Hiring Outsiders free essay sample

This is why companies look to hire people from the outside. They do this because they are looking with people who will bring unique skills to the company. Also, it can give the company new ideas and new energy for the work place. The article states that â€Å"the thought processes are common among workers and bosses, and  a new study  shows how they play out. The study, by  Matthew Bidwell, an assistant management professor at the Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania, found that external hires, on average, make around 18 percent more money than internal employees with similar positions. I found this statement to be a very interesting point when it comes to the debate on whether or not to hire or not from the outside. It definitely shows that the numbers are better for profit, so that is definitely a big positive when it comes down to the question for managers who ask should they hire externally? However, later on in the article it states that in that same study, th ey perform less well in the first two years and are also more likely to leave or be let go. We will write a custom essay sample on Hiring Outsiders or any similar topic specifically for you Do Not WasteYour Time HIRE WRITER Only 13.90 / page This is why companies don’t hire from the outside, because it takes to long for the employees to get use to the company they were hired at, rather then the one they were doing well at previously, this is one con of hiring from the outside. There are many other disadvantages about hiring from the outside as well. One of these factors would be it increases the chances of the work place morality to drop. What I mean by this is that if the people in the work place of the current company they are at hire other people for positions they are qualified for, this would possibly tick people within the company ff, and maybe even question those people if they should stay with the company or not. I remember you gave an example in class about how you were brought in for a company and one employee even confronted you and said how you took his job. This can definitely make the work place very uncomfortable for employees at the job. Just because a person did good at their current job does not mean they will automatically do good for the new company that hires them. The new employee will have to adapt to the new culture of the company and this can be very hard for new employees. Also, giving employees a chance to be promoted if they work hard is a benefit of hiring from the inside. This incentive definitely gives people something to work hard for and try to earn. I know for me, I don’t want to switch jobs a lot and if I were working at a place I would love the opportunity to keep moving up in the company if I was working hard. The article talks about how people within the company know the â€Å"do’s and don’ts of the company. † New people that companies bring in are unaware of what to do in certain situations and probably don’t have a very good idea of what the company is about compared to people that work within company. I definitely understand about what companies are trying to do from the outside, but some companies are blind to the fact that it will take a while for the new employees to gel in with everyone and the work place of the company. Overall, of course there is many benefits that include hiring from the outside, which include fresh skills and ideas. But the article states that Professor Groysberg says employers need to be much more strategic about hiring so that the organization has the right mix of old and new. This is a very important statement due to the fact that a company must decide is it really important that they absolutely need someone from the outside rather than someone who is already working there already? For employees that put in their two weeks because they are unhappy with the company hiring from the outside, the article has a very good solution for this. In the last meeting, it is important to ask what can we do to keep you here. Most of the time, people will say a raise. A good answer to this question would be we understand you want that but we don’t know if that’s possible, what else can we offer to you that is important to you? Answers like these will definitely help people from quitting to staying at the company.

Gates of Fire Essays

Gates of Fire Essays Gates of Fire Essay Gates of Fire Essay That detail in this book is what makes it great. After reading this book I believe that the Sparta has breaded the toughest soldiers in history, not Just physically but most of all mentally with their mastering of fear. Steven Pricelesss fictional idea of philological is a big part in the book. Philological is the science of Fear. Though this concept was made up by Predefines he strongly believes that there was some type of science on fear in Sparta. Spartan soldiers learn to master philological, when they enter the gauge. Gauge Is a real term that served many roles, gauge Is a training, an initiation, a test of will, courage and strength that al Spartan have to go Into at a very young age. In this, Spartan encouraged obedience and conformity In the gauge. A Spartan city state comes before any mans own personal Interest. A Spartan polls also played a large part In this book adding to the reason why Sparta has developed the greatest soldiers. The story is told by Exe a captive of Xeroxes; and squire to Dinkies. Exe is not a born Spartan but fixes himself to be one. Dinkies is a war veteran and very reliable source in the book. : Exe is found with deadly wounds in battle and captured to tell Xeroxes, king of the Persians about Spartan life. Xeroxes saw first hand 300 Spartan fight to their deaths and was very interest in what drives them to do so. You get your first taste of the actual Spartan gauge when Exe reminisces on a memory of Sparta when boys where punished in the gauge camps by being whipped with sticks. A good time for a whipping would be getting caught for steeling. The key word In this Is caught, a Spartan boy going through gauge was expected to steal there were hardly fed and the only way to survive was to steel. Getting caught was unacceptable. Whippings where given by two drill instructors who just recently got out of gauge, they administered the beatings. The beatings worked like this the boys whose turn it was grasped a horizontal iron bar secured to the bases of two trees(the bar had been worn smooth by decades, some said centuries, of the ritual) (Predefines 38). There was a boy by the name of Trained, also know as Tripod because no one could take him down in his age group in wrestling. Tripod was whipped to his death. Most young Spartan held on until they were knocked on conscious or could no longer take the whippings. The book says Tripod kept taking and taking it. The flesh of his back had been torn through In a dozen places; you could see tissue and fascia, rib cage, ND muscle and even the spine. He would not go down. (Predefines 38). Tripods comrades and even the drill Instructor quietly urged the boy to fall. Tripod had made up his mind to die. The drill Instructors whipped Tripod rapidly and very hard to knock him down and preserve his life. Unfortunately, Tripod died. There was no time to morn, later on Tanat rater noon ten rural AT Dealings continued way. The strongest, the toughest of all soldiers. I Nils Is ten Spartan Every young Spartan going through gauge has a mentor. A mentor may say things that a father cannot; a boy can confess to his mentor that which would bring shame o reveal to his father. (Progressed 40). Dinkies is the mentor of Alexandria. Alexandria is not as physically fit as the other boys, he has asthma his greatest talent is singing but his goal is to be a Spartan warrior he is at a large disadvantage and his chance of ever taking the battlefield does not look too good. After Tripods death Dinkies asked Alexandria how he felt about the event. This is a perfect example of how young minds where molded to be so strong. The conversation between them consist of these words: (Did you observe today in the manner of the eeriness (drill instructors) delivering he beating any sign or indication of malice? The boy answered no. Would you characterize their demeanor as barbarous? Did they take pleasure in dealing agony to Tripod? No. Was their intention to crush his will or break his spirit? What was their intention? To harden his mind against pain. (Predefines 40). To harden his mind against pain, this is coming from a boy that is only twelve years old. They also talk about how the flesh does not belong to them, it belongs to the gods, their children, fathers and mothers. This shows how dedicated a Spartan soldier was to their city-state. Dinkies respected Tripod but found him to be stupid he said What he displayed today contained more of recklessness than true courage, Andrei. He cost the city his life, which could have been spent more fruitfully in battle. (Predefines 41). A Spartan life did not belong to him but to Sparta. Due to the help of Dinkies and the Spartan drive that Alexandria had he eventually made it through his Asthma problem and became a Spartan soldier. Spartan soldiers carry up to 80 pounds of armor, the most important is the shield. To show how important the shield was to a Spartan soldier Predefines has an incident here Alexandria has his shield sitting open on the ground, a veteran soldier and Olympian sees this and makes a fool out of Alexandria in front of everyone. Alexandria leaves his shield sitting face down and Polygene sees this and scolds him loudly in front of the whole platoon. Polynesia says, What is this I see in the dirt before me? he roared. It must be a chamber pot, with its bowl peeking up so daintily. (Predefines 79,80). Alexandria says no it is not a chamber pot but Polynesia finds this impossible. Polygene makes Alexandria urinate in his shield. The shield had en patched over and over by his father and grandfather but none of that mattered. He was so dehydrated that there was not much pee entering the shield so Polynesia ordered the other boys to assist him and also pee in Alexandrine shield. Dinkies watch ed from a far but could say nothing, for Polynesia was right in what he was doing. Discipline was a very important to Spartan soldiers. Steven Predefines used some of his personal experiences in the book. There is time where Alexandria shouts This is my shield. I bear it before me into battle, But it is not mine alone. It protects my brother on my left. It protects my city. I will never let my brother out of its shadow Nor my city out of its shelter. I will die with my shield before me Facing the enemy. (Predefines 85). Predefines says in an interview that this part of the book; was a fictional invention based upon my own experience in the US Marine Corps, where Marines recite, This is my rifle. There are many others like, but this one is mine, etc. (Lee). Predefines does a great Job in exemplifying how important the shield was to a Spartan soldier. There where many crazy agonizing training activities, though they seemed ridiculous and UN reasonable it made much sense due to the way Spartan fought in war. When in battle Spartan soldiers form a Phalanx. A Phalanx was a battle formation that consisted of 8 or 16 rows or soldiers. When given the word each soldier would drive there shields into the back of the soldier in front making a wall that could not be broken. Each man protected the man on his left and right, discipline was very important there could be no holes. Young Spartan soldiers had a drill called Tree Bucking. Tree Bucking consisted of forming this Phalanx and pushing a tree until they could make it fall. For hours until the son came up they would push and strain vomiting and shutting themselves, of course the tree would not all. Tree Bucking was a torturing drill but it was great for simulating what would be needed to be done when opposing soldiers that rammed themselves into their shields. The next day with out any sleep they would continue on to other drills. I fully understand why Xeroxes desired so avidly to know about the Spartan warrior. The difference between Persian and Spartan value where very different, you could tell by the way their soldiers fought in battle. The Persian army consisted of slaves and soldiers that where conquered in war. The Spartan army consisted of citizens who believed their lives belonged to Sparta not themselves. Spartan fight for their city- state in which they love. Persians fight for Xeroxes because their only alternative is death, they have no love for him.

Beowulf, Themes and Symbols Term Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

Beowulf, Themes and Symbols - Term Paper Example evil through the battle between Grendel and Beowulf, finally the hero was able to defeat him and establish goodness through which, according to the Christian belief, redemption is possible. The human beings are always under the threat evil forces. They are desirous to the flourished and peaceful lives of human beings. This is what happens in the kingdom of Shield Sheafson. The Heorot built by the king is a symbol of the wealth and harmonious life of the people belong to that country. The beginning of the story is from the threats of Grendel who lives in the nearby swamplands of Hrothgars kingdom. The influence of such satanic forces is to be won over by power and strength. After many years of suffering, Beowulf came to know about the plight of Hrothgar. He sails to Denmark with a company of men to fight against the monster. This action is also to express his gratitude towards the king for a favor his father received earlier. Heroic code of that tome demands strength, courage, and loy alty in warriors. The king is expected to have political skills, hospitality, generosity etc. The king and the hero are struggling to establish their own identity. The common belief that honor is gained though deeds is enforced throughout the story. Beowulf is treated highly by the king before his heroic action. That illustrates the expectation of the king and his disciples. The king waits for the daring moments of victory over the monster. Beowulf succeeds there. But obstacle is coming on the way. As a hero Beowulf has to encounter another devilish creature who is the mother of Grendel. The interference of evil forces is a constant process in human life. As a hero, not only in action but also in thoughts, he never hesitates to do such dangerous events. The transition that takes place in the life of Beowulf is to be taken in. When he returns his own country, he elucidates his heroic deeds to the king. Beowulf then hands over most of his treasure to Hygelac, who, in turn, rewards him . Later he was adorned as the king of place. The warrior and the king have great difference. Thus Beowulf matures from a valiant fighter. He carries a diverse set of values for each of his roles. These dissimilarities can be observed more when we compare Beowulf and King Hrothgar. When the young Beowulf, long for personal credit, the old Hrothgar seeks the protection of his disciples. These are the expectations of the society. The role of a person is defined by the society. Thus Beowulf as a king is highlighted more than Beowulf as a ‘hero’ in this poem. We should think that the Beowulf-poet has fused different moral systems, pagan and Christian morals simultaneously and thus the poem is a vehicle of Christian morals. According to Thomas D Hill the Beowulf- poet is a ‘Germanic humanist’ a precursor to the renaissance humanist who would reconcile their Christian mores with the great pagan minds that had come before them. The violence represents one of the po et’s most immediate challenges to settle his Christian faith and pagan history. The belief in forgiveness and mercy which are traits of Christianity is reciprocated with vengeance and battle in pagan belief. Thus in the two battles –first with Grendel and the second with Grendel’s mother Beowulf tries to protect his people. This theme of Christian virtue provides enough symbolism to convey the Christian moral. When handling with the theme of violence, according to

Community assessment and project planning Essay

Community assessment and project planning - Essay Example The paper explains the health problems and issues that were identified in the community and how the problems can be solved by utilizing the resources available in the community. This community assessment is a review of population health in Philadelphia, highlighting key health concerns as well as resources that can be utilized to combat the health problems that are identified. Conducting a community health assessment is the important activity associated with public health experts. Community health assessment enables both nongovernmental and governmental organization to identify community assets and needs, develop program and policies, allocate resources while at the same time monitor the public health changes in the community. The information was obtained from various health sources in Philadelphia such as the department of public and community health. Philadelphia is considered the fifth largest city in the United States of America. The 2010 population census revealed a population o f around 1,536,006 people. The largest portion of the population is between 15-34 years old. Birth rates have also increased over the past decade. Philadelphia is both ethnically and racially diverse with at least a third of the population identified as non-Hispanic whites.

Biometric Security Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

Biometric Security - Essay Example â€Å"Biometrics is the science and technology of measuring and analyzing biological data. In information technology, biometrics refers to technologies that measure and analyze human body characteristics, such as fingerprints, eye retinas and irises, voice patterns, facial patterns and hand measurements, for authentication purposes.† SearchSecurity.com (2008) These have several applications including time attendance, access control, identification card, security systems, server rooms and data centers. The advantages of this system are: easy to use, removes proxy punching, prevents identity theft, no recurring costs on cards, better returns on investment and instant reporting. (BioEnable 2007) The objective of this paper is to discuss three technological applications on biometrics in the areas of fingerprint scanners, iris recognition system and smart cards. A presentation of each features, mechanics, and practical applications would enable one to discern which biometric techno logy is most beneficial to more members of the society. However, one should bear in mind that there are other factors to consider in selecting a biometric technology. Fingerprint scanners are technological applications in biometrics utilizing fingerprints of a user to be initially enrolled in a data base. The identity of the user would be authenticated by matching a current scan with that previously recorded in the data base. According to WebMediaBrands (2009), â€Å"fingerprint scanning essentially provides an identification of a person based on the acquisition and recognition of those unique patterns and ridges in a fingerprint.† This technology is currently being used in timekeeping, payroll, computer and security systems, among a host of other innovative applications. However, the cost of applying fingerprint scanning is still relatively expensive as compared to the traditional modes of ID badges. Iris recognition system is reported as one of the most accurate of all biometric

Breakdown of the Pestel Analysis

Breakdown of the Pestel Analysis EThames Graduate School (ET) is a modern and dynamic Higher Education institution offering students a complete range of high quality UK recognized qualifications. Our career focused degree programs provide students with the knowledge and skills required to ensure a smooth transition from the classroom to the workplace. Our mission is to develop each students abilities to the full in order to produce outstanding professional and enterprising people for business, industry and professional careers. (Thames, 2011) EThames Graduate School is Europes largest Higher Education institution offering world reputed higher educational qualifications. The EThames Graduate School students come from different countries around the world. The EThames Graduate Schools core business is in its different study areas such as business, finance, computing, health and social care, English and other training programs. 2012 Olympics games are going to be in London and lot of international attractions will comes to the school. Also there will be higher demand for the professional courses which are focusing relative fields focusing the event. Therefore it is necessary to have proper marketing campaign to capture the opportunity. I have discussed the situational analysis, marketing strategy, implications for the ET due to the expecting mega event of the Olympic 2012. Situational Analysis As identified by the marketing audit and summarized in the SWOT analysis within the core market in which ET operates has been significantly affected by the recent rise in competitive pressure. A robust long-term plan must now be created to deliver competitive advantage and reverse the downward sales trend. The events market is reactive, fast paced and heavily influenced by changes in the external business environment; thus a 2-3 year plan is considered a long-term one. The Olympic 2012 event will make lot of influences to the business within few months. 1.1 PESTEL Analysis Political Forecast cuts in public spending Changes in Government attitudes to external meetings Planned rise in VAT to 20% January 2011 Impact of 2012 Olympics London / 2014 Glasgow Commonwealth Games / 2018 World Cup Increased globalization and associated meeting requirements (both physical and virtual). UK is in 24th place in world globalization rankings High unemployment rate (7.8% / 2.47 million) resulting in less training and development Economic Increasing use of external preferred agencies to make bookings, rather than diplomas direct Event budgets forecast to stay at lower levels than pre-recession Luxury / additional spend forecast to stay low Quantity of delegates forecast to stay flat Increasing commercial awareness in buyers (haggling, negotiation, personalized pricing) Increased reluctance not to commit until last minute Forecast cuts in public spending Legal Market segment legislation (e.g. ABPI guidelines) restricting venue. Planned rise in VAT to 20% January 2011 Events industry remains unregulated ET operate in old buildings meaning significant investment is needed to meet changes in accessibility regulations Technical Rise in video conferencing (Webinars) Rise in virtual events2 Increase in user generated content (venue reviews, social networking sites) Reliance on websites / search engines for venue selection, rather than printed directories and magazines Increasing reliance on AV tools thus high impact on event if fails / non-compatible High rate of technological development venues need to be adaptive to these requirements Social Cultural Increasing demand in some sectors (e.g. online learning) to use ethical venues (CSR) Rise in customer service expectations Increasing commercial awareness in buyers (haggling, negotiation) Increase in user generated content (venue reviews, social networking sites) Demand for meetings to become more objective and measurable Increasing demand for venues to demonstrate sustainability / green / ethical credentials (BS8901standard) Increasing diversity in customer tastes and demands (dietary / cultural requirements) Environmental Increasing demand for venues to demonstrate sustainability / green / ethical credentials (BS8901standard) Public sector travel cuts (e.g. Environment Agency) Carbon cost of business travel under scrutiny Rise in demand for locally sourced produce 1.2 Distinctive competencies (DCs) ET currently possesses 5 Distinct Competencies. These are key internal strengths which have no major countering weakness. Stability ET is part of the wider ET providing underlying financial stability. Staff also has access to a wide pool of specialist in-house resources16 giving advantage over independent competitors. Power ET shows a position of strength as highest value added member and thus an ability to meet changing customer demands (e.g. AV / Catering) by negotiating optimum deals with students. Customer Service ET have an outstanding Customer Service record and are currently no 1 educational center in the UK18, placing them at a distinct advantage to combat the rise in competition. Flexibility The 7S and 7P models19 demonstrate ETs flexible approach to product and pricing. Customer facing staff is adaptive and able to meet changing customer requirements with ease. Product ET offer an upper-middle end service based on proven customer service and added value, rather than price alone. 1.3 Critical success factors (CSFs) Analysis of the opportunities and threats within the micro and macro environments show the groups core markets present 5 critical factors for future success. Price There is strong demand for cost effective events with personalized pricing and competitor matching. This is forecast to continue in the mid-long term future. AV Student demands for the latest in reliable conference technology (both physical and virtual) are forecast to grow, as will their reliance on it to deliver their events (virtual speakers / delegates etc). Agencies Agents are a growing selection method of choice for students. Green credentials Customer preference for environmental sustainability is rising, with industry launching to differentiate which venues are compliant. Customer Service students have a continued requirement for reliable, personalized customer service. 1.4 Benefits of marketing planning It is increasingly important in todays rapidly changing business environment that companies plan their marketing effectively. According to Kotler (2002) sound planning helps the company to anticipate and respond quickly to environmental changes, and to prepare better for sudden developments. ET s core markets are fast paced and increasingly competitive, so it is vital they have a clear plan in place to combat the rise in competitive pressure by meeting customer needs and wants more effectively than rivals. 1) To understanding their business environment: Marketing planning allows ET to fully understand their complex business environment both internally and externally. The early identification of key market changes and threats (such as the rise in competitive pressure or demand for environmental credentials) allows ET to adapt its strategy and marketing mix accordingly. Analysis of the external environment ensures ET understand who their customers are, the factors affecting their purchase decisions and are able to anticipate their needs and wants. 2) To set objectives and give direction: ETs objective hierarchy shows the groups marketing objectives stemming from the corporate objectives, which in turn stem from the Board strategic plan. According to Dibb (2007) a marketing objective is a statement of what is to be accomplished through marketing activities the results expected from marketing efforts.ET activities sit outside the core focus of the ET, so efficient marketing planning is essential to ensure relevant objectives are set. 3) To develop a strategy capable of delivering the objectives set: ET will only meet their objectives with a clear strategy; defined by Kotler (2002) as the marketing logic by which the business hopes to achieve its marketing objectives. A planning gap was identified between growth objective and forecast, so a clear market penetration growth strategy was adopted to bridge it. Without this strategy, the venues may lose focus (e.g. diversifying into the rooms by the hour business); the marketing objectives would not be met, leading to the corporate objectives being missed. 4) To select the right groups of customers to communicate with: According to Jobber (2007) market segmentation is the identification of individuals or organizations with similar characteristics that have significant implications for the determination of marketing strategy. By breaking the market down into customer segments of a similar type, ET can gain greater understanding of its customers, meet their needs and wants more effectively and communicate in a way they are more likely to respond to. 5) To develop tactics and a plan of action Finally, marketing planning provides a detailed tactical plan, giving direction to each of the 7Ps of the marketing mix. By setting a detailed, measurable plan encompassing all elements, ET can combine expertise from both marketing and the business into one organizational effort. This effort will ensure staffs are fully trained, resources are deployed in the right areas, the brand is developed and consistent across the estate and the product meets market requirements (such as BS8901 accreditation). Marketing Plan In order to combat the rise in competitive pressure and plug the planning gap, ET needed to develop a strategy for growth by making alterations to either its product-set (Educational options) or student base. As ET only matched some of the markets, a lower-risk Market Penetration strategy was advised, defined by Dibb (2006) as a strategy of increasing sales in current markets with current products. It was clear from the marketing audit that there were areas of the existing market that ET were not engaging with effectively (e.g. event booking agents) and that there was still potential for growth without costly development of a new product, expansion into a new market or complete diversification. ` 2.1 Growth Strategy To ensure the expecting expansion in 2012 ET must develop a clear growth strategy. The Growth Strategy Analysis within shows the full ET product portfolio and the strategies for growth currently adopted across the organisation. In the medium-long term, ET must adopt a clear Market penetration growth strategy. The groups only match against some of the markets from Asian students; this coupled with the current rise in competitive pressure mean that a low risk strategy is advised. If ET already matched all the markets likely requirements, this could be leveraged to develop a new product or expand into a new market to achieve competitive advantage. It is important that as part of the Market Penetration strategy, tweaks are made to the existing product offering to match the outstanding. Eg: Market Penetration Re-targeting to agents / local students and identification of different customer segments with buying potential (High demanded educational courses). Market development Launch of new ET in other all provinces with the same mix (tiered lecture theatre, city centre location, 5* student service etc) Product development Launch of self-study workshops by the hour product as per diploma requirements and customized visiting lecturers. Diversification Launch a management consultancy firm under the ET name. 2.2 Competitive Strategy In order to protect its growth strategy and ensure efforts could not easily be duplicated by competitors, a competitive strategy was identified in which ET could specialize, defined by Kotler (2002) as a strategy that strongly positions the company against competitors and gives the strongest possible strategic advantage. It was not suitable to adopt a cost leadership strategy as per common schools in London whose low event specific overheads allow them to achieve cost leadership and undercut ET on basic price. This approach is not achievable without putting ETs 5* student Service at risk. A competitive strategy of differentiation was not suitable for ET due to the high costs involved and likely high diploma failure rate due to lack of enough students. The group already has costly overheads in ongoing maintenance for its historic buildings, making it unviable to continuously invest in first to market NPD. The chosen competitive strategy to focus on niche groups for whom premium facilities, excellent student service and reliability are important is the right one as it utilizes ET well and has high potential for repeat and referral business; achieving the sales growth needed to fill the planning gap. 2.3 Marketing Mix Elements Service The core product is not unique as the capital has hundreds of diplomas which fulfill the same basic student need, thus classing it as a carbon copy. However there are many elements in the secondary product portfolio which are unique; riverside location and views, tiered lecture theatre for 500 guests and student service credentials are the key ones to be leveraged. In order to satisfy the newly selected target segments, must develop its secondary product to fill the gap. The diploma must change its attitude towards environmental policy and begin an investment program in order to achieve the sustainable teaching standards Price Of the three pricing strategies available (skimming, intermediate and penetration), ET Place currently operates an intermediate pricing strategy. I recommend that this continues in the medium long term. The diploma holds some USPs such as best in class customer service, high lecture theatre capacities and its panoramic. However some features (seminar spaces video-conferencing facilities) are not unique within the London market. It has a medium break-even point40 within a perfectly elastic market and looks to communicate a position of quality and reliability. One of the venues main USPs is the added value services it provides (such as 1st class customer service), which would be jeopardize by a price penetration strategy. Promotions The promotional objectives to the two new customer groups43 will be to inform and differentiate; educating them about the venue, its product and service attributes and key differentiating factors (such as student service excellence). However, as identified in the Product Lifecycle model, ET London is in the maturity stage thus the objectives for the existing groups will be to remind and persuade them to use ET again or reconsider a previous decision not to. Push partner with 3rd party intermediary brokers, industry magazines and websites to generate business (and awareness of) ET London. Pull communicate directly with target customer groups via an integrated marketing campaign to inform, differentiate and drive enquiries straight to the diploma. Profile increase awareness of ET London and the wider ET Diplomas group to both primary and secondary target groups and the broader industry Place In order to reach and retain the chosen target segments, ET London must alter parts of its place (distribution) strategy. Analysis of the external environment48 shows that buyers are increasingly enlisting agents to place their bookings, so the diploma must change from a Direct to Dual core place strategy, allowing clients to place bookings directly or through their nominated agency. Supported by the promotional tactics, staff will target agents specifically with preferred commission rates, tailored pricing and ensure the product of choice when making booking decisions. Few conflicts exist as the majority of students using agents do so as they have no buying alternative due to their company policy. The venues distribution intensity should remain selective in order to build brand loyalty, emphasize the high levels of quality and service and support their new focused competitive strategy. Unlike mass market / cost leadership competitors whose primary objective is to secure a high quantity of small diplomas, ET should look to build trust-based relationships with students to secure their high-value events on an ongoing basis, thus a selective distribution intensity is advised. 2.4 Controls Based upon ETs existing all we can afford budget structure, I recommend a percentage of sales forecast approach is adopted at 3.5%. Although not ideal, it will ensure marketing budget bids in the short-term are realistic and increase proportionately as the long term objectives become realized. In addition to the action plan, a series of targets and budgets run in parallel to the implementation schedule. The targets will motivate and encourage staff to achieve a positive outcome in small, manageable chunks, but also allow ET to monitor progress against objectives and identify risks early on so corrective measures can be taken. The specific budgets set provide a framework for staff to work within on individual activities, ensuring the overall budget is not exceeded and profitability maintained. Finally, this set of smaller budgets allow the ET Marketing Manager to delegate tasks to colleagues, whilst maintaining overall budget control. Main Barriers and how to Implement 3.1 Barriers in Internal Audits Internal Interviews Geographic spread meant some interviews were held by phone or email making it hard to read reactions and ask supplemental questions accordingly. HR was also not willing to be interviewed for purposes of the audit. Confidentiality Access to staff performance records was not granted so mystery shopper recordings and sales staff observations69 were 2 techniques used to determine broad conclusions, alongside the statistics provided by their managers. Accuracy / consistency of information Staff had been recording financial and enquiry data inconsistently (e.g. internal business levels); both year on year and from venue to venue. A system change meant that customer information (beyond sales figures) for 2012 is also unavailable. Staff availability ET Accountant was unavailable which delayed receipt of key financial data by few weeks. Turnover of staff mid-audit was also an issue. 3.2 Lack of financial resources The decline in sales between 2009 and 2010 could see Senior Management withdraw ET Marketing spend, although the fact that the decline has now stalled and a clear strategy is in place to close the planning gap may alleviate this. In addition, the % of sales forecast marketing budget approach will reassure management that the marketing plan is results driven. There are profile activities within the tactical plan which senior management could see as expendable, so it will be important to emphasize the collaborative effect of the integrated marketing mix so that individual elements are not removed. 3.3 Lack of staff The new strategy is heavily relationship driven; effective targeting of the key commercial conference and Agency groups in particular will only deliver results if staff invests time to nurture relationships, build trust and secure repeat business. ET does not have any pro-active sales staff, so the success of the marketing plan is pivotal on securing 1 sales person at each venue. If this is not acceptable to senior management, existing reactive coordination staff must be reprioritized to a proactive sales approach and assigned key accounts to nurture from within the target customer segments. This will involve some retraining, but will be an opportunity for development. An important part of the staffing change will be to incentivize sales staff with commission as per the industry standard; helping to secure buy-in. 3.4 Lack of time Although senior staff has requested a long-term (2-3 year) marketing plan for ET, they may expect to see quick results (3-6 months). Unfortunately this is unlikely to happen as the plan is built around repeat business and relationship building (supporting the focus competitive strategy and product Positioning). Expectations must be managed throughout the organisation that although the marketing objectives will be realized, it is unlikely to be before the target date of 2012. In addition, time must be dedicated to account management by staff, which will be problematic without the added proactive sales function. If management requires results to be shown before the team can be expanded, key accounts must be targeted first by senior venues staff before distributing lower value companies to junior staff. 3.5 Lack of skills There are certain skills gaps which could jeopardize the implementation of the plan if not mitigated promptly. The shift from a reactive to proactive sales function with key account management is a big change and one which will require intensive training and ongoing mentoring for all staff involved. In addition, the ability to leverage power within the supply chain to secure the best deals from external suppliers is a key advantage which the group is not currently utilizing due to lack of staff skills and confidence. A program of training for staff involved in such negotiations will be essential. Finally, the success of the plan is dependent on the group maintaining their 1st class customer service, thus an ongoing staff training program must be established. Ethical Issues for ETs Marketing Marketing planning allows ET to fully understand their complex business environment both internally and externally. The early identification of key market changes and threats (such as the rise in competitive pressure or demand for environmental credentials) allows ET to adapt its strategy and marketing mix accordingly. Analysis of the external environment ensures ET understand who their customers are, the factors affecting their purchase decisions and are able to anticipate their needs and wants. Examination of its internal environment will identify strengths and weaknesses thus ensuring systems and processes are in place to meet those foreseen customer demands effectively. ET has to realize that they are into the educational industry and it is necessary maintain all the best practices of the industry and they responsible to be an advisable organization. An important but costly element of the plan is to close the gap by securing BS8901 environmental accreditation for all branches, so a separate business case should be prepared highlighting the costs involved and direct benefits to the ET beyond the commercial venue business. The marketing plan poses some key changes in approach for ET and looks to de-priorities certain market segments. This may meet resistance from both management and operational staff initially before the new segments begin to deliver results. A phase out rather than immediate approach to the change over a 6-12 month period will alleviate this. In addition, the ET Marketing Manager should run a series of workshops with staff from all over the business to explain the plan in-depth, its rationale, and key outcomes to ensure buy-in. Bibliography / Referencing: 2008. (Clause 19.1). 1 July 2008 Association of the British Pharmaceutical Industry Code of Practice for the Pharmaceutical Industry, British Meetings and Events Industry Survey 2010, CAT Publications, October 2010 Dibb, S., Simkin, L., Pride W., Ferrell, O., (2006) Marketing Concepts and Strategies, 5th European edition, South Western Cengage Learning Jobber, D., (2007) Principles and Practice of Marketing, 5th Edition, McGraw Hill Education Kotler, P., Armstrong, G., Saunders, J., Wong, V., (2002) Principles of Marketing, 3rd European Edition, Meetings Incentive Travel, Olympic Opportunities: Going for Gold. September 2010. Meetings Industry Association. Pathfinder Report Spring 2010. Northamptonshire, April 2010 Megicks, P., Donnelly, R., Harrison, G., (2009) The Marketing Planning Process, Elsevier Pearson Education Limited

Surplus :: essays research papers

  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Due to outstanding economic times we now face a federal budget surplus. This surplus is the first one since the mid sixties. Before now we have been in a federal deficit. Because our good situation we are face with a tough decision; what do we do with the extra money. Some people think we should put the money in government programs others think we should give it back to the people who gave the government the money. Giving the money back to the taxpayers appears to be the most logical thing to do with the surpluses.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  The government has a moral obligation to give the money back to the taxpayers. The government does not have anything to spend the money on now. Just because we have the money doesn’t mean we have to spend it. We do not need to search for programs to spend our money on. Therefore we must give back the money while we still have it.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Tax rates are at an all-time peacetime high. When President Clinton took office, federal Taxes consumed 17.8 cents out of every dollar earned in the United States. Now the federal Government’s take is 20.6 cents out of every dollar. (USA Today) Budget projections indicate that over the next ten years, the federal government will have huge budget surpluses totaling about $3 trillion. If we have a surplus at a high tax rate, why can’t the government take what it needs and lower the tax rate? We need to lower taxes to a rate where the government does not take more than it needs. An example of how these types of practices are unheard of anywhere else is as followed; If I were to go to a bank and ask for a car loan of $10,000 and the car only costs $8,000 the bank would demand that I lower the loan amount to $8,000. Then I might say, â€Å"I can find other things to spend the $2,000 on†. The loan officer would laugh and say, â€Å"I’m sure you could but I can’t give you more that you need.† The people who oppose cutting taxes clearly believe that the money generated by federal taxes actually belongs to the federal government. Many of us who want the government to give the money back to the people believe that the money belongs to the people who paid the taxes and if they are paying more than we need to run the government, we should give it back.

Professional Qualification Syllabus

SECTION NAME SYLLABUS KAPLAN (CHAPTERS) BPP (CHAPTERS) A FINANCIAL MANAGEMENT FUNCTIONÂ  The nature and purpose of financial managementFinancial objectives and therelationship with corporate strategyStakeholders and impact oncorporate objectivesFinancial and other objectives in not-for-profit organisationThe financial management functionFinancial management and financial objectivesB FINANCIAL MANAGEMENT ENVIROMENTThe economic environment forbusinessThe nature and role of financial markets and institutionsThe nature and role of moneyMarketsThe economic environment for businessFinancial markets and the treasury functionThe economic environment for businessFinancial markets, money markets and institutionsC WORKING CAPITAL MANAGEMENTThe nature, elements andimportance of working capitalManagement of inventories, accounts receivable, accounts payable and cashDetermining working capital needs and funding strategiesWorking capital management8. WCM (Inventory control)WCM (Accounts receivable and payable)10.WCM (Cash and funding strategies)Workin g capitalManaging working capitalWorking capital financeD INVESTMENT APPRAISALInvestment appraisal techniquesAllowing for inflation and taxation in DCFAdjusting for risk and uncertainty in investment appraisalSpecific investment decisions (Lease or buy; asset replacement; capital rationing)Basic investment appraisal techniquesDiscounted cash flow techniquesFurther aspects of discounted cash flowsInvestment appraisal under uncertaintyAsset investment decisions and capital rationingInvestment decisionsInvestment appraisal using DCF methodsAllowing for inflation and taxation10. Project appraisal and riskSpecific investment decisionsE BUSINESS FINANCESources of and raising business financeEstimating the cost of capitalSources of finance and their relative costsCapital structure theories and practical considerationsFinance for small and medium sized entities (SMEs)Sources of finance16. Dividend policyFinancial ratiosThe cost of capitalCapital structureSources of financeDividend policyGea ring and capital structureThe cost of capitalCapital structure

Permian Mass Extinction essays

Permian Mass Extinction essays A mass extinction about 250 million years ago, which destroyed almost of the species on Earth, happened very quickly and it is demonstrated in the fossil record by the collapse of one-celled organisms called protests. Something suddenly killed off more than 90 %of all species on earth, and that led to the age of the dinosaurs. Evidence indicates the massive die-off was linked with an abrupt drop in productivity, the rate at which inorganic carbon is turned into organic carbon through processes such as photosynthesis. Terrestrial faunal diversification occurred in the Permian and 90-95% of marine species became extinct. Among terrestrial fauna affected included insects, amphibians, reptiles and mammal-like reptiles. The terrestrial flora was predominately composed of gymnosperms, including conifers. Life in the sea consisted of common groups of brachiopods, bony fish, sharks and fuslinid. Corals and trilobites were also present, but were exceedingly rare. During the Permian period all the worlds land masses joined together into a single super continent named Pangaea. The collision between Laurasia and Siberia-Kazakhstania and China finalized and assembled into Pangaea by the end of Permian. This was the first time since the late Protrusion super continent of Rodina that such a landmass had formed. Pangea was shaped sort of like a giant pacman with the mouth on the east. There was a corresponding large single ocean, called Pathalassa. The body of water enclosed by the pacman mouth constituted a smaller area, the Tethys, which covered much of what is now southern and central Europe. Throughout the Permian, Europe was covered by a very salty inland sea, the Zechstein Sea, which advanced and receded at least twice. This was home to an impoverished fauna, mainly brachiopods and bivalves, which were able to cope with the hyper saline conditions. ...

Definition and Examples of Reflected Meaning

Definition and Examples of Reflected Meaning In semantics, reflected meaning is a  phenomenon whereby a single word or phrase is associated with more than one  sense or meaning. It is also known as  coloring and contagion.   The term reflected meaning was coined by linguist Geoffrey Leech, who defined it  as the meaning which arises in cases of multiple conceptual meaning when one sense of a word forms part of our response to another sense. . . . One sense of a word seems to rub off on another sense (Semantics: The Study of Meaning, 1974). When comedians use reflected meaning in their jokes its an example of wordplay. The joke is usually funny because it uses a word that is technically correct for the situation but that will elicit a different often opposite image in the mind of the listener.   Examples and Observations In the case of reflected meaning, more than one meaning surfaces at the same time, so there is a kind of ambiguity. It is as if one or more unintended meanings were inevitably thrown back rather like light or sound reflected on a surface. For instance, if I use the medical expression chronic bronchitis, it is difficult for the more colloquial emotive meaning of chronic, bad, not to intrude as well. . . . Sometimes, such coincidental, unwanted meanings cause us to change a lexical item for another. Thus, if I think that dear in my dear old car may be misinterpreted as meaning expensive, I can substitute lovely and eliminate the potential ambiguity. . . .Reflected meaning may be used deliberately. Newspaper headlines exploit it all the time: DISASTER TANKER ADRIFT IN A SEA OF BAFFLING QUESTIONSTHE ZAMBIAN OIL INDUSTRY: NOT JUST A PIPE DREAM Naturally the success of such word play will depend on the standard of education, linguistic experience or mental agility of the readership. From  Introductory Semantics and Pragmatics for Spanish Learners of English  by Brian Mott Intercourse Perhaps a more everyday example [of reflected meaning] is intercourse, which by reason of its frequent collocation with sexual tends now to be avoided in other contexts. From  Translation, Linguistics, Culture: A French-English Handbook  by Nigel Armstrong    Reflected Meanings of Product Names [S]uggestive [ trademarks] are marks that call to mindor suggestan association related to the product they name. They imply strength or softness or freshness or flavor, depending on the product; they are subtle marks, created by marketers and ad people who are very skilled at making artful associations. Think of TORO lawn mowers, DOWNY fabric softener, IRISH SPRING deodorant soap, and ZESTA saltine crackers. None of these marks is obvious, but we perceive nonetheless the strength of TORO lawn mowers, the softness DOWNY fabric softener imparts to laundry, the fresh scent of IRISH SPRING soap, and the zesty taste of ZESTA saltines. From The Trademark Guide by  Lee Wilson The Lighter Side of Reflected Meaning A [baseball] player with an unfortunate name was pitcher Bob Blewett. He pitched five games for New York during the 1902 season. Blewett lost both of his decisions and gave up 39 hits in only 28 innings. From  Baseballs Most Wanted II  by Floyd Conner

Fallacies Analysis Assignment Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1250 words

Fallacies Analysis - Assignment Example This is a type of question that is intended to make the opponent look unavoidably bad and uncomfortable. It can be found in political campaigns aimed at the citizens’ noble feelings: e.g. do you favor voting for a party that will legalize drugs, promote gay marriages and diminishes importance of religious spirituality justifying it with democratic aspirations? In this fallacy, the premises supporting the conclusion imply that the conclusion is true. For example, one can say that the United States is the best country to live in the world because there are no other countries better than the U.S. Drawing conclusions based on the available evidence, we often suppress both available and unavailable evidence that might make the conclusion more consistent. A common instance is insisting that America is an inherently Christian nation relying on the fact that ‘in God, we trust’ is inscribed in money. However, this conclusion is inconsistent due to a suppressed evidence: this inscription was added in the middle of the 20th century because of the fear of communism. Lack of proportion is over- or underestimation of actions, arguments, and outcomes used to convince people. An instance of this fallacy can be seen in downplaying important arguments for the sake of less significant ones. For example, a mother can be worried about the risk her child faces at school, i.e. risk of a mass school shooting; but she ignores the significance of the risk the child faces going to the school by bus daily.

Auditing&Assurance Assignment Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2500 words

Auditing&Assurance - Assignment Example Auditors go evaluate reports to ensure that they are accurately presented 1. The work of auditing should be conducted by independent professionals who demonstrate a high level of integrity. They should be honest, unbiased and sincere while discharging their duties. Most organizations experience cases of fraud, mismanagement of resources, and corruption among other vices. The vices are very costly to the organization and sometimes may be the beginning of the downfall of an organization. Most organizations lose their resources through fraudulent activities that are carried out by employees and sometimes senior managers. It is not easy to establish the fraudulent activities since it is performed by skilled individuals such as accountants. The cases might go easily unnoticed if a prima-facie approach is used to verify transactions. In order to unearth anomalies and discrepancies, a proper and independent investigation must be initiated. Auditors are the only professional that can be able to launch a thorough investigation that can assist the management discover fraudulent transactions and other illegal activities2. Auditing entails a number of activities. It analyses the books of account of an organization critically. Groups carry out numerous transactions that are recorded in the books of account. Conversely, fraudulent activities may take place during the recording stage. Accountants may alter the figure so that they can embezzle funds. The role of auditors is to look into the books to ensure no suspicious transactions have been recorded. In addition, they confirm the arithmetic accuracy of the documents that have been provided. Secondly, they are mandated with the responsibility of verifying the assets and liabilities of an organization. In the case of the body, the auditors had to undertake quarterly inventory counts. Furthermore, they detect and prevent errors and fraud from occurring. Finally, they report to the management n matters relating to