Wednesday, November 27, 2019
Is There Still a Need to Timestamp Your Blog
Whatever the goals of your blog, there are many elements that can affect its effectiveness. Apart from the actual quality of your content, there’s an important detail that often gets overlooked: the timestamp. Some blogs include one and others don’t. But what’s the right option for your blog? To Date or Not to Date? HubSpot, Moz, TechCrunch, Mashable and Business Insider all show the dates on their blog posts. But if you only run a small business blog, does it really matter whether you show the date or not? The short answer is – it depends. There are various benefits of including publication dates on your blog posts. Crucially, it shows readers that the information they’re reading is up-to-date and, therefore, still very relevant. This is important, especially if they’re researching the best product available or looking for trending news. Put another way, the absence of dates could hinder the credibility of your content and cause many readers to not even read your content. However, this doesn’t mean that dates are always the best way to go. There’s often a prejudice against information that appears to be â€Å"old†and, even with evergreen content, an old date may cause some visitors to view your content as outdated information and dismiss it. So dates can be good and bad. What Do Other Bloggers Do? For some people, using timestamps on their blog negatively impacted user engagement. Digital marketing strategist Mack Collier reinserted dates to his posts for one month and found that his blog traffic started falling. In fact, his search and Twitter traffic dropped by around 25%. Darren Rowse from the Digital Photography School blog thinks that not showing the date gives the perception of â€Å"freshness.†He removed timestamps and noticed that his â€Å"old†posts received more links and comments over time. Evergreen Vs. Time-Sensitive Content There are certain types of blog posts you should almost certainly timestamp: reviews, news, seasonal content and opinion pieces. These posts need a date to help readers understand the context and relevancy of your content. In terms of building traffic and links, evergreen content is incredibly valuable. There could be an argument for not including dates in evergreen content since it will likely be viewed more often at later dates and a date could cause it to become less valuable as the years go by. But I would argue that you should be updating and republishing your evergreen content before that would become an issue. Test What Works For You One of the best ways to decide whether to timestamp your blog is to track engagement data. Try A/B testing with and without timestamps to see what kind of a difference it makes to your bounce rate and time on page. Ultimately, when it comes to adding timestamps to your blog, you should do what you feel is best for your blog and your readers. What works for one blog may not work for another.
Sunday, November 24, 2019
Customer care in hospitality The WritePass Journal
Customer care in hospitality Introduction Customer care in hospitality IntroductionTypes of Customers:Customer:1. Teenagers:2. Families: (Parents and Children)3. Business clientele:Customer Care policy:1. Quick service:2. Quality policy:3. Equal opportunities policy(Internal customer policy):Evaluate the Customer Care policy:a) Internal customer:b) Position of the Organisation: c) Trends:d) Targets:a) Listening to the customer:b) Provide appropriate tranning to the staff: c) Analysis of customer complaints and feedback at your regular intervals:ConclusionRelated Introduction McDonald’s is the biggest fast food service company in the world. McDonalds provide a fast food meals and soft drink to eat in restaurant or take away. McDonald which is located near the Broadway centre is providing a better service to the customers. This outlet is getting very busy in peak hours due to its location. It is in the centre of a major public transport hub. This outlet is established from last 30 years. There are 32,000 restaurants, who served 55 million people in a day. McDonald’s having an outlet in more than 118 countries all over the world. McDonalds first opened in California, USA. In 1940 Mr. ray Kroc take over a franchisee of the McDonalds brother (Dick and Mac) and started opening the new restaurant according to the McDonalds concept. In 1974, McDonalds started his first restaurant in United Kingdom. As of 31st December 2001, McDonalds and his franchisees running over 1,184 outlets in the United Kingdom. The reason to choose this organization because McDonald gives the best quality of foods and beverages to the customers in a lower price. McDonalds gives high standard of service to achieve their customer expectations. McDonalds knows the value of customer. allinlondon.co.uk/directory/1165/19839.php                                                                                                                                1 Types of Customers: Customer: Customers are actual who purchase the Product / Services. Hospitality Industry Customer Hospitality having a various kind of Customer which   is depends on their Needs, Budget, Expectations and Satisfaction. This Hospitality business had different types of customer which include Families, Teenagers and Business Clientele etc. 1. Teenagers: It is cheaper than other organizations. So, most of teenagers find it more affordable and some McDonald outlets offer a internet facilities in their restaurants, which is become common in most of the restaurants to increase the customers. Lots of the teenagers find easier to take a quick bite, which save more time of teenagers. There is also a student discount. 2. Families: (Parents and Children) Most of the children love to have a food and Beverages in McDonalds so, many families take their children to enjoy the McDonald environment. There are different types of menu which includes light and heavy food. McDonald also research the health issues of the customer. Most of the McDonald serves the health conscious food in their outlets for examples; they are using less salt and oil in the food to provide the health conscious food to every customer. 3. Business clientele: Business customer are always in rush for working in the morning. Normally Business customers always have a short period of time to spend a break. So, they prefer the McDonald for takeaway according to their needs and expectations. McDonald provide a quick and efficient service to the business people without wasting their priceless time. McDonalds which is located in Hammersmith Broadway, there are Disney store where the families are coming with their children to do the shopping for the kids. This McDonald has a many number of customers because of it location, like tube station and shopping mall are nearby to the McDonald. So, therefore that outlet having a different types of age group customers. The price of McDonald keeps on changing but the McDonald at Hammersmith Broadway has a happy meal for the kid’s party at Just 5.99 pound. The starting and closing time of the McDonald at Hammersmith Broadway is Monday to Sunday (6.00a.m to 23.00p.m) But on Friday it open till 12.00a.m in night. McDonald at Hammersmith Broadway provides a best service to the customer and they know the value of the customers. Also, they know how to make a profit to the organization to keeps a guest happy. McDonald’s Corporation (2008) Customer Care policy: 1. Quick service:  According to their services McDonalds gives a 100% satisfactions to the customer McDonald ensure that each and every order goes correctly and always double checked done by the team members. If any mistake has been done in the customer order and they are not satisfied with their service, McDonald policy is that to make it correct by offer complementary meal to the customer for service recovery. McDonalds have different types of policy while dealing with customer. They follow first order goes first and then to second order. According to this policy the operation always remain smooth and the customers always be happy with the efficient service. This policy helps them to work easily and provide excellent and quality service to the customer. http:www.makeupyourownmind.co.uk/questions/how-do-you-operate/customer –service/index8.html#question11 2. Quality policy: The management of McDonald’s constantly strives to: 1)    Improving its standards of food safety and hygiene 2)    Providing excellent customer service 3)    Food safety programmes and Assurance of quality. 4)    Control of every link in its supply chain. Management of mcdonalds is committed to maintain the highest standards in terms of quality,value and cleanliness. The management is fully determined in exceeding its customer needs in the way of quality assurance and foof safety programmes. Effective communication on all the levels is the key for keeping tracks of guest complaints and following up with necessary measures. 3. Equal opportunities policy(Internal customer policy): According to the policy, every employee had equal rights. So, employees love to work comfortable in a proper environment. There is no discrimination of age, nationality, disabled, ethnic origin, sex, marital status, sexual orientation, race, and colour. They prefer if you make your staff happy than staff will make your guest happy. Every employee treated with respect and provided training and development educations to improve their skills and knowledge , so that training would make them professional towards their work, it includes health and safety, secure working, hygiene and environment. Any employee who is found guilty for unlawful discrimination may face disciplinary action. bized.co.uk/comfact/mcdonalds/mc15.htm Importance of Effective Customer care in hospitality: Customer Service is the essence of hospitality industry. Customers are the back bone for the success of any organisation. Effective communication on all levels of the organisation is very important to impress or disappoint each customer. Every hotelier should be attentive and passionate about customer needs. If the customers are satisfied, you are building a relationship based on trust and loyalty. If the organization is successful in meeting the customer needs, then the customers are more likely to come again to the hotels or become regular customer for that organisation. Some organisation may provide the best service, but they are not fast enough, hence it may lose the important customers and several other referrals. McDonalds always strives to take good care of their customers and provide a service that exceeds customers expectations by providing and offering various options in their menu and encouraging the customers for any feedback or suggestions. McDonald works on the principle that the customer needs to be treated with priority and he should see value as well as quality in what he gets. Every management tries its level best to meet or exceed the customer expectations as it the only mantra for any organization to increase its revenue. The happier customers are more likely to spend more at your establishment. If they are given some small discounts or vouchers, it is more likely that they some back the next day and spend even more on of the other products of your organization. If the staff is friendly and polite it acts as cherry on the cake as the customers some back knowing that they will get a good customer service with a smile and acknowledgment. McDonald believes that it’s better to find a solution for a problem rather than running away from it. The staff are given appropriate training to deal any consequences or problems hence McDonald always encourages its associates to solve any problems which also motivates and builds confidence in them and makes the customer happy making a good impression of the organization. McDonalds’ provides highest level of quality, food, service and hygiene at each and every restaurant. The key for its success is constantly monitoring and keeping a track of guest complaints and acting on the feedbacks given by customers to make necessary changes in terms of service, food, quality, and value for money which urges the customers to come back again and again. McDonalds encourages all its associates and customer care department to be open for any feedback from the customers and act on it. Meeting the customer needs is very important for any organization to make profit and for that it is very important to recognize what the customer wants and how much is willing to pay for it. Evaluate the Customer Care policy: Why to evaluate? a) Internal customer: By evaluating the internal customer of a specific age helps to built a relationship with the same age group customers. By checking the evaluation of internal customer and the policies which were implied by the company for the customer helps us to know the benefit of the policy which was implemented. b) Position of the Organisation: By evaluating the organisation comes to know the position, strength, weakness and rating. It helps to compare the organisation with other competitor. There is some point’s like- What’s going on in the market? What are the competitor’s policies? How the Organisation will use it in an effective way? c) Trends: There are different types of trends in the market. By evaluating we come to know the latest trends in the market and new technology through which guest will be attracted. d) Targets: Every organisation has a goals and targets. It is also helps to complete the targets and achieve the goals of the company and to get the regular business. How to evaluate? a) Listening to the customer: It is very important in any organisation to listen to the customer complaints or suggessions in order to meet or exceed his expectations. According to Avril owton Customer love to share and talk about their experience and give suggestions to improve the service or standards. b) Provide appropriate tranning to the staff: It is the staff who represents your organisation, in other words they are the face of your organisation. It is the staff who will delever the final product to the customer an make him happy. Hence the primary objective of any organisation to keep iots policies intact is to providew appropriate traning to its staff in terms of the service to be delivered better than the competitors. (William.bmartin,1993) c) Analysis of customer complaints and feedback at your regular intervals: It is very important for any oraganisation to analyse the customer complaints as well act on it as soon as possible to win the customers loyalty. Organisation should also give a proper feedback to the customers.(avril owton) Conclusion It is clear that the good customer service is vital in any kind of business. The good customer care always performs best in front of the guest. In results, the satisfied customers always return to the business and give the profit to the organisation. According to the McDonalds â€Å"success of their restaurant is gained through their customer†. McDonalds build a good reputation with a customer so, they knows the expectation and demand of the customer always been change. McDonalds always do a market research from which they got information about customer likes and dislikes. According to market research McDonald implement the new things to attract the customer. They know if the customers receive the good service than the customer will be regular for the organisation
Thursday, November 21, 2019
Famous Insanity Defense Cases Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words
Famous Insanity Defense Cases - Essay Example Insanity defense dates back from Ancient Greece and Rome, however, the first definition that is closer to the modern definition of insanity defense was given by an English Court, in 1843, the insane person being compared to a wild beast. However, an earlier definition explains insane defense as it follows: â€Å"If a madman or a natural fool, or a lunatic in the time of his lunacy do [kill a man], this is no felonious act for they cannot be said to have any understanding will.†In the USA, some of the leading historical moments directly connected to the insane defense are: the case Durham v. United States , (which established the Durham rule, also known as the â€Å"Product test†), the drafting of the American Law Institute Test (1953), the Hinckley case , which led to the adoption of Insanity Defense Reform Act in 1984 and the well known Andrea Yates case. The Andrea Yates case is one of the most mediated criminal cases involving insanity defense of the 21st century. Unfortunately, this is due to its dramatic implications. However, in spite of the horrifying implications, the defense attorneys managed to prove her mental instability and avoid her being convicted to prison for life time or maybe even death penalty. Andrea Yates is woman from Texas who one day killed all of her five children by drowning them, and after that, she called her husband and the police and let them know what she had done. The theories regarding this case are numerous and they continue to appear. Some are sure that the woman was suffering from a severe mental disorder, others disagree. The first trial found Andrea Yates guilty and gave her a life sentence. She was granted a second trial one year later and the jury found her not guilty by reason of insanity. The defense attorneys focused on proving Andrea Yates’ mental illness, which according to family, f riends and psychiatrists who had treated her in the past, was a FACT. In spite of the prosecution expert – Dr. Welner and other evidence, Andrea pleaded not guilty during the second trial. Dr. Park Dietz made a list of events that had affected Andrea Yates during her life and may have contributed to her mental disorder: â€Å"Giving up her career; Giving up her possessions; Changing her
Wednesday, November 20, 2019
My understanding of counselling PCA Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1500 words
My understanding of counselling PCA - Essay Example To answer the question in some detail, let us go back to the antecedents of counselling. Traditionally, people suffering from extreme abnormalities in thought and behaviour, unable to live ‘resourcefully’, were seen as mentally ill, and either isolated and/or were treated by psychiatrists using psychotropic medication. However, the vast majority of those identified as suffering from some type of mental disorder did not require hospitalisation, or drug treatment throughout their recovery phase. What they needed was psychotherapy, described as ‘talking cures’, where characteristically psychoanalysis held sway during the early part of the 20th century, until behavioural and cognitive therapies became more prevalent. Increasingly, psychoanalysis could not be justified not only on scientific grounds, but also on cost and length of treatment. It gave way to cognitive behavioural therapies modelled on learning theory based on Pavlovian classical conditioning and Sk innerian operant conditioning. Those who sought or needed such psychotherapeutic interventions were ‘patients’, and, conversely, those who treated them were drawn from the medical profession. In addition to psychiatrists, clinical psychologists in hospital settings also became providers in the care of these patients. Counselling evolved as an intervention outside the medical context offered by practitioners drawn from disciplines other than strictly within the medical establishment. An inability to cope with ordinary everyday life increasingly devoid of traditional supporting mechanisms of family, church (orthodox religion), and community, mostly in industrialised societies, left a growing populace vulnerable to psychological stress. Counselling therefore, happens to be a much broader concept than psychotherapy (or simply temed therapy) which evolved from more existential, philosophical and humanistic roots. Those who sought help from counsellors were not identified as patients. Not only were individuals seeking ‘greater well-being’ catered for, but those seeking help in specific contexts such as careers counselling and marriage guidance counselling meant that there was no longer a stigma attached to counselling. Indeed the origin of the very term counselling is ascribed to Frank Parsons (1909) at the beginning of the twentieth century who initiated help for young people with problems in finding suitable employment. Today, there is a continuum of helping interventions that range from intensive psychotherapy through counselling, to co-counselling, and to life coaching, where practitioners range from medical specialists to those drawn from varied walks of life, but with appropriate and recognised counsellor training. The relationship between the counsellor and the counselled is one of equality. The counsellor does not set him/herself up as an expert. The client is the expert on him/herself. The counsellor explores with the counselled, o ptions elicited during the counselling process. By meeting at regular intervals the counsellor helps the counselled to commit to agreed upon courses of action gently but firmly holding him/her responsible for the outcome. Counselling is a burgeoning profession and the recognition afforded its mainstream practitioners is a testament to its enduring value. It is necessary to look more closely at the theoretical underpinnings of the practice of counselling. A recent analysis of the
Sunday, November 17, 2019
Case Study Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words - 33
Case Study Example Both lines of product compete for the company resources. Recently, the standard line of furniture has seen a significant increase in sales. As a result, the company has increased the labor hours for this line. However, the customized furniture line still gains precedence due to its huge profit margin. The company’s founder is quick to note the company’s growth in his review (Rice, 2003). However, the finance department has revealed that the inventory has tied up huge amount of cash. As a result, the inventory holding costs continue to increase. Additionally, the increasing lead times is causing more delays in delivery of both lines of production. As a result, the company management has been forced to re-examine the impact of the standard line furniture on the entire production process. Qatar has adopted an economic model that has led to the boom especially in the furniture industry. Small-scale production of furniture is not enough to meet its growing demand. As a result, a number of large-scale furniture manufacturing companies have cropped up in all corners of the country. Under this section, an analysis is provided of the strength and weaknesses of Gulf Creative Ideas. Since its inception, the company sales have rose dramatically. It has identified affluent consumers as its target market. High-end consumers are less price-sensitive and provide unique design specification for their furniture. The company has exploited this niche fully and this as translated to its continued growth in revenue. Chapter 1 is concerned with the operation management: activities that oversee the production process. Under the organization chart, inventory management is part of these activities in the manufacturing process. Chapter 2 analyzes the need for a mission statement and the operation strategies that follows. Gulf Creative Ideas should focus on the strategies that augment its competitive advantage. With regard to the sixth chapter, quality improvement is a
Friday, November 15, 2019
Effect of Parent Addiction on Children
Effect of Parent Addiction on Children Antonio Latham Children of Parents with Addiction Drug and alcohol addiction is prevalent in America. Within the U.S., there has been an increasing emphasis and mounting research on how parental addiction impacts the lives of children (Barnard McKeganey, 2004). This alarm is being powered in part by the escalation of disturbing incidents involving extreme neglect and abuse that children of drug or alcohol addicted parented subject them to (Barnard McKeganey, 2004). Studies now show that children who reside with parents who suffer from any substance addiction are likely to be unstable, demonstrate severe emotional and behavioral issues (Barnard McKeganey, 2004). Moreover, this present great challenges for children matriculating through school (Barnard McKeganey, 2004). These children are frequently exposed to one or both substance dependent parents that are unstable and chaotic places where drugs and criminal activity occur regularly (Barnard McKeganey, 2004). For U.S. citizens working with such families and children, it is impo rtant to recognize substance abuse early and confront the difficult needs of parents with substance addiction and those of their children (Barnard McKeganey, 2004). Over the last several years, researchers and advocates of child’s rights have developed advanced strategies and programs that have facilitated innovative guidelines for a more efficient, cooperative, and holistic approach to helping the parent and child (Barnard McKeganey, 2004). This paper will analyze the behavioral, academic, and development problems associated with growing up in a household where a parent suffers from drug or alcohol addiction. Additionally, this paper will provide information on the connection between substance addiction and child neglect. It will also explore explains approaches for prevention, intervention, and treatment that including examples of effective programs and practices. Behavioral, Academic, Development Impact When mothers or fathers abuse substances, this greatly impact the behavioral, academic, and development growth of the children. Studies show that these children are more likely to suffer signs of depression and anxiety, experience mental instability and display conduct problems (McKeganey, Barnard, McIntosh, 2002). All of these issues have both long-term and short-term effects; in which will determine the life trajectory these children will follow. Academically, these children often score lower on school academic exams and exhibit various signs of struggles in school such continued conflict with peers (McKeganey, Barnard, McIntosh, 2002). Children of parents with addiction may demonstrate behaviors that are difficult for their addicted parents to effectively handle (McKeganey, Barnard, McIntosh, 2002). This can produce unreliable parenting and the likelihood the child will be removed from their parental homes. Studies on children’s behavioral issues reveal that children of drug abusers exhibit some of the following characteristic: lack of compassion for other individuals; reduced social interaction and interpersonal engagement; low self-confidence; and defiance against authority (McKeganey, Barnard, McIntosh, 2002). For proper development, children need positive social and emotional reinforcement, especially from their parents. Children are more capable of reaching their optimal potential if they experience steady, certain, enhanced, and motivating relations with their family and other relationships (McKeganey, Barnard, McIntosh, 2002). A lack of this has been generally linked to developmental problems for the child. For instance, when a child suffers repeated instance of neglect from the parent, especially during the young developmental stages, activation of the stress response systems is severally damaged (McKeganey, Barnard, McIntosh, 2002). The often result in the child responding to normal situations in a threatening or alarm manner (McKeganey, Barnard, McIntosh, 2002). Long-term Impact for Children Children of substance-addicted parents will often have lingering effects long into adulthood that will impact their maturity (Haggerty, Skinner, Fleming, Gainey, Catalano, 2008). Although it is important to note that not all children will experience long-term consequence, however, they may have an increased vulnerability. Parental substance addiction can have a plethora of long-term effects on their physical well-being (Haggerty et al, 2008). These include poor brain development and increased chances of obesity and malnutrition (Haggerty et al, 2008). The more instantaneous emotional effects of parental substance addiction produce feelings of loneliness, depression anxiety, and an unwillingness to trust (Haggerty et al, 2008). These can translate into permanent mental consequences in adulthood, including low self-worth, insecurity, and relationship problems (Haggerty et al, 2008). Research steadily reveals an increased probability that children who have lived with substance addicted parents will eventually take on negative habits such as smoking, abusing alcohol, or engaging in illegal drugs (Haggerty et al, 2008). Prevention Intervention Strategies To end the cycle of destruction and decrease the possibility of lasting effects, researchers agree that there must be continued development and implementation of methods to prevent substance addiction from occurring and dangerously effecting children (Fraser, McIntyre, Manby, 2009). While experts concede that the causes of substance addiction and its effects on children are complex, it is probable to formulate prevention strategies that tackle recognized risk factors (Fraser, McIntyre, Manby, 2009). Prevention initiatives are best to thwart the onslaught of the mental and physical effects children are likely to have when growing up in a home where a parent is addicted to drugs or alcohol. The best prevention method is identifying children who live within these homes and provide support for both child and parent. Researchers encourage inspiring intellectual, emotional, societal, and physical experiences for children through various outlets (Fraser, McIntyre, Manby, 2009). According to Fraser, McIntyre, and Manby (2009), prevention methods should first involve understanding important principles of healthy growth and development for children that will help to identify sensitive or possible threatening issues in homes and within the child. Academic institutions play a crucial role in prevention as well as intervention (Fraser, McIntyre, Manby, 2009). Schools should be adequately informed on application and testing of educational and prevention programs as well bringing additional awareness to the issue (Fraser, McIntyre, Manby, 2009). Once the issue has occurred, the next best course of action is intervention. Fraser, McIntyre, and Manby (2009) explains that because of the greater risks associated with parental substance addiction, it is especially significant for schools and child services personnel to thoroughly assess thoroughly the needs of the children to effectuate the most beneficial change. Intervention revolves around providing a home environment that is safe, predictable, and nurturing for the children (Fraser, McIntyre, Manby, 2009). Moreover, intervention should entail family-centered treatment programs that provide care for parents in facilities where children are allowed and are able to aid in the healing of parent and child (Fraser, McIntyre, Manby, 2009). Ultimately, proper intervention will use other family members without addiction issues to help restore balance and harmony within the child. Conclusion The body of research on children with addiction continues to grow and highlight many alarming issues, such as child abuse and neglect. This type of environment affects the child in many ways including behaviorally, academically, and developmentally (Fraser, McIntyre, Manby, 2009). Though the effects may vary contingent on many variables, the potential for destruction create enough social panic for proper prevention and intervention strategies. Researchers are encouraging appropriate recognition and responses to this epidemic in a way that effect national policies (Fraser, McIntyre, Manby, 2009). It is vital for this nation to allocate as much resources as possible to the development and implementation of prevention and intervention tactics and services. References Barnard, M., McKeganey, N. (2004). The impact of parental problem drug use on children: what is the problem and what can be done to help?. Addiction, 99(5), 552-559. Fraser, C., McIntyre, A., Manby, M. (2009). Exploring the impact of parental drug/alcohol problems on children and parents in a midlands county in 2005/06. British Journal of Social Work, 39(5), 846-866. Haggerty, K. P., Skinner, M., Fleming, C. B., Gainey, R. R., Catalano, R. F. (2008). Longà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ term effects of the Focus on Families project on substance use disorders among children of parents in methadone treatment. Addiction, 103(12), 2008-2016. McKeganey, N., Barnard, M., McIntosh, J. (2002). Paying the price for their parents addiction: meeting the needs of the children of drug-using parents. Drugs: education, prevention and policy, 9(3), 233-246.
Tuesday, November 12, 2019
Cuzco :: essays research papers
The first place, on my exploration of time, I arrived was in Cuzco the center of the Incan civilization in the year 1505 A.D. Their was much to observe on arrival. The first thing one notices is that Cuzco is in the center of the â€Å"four quarters†of the Incan Empire, Tawantinsuyu. The surrounding four quarters or the four â€Å"suyus†were to the north Chincasuyu, to the west Cuntisuyu, to the east Anitsuyu, and to the south Chinasuyu the largest quarter. Cuzco sat at the center of these four quarters of the empire and served as the capital. This capital of the Incan Empire severed as a home to the political center of the Incas. The rich political and social system proved the most interesting to me as I stayed in Cuzco.      The political system of the Incans proved rather ridged and complex. At the top of their society is the emperor. The Incan emperor was thought to be the a direct descendant of the sun god, Inti. The entire power of the Incan Empire belonged to its emperor. His system of checks and balances were that of their rich culture and of course the possibility of his subjects revolting. The emperor had only one wife that was recognized; though he had many concubines and hundreds of illegitimate children. Many of these children held the positions of advisors to the Emperor. The other relatives of the Emperor and other Emperors before him held the other high posts in the government, religion, and military. The last few government officials were the high nobles of the lands conquered by the empire. The practice of nepotism obviously was embraced by this society#.      The division of power in this civilization was a remarkable system. The governors of each quarter, once again, were blood relatives of the Emperor. Each governor had ten district governors who oversaw approximately ten thousand subjects. The governors then had leaders of about one thousand people who reported to them. Each leader of these small villages then had a foreman who over saw one hundred Incans. This process of division then ends in a series of low officials who would look over at least ten subjects1. This division the will of the emperor to be passed swiftly to the lowest members of society.      The emperor allocated his resources, through this rigid division of the society, to become more economically and politically sound.
Sunday, November 10, 2019
Tracking the U.S Economy
This will be followed by a personal economic outlook or the remainder of 2014. Current State of U. S Economy: A. Gross Domestic Product (GAP) According to the figures illustrated in the above graph prepared by the Bureau of Economic Analysis (SEA), an agency of the Commerce Department, U. S. Real gross domestic product contracted sharply at an annual rate of 1. 0 percent in IQ 2014 compared to 2. 6 percent in the previous quarter. This marked the first decline in economic growth since January 2011, a period of three years.The drop in GAP growth comes as a revision, down from the BEAK'S original estimate released last April which showed an increase of 0. 1 percent. The BEA announces early estimates based on incomplete and partial data to provide a general picture of economic activity. These estimates are usually revised, with a second and third estimate being released as more data is acquired. The third and last revision for IQ 2014 is due to be released on June 25th and it remains to be seen how the GAP numbers will be affected. So why did the numbers decline so drastically?Many economists blame the anemic growth due to diminished business inventories, and the abnormally, harsh winter the country experienced during the beginning of the year, however, not everyone agrees. Forbes quotes Steve Blitz, chief economist at ITS Investment Research who states, â€Å"Looking through the rest of the report, we see the cold hand of winter, although I am not sure to what extent the cold in the Midwest caused the level of exports to drop by $40. 5 billion while imports only dropped $8. 8 billion. Surely the supply chains weren't frozen in only one direction. Despite the historically, cold weather, there is more to the unexpected, weak performance of the battered U. S economy. Numerous components of the GAP played a hand in causing the decline in economic growth, including a decrease in exports, lack of business investments and decreased government spending. Reduction in rea l exports (real imports, which are a subtracted in the GAP calculation declined as well), accounted for a significant portion of the economic decline, followed by a decrease in inventory investments, non residential fixed investments, residential investments and a cutback in state and local government spending.The GAP ‘s only supporter so far this year came in the form of increased real personal consumer expenditures, which grew from 2. 1 percent from the previous estimate of 2. 0 percent, mainly reflecting sharp increases in services and light increases in other areas. The BEA states, â€Å"The downturn in the percent change in real GAP, primarily reflected a downturn in exports, a larger decrease in private inventory investment, and downturns in nonresidential fixed investment and in state and local government spending that were partly offset by an upturn in federal government spending†(2014).The table below, prepared by the BEA, shows precisely which components of G AP rose and tumbled in IQ 2014. B. Foreign Trade (Exports & Imports) According to records maintained by the U. S Census Bureau and the BEA, exports in April of $193. 3 billion and imports of $240. Billion resulted in a trade deficit of $47. 2 billion, up from $44. 2 billion in March. The April exports were $0. 3 billion less than March exports of $193. 7 billion, but imports were $2. 7 billion more than March imports of $237. 8 billion. The chart produced by the BEA below displays the U. S. International trade in goods and services in a period of two years, from April 2012 to April 2014. Goods deficit in April increased by $3. 3 billion from March to $65. 8 billion and services surplus increased by $0. 2 billion from March to $18. 6 billion. Exports of goods decreased $0. 6 billion to $135. Billion, but imports however increased by $2. 7 billion to $200. 9 billion. Services exports increased by $0. 3 billion to $58. 2 billion and imports followed suit increasing by $0. 1 billion to $39. 7 billion. From April 2013 to April 2014, the goods and services deficit has increased by $6. Billion. Imports in that time period were up by 5. 4 percent or, $12. 4 billion and exports were up by 3. 0 percent, or $5. 6 billion. C. Gross Private Domestic Investments (Business Investment) Gross private domestic investment is a vital component of GAP because it gives us an idea of future productive capacity. It accounts for approximately 14 percent of our GAP and is considered to be the least stable component. The BEA defines gross private domestic investment as private fixed investment and change in private inventories.It is measured without a deduction for consumption of fixed capital and includes replacements and addition to the capital stock, but excludes investment by U. S. Residents in other countries, hence the domestic. The BEA divides business investments into to sub-categories, fixed nonresidential investment, residential investment and business inventories. In short, g ross private domestic investment is n aggregate component of expenditures and includes fixed investments (nonresidential and residential) and change in private inventories.In the above graph from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLESS), the analysis depicts gross private domestic investment data with future projections as far as 2022. The growth rate for the time period of 2002 to 2012 is 0. 6 percent, with negative annual growth rates for all categories of fixed residential structures. However, the annual growth rate in business inventories in this same time period increased from the last decade from -3. 3 percent to 12. 9 percent. They project business inventories to increase by 2022 at an average annual rate of 0. 6 percent. D. Consumer Spending The Consumer Confidence Index increased slightly in May.The index is currently at 83. 0, up from 81. 7 Just last month in April. The BEA recently reported that consumer spending increased to 10914. 40 billion in IQ 2014, up from 10831. 50 billion in Q 2013. U. S. Consumer spending fell for the first time in a year in April 2014 after two months of solid gains, but the decline is probably interim in nature given the strengthening numbers in the Job market. The drop followed a revised 1. Percent increase in March that was the largest gain since August 2009. Real disposable personal income (DIP) remained steady throughout IQ 2014 with a slight decreases in both April and May.E. Unemployment Rate As reported by the Bull's latest economic news release, total nonfat payroll employment increased by 217,000 in May. The increase was due largely to professional and business services, health care and social assistance, leisure and hospitality, transportation and warehousing and temporary services. Employment in other sectors such as manufacturing, mining and logging, construction, wholesale ND retail trade, information and financial services, and government remained steady. The unemployment rate remained unchanged at 6. 3 perce nt. In May, following a decline of 0. 4 percent in April.The number of unemployed persons remained the same in May at 9. 8 million, a decrease of 1. 9 million over the last year. Over the previous year, nonfat payroll employment averaged approximately 197,000 a month. The long term unemployed numbers remained steady at 3. 4 million and accounted for 34. 6 percent of the unemployed. That number has declined by almost a million workers, as the economy continues to gradually recover ND improve. The graph below by the BEA shows the inclines and declines of the unemployment rate since 1990. Updated unemployment figures and charts for June 2014 will be released on July 3, 2014. F.Inflation Rate (ICP) The most recent release by the BLESS states that the ICP for all urban consumers (ICP-U) increased by 0. 3 percent in April on a seasonally adjusted basis. Over the past year, the all items index increased by 2. 0 percent before seasonal adjustment. Gasoline, shelter, and food indexes all ros e in April and so did all items less food and energy. The consumer price index for May will be released on June 17, 2014. G. Government Spending: Fiscal and Monetary Policies According to the data reported by the BEA, current government expenditures exceeded receipts and caused a net government saving of -966. Billion during first quarter of 2014; an increase from Q 2013. Net lending or net borrowing which is an alternative measure of the government fiscal position was -1036. 5 billion, increasing from -968. 7 Q 2013. U. S. Economic Outlook: Remainder 2014 Coming off the harshest winter we've experienced in quite some time, the economy is expected to rebound and continue improving its upward growth in the remainder of 2014. The economy is expected to expand 2. 4 percent with the recovery of the housing market and business investments. Government consumption is expected to slow economic growth this year for the fourth straight year in a row.Consumer spending will remain in the 2 perc ent range, but it's possible that it might increase due to the increase in disposable personal income. This is assuming consumer confidence increases as the year passes. Employment is expected to continue its growth of 180,000-190,000 Jobs gained monthly similar to the previous two years. Structural unemployment will continue to be an issue as most Jobs created will be in he food service and retail industries. Small businesses are expected to gain confidence and provide support to the economic growth in 2014 with a key source of funding that's been missing since the recession; home equity.The increase in home values over the previous year and the ongoing housing recovery is expected to support small businesses. The recovering housing market will play a role in GAP growth as home values continue to rise fueling construction activity leading to an accelerated pace in residential investment. Accelerated business investment will gain approximately 2. 5 percent to around 4. Percent in th e following quarters; driven by hefty gains in nonresidential structures and slight increases in equipment and software expenditures. Growing demand for industrial space will support the increase in business investments.Inflation will rise modestly from the lows of 2013 but will remain humble. Consumer prices will rise as producer prices rise due to global and domestic demand. Net exports will play a leading role and is expected to add to the overall GAP growth. Economists predict a 6. 6 percent rate of growth, along with the support of the oil boom to increase the pace of export activity. U. S. Economic Personal Outlook: 2014 From the extensive research I've done on this topic, my personal outlook on the economy for 2014 in one word, subpart. I expect GAP to grow slightly over the year due to more than one component.Consumer spending is a strong candidate to increase most simply because disposable income is increasing. I understand that we just recently went through a recession and money conservation would be wise, but we're a consumer nation and a consumer based culture, therefore I expect personal consumer expenditures to rise. The winter that affected the nation during the ginning of the year slowed growth but in March, when the weather started to lift consumer expenditures skyrocketed. Personally, it would seem as if consumer confidence is on the rise and the data supports my theory.I believe the increasing home values will embolden consumers and business owners alike and add to economic growth, with businesses leading the way. I feel as if consumers aren't ready to make such a big financial commitment such as a mortgage and the ones willing to take risks will be the entrepreneurs or the business owners, so I expect to see growth in business investments. Residential investments will continue to improve as confidence is restored in the housing market allowing consumers to purchase rental properties to supplement or increase their income.Non residential inv estments will increase as well as values rise due to demand but I'm not quite sure how strong this demand will be. Being the consumer culture we are, I expect us to import more than we export like we have for over a two decades now, however, the strengthening oil and gas sector in the country will gain momentum, gradually relieving us of our oil dependency on OPEC nations in the years to come, decreasing our imports of foreign oil. Economic growth in 2014 may be slow, but it's much better compared to where we were as a nation a couple of years ago.
Friday, November 8, 2019
International Assignments
International Assignments Introduction International assignments are an integral part of the current state of the world due to globalization. Businesses and companies seek to expand their territory across boundaries and thereby target a larger market share.Advertising We will write a custom term paper sample on International Assignments specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More The development of technology has actually made the whole process easy as it is very easy to communicate with subsidiary managers as well as move from one country to the other. International assignments are however not assigned to any employee but are mainly given to managers and executives who demonstrate a high level of competency with regard to the assignment and working in a multi-cultural context. This is a very interesting topic as it gives insight into the process of expatriation, it advantages as well as the challenges faced when one goes on an international assignment. This paper will f ocus on discussing precisely these issues so as to gain a better understanding about international assignments. Discussion The process of international assignment takes place in three distinct stages as indicated in the figure below (Bonache, Brewster, Suutari, 2001): The first stage is the pre-assignment stage and involves selection and preparation. This phase entails the use of four types of variables that are paramount in contributing towards the success/failure of an assignment. They are technical competence on the assignment since the expatriate will be very far away from the mother company thus cannot readily consult peers and superiors. This way, the individual should demonstrate a very high degree of technical competence in relation to the task at hand. The other selection variable is personal traits with a focus on the individual’s ability to effectively relate with his/her peers, superiors, business associates, subordinates and clients. This is a very significant v ariable with regard to working in a multi-cultural context. During the selection process, the expatriates should show their ability to amicable handle environmental variables. The expatriate is required to show a high level of competency in coping with governments, customers, unions and competitors. Despite the fact that the environmental systems in a foreign country may be different from that of the expatriate’s home country, understanding the systems first is very necessary so that the expatriate can operate in accordance with these systems.Advertising Looking for term paper on business economics? Let's see if we can help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn More In case the expatriate is required to move with his/her family, during the selection process, it will be very necessary to ensure that the expatriate’s family is willing and ready to adjust to the living conditions in the host country. This is especially very complicated when one of the spouses is forced to give up their career so as to accompany their partners in the foreign country (Reiche Harzing, 2009). After thoroughly and carefully selecting the expatriates, they are prepared by engaging them in diverse cross-cultural training programs so that they can gain insight on their own cultural backgrounds, the specific cultural features of the host country, the degree of contact required with the host country, duration of assignment, family situation and communication skills with a special focus on language. This kind of preparation is essential because it enables the expatriates to know what is expected of them hence develop the necessary strategies required to attain effectiveness while in the foreign country (Black, Mendenhall, Oddou, 1991). Culture shock is inevitable with regard to exposure to a foreign country as is the case during international assignments. However, it gives rise to uncertainty and stress which can be dealt with if the expatriat e’s anticipatory adjustment is positive based on cross-cultural training and prior international experience. The expatriate is required to make adjustments based on work, local nationals and living conditions. The spouse is part of the adjustment process and there is need that he/she is equally prepared before arrival in the foreign country. Finally, once the assignment is over and he international assignee is required to go back home, it is important that he/she is prepared for the journey back home. This is attributed to the fact that the assignee may encounter another culture shock that he/she may not be able to cope with hence resulting into negative effects such as job resignation and loss of valuable employees. Effective management of human talent is a very important factor for competitive differentiation in determining the success of organizations. This is because, the human ability is known to invent and develop products and services that are later sold to the public. The workplace, for many decades, has been composed of people and as companies and organizations extend beyond the boundaries, international assignments have become commonplace. Globalization has been at the forefront in promoting the growth of business across cities, states, regions and countries (Stroh, et al., 2009).Advertising We will write a custom term paper sample on International Assignments specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More International assignments entail the deployment of nationals from a given country to a different country, where they live and work for a given period of time depending on the assignment. They take place in three forms: ethnocentric, polycentric and geocentric. The ethnocentric form entails the appointment of parent country nationals to executive posts at the subsidiary companies. Polycentric kind of orientation is where host country nationals are appointed while the geocentric form entails the appointment of the most suitable individual irrespective of their nationality thus accommodates third country nationals (nationals from other countries other than the MNC’s or the subsidiary’s countries). Heenan and Perlmutter (1979) identified a fourth kind of approach, the regiocentric orientation where managers are given transfers to different regions. The mode of appointment is chosen depending on the MNC’s preference and decision. There are various reasons as to why a company may want to send an employee to its subsidiary company in a foreign country. The Edstrà ¶m and Galbraith (1977) typology is used to explain the reason why managers are sent on international assignment based on three motives. To start with, there is the need to fill up positions and this entails the transfer of technical and managerial knowledge. This is very much applicable in developing countries where the qualifications of the desired person are not available. This cannot be ruled out in develo ped countries as well since specific knowledge transfer may be required. This is attributed to the fact that the expatriates are considered to be the key bearers of tacit knowledge. Secondly, the assignment is vital for management development since it enables the manager to gain international experience, which may be required for future use. International assignments based on management development do not take into consideration the availability of qualified host-country nationals. Lastly, international assignments are carried out for the purpose of organization development. This is necessary so as to establish socialization between the expatriates and local managers, as well as develop verbal information network to link the subsidiary companies and the headquarters.Advertising Looking for term paper on business economics? Let's see if we can help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn More International assignments serve the purpose of coordination and control with regard to three main elements. Expatriates provide personal/cultural control by replacing or complementing headquarters centralization of decision-making as well as directly surveying the subsidiary companies. Expatriates also exercise control through socialization and creation of informal communication networks. This they do by moving from one subsidiary company to another establishing a certain kind of informal communication network. This they do by assuming the roles of a bumble-bee fly and spiders. This helps the subsidiary companies to function independently by facilitating informal control. On the other hand, there are subsidiaries which are highly dependent on the headquarter company and in such a case the expatriate tends to facilitate direct expatriate control (Reiche Harzing, 2009). Coordination and control of MNCs has been greatly enabled by advances in transportation and communication technolog y. It is because of this technology that companies have been able to expand into other countries and are globalizing at very great rates. However, there arises some misunderstanding with regard to cultural diversity because different people from different cultures, countries and regions perceive things differently. In the way, management styles are different and therefore, a manager may face a great challenge trying to adjust and fit into the culture of the host/foreign country. Failure to act in accordance with the culture in the foreign country may jeopardize achievement of the formulated and set objectives. It is because of the great challenges involved with international assignments that have led to the development of alternative forms of expatriation. To start with, there are inpatriate assignments where managers of subsidiary companies are transferred to the headquarters for a given period of time so that the manager gets to know and understand the operations of the parent com pany thereby, establish informal communication networks (Harvey, Novicevic Speier, 2000). This also enables the subsidiary managers to have a direct link with the corporate culture and plays a key role in exposing parent company managers to the international perception. Short-term assignments are another alternative used to counteract the challenges associated with expatriation. Short-term assignments usually last for a period between 1-12 months and the expatriate in this case does not have to go with his/her family hence avoiding the challenges and disruptions associated with relocating an entire family (Collings, Scullion, Morley, 2007). Short-term assignments are rather ad hoc and tend to be less formal thus are not too involving. They are cost-effective and require less bureaucratic efforts in addition to the fact they can be promptly and flexibly carried out. However, short-term assignments do not allow the expatriates to establish local networks with the local colleagues an d customers. In addition, their marriages are at risk since their roles in their marriages if left pending (Tahvanainen, Worm, Welch, 2005). There are various uncertainties that are associated with international assignments. Expatriates are usually concerned about the status of their compensation and benefits. There are concerns about compensation and benefits retention during stay of the expatriates in the foreign country. In addition, the expatriates are worried that they would not be compensated for the additional expenses they incur and especially in foreign countries where the cost of living is higher. Tax is a very sensitive issue as it forms the largest part of the costs linked to subsidiaries. An international assignment is a very expensive venture for both the organization and the expatriate. While the organization is required to pay tax liabilities on benefits associated with the assignment such as accommodation under tax equalization, an expatriate on the other hand incu rs additional expense when having to relocate with the family. Most companies and individuals continuously believe that international assignments are imperative with regard to escalating the managers’ global competence (Gregersen, Morrison Black, 1998). Since international assignments entail working in a cross-cultural context, it enables managers and selected international assignees to comprehend how to efficiently and effectively function within such a multinational and multicultural business environment. Harris, Brewster Sparrow (2003) have stated that unfortunately, these competencies do not benefit an individual directly since the skills are directed towards enhancing the performance of an organization or company. It is true that international assignments play a key role in enhancing the knowing how of assignees but these skills and knowledge cannot be transferred to their home context. Managers and executives are required, and should possess the abilities to place emp hasis and understand the peculiar needs of local foreign customers, labor pools, government policies, suppliers, and technology to effectively and efficiently formulate and implement strategic plans. In addition, there is need to focus on the general global market trends. Great environment scanning abilities are necessary for the manager to help them pick up the relevant and necessary information. Extensive knowledge and processing ability is necessary if data is to be categorized and interpreted effectively. To second an earlier mentioned statement, international assignments require the international assignees to possess great interpersonal skills that are necessary while integrating and working with the people in the foreign country. International assignees are usually managers, highly recognized executives within an organization or some other highly selected individuals with proficient skills in handling the assignment at hand. It is very important that managers develop the requi red skills in as far as international assignments are concerned because, the world in the 21st century where globalization is inevitable and therefore, managers and individuals who can work with people from different cultures, religions and ethnicities are a necessity (Stroh et al., 2009). International assignments are now considered part of the pedigree required while trying to look for talented individuals within an organization. International assignments are considered important in developing global leaders in the present global society. If growth and prosperity is to be achieved within an organization, then it becomes very difficult to do away with international assignments since business growth entails growing beyond the local boundaries. The Philip Morris Companies for example owes its growth due to its ability to identify and know its global ‘bench-strength’ alongside appreciating its people as strategic weapons. As a manager or leader in a company, one is requir ed to be very adept in handling different kinds of people because having a global business means managing teams made up of people across different cultures. The Philip Morris Companies Inc. spends a great deal of time on international assignments as a typical leadership technique. The Generic Electric (GE) is another company that appreciates international assignments as a means of gaining knowledge and experience that is very vital in the 21st century. This is because the company needs to know how it should compete and satisfy the global-base market hence the manger at GE are required to comprehend the global markets, competitors, consumers and suppliers (Stroh et al., 2009). International assignments are not a means of progressing in relation to one’s career; rather it is a chance for assessing one’s ability in handling challenges as well as extending business. They are a central component of the global management approach of a majority of organizations. The reason fo r this is that once an international assignee has returned home from the international assignment, they are not promoted and face a difficult time trying to adjust with their former state. The main importance of these assignments is to ensure the smooth running of subsidiary business in compliance with the headquarter objectives. International assignments are associated with various benefits like development of global leadership skills. On the other hand, there are some problems revolving around these assignments like heavy costs incurred by an organization, the organizations risks losing valuable employees and there is lack of certainty with regard to career progression and development once the assignment is over (Lazarova Caligiuri, 2004). The international assignee selected for the assignment is faced with great challenges including resistance to set a posting date because of â€Å"family constraints, issues of personal investment into cultural and work adaptation, reverse cult ure shock and applicability of the capabilities gained during and after an IA†(Suutari Brewster, 2004). Management of the global leadership gap is the main focus with regard to international businesses. However, the lack of high quality talent is a huge impediment to successful execution of international assignments. Therefore, there is a great need for an organization to carry out a thorough careful selection process so as to identify the individuals who are most preferred for the assignment. Poor selection is very costly to organizations as it leads to losses (direct and indirect costs). The selection process entails a central focus on prediction of job context rather than job context. Only individuals who have demonstrated a great deal of competency with reference to the assignment at hand are considered for the job. Qualified individuals showing the capability of being able to effectively handle challenges that are prevalent while working with individuals, organizations and groups that have different perceptions and approaches in carrying out duties are selected for expatriation (Caligiuri, Tarique Jacobs, 2009). Hall, Zhu Yan (2001) are of the opinion that international assignments are very crucial in terms of development of leadership skills as they expose managers to surprises hence triggering reflection and exploration, which are very important elements in learning. It is evident as earlier seen through examples that multinational organizations recognize the necessity of international assignments in fostering leadership development. Despite the argument that international assignments do not promise career growth/progression, one cannot assume the fact that expatriates gain a lot of experience and skills since they are able to have a global perspective of the organization’s business and thereby work well with people from various cultural backgrounds (Dickmann Harris, 2005). It is worth noting that not all international assignments offe r valuable developmental experiences to leaders/mangers. This is attributed to the fact that the assignments could be short-term and efficient use of time and resources is called for. As a result, there is dilution of development experiences for the manager. In addition, the learning ability and personality traits of the leaders could also be an impediment to gaining developmental experiences (Dalton Ernst, 2004). International assignments involve more than just one department. If a marketing division of a company intends to venture in an international assignment, then there is need to involve other departments for the expatriate assignment to be successful. When an expatriate is selected, the human resource manager consents the selected person and subsequently holds consultations with other executives to deliberate on the suitability of the selected candidate as the ideal expatriate. The global mobility coordinator (GMC) is then consulted with regard to international relocations a nd it is the global mobility coordinator that defines and structures the assignment in the most attractive offer. The GMC seeks answers to the following (Halverson, 2004): The necessity of the relocation and if it can be executed by a different person in the host country Whether the assignment is temporary or permanent The business objectives of the assignment and where they are SMART Why the selected candidate is the best person to be sent on the expatriate assignment If the company is ready to shoulder the costs that come with an international transfer A relocation company is consulted to give the estimated costs for the relocation. The home and host country need to arrive at a consensus with regard to the assignment. The host country human resource manager should be actively involved in the assignment so that he/she is able to explicitly explain it to the rest of the executive and management team of the company in the host country. The home and host countries should reach a con sensus on (Halverson, 2004): Relocation benefits The start and end date of the assignment The corporate entity that will be responsible for the relocation costs The process through which charge-backs are handled When all the above have been met, there are other factors that need to be addressed (Halverson, 2004): Immigration process with a focus on attainment of work permits and visas Where the expatriate’s payroll will be processed Whether promotion is guaranteed Benefits that will accompany the relocation Payment of taxes The assignment should be in accordance with both the home and host country laws The assignment should be easily tracked in the general ledger Enough money should be allocated for this assignment Changes related to the international assignment should be continuously updated A senior engineer from a certain European electronics company was given an international assignment based in Saudi Arabia for a period of four years. The entire assignment cost appro ximately $ 4million. The senior engineer was able to learn and speak fluent Arabic; he gained new technical skills and expanded his network of friends. However, after the man went back home, he was in constant arguments with his colleagues, superiors and subordinates because he had become so much adjusted to the Arabic’s way of doing things that he had practically forgotten how things ran in the headquarters. To add on to his misery, he waited for close to nine months before he could get a permanent assignment, which granted him lesser authority and power than he had had while in Saudi Arabia. As is the usual trend in most cases upon repatriation, the man resigned from his job and joined a direct competitor, where he ended up maximizing on the knowledge and skills gained from Saudi Arabia to compete against his former employer (Black Gregersen, 1999). This case study clearly shows how international assignments bring about huge set-backs upon the company and repatriate. There fore, it is important that repatriates receive the same kind of preparation they received during transfer to a foreign country. This is because, they have gotten used to the systems and culture in the foreign country that overlap their initially held perceptions and cultural traits. Conclusion International assignments are necessary in today’s current world but, the style in which they are designed and implement is paramount. This is important so that the assignment is successful and when the expatriate eventually returns to his/her home country, he/she will continue living and working just as before. However, in most cases as seen from the case study above, repatriates do not get any preparation upon returning home and as a result are not able to cope with their former situation. International assignments help in managing businesses overseas but in doing so, organizations and companies should factor in all the anticipated challenges and help the international assignees cope with them in the most amicable way possible. References Black, J. S., Gregersen, H. B., 1999. The right way to manage expats. Harvard Business Review, 77 (2), 52-62. Black, J. S., Mendenhall, M., Oddou, G., 1991. Toward a comprehensive model of international adjustment: An integration of multiple theoretical perspectives. Academy of Management Review, 16 (2), 291-317. Bonache, J., Brewster, C., 2001. Knowledge transfer and the management of expatriation. Thunderbird International Business Review, 43 (1), 145-168. Caligiuri, P., Tarique, I., Jacobs, R. 2009. Selection for International Assignments. Human Resource Management Review, 19, 251-262. Collings, D. G., Scullion, H., Morley, M. J., 2007. Changing patterns of global staffing in the multinational enterprise: Challenges to the conventional expatriate assignment and emerging alternatives. Journal of World Business, 42 (2), 198-213. Dalton, M. A., Ernst, C. T., 2004. Developing Leaders for Global Roles. In McCauley, C. D., Van Velsor, E. eds. Handbook of Leadership Development. 2nd ed. San Francisco, CA: Wiley. Dickmann, M., Harris, H. 2005. Developing Career Capital for Global Careers: The Role of International Assignments. Journal of World Business, 40 (4), 399- 408. Edstrà ¶m, A., Galbraith, J. R., 1977. Transfer of managers as a co-ordination and control strategy in multinational organizations. Administrative Science Quarterly, 22 (2), 248-263. Gregersen, H. B., Morrison, A. J., Black, J. S., 1998. Developing Leaders for the Global Frontier. Sloan Management Review, 40, 21-32. Hall, D. T., Zhu, G., Yan, A., 2001. Developing Global Leaders: To hold on to them, let them go. Advances in Global Leadership, 2, 327-349. Halverson, E., 2004. Who Knew? International Assignments Create Ripples. Plus Post. Web. Harris, H., Brewster, C. Sparrow, P., 2003. International Human Resource Management. London: CIPD. Harvey, M., Novicevic, M. M., Speier, C., 2000. Strategic global human resource management: T he role of inpatriate managers. Human Resource Management Review, 10 (2), 153-175. Heenan, D.A., Perlmutter, H.V., 1979. Multinational organization development. Reading, MA: Addison-Wesley. Lazarova, M., Caligiuri, P., 2004. Repatriation and knowledge management. In Harzing, A.-W., Ruysseveldt, J.V. Eds. International Human Resource Management. London: Sage Publications. Reiche, S., Harzing, A.-W., 2009. International Assignments. London: Sage Publications. Stroh, L. K., et al., 2009. International Assignments: An Integration of Strategy, Research and Practice. New Jersey: Lawrence Erlbaum Associates, Inc. Suutari, V., Brewster, C., 2004. Repatriation: empirical evidence from a longitudinal study on careers and expectations among Finnish expatriates. International Journal of Human Resource Management. 14 (7), 1132-1151. Tahvanainen, M., Worm, V., Welch, D. 2005. Implications of short-term international assignments. European Management Journal, 23 (6), 663-673.
Wednesday, November 6, 2019
Free Essays on Pertinent Issues Of Adolescence
Pertinent Issues of Adolescence During adolescent years, most people experience many stressful situations under the influence of peer pressure. Most of them have a negative impact on one’s life. At colleges, universities, and other places where youngsters spend their free time, alcohol, cigarettes, drugs, and delinquency take their place. It’s difficult to resist the pressure that is put on one’s strong will. However, an individual with a good self-esteem, many friends, and good relationship with parents, successfully gets through this period of life unharmed. On the other side, some adolescents might face number of dangerous situations, such as eating disorder, alcoholism, drugs, suicidal behavior, violence, depression, stress, etc which could temporarily or permanently damage their self-image. Due to some negative influence and an impaired value system, some teenagers get involved in delinquent behavior. Alcohol and Drugs First, and most common risk factor of adolescent development, is alcohol and drug abuse. Alcohol is the most famous stimulating substance among teens. It is consumed at almost every social occasion. Many underage people consume alcohol at their friend’s house, in bars, or at home. Colleges and universities are the most popular place to create one’s drinking habits. Students get together nearly ever night and have parties where alcohol is served. Whether it’s a weekend or a weeknight, is not of their concerns. It’s like a routine to get drunk at least two times a week. Most of these students become addicted to regular drinking. Most of them are heavy drinkers, consuming five or more drinks of alcohol in one day. Due to these adventures, students miss their classes, regret their actions, forget their behavior, have unplanned sex, or experience severe hangovers. In addition, majorities of these drinkers are â€Å"binge†drinkers, consuming one glass of alcohol after another until they can’... Free Essays on Pertinent Issues Of Adolescence Free Essays on Pertinent Issues Of Adolescence Pertinent Issues of Adolescence During adolescent years, most people experience many stressful situations under the influence of peer pressure. Most of them have a negative impact on one’s life. At colleges, universities, and other places where youngsters spend their free time, alcohol, cigarettes, drugs, and delinquency take their place. It’s difficult to resist the pressure that is put on one’s strong will. However, an individual with a good self-esteem, many friends, and good relationship with parents, successfully gets through this period of life unharmed. On the other side, some adolescents might face number of dangerous situations, such as eating disorder, alcoholism, drugs, suicidal behavior, violence, depression, stress, etc which could temporarily or permanently damage their self-image. Due to some negative influence and an impaired value system, some teenagers get involved in delinquent behavior. Alcohol and Drugs First, and most common risk factor of adolescent development, is alcohol and drug abuse. Alcohol is the most famous stimulating substance among teens. It is consumed at almost every social occasion. Many underage people consume alcohol at their friend’s house, in bars, or at home. Colleges and universities are the most popular place to create one’s drinking habits. Students get together nearly ever night and have parties where alcohol is served. Whether it’s a weekend or a weeknight, is not of their concerns. It’s like a routine to get drunk at least two times a week. Most of these students become addicted to regular drinking. Most of them are heavy drinkers, consuming five or more drinks of alcohol in one day. Due to these adventures, students miss their classes, regret their actions, forget their behavior, have unplanned sex, or experience severe hangovers. In addition, majorities of these drinkers are â€Å"binge†drinkers, consuming one glass of alcohol after another until they can’...
Sunday, November 3, 2019
Freedom of Self as mentioned in Quran Term Paper
Freedom of Self as mentioned in Quran - Term Paper Example afs, and within the Quran it has been used 255 times, plus NAFSUN 61 times and in other forms ANFUSKUM 49 times, NAFSENE 40 times and NAFASUN 14 times. The term has several meanings, and often Islamic scholars have argued that it refers to the personality of a person. In addition, other scholars have attributed its meaning to ‘intellect’, ‘knowledge’ and ‘mind’. However, its reference to the ‘self’ is perhaps the intuition behind this paper. The self as perceived in the Quran is free, and freedom is an absolute part of the self, and even though it functions in the realms of nature, its actions moves from its own nature and is not derived through natural causes. Steiner and Michael (147), human beings operations can be intuitively thought of as transcending the laws of materialism. Further, the Quran bequeaths the human self to be free and sense a pointer to the reason which compels the self to act as a moral agent. Functions and responsibilities do not have a meaning for a man if they are entirely determined. If the self were not thought of as free, then it would be mindless to the demands of ‘ought’ and would respond only to the demands of ‘must’, and in a sense the responsibility arises from its sense of freedom: it is capable of leading a moral life only because it is free. This view implies that the self has a real choice of freedom, and has the ability to decide on any of the options that are available to it, and responsibility for its decision rests entirely on it. Obviously, the self does not enjoy absolute and unlimited freedom, as the freedom is controlled within the conditions under which it derives its existence. The self abides under the aforementioned restraints; however, the self flourishes only in the atmosphere of liberty. In a highly controlled society, its realms of activities may be subject to rising decline and such a society discourages every manner of self-expression and discourages liberty. Under such conditions,
Friday, November 1, 2019
Pre-Socratic and Aristotles Philosophy Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words - 1
Pre-Socratic and Aristotles Philosophy - Essay Example The philosophers favored a logical or analytical approach in their explanation of occurrences (Sproul, 2000). Consequently, Plato’s philosophy was not based on Greek mythology. In addition, pre-Socratic philosophers were inquisitive about the essence of things. For instance, existence, source, and plurality of things were fundamental pre-Socratic questions. Ideally, Plato’s philosophy attempts or responds to these questions. In conclusions, Plato’s philosophy is a refinement of the pre-Socratic philosophy. Plato’s philosophy supports an ontological dualism, which proposes the existence of two forms of realities/worlds. In this sense, things exist as either ideas or tangibles. Each of this existence represents unique worlds namely intelligible or the sensible world. The intelligible world represents the universals and invisible realities (forms). Under this existence, things cannot change their state or appearance since they are neither material nor tempora l (Sproul, 2000). Thus, the intelligible world preserves eidos and particulars. Indeed, Plato believed that the abstracts are the foundations of the sensible world and that it is only through them that people acquire genuine knowledge. Aristotle’s philosophy was established natural science for thousand years. Key to his science is the nature of change and motion. In his philosophy, Aristotle discovered the fundamental principle of change that direct natural bodies. The principle holds in both the celestial and terrestrial, living and the inanimate. Under the Aristotelian physics, terrestrial objects move towards different part of the universe according to their composition. For instance, earth being the heaviest material, moved towards the center of the universe. On the contrary, ‘fire’ the lightest element tends to move away from the center of the universe.Â
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