that of the organization without editorializing it) it makes me feel ______. I ask that (describe your solution to the situation).”Build your confidence by taking risksMake a firm commitment to yourself to take actions that reinforce your confidence. Confidence builds by having the courage to take risks. A good risk is one where you know you have strengths in a certain area but have not been using them. Ask to work on a project where you can bring value. Volunteer for a team outside of your direct area. Take a class on a new skill. Spend time with people who are at a higher level within the organization.Build your self-c ompassionSupport yourself as you would a friend. You are not a victim unless you allow bad behavior of others to affect your opinion of yourself and paralyze your power. Victims fear taking responsibility for their own actions. That’s not you. “May I be gentle with myself in this process.” You can’t change what the other person says or does. You CAN change your perspective on it. Let them have their opinions. Just because they say something doesn’t make it so. “I’m sorry you feel that way.” Speak with your voice and your feet. “I’m not engaging in this.” Walk away.When we feel taken for granted or undervalued we must become our own advocates.To learn more tips on how to navigate a corporate career here is a free report: 31 Success Practices for Leaders in the High Stakes Corporate World.  Mary Lee Gannon, ACC, CAE is an executive coach and corporate CEO who helps busy leaders get off the treadmill to nowhere to be more effective, earn more, be calmer and enjoy connected relationships with the people who matter while it still matters.Watch her FREE Master Class training on Three Things to Transform Your Life and Career Right Now at www.MaryLeeGannon.com.You might also enjoy… New neuroscience reveals 4 rituals that will make you happy Strangers know your social class in the first seven words you say, study finds 10 lessons from Benjamin Franklin’s daily schedule that will double your productivity The worst mistakes you can make in an interview, according to 12 CEOs 10 habits of mentally strong people

5 Steps Career-Savvy Professionals Take to Define Their Goals

5 Steps Career-Savvy Professionals Take to Define Their Goals 5 Steps Career-Savvy Professionals Take to Define Their Goals 5 Steps Career-Savvy Professionals Take to Define Their Goals Before you achieve your career goals, you first have to define them. We all want to get ahead. Whether personally or professionally, moving up is exciting it's a sign that you're doing well and are on track to do even better. But maybe you've been in the same job for a while and are starting to feel stuck. How can you get out of the rut to actually make those advancements happen? It all starts with setting goals. Defining your career goals is a key part of getting ahead professionally; long-term goals, in particular, are what will guide you to your ultimate career bliss. Setting them may seem easy enough in theory, but when it comes time to actually thinking through your goals, things often get murky. After all, be successful is a bit vague. To help with this, we've outlined five steps that career-savvy professionals can take to define and begin achieving their career goals. Step 1: Define your dream job. While setting long-term career goals and motivating yourself are great ideas, achieving your dream flows first from defining it. After all, how can you hope to achieve a dream that's not clear in the first place? This enigmatic exchange in Alice in Wonderland between Alice and the Cheshire Cat illustrates the importance of a well-defined goal: Tell me, please says Alice, which way I ought to go from here? To which the cat justifiably answers, That depends a good deal on where you want to get to. A befuddled Alice counters, I don't much care where. The cat's retort? Then it doesn't matter which way you go. When we are Alice-like, we tend to be just as unfocused and muddled in our thinking. Related:Ask Amanda: How Do I Find My Dream Job? If, like Alice, you're unsure where you want to go next, give this exercise a try. Pull up a chair, turn off your electronic gadgets, grab a pen, and close your eyes. Reduce or remove distractions where you can. Now, with your eyes closed, think about moments in your childhood when you felt the most at ease. Perhaps you enjoyed playing a musical instrument or gravitated to the art supplies beckoning to you from your older sister's desk. How about all those pickup games of basketball? Ever pretend that you were the teacher and that your stuffed animals were your students? For me, I remember designing my own word games and crossword puzzles, a foreshadowing of my lifelong love of words. The things we loved as children helped define us, and it's in these memories of play that we may find important pieces of who we still are, even to this day. Use this information to help drive your long-term career goals. Oftentimes, there's a creative way to use your current soft and hard job skills in a field that truly interests you or echoes your childhood interests. For instance, you may no longer want to pursue a career in medicine, but you could apply your existing sales experience in the healthcare field. Think about how you could take an interest from your childhood or even a recent passion and incorporate it into your career path. If you're still unsure of your long-term career goals, give these job-goal exercises a try. Step 2: Write it down. Once you have a clearer idea of what your dream job looks like, it's time to document your goal. After you land this dream job, how would things be different? What would it mean for the other aspects of your life? What would your office look like, how would you dress for work, and what would you be doing? How would you feel? Writing down your goals and spelling out what success will mean to you will help your goals feel more real. Also, studies have shown that you're 10 times more likely to achieve your goals just by writing them down. The famous comic actor Jim Carrey has often related the story of how he struggled to make ends meet before he made it big. He was living out of his car while going out on auditions and following casting notices, but he soon had a novel idea to cement a particular goal in his mind: Jim wrote himself a $10 million check and dated it Thanksgiving 1995. Viewing it often eventually wore out the piece of paper, but the very act of writing the check created a path to lead him towards his goal. His intention to make millions of dollars by that date may not resemble your own goal, but Jim Carrey was able to make his goal concrete by writing it down. Visualizing and achieving success is easier when you have clarified specifically what you wish to manifest in your own life. Step 3: Break it down into short-term goals. Now that you have a better understanding of your long-term goals, think about what you can do in the next two years, 12 months, or even six months to get one step closer to your ultimate goal. Let's say you want to find the sweet spot between your passion for cutting-edge technology and your desire to take on a leadership role that involves strategic planning and impacting an organization's bottom line. As a result, you may determine that your long-term career goal is to be the Chief Operating Officer for a high-tech startup. If you know you need extensive management experience to be considered a COO candidate, your short-term career goals should include obtaining a management position where you can begin to develop your managerial skill set and working in the startup world to gain relevant industry experience. When you begin your next job search, target jobs that you're qualified for and will provide you with opportunities to build the skills necessary to land your dream job in the long run. In addition to gaining relevant work experience, also explore professional development opportunities such as online courses, additional certifications, and mentorships that will help you develop the right hard and soft skills to move your career in the right direction. Step 4: Make each goal measurable. Once you've outlined the incremental steps it will take for you to reach your ultimate career path, it's time to create short-term career goals that are S.M.A.R.T.: Specific, Measurable, Attainable, Relevant, and Timely. Your goals will be more effective if they take into account where you are now, where you want to be, and most importantly, what action you need to take to get from Point A to Point B. Once you identify your end goal, hold it in your mind and think about it often but don't stop there. Research what it takes to be considered a prime candidate in your industry. From then on, it's just a matter of frequently revisiting the S.M.A.R.T. goals that you previously set to make sure that you are on track to reach them. Here are some sample S.M.A.R.T. goals: Complete my PMP certification within the next 12 months. Attend at least one industry-specific networking event per month. Research online course options to supplement my work experience; select one course to pursue by end of this month. Step 5: Create an action plan. Now that you've broken out your goals into smaller, attainable tasks and goals, it's time to take action. Make a list of your resources people you know, online tools, programs you have access to at work, etc. that can help you accomplish each of these steps. As long as you are diligent in following the action plan that you have formulated, you'll start to feel the fire that is kindled by advancing toward your career goals. If you're searching for a job, being clear about what you want in terms of roles, industries, and organizational culture will not only make the search smoother, but it will also be easier for your extended network to help you and for hiring managers to see you as a great fit. But whether you are starting from scratch on a new path or looking to move forward on the one you're already one, defining your career goals is an important first step to achieving the success you've been craving. Click on the following link for more advice on goal-setting. A professional resume will help you reach your professional goals. Learn more. Recommended Reading: Set Goals That Really Matter for Your Career How to Tackle the Short and Long-Term Goals Interview Question 11 Tips to Jumpstart Your Career Early On

Risks, Rewards of Working for a Pre-IPO Company

Risks, Rewards of Working for a Pre-IPO Company Risks, Rewards of Working for a Pre-IPO Company Are you thinking about signing on with a company before its initial public offering? Many senior-level financial professionals prefer the security of working for a more established organization. But to others, joining a startup and building it from the ground up is an exciting prospect. Before you take the leap, however, it’s important to weigh the potential risks and rewards of making such a move to a pre-IPO company. Here are a few to consider. Risk: Cash flow issues Many startups are laser-focused on building their product or service. As a result, they often fail to raise enough capital for marketing their vision to investors and launching their brand. Consequently, they run out of money and stall out not long after launch. Pre-IPOs are also much more likely to have cash flow issues than more established companies - which obviously creates headaches for financial executives. Reward: A potentially significant financial return If you join a startup in its earliest phases, and the company takes off, you could benefit financially. Professionals who work for successful startups often enjoy accelerated professional growth, an attractive salary, generous bonuses, profit sharing and other compelling incentives. Download your free copy of the 2018 Robert Half Salary Guide to determine the type of salary you might expect. The potential rewards are even greater if you own stock in the company. If the business has a successful IPO - or is acquired by another company - the financial upside you experience could be sizable, depending on your stake in the business. Risk: High failure rate According to Harvard Business School research, three in four startups fail. So you may want to keep your executive-level resume handy and the contacts in your professional network on speed dial just in case things don’t turn out the way you hope. Reward: Priceless experience As a CFO or other senior-level financial professional at a startup, you’ll gain a wealth of wide-ranging, hands-on experience. So even if the startup doesn’t take off, the experience you gain will make you highly marketable and attractive to other companies - benefiting your long-term career. If the startup does take off, you may end up helping the business prepare for an IPO, a huge resume-builder for a financial executive. Risk: Long hours for little pay You might be able to choose the hours you work to prepare for a pre-IPO road show, but those hours will almost inevitably be long. Also, many startups cannot afford to offer a competitive salary in their early years, because they’re sinking all their revenue into product development or marketing. You may have to settle for being paid in stock or a combination of salary and stock. And if the pre-IPO does offer a salary, you may not receive paychecks on time - if at all. Reward: Flexibility Startup environments are fluid, which means you might have the opportunity (and big responsibility) of determining your own job title and description. Working conditions can also be more relaxed, and you may be more likely to be able to set your own schedule and have the option to work from home. Ready to fasten your seat belt? While there are certainly risks involved in working for a startup, helping to build a business from the ground up and getting it ready for a public offering is an extraordinary career-building adventure for any financial executive. If you’re not yet prepared to commit to a journey filled with uncertain outcomes, consider working for a pre-IPO company as a consultant. Startups are often in great need of skilled financial talent - including interim CFOs and other senior executives - to help guide them through the process of preparing for an IPO. Read 5 Things That Might Surprise You About Being a Financial Consultant. SEARCH CONSULTING JOBS

The Ultimate Resume for Law School Trick

The Ultimate Resume for Law School Trick Resume for Law School - What Is It? If you think like many job seekers, however, you will include in your resume a URL to your social networking profiles or personal site, where photos are suggested. In that case, make sure your descriptions reflect that information. Vacancy announcements may state whether a photo is demanded. Where to Find Resume for Law School Do your research carefully to select a list of schools wherever your likelihood of admission range from very fantastic to ones where you've got a smaller prospect of admission. There are, generally, also a good deal of different journals or law reviews that focus on various topics. If you're not certain which one to stick to, check the school website to see whether it provides any particular guidelines. Our website is just one of the most appropriate for essay help. The Chronicles of Resume for Law School Developing why you're so special in the remainder of the statement. Whatever you speak about in your private statement needs to be backed up in the resume. Another thing to remember when writing your resume is to make certain it matches your private statement. Your statement ought to have a theme, tell a story, and depart from your readers feeling that you're an interesting, intelligent, and insightful individual. What You Should Do to Find Out About Resume for Law School Before You're Left Behind The degree of georgetown set on law school grades can fluctuate greatly georgetown employers. Third-year students with professional experience before entering law school might need to use two pages. Quite simply, you might apply when you are still in school, provided that you'll have obtained your baccalaureate degree by the moment you start law school. Other schools ensure it is optional. One must work really difficult to outlast law school and to turn into a lawyer. It's simple to offer general advice about ways to make your law school resume the best it can be. What you would like is to turn into a law student. To begin with, it is going to show you are certain the law isn't for you and that you're devoted to doing something different. Some individuals meet their community service requirements by spending a couple of hours or a couple of days volunteering with lots of distinct places. Typically do not compose what you would really like in work. Because it is an amazing approach to form a social network of your own that may arrive in handy once you're searching for jobs later down the line. You ought to go out and you need to meet different people and have just a little fun on occasion. The Tried and True Method for Resume for Law School in Step by Step Detail You are able to check the address in internet Maps. Does not own a telephone number or it isn't readily available for the frequent access. In the event the critical information can be shown on page one, it is not likely that any extra information that you put on page two would enhance your probability for an interview. In all instances, be sure law most relevant information appears on the very first page. The Nuiances of Resume for Law School The non-legal employer will likely not understand what a Miranda violation is and won't see its relevance to the job you're applying for. Your resume objective helps you make a great case why you wish to study the particular discipline you're applying for. Second, it is going to dispel any thoughts that you're seeking other employment because you can't find work for a lawyer. Students are given very different heights of responsibility and projects during the summertime, often depending on the employer's perception of their ability. Next it is going to discuss whether you ought to take the Bar Exam. Working part-time is extremely popular among them, and they often decide to work in retail or hospitality. You're able to then note your most relevant expert experience. Download the internet Casino software today and you may play our totally free casino online, and be on your way to the fun and excitement of Vegas style internet casino gaming! The 5-Minute Rule for Resume for Law School You will want distinctive perspectives to be certain you make an outstanding impression. Opening with an anecdote is a good approach to draw the reader in your essay, and convince them you're someone they want to devote time with. Thus your own personal statement, first of all, should describe your voice. Utilizing job application templates enable you to make sure that you'll be appropriately laying out all the achievements you've carried out, and also allow you to be certain you have the capacity to set your thoughts jointly in a fashion that will enable you to definitely secure desirable for a wide array of diverse work in the marketplace in which most likely attempting to get. Job descriptions can be unbelievably useful in putting together your resume since they're written in a manner that makes it simple to translate your experiences into a language that employers are accustomed to reading. Last Thoughts If you're thinking of a career away from the law, realize your job search will be harder than your peers'. The majority of people trying to find a work approach it with little factual understanding. Resume for Law School Secrets Obviously you don't wish to lie, but even subtle shifts in which elements of your background and goals you choose to discuss can earn a difference. Your goal in constructing your resume is to make an effective advertising tool. Do not incorporate an objective line, it is a waste of space. Taking fully timed practice tests is considered the best method to get ready for the test.

The Chronicles of Resume 2017

The Chronicles of Resume 2017 The Nuiances of Resume 2017 Take note of these items you may include in your resume for 2017. Not only are you going to look bad, but it will haunt you down the line with other future prospective employers. 10 points is actually great for the primary body of your resume. If you still must save more space for other info, which you want to add to your resume, single line spacing is an excellent decision in your case. What is Really Happening with Resume 2017 Organizing your resume is at least as critical as formatting it. You may also download completely free templates from our Resume Library to get going on your best resume. Do you need a skilled and efficient design template for your CV! Look at an absolutely free CV template prepared to print. But What About Resume 2017? If you don't understand what you ought to start with, it is a really very good concept to pick aresume 2016 templateand make your evening easier. Thus, you should understa nd that functional resume 2017 is a superb selection for you only in that instance, if your skill-set is actually strong. Try to remember, landing the interview is the very first step to receiving the position that you truly desire! Kursmark says there isn't anything wrong with taking a bit from assorted samples to ensure it is simpler to construct your own resume. Because the primary purpose of any resume is to provide you with a call and an invitation for an interview. It's possible to communicate you have the most suitable experience utilizing challenge, action, result statements. Because you should win a competition. It isn't uncommon for job applicants to ask what things to devote a resume, particularly if they are rather new to the world of earning resumes for employment. Recruiters will figure out if it isn't. These resumes are excellent for job applicants that are applying for creative positions. In the USA and Canada, there's a huge difference between a CV and a resume. As you've already understood writing an outstanding resume isn't an effortless job that you can do. Getting the most of timelines in your resume makes it simpler for the prospective employer to learn what you have been up to in previous years and what your prior jobs were. Begin with your latest job and degree first. Resume 2017 Options Among the substantial differences which you may come across is that some EU employers wish to observe photographs on your CV. In some instances, you may use your American resume with hardly any changes. You'll still have to set your education on your resume. Things You Won't Like About Resume 2017 and Things You Will You need to always tailor your resume to coincide with the data in the work description. You may also have to include specific info. A reference list nowadays is not quite as common as it looks. Below, you will locate a list of resume examples that may aid you with your work search. The Resume 2017 Stories Bear in mind, your on-line presence may also strengthen the odds of you getting that interview invite. Today, putting social networking links on your resume has begun to turn into a trend. A resume that's too long could also hurt your odds of being chosen. The very first thing you ought to do is make sure a prospective employer knows whose resume they're taking a look at! In truth, it's not that hard as it might appear to be. If you own a lot of experience, it might be a very good alternative. The very last thing that you want to do is receive a job that you can't do. New Step by Step Roadmap for Resume 2017 Read your revamped resume with an important eye to make certain it reflects you. From the info it is possible to gather here, you will see it isn't as challenging to understand how to compose a resume as you might have thought. After you've written the correct content, select a design which best shows off your specific capabilities and fits the position you're seeking. Pay attention to the resume format you opted to pick, as you want to reveal your skills, depending on the format you made a decision to pick.

What Absolutely Everybody Is Saying About Business Resume

What Absolutely Everybody Is Saying About Business Resume Business analysis can encompass an assortment of responsibilities that are particular to the field they're in. Selling is 1 element of the increased process of marketing. As an applicant, you ought to have the identical thinking when making your very best resumethink like you're the company owner. Now, let's see some sample career objectives which will help you learn to craft your very own objective statement when you have to make resume for a business position. Bettering yourself as a company owner means forging connections that will endure. Developing a marketing plan for your company is important. Understanding just how to capitalize on your weaknesses is important so that you can determine how to better yourself in business. You ought to be networking. The Fight Against Business Resume CV is a lengthy application document and might be even 5 pages long. You should make it exquisitely clear in the summary that you have what it requires to find the business done. There are various types of general resumes, and it is essential that you tailor your resume to what you require it for. The very first thing you ought to do is make sure a prospective employer knows whose resume they're taking a look at! You've got to throw a whole lot of information at a manger in a tiny space. The very last thing that you want to do is receive a job that you can't do. Adding the incorrect things or too many things to your resume will save you from getting the market job that you want. By carefully targeting resumes for certain jobs, you are able to greatly enhance your odds of getting noticed in the work marketplace. By the moment you interview, you will be well-prepared to land your ideal job. As a member, you're get business analyst job alerts sent straight to your inbox so that you can waste no time applying to the ones that you're most interested in. Inside my opinion, a part-time job only to pay the bills wouldn't fall in that category. What Business Resume Is - and What it Is Not Our writers will be sure you are entirely satisfied with the last edition. With our specialized therapy, you are going to be in a place to tap the complete potential of your professional network and make sure your profile on social networking channels matches the caliber of your resume. When crafting your resume the very first rule to bear in mind is My audience is busy and has an extremely brief attention span. Therefore, their career options are extremely varied and they're able to choose which area to concentrate on. It's important to adjust a resume to a particular position as a way to fit the requirements and requirements. Don't forget, the man or woman seeking to hire you wants to understand your capacity to excel within the role they need to offer you. Examine the requirements for a number of jobs you want to apply for, and build a resume profile title that contains the most crucial requirements from each. There are two primary varieties of resumes and you will need to choose which type is the most appropriate to present your experience. If you're lacking a good deal of skilled experience then it is even more critical you compose a flawless education section. Different company and administration jobs need specific degrees and certifications, so remember to highlight your education. Think of your course undertaking, volunteer experience, and any freelance projects that you've done. Some folks wish to set their education up top. The job, the market, and the institution proved not the perfect fit for me. If you've been requested to submit a company resume, you may be registering the uh-oh aspect. After that, connect with individuals who work at the business you're seeking employment at. So when the hiring company hasn't provided a salary for work, we look at salary data from related businesses and locations to think of a fair estimate for what you may anticipate. New Step by Step Roadmap for Business Resume Normally, the consumer is identified as a member of a specific segment of the populace, called a marketpl ace. The typical monthly salary of a company analyst is over $5,000. Without one, it would be problematic for a business to bring in revenue and successfully earn a profit. The resume summary will function as their sales pitch. Putting an objective statement at the peak of your resume won't help you receive an industry job. Both resumes and web sites are made to showcase an individual or company in the very best light possible.