Women carrying two-thirds of the outstanding student loan debt

Women carrying two-thirds of the outstanding student loan debtWomen carrying two-thirds of the outstanding student loan debtFirst, the good news More women are going to college. According to a new report by the American Association of University Women, 56% of todays enrolled college students in America are women. But that achievement is being coupled with the stress and anxiety of student loans needed to finance that college dream. And this burden is being carried by more women than men. In 2016, the average woman left college owing $21,619, compared with the average man owing $18,880 when he left college.In total, women are shouldering two-thirds of the nations outstanding student loan debt, a staggering number that is almost $900 billion as of 2018.Why women are carrying more student loan debtDemographically, it makes sense that more women are dealing with student loans since more women are going to college than men. But that is not the full picture, the report suspects. TheAmerica n Association of University Women suggests that the gender pay gap is another factor as to why women are dealing with more student loans debt than men.From their first post-grad job, women get trapped in a cycle of being underpaid. The report found that women working full-time with college degrees were making an average of 20% less than their male counterparts four years after graduation. This aligns with other gender pay gap research. A separate studyfound that Millennial women willmake less money and make slower career progressthan their male peers despite equal qualifications in the first five years of their career.Because of the gender pay gap, they have less disposable income with which to repay their loans after graduation, requiring more time to pay back their student debt than do men. As a result, women hold nearly two-thirds of the outstanding student debt in the United States, the report states. Lower pay means less income to devote to debt repayment.When you are making le ss money, its going to take you longer to repay your student loans. In the four years after graduation, women paid off 31% of their debt, while men paid off an average of 38% of their student loans debt.Despite the financial risks and difficulties that now accompany earning a college degree, women are still enrolling and graduating at higher rates than men, and borrowing and repaying larger loans than men, the report concluded. Our system of higher education should not be a source of major financial risk for vulnerable students. We can do better.

Project Governance Structures

Project Governance StructuresProject Governance StructuresDo you know what project governance is and what it looks like? Or what to do if you are working in an environment where it doesnt exist? Lets start with a definition. Project Governance a Definition Governance in project management terms refers to the policies, processes, standards, procedures, and guidelines that determine how projects are led, run and controlled by your organization. Governance can be extensive and heavy with lots of bureaucracy, or sketchy and light (in which case it is probably inefficient). Managers should aim for the right level of governance for their environment and culture. Making sure your governance policies are fit for purpose is a key factor in ensuring that they are effective. Governance starts at the top. The company board should be committed to the idea of good governance and the fact that projects should be managed properly, within specified guidelines. This attitude and the standards that are expected will filter down to Project Boards and project leaders (and program teams, where behauptung exist). Why Project Governance Matters Your project sponsor and other key stakeholders want to know that you are spending the project budget in the right way. They want to see that you are tracking your projects progress effectively and stepping in to manage project risk as necessary. But the rationale for good governance on projects goes further than that. Governance is demanded by clients, especially those in the public sector. Governments and regulators ask (and in some cases, enforce) certain standards for certain projects. Governance isnt just an internal issue many companies operating in regulated markets will have to follow guidance from external legislation, like Sarbanes-Oxley. Project governance makes up a small part of being able to prove that your company operates effectively and within the specified guidelines and regulations for your industry. Project governanc e also helps you Improve your return on investment and track those investments effectivelyGain buy-in for projectsAvoid the common reasons why projects failCommunicate more effectivelyIntroduce standardization across projects, making it easier to compare the performanceMinimize riskDevelop and motivate staff in a structured environment What Project Governance Looks Like So now we know what project governance is, what does it look like on a project? Here are the kinds of activities that demonstrate governance in a project environment There is a disciplined project management life cycle which includes defined points for approval. These are points where the viability of the project is discussed and a decision is made as to whether to continue with the work or not.Projects have a clear geschftlicher umgang case, and geschftlicher umgang cases have enough information to enable management teams to make the right decisions.Those decisions are adequately documented and communicated.Peop le working on projects have defined roles and responsibilities.There is a culture of continuous learning that allows project teams to continuously improve and to discuss lessons learned in a blame-free environment. There are processes and procedures that enable project teams to review their project and to ask for independent support if required.Stakeholders are engaged and they trust the process.Project teams are made up of individuals who are experienced and qualified in the relevant roles. Governance of projects is linked to the governance structures in the organization overall. If you think that the main aim of project governance is to ensure that projects are carried out in the right way, you can see how it links to financial governance at a corporate level, corporate risk management and more. Project governance should fit seamlessly into your current organizational processes. In other words, dont create a brand new financial management process when you already have one that wor ks in other areas Use what currently exists and tweak corporate processes to make them suitable to use in a project environment. 5 Areas of Focus for Project Governance When you start looking into it, youll realize that project governance is pervasive through all the elements of project management. However, there are some key focus areas where governance is particularly relevant. Methodologies and Processes These help you deliver work reliably and sustainably.Knowledge Management This is crucial for lessons learned and ensuring that the organization learns from project experience. Knowledge management is essential if you want to stop making the same mistakes multiple times.Project Management Maturity As your organizational project management maturity increases, so will your ability to deliver successfully.Senior-Level Buy-in The commitment to project governance starts at the top. If you have management support, this will cascade down through all levels of the business and the ap proach to governance will be more sustainable. Supportive Culture A culture of support, not blame, will ensure project managers have the right environment in which to thrive. A supportive culture, led by the Project Management Office or Project Director, will help project managers reach their goals and those of the project. What to Do If There Is No Corporate Standard Many project managers in smaller organizations find themselves running projects in an environment that is supportive, and where there is buy-in for the concept of project management, but without the formal organizational structures in place from which to feed off. In that situation - and it isnt exclusive to small organizations - youll be designing your project governance model from scratch. If there isnt a project governance approach that you can take off the shelf and fit your project, youll have to build your own. Thats not as difficult as it might seem Start with umgebung up the basics Create a roles and resp onsibilities documentMake sure you have a project sponsorMake sure you have a Project Board or steering group and arrange regular meetings for which you take and distribute minutesSet up a risk management processSet up a change management processBuild points into your project schedule where you check the viability of the project against the original goals of the business case (the end of each stage of phase is the natural point to put these checks). Ultimately it is the project sponsors responsibility to ensure that there is adequate governance, but project managers can also take an active role in this. Governance might be one of the drier subjects in project management but its one of the most important. Its the way that senior management teams know that you are doing a good job and it reassures them that the project is unfolding as it should. It also provides the checks and balances necessary for managers to know that money is being spent in ways that are appropriate and aligned to the business case.

Customize this Professional Staff Auditor Resume Sample

Customize this Professional Staff Auditor Resume SampleCustomize this Professional Staff Auditor Resume SampleA strong resume works to demonstrate to potential employers how valuable you are as an employee and why you ought to be hired instead of the others who are applying for the same position. As an auditor, you know you face tough competition when searching for a new job, and so you ought to know you need a resume that stands apart from the crowd. Designing that perfect resume can be difficult, however, so it is often useful to get some outside help in your writing. You can use our staff auditor resume sample to begin composing your resume, or you can use it as a comparison against your completed resume to look for areas that may need some strengthening. You can also use our resume builder for extra assistance.Create Resume Gordon Eastman100 Broadway LaneNew Parkland, CA 91010Cell (555) 987-1234Professional SummaryStaff Auditor with extensive experience in the areas of internal and external auditing, budgeting and financial accounting. Proficient research with excellent analytic abilities. Specialized leadership and management abilities.Core QualificationsAudit and accounting proceduresRisk assessmentKnowledge of accounting softwareManagerial skillsAnalytic and research skillsTime managementExperienceStaff Auditor, March 20011 February 2015United Auditing New Parkland, CAReviewed audit programs and risk assessments for clients.Performed compliance testing for clients with budgets of over $500,000.Arranged payment of invoices.Engaged in timely collection of receivables.Staff Auditor, July 2009 March 2011United Computables New Parkland, CAPerformed audit field work for approximately 20 fincancial institutions.Developed solutions to reduce delinquent account balances.Assisted chief accountant with various duties.Education2009 Bachelor of Science, AccountingNew Parkland University New Parkland, CACustomize ResumeWhy Is This a Good Staff Auditor Resume Sam ple?A good resume starts with a professional summary so the reader can quickly get an overview of who the applicant is as a professional, what the applicants personality is like, and what experience the applicant has in the field. You ought to keep it short and informative, just like in this staff auditor resume sample. This is a good example because it is concise, with only three sentences, and it clearly explains the jobseekers skills, strengths, and experiences. Most job applications state necessary and recommended qualifications for the applicant to possess, which is where the core qualifications section comes in. As in our staff auditor resume sample, you want to itemize your qualifications in a list of bullet points, because these are easy to read quickly. Most hiring managers only have a few seconds to get through your entire resume, so you want it to be as easy to read and remember as possible. The job experience section is one of the most valuable sections, because it allow s you to show the hiring managers how you have contributed to your past jobs and made your previous work environments better. A good resume will include metrics, or quantifiable numbers, in the job experience section to demonstrate how exactly you contributed to employers in the past. ur staff auditor resume sample does this well by including figures like budgets of over $500,000 and 20 financial institutions. By including hard figures, the jobseeker clarifies for hiring managers what exactly his responsibilities were, so the managers know precisely who they are hiring and with what he has experience to ensure a suitable hire.The education section does not need to be long unless you have recently graduated. If youve been out of school for a while, simply list basic information so the employer can know that you do have a degree.Why You Need a Strong Staff Auditor ResumeThe anticipated growth rate for auditors is 11 percent by 2024 according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, which is faster than average. This is good news for those entering the field, but that does not mean you will not need a great resume. The job market will likely be flooded with jobseekers in the next few years and you dont want to get lost in the crowd. You need a strong resume to demonstrate your worth and show employers that you are a valuable employee to hire, not just another name in the applicant pool. Using our staff auditor resume sample helps build your resume into a document that is easy to read and remember and that puts your qualifications and experience at the front for readers to clearly see.Costly Staff Auditor Resume Mistakes To AvoidThere are many mistakes that you ought to avoid when creating a resume, such as including incorrect contact information, misspelling words, and formatting your sections in a way that is difficult to absorb. However, in addition to these, there are other mistakes that auditors in particular should avoid when writing their resume.As mentioned abov e in our staff auditor resume sample, including metrics is important, to the point that it can be be costly if you do not put them in your resume at all. As an auditor, you deal with finances and numbers all day the main focus of your job is to work with other peoples money and figure out how to reduce costs and maintain higher cash flow. So whenever possible, you need to include metrics to show how much money you deal with, how much you saved, how much you increased efficiency, etc. You want your employer to know how much better their company will fare with you there as staff auditor.ConclusionIn a growing industry like auditing, you need a strong resume that will put you at the front of the pack when applying for jobs. An easy-to-process document can make it more likely that hiring managers read your resume in its entirety and remember what you said. You should use our staff auditor resume sample to sharpen your own to increase your chances of landing the job you want.

How to Get Your Coworkers to Like You

How to Get Your Coworkers to Like YouHow to Get Your Coworkers to Like YouHave you ever been in a workplace where things just didnt seem to click between you and your coworkers? Perhaps no one can be bothered to utter as much as a civil good morning each day. Maybe things are a bit worse and your office has resorted to passive-aggressive notes being pasted on the fridge, marking lunch bag territory or vague signs that start off with to whomever is doing X. If the headline of this article enticed you enough to earn a click here to read more you probably have been in the position to experience at least one of the above unfortunate circumstances in your job. Not only can hostility or lack of good relations make for an awkward work environment, it can also stunt productivity and make teamwork inefficient or darn near impossible. While this may be a dire picture, all hope is not lost. Whether youre already in a predicament or are simply looking to avoid problems, we have a host of solid s uggestions for how to get your coworkers to like you. Make Your Co-workers Feel ImportantEveryone, including yourself, wants to feel valued in their work and personal life. One of the best ways you can set the tone for good office relations is to let your coworkers know that you value their efforts and appreciate their input. Show appreciation when a job-mate has a job well done and dont be afraid to stop someone in the hall for a quick compliment on some aspect of their performance. These little details will go a long way towards warming a chilly coworker relationship. Listen to What Your Coworker WantsHaving goals, needs and desires is a huge part of feeling fulfilled in your work life. If things are on the outs with a coworker, it may be due in part to them not feeling as if their professional needs are being met. Whether its more resources for a project or increased responsibility or the chance to progress, actively listen to what your coworker desires most and communicate with them in terms of behauptung goals. This will help you feel like youre working together to achieve career success. Take a Sincere Interest in Your Co-WorkersIf youre looking to form sincere, friendly relationships with your coworkers, you should probably start eliminating the word I from your vocabulary. Demanding workplaces can be stressful environments and its nice to know that someone cares about how youre doing both personally and professionally. Try interacting with your workmates by asking how theyre handling the workload of the new project. As you become more familiar, ask after their family, pet or a social hobby theyve made known to the office. This will go a long way towards showing youre interested in your coworkers well-being. Start Doing Things for OthersNotice that your coworker is under the weather or overwhelmed by a massive project or deadline. If you have the capacity, offer to step in and help out at the appropriate time. Being a team player is an important part of forming office commaraderies. It can also help out when you find yourself in need of an extra set of eyes or pair of hands. Ask your workmates on a regular basis if they need your assistance and dont forget to occasionally go outside of your specific department to demonstrate to your company and management your willingness to take on duties and responsibilities. SmileThis piece of advice for workplace happiness may seem a little basic, but its guaranteed to work. Across cultures and even species, a smile is one of the easiest ways to communicate friendliness and approachability. Both of unterstellung qualities will serve you well in winning over coworkers. Everyone is bound to have a down day here and there so dont feel obligated to put on a happy face at all times. Do make an effort to smile and be approachable in your interactions and perhaps youll find your own mood improved as well as those of your fellow employees. Ask Questions and Actively Listen to ResponsesOne of the big gest hurdles to happiness in any personal interaction is the feeling that a person is not being listened to. If you want to be on friendly terms with your coworkers, practice asking questions and listening to their responses. Taking a few minutes to stop talking and responding can allow you to process what is being said and can help you understand differences in thought process and the inevitable opinion. Asking someone to explain their thought process is one of the simplest and most straightforward ways to meaningful, and peaceful, communication. Make Suggestions Instead of Expressing OpinionsAlong the same lines as asking questions, people often have a difficult time keeping their cool when replying to another persons opinions. Especially in the workplace, opinions often provide no meaningful path to resolution. Stating how you feel about a subject also allows your coworker to draw their own opinions, which can lead to misunderstanding. Instead of expressing your opinion on a topi c, rework your response into a suggestion for an action or approach. Youll get much further and help avoid the pitfalls a case of the I feels may bring. Avoid Telling People they are WrongIf youre sensing a theme among the last few hints and tricks to coworker happiness, youve hit the nail on the head. Telling someone they are wrong is a form of opinion expression that is unhelpful at least and damaging to relationships at worst. Instead of telling someone theyre wrong, try instead asking them to clarify their opinion or state your alternative opinion in the form of a question to open up a dialog. Often times a wrong approach can be chalked up to misunderstanding in communication. When Youre Wrong, Admit ItWith all that being said, if you find yourself in a position where youve made a mistake or were clearly in the wrong in an interaction or approach, fess up. Taking responsibility for your actions and words will earn you much more respect than a stubborn denial of reality or an at tempt to sweep problems under the rug. If youve done something hurtful, apologize, and if youve made a mistake, try to make things right. Youll earn the respect of your coworkers or, at the very least, wont pile on the contempt. If You Must Criticize, Use TactEspecially if youre in a management position, there will be times when you will have to offer up constructive criticism or correction to your workmates. Remember to be respectful and keep in mind the golden rule of treating others how you would want to be treated during these interactions. Avoid criticizing coworkers in front of the rest of your teammates or others in the office. Additionally, instead of telling someone they made a mistake, offer up constructive criticism on what would have been a better or more effective approach. Remember the old adage that you collect more bees with honey than vinegar and youll be able to promote coworker happiness even in difficult feedback conversations.As a closing thought, its nearly imp ossible to be a one person show in any work environment. You will inevitably need to rely on the help of your coworkers at multiple levels of company hierarchy. Building and maintaining friendliness with your coworkers is rewarding and well worth the extra work in the benefits youll receive in productivity and contentment in the workplace.

Ruthless Resume Help.com Strategies Exploited

Ruthless Resume Help.com Strategies Exploited Time was the biggest issue for the vast majority of those. Places on a health residency in Canada are few and if you would like to get a spot over the a number of other applicants your paperwork will have to force you to get outstanding. Customized Papers Writing Help provides free revisions following your review. The use of Premier on-line Assessment tool to aid with your career transition. Now think about the salary difference between your present position (particularly if youre current position is unemployment) If youre not koranvers which career field is best for you we offer two FREE Career Assessment Tools that will allow you to identify your best interests and careers where you are able to best utilize your abilities and experience. Building a resume isnt a task you are able to leave up to chance. Lets get you the job you truly wish to have. Definitions of Resume Help.com Well, there are millions of folks that are looki ng for the suitable job. You are a newcomer to the work market 2. Now is an excellent time to find out what other jobs are out there which can give you exactly what you the lifestyle which you want. In addition, we know that when you disdeckblatt the perfect job youre likely to be up against many others that are interested in the exact same job. The very last thing you would like is for your resume to let you down when youre actually the best suited pick for the job. If you see that you really require someone experienced in that area, the ideal thing an individual should do is to find a firm that provides quality writing services. This is only an alternate means of selling the exact things. Im not certain where to search for the driver, besides that WD1600 isnt really beneficial. The incorrect hire can send things spinning, while the best one can totally transform their enterprise. Among your many admin duties, you may also expect to get asked to manage facilities and be read y for emergency situations, so in the event you have prior knowledge in those areas, make sure to include them on your resume. If, for some reason you arent, we provide a money back guarantee to continue to keep our clients content. With mora than 20 templates which have been custom built for our resume builder site, youre bound to discover the ideal match. Enroll today and youll start to enjoy all the benefits this site has to offer you. You may take hints from the site to increase your resume. Theres a live chat option that can be found on the site. however, it isnt of any use. When reviewing the templates and examples, select the format thats ideal for your circumstance. The mixture of our templates and your input is likely to make your resume fly to the peak of any pile. Along with our free resume creator, we additionally offer help and ideas that explain how to compose a resume, the right use of action verbs, correct format information, and printing ideas to get optimal outcomes. Have a peek at these examples to select which format is ideal for you. How to Get Started with Resume Help.com? All neighborhood mover prices are displayed so there arent any hidden expenses or fees to you. Here are key reasons why you must purchase essay papers on our site When you edit your paper, you also receive the occasion to correct these errors along with improve the entire paper. When it has to do with writing a paper or any kind of document, it is crucial to edit your paper before submitting it. Its possible to get in touch with your writer concerning work progress. At times, we simply dont have the moment, the ability, or the urge to do the writing ourselves. Download your resume so you can unleash it to the world. So as to compose an effective essay, you want to think about the reason you are being requested to write about a particular topic. You know youre getting high-quality once you use essay writing help. A scholarship essay is a rather important p ortion of your scholarship package. A well-written scholarship essay can assist you with the funding you want to cover college. For a regular student, writing an effective scholarship essay is a true challenge.

The Pain of Merchandiser Resume

The Pain of Merchandiser Resume If you become stumped while writing, simply review the expert merchandiser cover letter sample again and make certain to center on what you can do to help the organization. While the above retail merchandiser sample job description is a very good outline to follow, there are some additional tips that will allow you to compose a job description that will bring in top candidates. A garment merchandiser needs to be aware of the company targets and quality standards together with the superior standards acceptable limit to every buyer. Life, Death, and Merchandiser Resume Payment of the merchandiser is the duty of the vendor company, not the host shop. Merchandising jobs are available nearly throughout the nation and can be seen at most large retail firms. Merchandiser salary expectations are normally right around $30,000 each year. Merchandiser jobs are observed in nearly all retail businesses. Its possible to also see Proofreader Resume. To fin d out more on what it requires to be a Merchandiser, have a look at our complete Merchandiser Job Description. To learn more on what it requires to be a Retail Merchandiser, take a look at our complete Retail Merchandiser Job Description. Up in Arms About Merchandiser Resume? Retail requires the precise opposite. When the item is on the shelf, the shop only has to make sure the stray products return to the shelf as opposed to doing the entire thing. The ideal Merchandiser Resumes are written with plenty of effort and following days of research on occasion. Because of this, to be a great merchandiser, some qualification ought to be maintained. Actual goods and manufacturing knowledge will enable a merchandiser to take correct decision in such instances. If you wish to be a skilled merchandiser then youve needed enough knowledge of the planet current sector. If youre applying for the place of a merchandiser, it would be safe to assume you have an innate talent for shopping. In addition to, it is going to create a terrible impression on the merchandiser. The job of a merchandiser is a fairly glamorous and attractive one, especially if you adore shopping. An excellent merchandising kollektiv will see to it that the development of a factory.

Why laziness is underrated

Why laziness is underratedWhy laziness is underratedBusy. But good busy.This was my go-to response to the Hows life? question. For the vast majority of my life, I wore busy as a status symbol. The wordlazyreminded me of my pot-smoking, Halo-playing college friends who would cut class and lounge around for hours on end. In my own life, I bounced to the other extreme, priding myself on my discipline and my choice to fill- no stuff- every moment of my day with activity.Follow Ladders on FlipboardFollow Ladders magazines on Flipboard covering Happiness, Productivity, Job Satisfaction, Neuroscience, and moreI know Im not alone here. Think about it Have you ever told anyone, Im loving my work, but I also have plenty of time to play and relax? Laziness- which I define as unstructured chunks of time free of distractions- has become a major shame trigger. In a2017 survey, roughly 80% of Americans reported that they spent no time whatsoever relaxing or thinking.If you have any doubts about our obsession with productivity, look no further thanthis viral articleabout a computer scientists productivity system. One of his many hacks involves walking in the woods with a laptop strapped around his neck so he can keep typing while getting fresh air (see the photohere).You may be thinking youd never do that, but if youre like the average American, youcheck your phoneevery 12 minutes during waking hours, which adds up to 80 times a day (if youre a millennial, thatnumber is 150). Its the internetfhiges mobiltelefon equivalent of having a laptop strapped around your neck.This is a recipe for cognitive burnout. Overtraining your mind- just like overtraining your body- without adequate recovery time is a surefire path to injury and poor performance.As the saying goes, its the silence between the notes that makes the music.During that silence, it appears nothing is happening, but appearances deceive. Even when its idling, the brain isstill active. When youre staring into space, Alex S oojung-Kim Pangwritesin his bookRest, your brain consumes only slightly less energy than it does when youre solving differential equations.So where does all that energy go?Your mind may seem to be drifting from one irrelevant topic to the next, but your subconscious ishard at work, consolidating memories, making associations, and marrying the new with the old to create new combinations. The phraseunconsciousmindis an insult to a part of our brain that does so much work behind the scenes.Theresa TV commercialwhere business executives squeeze themselves into a shower at work. One person asks, Why are we meeting in the shower? The boss replies, Well, ideas always hit me in my shower at home.The idea-in-the-shower moment is cliche- because it works. When we sit or stand still, we turn into a magnetized rod that attracts ideas. This is why phrases like epiphany, flash of light, or stroke of genius are often used to describe theEurekamoment- Greek for Ive found it.Ideas explode into life during times of slack, not hard labor. Niels Bohr literally dreamed up the structure of an atom when heenvisioned himselfsitting on the sun with all the planets hissing around on tiny cords. Archimedes famous Eureka moment arrived when he was easing himself into a bath (he then reportedly ran naked through the streets of Syracuse to celebrate).Laziness landed a woman named Joanne her first publishing deal. In 1990, her train from Manchester to London was delayed for four hours. This was way before the smartphone age, so Joanne just sat there doing nothing while she waited. Out of nowhere, a story came fully formed into her mind- about a young boy who attends a wizardry school. That four-hour delay ended up being a blessing for Joanne Kathleen Rowling- better known as J.K. Rowling- who wrote the Harry Potter series that captivated millions around the world.These pauses cant be reserved for your twice-a-year vacation in the sun. They need to be built into the day. Give yourself permis sion to lounge in bed for too long. To put your body and mind in airplane mode. To sit and stare at the ceiling. To wander aimlessly through a park (without your laptop). To blow a Tuesday off.It sounds so simple, but theres no magic here- at least not in the Hogwarts sense. The magic is the intention of a designated time to pause and reflect- a moment for interior silence to oppose contemporary chaos.The next time youre tempted to fill your time with something productive, just remember Laziness might be the most productive thing you can do.Ozan Varol is a rocket scientist turned law hochschulprofessor and bestselling author.Click hereto download a free copy of his e-book, The Contrarian Handbook 8 Principles for Innovating Your Thinking. Along with your free e-book, youll get the Weekly Contrarian - a newsletter that challenges conventional wisdom and changes the way we look at the world (plus access to exclusive content for subscribers only).This article originally appeared on Oz an Varol.You might also enjoyNew neuroscience reveals 4 rituals that will make you happyStrangers know your social class in the first seven words you say, study finds10 lessons from Benjamin Franklins daily schedule that will double your productivityThe worst mistakes you can make in an interview, according to 12 CEOs10 habits of mentally strong people

Customize this Outstanding Sample Operations Technician Resume

Customize this Outstanding Sample Operations Technician ResumeCustomize this Outstanding Sample Operations Technician ResumeCreate Resume PROFESSIONAL SUMMARYI have been working in the computer industry for the past eleven years. Most of my experience is in software test labs and data-center environments working in a technician/troubleshooter role. Building systems, configuring servers, planning lab usage, organizing and managing processes, projects and equipment/assets are my primary skills I can bring to the team. Most of my career has been in contract type positions at Microsoft, and I am now looking to move into a more permanent role to continue my own personal growth and skill set.TECHNICALOperating systems Windows Server 2000 2003, DOS , Windows XP, Vista, SQL Server 2005 (Basics)Storage systems RAID, and storage arrays (Dell, HP and other generic manufacturers.)General PC/Laptop/Server deployment architecture, troubleshooting, and maintenance. Asset control and management.PR OFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE Volt Technical Services at Microsoft, Redmond, WA April 2007 April 2008Lab/Operations Technician (Contract)Technical Support for the Windows Mobile Embedded Operations and Infrastructure lab team. Duties include setting up servers and test machines, troubleshooting configuration issues, and various other assigned tasks in any of the ten labs we supported in three separate buildings. Technical Customer Service While working with the Mobile Embedded team, I was responsible for maintaining a positive relationship with the various customers/test groups that we supported in the labs we own. Took ownership of two labs as the direct contact and first line of support/management. Planning/Scheduling Infrastructure Changes/Moves During the course of my contract I was responsible for moving test teams from one lab to another. This involved preparing the space, planning for infrastructure elements power, ac, and network connectivity, and eventual placement of assets an d coordination of the team to re-cable benches and/or racks. Training Completed a 24 hour SQL server training course offered by the Volt Technical Education division. This course was not a complete certification track, but an overview of the full training. TechnologiesDell, HP, Tyan and other generic servers, Acronis ansehen software, Vista, XP, Windows Server 2000/03 Enterprise. Excel, Word, Outlook, and web based ticketing systems used as well.Volt Technical Services at Microsoft, Redmond, WA January 2006 January 2007Lab/Operations Technician (Contract)Technical Support for the Windows Media Core Services Group and the Windows Experience group. Duties include setting up test machines, troubleshooting configuration issues, coordinating RMA and/or warranty repair with other parties, and various other assigned tasks. I also was responsible for creating and managing a lab inventory spanning two labs and approximately 2800 desktop and server machines. Notable Achievement Created an a sset inventory for approximately 2500 desktops, workstations, and servers as well as cataloging a software/application library and creating a procedure for checkout. TechnologiesDell and HP desktops and servers and Tyan servers. Vista, XP, Windows Server 2000/03Enterprise. Excel, Word, Outlook, and an in-house web based ticketing system.Volt Technical Services at Microsoft, Redmond, WA October 2004 July 2005Technical Support Technician (Contract)Technical Support for Microsoft Office Live Meeting group at Microsoft Corporation Responsible for working directly with customers to troubleshoot their connection issues or administration problems. Notable achievement Maintained a 100% customer satisfaction tafelgeschirr score.Volt Technical Services at Microsoft, Redmond, WA September 2003 July 2004Technical Support Technician (Contract)Technical Support for the Tablet PC group at Microsoft Real nutzer Data Initiative. Worked directly with external usage study participants in Seattle a nd Minneapolis. Duties included Hardware maintenance and asset management, support of study personnel and hardware, support of team members hardware and troubleshooting, and other various tasks such as data collection and collation. Notable Achievement Created an asset inventory and checkout procedure for the research teams various hardware including Tablet PCs, cameras and multimedia devices, and other miscellaneous tools and devices checkout.Microsoft Corporation, Redmond, WA February 2001 April 2003From 2001 to 2002 Lab/Operations Technician for the BizTalk Server 2002 product group. Responsible for daily automated testing, hardware and OS troubleshooting, Team desktop support, testing the Setup portion of the product, and media verification. Notable Achievement Managed the procedure for running automation, posting test results and notifying testers of failures for investigation.From 2002 to 2003 Software Test Engineer for the eBiz Servers Solutions Team. Responsible for testing the Microsoft Solution for Internet Business enterprise architecture using Microsoft Commerce Server 2002, Microsoft Content Manager 2002, ISA Server 2000, SQL Server 2000, and Sharepoint Portal Server 2000 to build multi-tiered highly available web commerce solutions. Notable Achievement Created and ran over 400 test cases for each test pass.Volt Technical Services at Redmond, WA February 2000 February 2001Lab/Operations Technician (Contract)Contracted as a Lab Technician for the BizTalk Server 2000 product group at Microsoft. Responsible for daily automated testing, hardware and OS troubleshooting, Team desktop support, testing the Setup portion of the product, and media verification. Notable Achievement Organized and setup new lab infrastructure.Manpower Technical at Microsoft, Redmond, WA May 1999 December 1999Data Center Support Technician/Site Operations (Contract)Site Operations at the Microsoft Data Center provide Tier 2 data centers support. Managing Scalar tape backup systems, troubleshooting hardware and network issues, and maintaining excellent customer service standards.Volt Technical Services at Issaquah, WA February 1997 November 1998Lab/Operations Technician (Contract)Contracted as Lab Engineer for ITG at Microsoft Sammamish building testing lab in Issaquah. Responsible for building, configuring and troubleshooting large multi-processor RAID test servers, and network issues.J.B. McGloughlin Company at Redmond, WA February 1996 May 1997Assistant Property manager (Part Time)Part time assistant manager of Willows Ridge Apartments. Duties include leasing apartments, resident relations, weekly status reports and various other management duties.Zee Services Company at Tukwila/Seattle, WA June 1995 December 1996Territory ManagerDuties include Sales and service of medical and first aid supplies, and OSHA consultation of downtown and industrialSeattle area businesses.Dennys Restaurant at Bellevue, WA June 1992 June 1995Service Coordinator (Shift Manager)Responsible for restaurant operations and standards, customer and staff relations, and nightly accounting.Lee Scott and Associates at Bellevue, WA March 1992 June 1992Software Duplication TechnicianSoftware duplication. Responsible for duplicating, verifying, labeling, packaging and preparing software for delivery to customers.United States Navy at Bremerton, WA June 1990 March 1992Aviation Boatswains Mate / Aviation Electronics TechnicianAviation Electronics Technician/Aviation Boatswains Mate. (Whidbey Island Naval Air Station, and USS Nimitz CVN-68) Honorable discharge.Customize Resume

Want more respect Science says change this 1 simple thing

Want more respect Science says change this 1 simple thingWant more respect Science says change this 1 simple thingIt goes without saying that being a leader ishard work. Unfortunately, when company leaders burn the midnight oil too often and leave sleep behind, they can end up doing more harm than good not only to their bodies, but to their businesses. Bragging about thelack of sleepyou get can seem like a competitionwhere the person who works more hours is the champion. But according to science, when yousleep better, you lead better.In astudyconducted forConsulting Psychology Journal Practice and Research, researchers asked 384 leaders and professionals about their sleep patterns, beliefs, attitudes, and problems across differentleadershiplevels. 42 percent of parteicipants reported getting6 hours of sleep each nightor fewer, and 31 percent reported having trouble sleeping at least a few nights each week.So how does this lack of sleep impact leaders? Researchers conducted alongitud inal field experimentwith 223 participants.Participants completed a survey about their sleep habits and were then were randomly assigned to either be given access to sleep therapy or not. Ten weeks later, participants were sent a second survey. The results showed that participants who received the sleeptreatmentdemonstrated betterorganizationalcitizenship, a less-negative affect on company operations, and overall better job satisfaction.In addition to environmental sustainability, managers should consider human sustainability, says Christopher Barnes, an Associate Professor ofManagementat University of Washington, Sleep is an important part of that equation.Having a lack of sleep can also impact your charisma. Less sleepcan causeleaders to appear less articulateand less smart. This can make people more hesitant to do business with them, and can also dull their self-control. And since signs of fatigue are often so apparent, working for a sleep deprived boss can lead employees to reje ct sleep, which can negatively impact their health and production.So, after reading this, youve realized that you need to make some major changes to your sleep schedule to better your physical and company health. Nowwhat do you do?Implement a few sleep-enhancing practices to get better shut eye each night. Applyingmindfulness practicesbypaying attention to the present moment instead of the future can make it easier to fall asleep at night. Another practice you can incorporate is boundary management a cognitive and social technique that encourages building healthy barriers between work and personal life. After examining your current boundary practices, compare the boundaries you already have in place with your ideal preference for setting boundaries, and make a note of what changes would need to be made to align current practices with your ideal.Change doesnt happen in a vacuum speak with your family and colleagues about how to help keep you accountable. Your body and your business willthank you.Kayla Heisler is an essayist and Pushcart Prize-nominated poet. She is a contributing writer for Color My Bubble. Her work appears in New Yorks Best Emerging Poets anthology. A version of this post previously appeared onFairygodboss, the largest career community that helps women get the inside scoop on pay, corporate culture, benefits, and work flexibility. Founded in 2015, Fairygodboss offers company ratings, job listings, discussion boards, and career advice.

Recycling Desalination Waste

Recycling Desalination Waste Recycling Desalination Waste Recycling Desalination Waste As Earth continues to run out of consumable water, the desalination industry continues to grow. Unfortunately, the many of the 16,000 desalination plants operating worldwide are producing bigger-than-expected flows of wastewater and toxic chemicals. These plants pump out 5 billion cubic feet of salty brine every day, 50 percent more than previously estimated, while producing 3 billion cubic feet of fresh water, according to a 2019 United Nations Institutes for Water, Environment and Health study. That amount of brine and chemical pollution poses major risks to ocean life and marine ecosystems. Fish accumulate toxic chemicals and seabed creatures suffer from low oxygen and high salt levels near desalination plants, all of which impacts the entire food chain. To help solve the problem, U.N. scientists have highlighted a number of economic opportunities to use brine and have called for the scientific community to develop technologies to extract metals and salt from waste water. Using saline drainage water offers potential commercial, social and environmental gains. Reject brine has been used for aquaculture to cultivate the dietary supplement Spirulina, and to irrigate forage shrubs and crops, Manzoor Qadir, the author of the study, said. There is a need to translate research and convert an environmental problem into an economic opportunity. Coinciding with the U.N.s report, engineers from Massachusetts Institute of Technology have published a study detailing a simple process of converting brine into chemicals, including some that can be used in the desalination process itself. Environmentally safe discharge of brine is manageable with current technology, but its much better to recover resources from the brine and reduce the amount of brine released, said John Lienhard, professor of mechanical engineering and the studys author. More on Global Afflictions: Solving World Hunger with 3D-Printed Food Suggested process for desalination waste reuse. Image: MIT researchers The idea behind this research is to find a way to turn waste into revenue. The MIT team was able to produce sodium hydroxidecaustic sodaan omnipresent versatile alkali found in many labs and used to pretreat seawater before its desalinated. Caustic soda changes the acidity of seawater entering desalination plants, helping to protect filtration membranes from fouling, a common failure cause at reverse osmosis desalination plants. The desalination industry itself uses quite a lot of it, said Amit Kumar, studys co-author. Theyre buying it, spending money on it. So if you can make it in situ at the plant that could be a big advantage. Hydrochloric acid can also be made on site. Its another chemical widely used for cleaning pretreated water at desalination plants, as well as a source of hydrogen for producing other chemicals. The team is also looking into fruitful ways of extracting metals and other chemicals from the brine stream. Listen to ASMEs TechCast to Find out How a High School Senior Helped a Wounded Marine Both hydrochloric acid and sodium hydroxide are results of direct electrosynthesiswater splitting reaction produces positively charged hydrogen ions and negatively charged hydroxyl ions, which are combined with the brine stream to yield the two needed chemicals. The process is not new, but the study details a feasible approach to effectively recycle brine instead of dumping it back into the sea. The MIT proposal suggests investing into chemical production instead of inefficient and unsustainable pumping systems. This very concentrated brine has to be handled carefully to protect life in the ocean, Kumar said. Its a resource waste and it costs energy to pump it back out to sea. The challenge is the cost of electricity and equipment, MIT engineers said. They are now looking into ways to test and fine-tune the process at industrial levels. In their 2018 market report, Technavio analysts estimate the desalination industry will grow by close to 9 percent annually till at least 2022. MIT teams study is riding this wave, offering to improve the economic viability of desalination and reduce its environmental impact. Daria Merkusheva is a technology writer based in New York City. Read More Exclusive Stories from ASME.org: VR and Drone Technology in a Paper AirplaneEngineers Making Waves in Aquaculture6 Ways Engineers Heal a Broken Heart Environmentally safe discharge of brine is manageable with current technology, but its much better to recover resources from the brine and reduce the amount of brine released.John Lienhard, MIT

6 Keys to Workplace Happiness for Finance Workers

6 Keys to Workplace Happiness for Finance Workers 6 Keys to Workplace Happiness for Finance Workers The numbers don’t look so good when it comes to accounting and finance workers’ level of happiness, according to a new Robert Half report, The Secrets of the Happiest Companies and Employees. Research for the report, which focuses on eight professional fields, found that employees in finance, accounting and financial services were among those least happy on the job. They were also the ones with the lowest level of interest in their work. Does this mean accounting and finance professionals are doomed to live without job satisfaction? Far from it. But if the shoe fits for you, it may mean taking career happiness into your own hands. Here are six steps you could take if workplace happiness seems about as impossible as zero-calorie doughnuts or a perfect score on the CPA exam: 1. Scrutinize the reasons you’re not happy You analyze a lot of datasets, but have you ever evaluated your own happiness level? Compile a list of what’s stopping you from being satisfied in your job. Perhaps you’d rather work less with clients and more with big data, or maybe you’d like to finally earn that certification and boost your salary. Making a tangible list can help. After all, you can’t fix something until you know what the problem is. 2. Take a well-deserved break In our report, only about 65 percent of respondents working in accounting, finance and financial services reported that they have a healthy work-life balance. Yes, that’s a majority, but it’s near the bottom of the list compared to other professions. Additionally, almost half of those responding to a separate survey said they don’t use all their paid time off because they’re afraid of work piling up while they’re away. Not enough play makes for stressed-out accountants. So be sure to use your vacation time to recharge your batteries and come back happier. Ask colleagues to cover for you so you’re not overwhelmed when you return. You can pay back the favor later. 3. Connect with colleagues When you enjoy the people you work with, heading to the office each morning can be a pleasure, even if you’re not 100 percent enamored with your job. Our research finds that people with strong workplace friendships are as much as two and a half times happier than those without. Don’t have any work buddies? Then take the initiative to create strong relationships. Ask them to join you for lunch, or get a group together after quitting time. And don’t bow out of work-related social functions because you’re too tired or too shy. If respondents to our survey are any indication, chances are good that the more you mix and mingle, your level of workplace happiness will increase. 4. Be honest with your boss Your manager may never know your workplace happiness has hit the skids if you don’t say anything. Do both of you a favor by bringing up this sensitive subject. Before you do, brainstorm some ways you could be happier in your role, keeping in mind that your aim is to create a win-win situation for the company as well as yourself. Then, sit down with your boss to discuss setting career goals and present ideas for greater job satisfaction. For example, if you’re a financial analyst who feels ready for a senior-level accountant position, ask whether there will be any openings in the near future and, if so, to keep you in mind. 5. Make a career move If you’re in an unhappy slump because you no longer love your career, it may be time to launch a job search. There are plenty of nontraditional accounting career paths, such as environmental or entertainment accounting, that may align better with your passions. Our happiness study finds that one of the top factors in workplace happiness is interesting and meaningful work. If you’re feeling especially bold, you could even relocate and make a fresh start. Do some research to find the city that best suits your needs. 6. Take the consulting route Tired of the regular 9-to-5 and lack of autonomy? Consider the consulting career path. This career move allows you to work on a project basis, meaning you would have the opportunity to dive head first into an array of projects. As an added bonus, you pick your clients and get to work for different companies - and make new networking contacts - with each engagement, which could add much-needed variety to your accounting career. Kick the accounting blues by taking steps today to amp up your happiness quotient. Job satisfaction is within your control and your reach. Tags

Interview Questions About Your Salary Expectations

Interview Questions About Your Salary Expectations Interview Questions About Your Salary Expectations No matter how great the job interview goes, an  interview question about your salary  expectations can stop you short. “What are you looking for in terms of salary?” is such a straightforward question and yet the answer is so complex. Its also difficult to know what to say, and what not to say, so you  get a job offer  thats a win for both yourself and the company. What the Interviewer Really Wants to Know Why  do interviewers  want to know your  salary expectations? Employers ask about your salary expectations to get a sense of whether they can afford you. They might also ask you this to see how much you value yourself and the work that you do. By doing some research and preparing an answer ahead of time, you can demonstrate to the employer that you are flexible with your salary, but that you also know what you are worth. Why This Question Is Tricky There are a number of ways to answer interview questions about salaries, and it’s important to determine how best to answer that question because- more than likely- it will be asked at your next interview. While you want to aim high, you also don’t want to aim so high that you put yourself out of the company’s  salary range. If you go in the opposite direction and your target compensation is too low, you leave the employer room to go even lower and you could end up feeling miserable with the lack of proper compensation. It’s also very difficult to try to decide what you want for a salary before you even know what the job  entails. This often happens when you’re asked to disclose a salary range requirement on an application, before you’ve learned  enough  about the position. This is not an easy topic,  and  while there may be no right answer, there is a way to think about the question and get what you want. What to Do on an Application Some paper and electronic applications require you to list your salary expectations. One option is to simply skip this question. However, if it is listed as a required question and you skip it, the employer might think you don’t know how to follow directions. Some online applications won’t even let you move on to the next page until you answer all the questions.  In this case, you can do a few things: You can put in a  salary range  based on your research.You can also write a phrase like “Negotiable” to demonstrate your flexibility.Avoid putting down one specific salary. This will make it seem like you are unwilling to budge on salary. How to Answer Questions About Your Salary Expectations To  prepare  a  response, you should have a sense of what someone in your field, and in your geographic area, typically earns. This will allow you to answer with a reasonable salary range. Use one of the many websites that offer salary averages and estimates. Sites like  Glassdoor.com,  Salary.com,  Payscale.com, and  Indeed.com  all have salary data you can review. They should be fairly similar, but there may be some differences. Therefore, if you have time to look at more than one source, you may get a better perspective of the  salary  range. Remember to narrow your research to your region. Salaries for a job in Austin, Texas, may be different from those in New York City, for example. From this research, you can  come up with a reasonable salary range  to mention to the employer when asked about your expectations. However, if the research numbers seem off to you, just go with your gut. You don’t want to go to the hiring manager with a salary range that is way too high or way too low. 0:36 Watch Now: 3 Ways to Answer Questions About Salary Examples of the Best Answers My salary range is quite flexible. I would, of course, like to be compensated fairly for my decade of experience and award-winning sales record. However, I am very open to discussing specific numbers once we have discussed the details of the position. Expand Why It Works: This response works well for the candidate because it mentions that the applicant is well qualified for the job, but is also flexible regarding salary requirements. My salary requirements are flexible, but I do have significant experience in the field that I believe adds value to my candidacy. I look forward to discussing in more detail what my responsibilities at this company would be. From there, we can determine a fair salary for the position. Expand Why It Works: Asking for more information before committing to a salary range is a good way to avoid mentioning compensation before the hiring manager does. You could follow-up with a question about what the company anticipates offering the candidate who is hired. I would need to learn more about the specific duties required of this position, which I look forward to learning more about in this interview. However, I do understand that positions similar to this one pay in the range of $X to $Z in our region.With my experience, skills, and certifications, I would expect to receive something in the range of $Y to $Z. Expand Why It Works: With this response, the applicant lets the employer know that he or she is aware of what similar positions pay. The answer also mentions a range, which provides more room for negotiation than stating a set salary requirement. I am open to discussing what you believe to be a fair salary for the position. However, based on my previous salary, my knowledge of the industry, and my understanding of this geographic area, I would expect a salary in the general range of $X to $Y. Again, I am very open to discussing these numbers with you. Expand Why It Works: As with the other answers, its always a good idea to note that youre open to discussing a reasonable salary for a job. Tips for Giving the Best Answer Say you’re flexible.  You can try to skirt the question with a broad answer, such as, “My salary expectations are in line with my experience and qualifications.” Or, “If this is the right job for me, I am sure we can come to an agreement on salary.” This will show that you are flexible. Offer a range.  Even if you start by emphasizing your flexibility, most employers will still want to hear specific numbers. In this case, offer them a range (plus or minus about $10,000-$20,000). This will allow you to remain flexible while still giving the employer a clear answer. You can create this range based on research or your own experience in the industry. Think about your current salary.  In  addition  to researching salaries, you can come up with a salary range by using your current or previous salary as a starting point, especially if you are making a lateral move in the same industry. Unless your last company was known in the industry for its low salaries, assume that your current salary is in line with market expectations. Of course, if you are making a geographic move, keep in mind any changes in the cost of living. Its always a good idea to  know what youre worth  in the current job market. Give yourself a raise.  What if you believe it’s time for a raise? Think about what you would consider a fair raise from your current employer, and that could be a good low-end starting point for the new job. Or ratchet up your current pay by as much as 15 to 20 percent, which gives you an  incentive to switch companies, and is still within a reasonable range for your industry and level of experience. Only give numbers you’d be happy with.  Remember, only offer a range that you find acceptable  â€"  one  that  gives you the means to support yourself and your family, if you have one. Highlight your skills.  In your answer, you can subtly emphasize why you are a good fit for the position. You can say something like, “Based on my 10 years of experience in this field, I would expect a salary in the range of $Y to $Z.” Before mentioning any numbers, remind the interviewer why he or she should offer you a salary in the first place. Be prepared to negotiate.  Many candidates are hesitant to ask for more money because they are concerned that it could cost them a job offer. However, you may be able to  negotiate your way to a higher starting salary. But hold off on asking until you actually have an offer to consider. What Not to Say Avoid giving a set amount.  If you can avoid mentioning a specific salary until after the employer mentions to, it will be easier to negotiate. Don’t Price Yourself Out of a Job.  Don’t ask for a $100,000 salary if your research shows the job is worth half of that. You may price yourself out of a job offer it you come in too high. Don’t be Negative.  Even if the amount you’re offered seems insultingly low, respond gracefully and ask if there is room to negotiate. Related Interview Questions Why would you accept a job for less money? â€"  Best AnswersWhat can you contribute to this company? â€"  Best AnswersWhere do you see yourself in five years? â€"  Best Answers Key Takeaways Research Salaries:  Before your job interview, take the time to research the salaries, so you’re prepared to answer the question.Know Your Bottom Line:  Calculate how much you need to earn to pay the bills, and what the minimum salary you’d accept would be.Be Prepared to Negotiate:  Many employers expect candidates to counter offer, so be prepared to negotiate once you’re received an offer.

Universal Robots Grabs New York Stock Exchange Manufacturer At...

Universal Robots Grabs New York Stock Exchange Manufacturer At... Universal Robots Grabs New York Stock Exchange Manufacturer At... Universal Robots Grabs New York Stock Exchange, Manufacturer Attention Everyone knows a business has arrived when its leaders ring the bell to close trading on the New York Stock Exchange. Late last year, however, the exchange broke from tradition and chose a Universal Robots UR5e to perform the task. The event was not organized for Universal, a Danish startup acquired in 2015 by Teradyne, an automated test and measurement firm. Instead, it honored the fifth anniversary of ROBO Global, a fund that invests in robot-related public companies. Universals UR5e encapsulates the type of innovation and business performance that has caused both investors and factory owners to take notice. It is lightweight, easy to set up, and safe enough to operate around workers (as well as financiers and executives). A Universal Robots UR5e rings the bell on the New York Stock Exchange. It is also easy to program. Users simply position the arm where they want it, then use tablet- or smartphone-based software to tell it what to do at each position. Once the robot begins the task, it automatically optimizes movement between positions. It usually takes about 15 minutes to program the robot, said Stuart Shepherd, the companys sales manager for the Americas. ASME.org Editors Story Choice: The Rise from BattleBot to Corporate Robot Most Popular Story: Artificial and 3D-Printed Skin Advances for Robots, Humans Most conventional robots, by contrast, require dedicated programmers and a fence to prevent workers from getting close enough to get injured. Universal created the market for cobots, small collaborative robots that work around people without safety cages, 10 years ago. By the close of 2018, it held a 60 percent share of the cobot market, despite vigorous competition from now-defunct Rethink Robotics and such old-line industrial robot arm vendors as ABB, Fanuc, Kuka, and Yaskawa. It is also a business success. By the close of 2018, Universals sales were on track to double to $255 million, Shepherd said. Revenue grew 72 percent in 2017, 62 percent in 2016, and 58 percent in 2015. Shepherd joined the company last April, after a 35-year career in the robotics industry. He graduated from Purdue University with a mechanical engineering technology degree, held positions at FANUC, KUKA, and Güdel,served a term as Chairman of the Robotic Industries Association, and is currently the Chairman of the Association for Advancing Automation. Through most of his career, Shepherd sold heavy-duty robots to large automakers. Universals approach to the market is very different, he said. Instead of targeting industrial giants, Universal is going after small and medium-sized enterprises. These companies often have no robot experience, no dedicated robot teams, and many applications that have never used robots before. Breaking into this highly diverse market requires time and resources for intensive application development. Thats why Shepherd called Teradynes 2015 acquisition of Universal Robots a tipping point. The larger company, which had $2.1 billion in revenue in 2017, was able to pump more money into research, engineering, sales, and manufacturing. Teradyne optimized Universals supply chain. Many fast-growing companies have trouble meeting demand Shepherd explained. Teradyne addressed that problem by ensuring Universal had dual sources for critical components to reduce the likelihood of delays or shortages. Under Teradyne, Universal redesigned its robots. The new e-Series is easier to configure and assemble, and can go from order to delivery anywhere in the world in five to seven days. The robots are also easier to deploy and maintain. It took about an hour and a half to set up the UR5e used to ring the bell at the Stock Exchange. The redesign also slashes the time needed to swap out misbehaving joints from hours to about eight or nine minutes. Universal used its position as the cobot industrys dominant player to createUR+, a marketplacewhere users canUR-certifiedaccessories for its robots.The company always relied on third-party vendors for grippers, cameras, sensors, lights, actuators, and other devices. The new marketplace provides an easier way for customers to search their options. We dont add extra value to that channel or try to monetize it, Shepherd said. We just connect customers with solutions. Every nanosecond we spend on those accessories is another nanosecond wasted. Instead, Universal focuses tightly on RD and manufacturing. We have to stay ahead of the competition, Shepherd said. The reason were market leaders is that we built robots for collaboration right from the beginning. Its the only thing we do, and we have a limited range of products, robots optimized for 3, 5, and 10 kilograms. Our growth path is to replicate the growth of large industrial robots, but in 10-kilogram and under applications. Our challenge is to reach small-to-midsized entrepreneurs with the right applications. Maybe our robots cant do spot welding, but they can feed pieces to a larger robot that does, he said. Another future market could be warehouse and logistics robots. Last August, Teradyne acquired Denmarks Mobil Industrial Robots. It makes mobile vehicles that can navigate warehouses and shop floors autonomously. Universals lightweight robot arms could provide those platforms with the ability to pick and unload products autonomously, Shepherd said. Read Part 2 of this story to find out why ROBO Global wants companies like Teradyne and Universal Robots in its portfolio. More Exclusive Stories from ASME.org: Fight Climate Change, Build the Wall! Using the Eyes of Killer Shrimp to Design a Super Camera 3D-Printed Cement Improves Crack Resistance For Further Discussion Our growth path is to replicate the growth of large industrial robots, but in 10-kilogram and under applications. Our challenge is to reach small-to-midsized entrepreneurs with the right applications.Stuart Shepherd, Universal Robots Universal Robots Grabs New York Stock Exchange Manufacturer At... Universal Robots Grabs New York Stock Exchange Attention In Part One of this story, we took a look at how Universal Robots UR5e is helping to usher in a new era of affordable collaborative robots. Here, we explore why Wall Street is interested in the cobot market. Teradyne and Universal Robots are the types of success stories ROBO Global wants in its portfolio. ROBO is what is known as an exchange traded fund. It invests in stocks (in this case, robot-related stocks) and trades on nine exchanges around the world like any other stock. ROBO Global invests in a wide range of companies with significant investments in robots, automation, artificial intelligence, 3D printing, actuators, sensors, and application-specific companies. Small and mid-cap companies (with stock values below $2 billion) make up 77 percent of its portfolio. Chris Buck, the funds head of capital markets and sales, argues that ROBO Global is a conservative way to invest in the robots-automation-artificial intelligence sector. In the five years since the fund launched, several similar ETFs have come to market. Their portfolios often invest heavily in a small number of market leaders, he said. This makes them vulnerable, because those leaders are vulnerable to technology changes. While ROBO also looks for leading businesses and technologies, it does not place large bets on any of the companies in its portfolio. Our top 10 out of 87 companies represent only 15 to 18 percent of investment, Buck said. We try not to pick winners, but cast a wide net over the ecosystem. We want to ride the megatrend wave. ASME.orgs Editors Pick: Fight Climate Change, Build the Wall! Top Story: Using the Eyes of Killer Shrimp to Design a Super Camera While many investors believe robots are a good bet for the future, the cooperative robot segment exemplified by Universal could prove even better, according to Henrik Christensen, who attended a conference held by ROBO Global prior to the bell ringing ceremony. Christensen heads University of California, San Diegos Institute for Contextual Robotics and is lead editor of the U.S. Robotics Roadmap. He is also one of ROBO Globals advisors. Cobots are designed to work safely around humans. Collaborative robots now make up only a small fraction of the industrial automation market. Universal, for example, has only sold 27,000 UR robots since its inceptionabout as many as the total number of robots sold in the United States in 2017. Yet the International Federation of Robotics expects cobots to account for 34 percent of sales by 2025, Christensen said. He expects robots (as well as automation) to play a major role in mass customization, building products to specific customer requirements. This trend would put a premium on plants located closer customers. This may eventually affect global trade. While the supply chains of developed nations have moved to low-wage nations like China, he believes robots and other advanced technologies could lead to increased on-shoring over the next 10 to 15 years. Christensen also addressed Chinese competition in robots. Chinese salaries have risen 350 percent over the past 10 to 15 years, while U.S. salaries have remained flat. This puts pressure on China to find new ways to compete with U.S. manufacturers. One way is to invest in robots. China is already building components for robots, but they are at least a factor of five worse than those built elsewhere. Their lifetime is lower. Its hard to play catch up in a fast-moving industry, he said. Still, he noted that Chinas Midea Group recently purchased Germanys Kuka, and could use its IP to accelerate Chinas learning curve. He expects it will take five to 10 years for China to make a truly competitive robot. All that time, robotics firms in developed nations will be pushing hard to increase capabilities. Which suggests that Universals robot may not be the last to ring the bell at the end of trading on the New York Stock Exchange. More Exclusive Content from ASME.org: The Rise from BattleBot to Corporate Robot Artificial and 3D-Printed Skin Advances for Robots, Humans 3D-Printed Cement Improves Crack Resistance For Further Discussion The International Federation of Robotics expects cobots to account for 34 percent of sales by 2025. Henrik Christensen, University of CaliforniaHenrik Christensen, University of California, San Diego

Uber and the new science of how employers control your behavior at work

Uber and the new science of how employers control your behavior at work Uber and the new science of how employers control your behavior at work Update: As of April 5, this story has been updated with criticism about Uber’s use of behavioral science. Companies are tracking and changing workers’ behavior in increasingly subtle ways. With big data and algorithms, workplaces are finding new ways to judge and change behavior, and employees may not even see it happening.On Sunday, The New York Times revealed how Uber employs hundreds of data and  social scientists to dream up new ways to keep drivers  working longer hours for Uber.It’s a case study of what happens when social science enters the workplace. For the ride-hailing giant, treating Uber drivers like they were players in a never-ending video game was lucrative for the company, but perhaps less so for drivers who worked longer hours. Here are some big takeaways.Algorithms are exploiting our love of goalsUber scientists designed noncash rewards for drivers that cost the company very little, but would have profound psychological effects on the drivers.For instance, Uber  drivers in 2016 were quitting  before they reached 25 rides and became  eligible for a signing bonus. The data scientists found that once drivers  reached 25 rides, they were much less likely to quit.To keep new drivers from leaving, the app would encourage drivers with: “You’re almost halfway there, congratulations!” The message outlined a goal that drivers didn’t ask for, but with Uber’s steady prodding, it became a goal drivers  would be  driven to meet.We really like money goalsA 1997 study on New York City’s cab drivers found that taxi drivers  work “one day at a time.” They set a daily income target and will  quit driving when they reach that goal. That’s a behavior that Uber scientists tapped into for the Uber app.Uber drivers who would try to log off would receive pleading messages like,  â€œYou’re $10 away from making $330 in net earnings. Are you sure you want to go offline?” The accompanying graphic would show an engine gauge’s needle that was almost, but not quite hitting a dollar sign. Drivers would read this, be reminded of their income target, and stay logged on just a bit longer.Daily income targeting is great for Uber. Its effect on drivers is more complicated. Driving requires attention, and long hours lead to fatigue. The income targeting also encourages drivers to drive longer hours to meet a daily goal, even when it’s more efficient to only drive at busier hours. This is how a Florida Uber driver featured in the article could earn a dozen  excellent-service and great-conversation badges and  still make less than $20,000 in a year: more driving, but fewer fares.The default is you can always be workingUber’s app automatically queues up the next ride during a current ride in a practice known as “forward dispatch.” It’s overrides drivers’ decisions with the company’s.Drivers don’t get to see where their  next ride  is going, so they can’t estimate how profitable the next ride will be. After drivers complained that the feature made it impossible for them to even use the bathroom, opting out of “forward d ispatch” became  possible, but it’s still inconvenient for drivers to set up that option.That’s all part of Uber’s bottom line. “The optimal default we set is that we want you to do as much work as there is to do,” Jonathan Hall said of Uber’s algorithm for drivers.And yet, a March 2017 working paper  found something positive about Uber’s work culture. The researchers found that Uber drivers, who are independent contractors that set their own hours, economically benefited from the hour-to-hour flexibility “to adapt work schedules to unpredictable shocks to reservation wages.” This flexibility is  something that “lower-wage lower-skill workers typically have limited ability” to get from traditional workplaces.Uber is not alone in experimenting on employeesUber is not the only ride-hailing company to do this. As long as there is data, companies will look to analyze it.Lyft tested out money incentives with new drivers in a focus group. What the company found: te lling new drivers how much they were losing by working  on a Tuesday  was more effective at getting drivers to change than telling them how much they were winning by switching to Fridays.The consultants concluded  that we’re sore losers and we hate losing more than we like winning.Unlike Uber, Lyft chose not to go with this loss-aversion message to its drivers.Tracking contractors and employees  is moving beyond the realm of apps, and into our bodies.Swedish startup Epicenter gives employees the option to become cyborgs, implanting a microchip in  their fingers, so  employees can wave their hands  to open doors and buy food.On the upside, you’ll never have to worry about leaving your badge at home again. On the downside, you can always be tracked. Your boss can now see when and where you’re at work under the philosophy that it makes life “easier.”Is Uber a sinister outlier or just one more employer ‘gamifying’ employment?Reception to the Times findings has not been all positive. Quartz reporter Alison Griswold criticized the Times  for making the use of behavioral science more sinister than it was: “Alternatively, what  if there was no ‘whiff’ of coercion because there  was  no coercion? Uber signed up a bunch of people to drive on its platform and then it gave them tips on ways to earn more money. We might consider that a ‘trick’ if Uber’s advice didn’t actually translate into higher earnings, or if Uber promised incentives  that it never paid, but Scheiber  has no evidence of anything like that happening.What he does have is a lot of adjective-laden insinuations that Uber is doing  something  dark and untoward.”Tech ethnographer Alex Rosenblat, whose research gets cited in the Times article, says these sinister things do  happen, but that examples weren’t included in the article.A different reporter pointed out that employers ‘gamifying’ employment in obscure ways has already been popularized by advertising and marketing.

10 Ways to Get Brutally Honest Feedback

10 Ways to Get Brutally Honest Feedback 10 Ways to Get Brutally Honest Feedback Knowing your strengths and weaknesses, or having self-awareness, is one of the most critical leadership competencies and considered by many to be  the single most important predictor  of leadership success. When it comes to assessing how we come across to others, most of us have blind spots. We tend to assess ourselves based on our good intentions, while others assess us on what they actually see and hear. In order to close the gap between how we see ourselves and how others see us, we need feedback. According to management guru Ken Blanchard, “feedback is the breakfast of champions.” Unfortunately, for managers, especially senior managers, candid feedback is a rare commodity, but it doesn’t have to be. If you really want feedback, there are ways to get it. Just make sure that when you do get feedback, you listen, keep your mouth shut, and say, “Thank you.” 1. Take a 360 Assessment 360 assessments are surveys, often administered by a third party for a fee. These assessments ask your boss, peers, and employees for ratings and comments regarding your behaviors and or skills. Although some reports are self-explanatory, it’s usually better to have  a certified coach  help you sort through the results. 2. Try the “Ten to Ten” Technique First, identify something you want to improve- say leading a meeting, delegating, listening, or conducting a one-on-one. Then, at the end of an interaction with someone, (it only takes a few minutes), ask the question: “On a scale of one to ten, how would you rate my listening skills?” If it’s anything less than ten, ask the follow-up question, “What would I need to do for you to rate me a ten?” It works well because it gives you very specific ideas for improvement, in terms of what’s important to the other person. It opens up dialogue in a non-threatening way, builds trust, and creates a win-win developmental partnership. 3. Ask a Recruiter Good recruiters make their living sizing candidates up quickly. They can take a look at your resume, and after a 15-minute phone screen, have a pretty good idea about your strengths and weaknesses. You have to ask them for a candid, constructive, and brutally honest assessment. Again, just listen, keep your mouth shut, and say, “Thank you.” 4. Try FeedForward An alternative to the ten to ten technique. Instead of asking for examples of past behavior, you are asking for advice on how to be more effective in the future. People will be much more comfortable with this, but you get the same constructive information. 5. Watch Yourself on Video A good way to get feedback on your presentation skills. This used to be a terrifying way to learn about yourself, although in the age of YouTube, perhaps we’re getting used to seeing ourselves on camera. It’s even better if you have a coach or trainer watch with you to point things out and offer tips for improvement. If you have a thick skin, invite a bunch of friends over and break out the popcorn and beer. 6. Take a Leadership Course Many leadership courses include some kind of assessment feedback. Many include a combination of 360 assessment, personality, and feedback from class participants and the instructor. 7. Take a Validated, Reliable Personality Assessment Try the Hogan, MBTI, DISC, or others and again, have someone help you  interpret the results. 8. Job Interviews Again, like with getting feedback from a recruiter, you really have to ask in a nice way, and make sure you:  listen, keep your mouth shut, and say, “Thank you.” Even if you’re not looking for a job, it’s a good idea to go on a practice interview every so often. 9. Ask Your Boss This Question “Not that I’m going anywhere, but if you had to replace me, what would you look for in the ideal candidate?”  This one’s a little risky, because you don’t want to give your boss any ideas, but if you have a lot of confidence, you could pull it off. 10. Ask Your Teenage Kids We  saved this one for last, because it’s the most brutal kind of feedback of all! It’s only for the very brave-hearted and thick-skinned.

The 5 differences between amateurs and true professionals

The 5 differences between amateurs and true professionals The 5 differences between amateurs and true professionals The only way to become better at anything is to spend time working on it.But, how can you put in your ‘reps’ if you’re not consistent enough?And, why do some people live up to their potential, whilst others don’t even scratch the surface of success?The answer to this dilemma lies within the difference between amateurs and professionals.Here’s what you need to know to set yourself up for success.Maya Angelou’s ‘pro’ routineMaya Angelou was a famous writer, poet, civil rights activist and award-winning author best known for her acclaimed memoir, I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings.Her book has sold millions of copies worldwide. In 2011, the Time Magazine ranked this as one of the top 100 most influential books written in English since 1923.But, let’s not get carried away with her success story.Maya Angelou’s creative genius and great work over her lifetime wasn’t a fluke.It was the by-product of a consistent routine, habits and a decision to ‘turn pro.’In the book , Daily Rituals (audiobook), Angelou describes her ‘pro’ daily routine.“I usually get up at about 5:30, and I’m ready to have coffee by 6, usually with my husband. He goes off to his work around 6:30, and I go off to mine. I keep a hotel room in which I do my work - a tiny, mean room with just a bed, and sometimes, if I can find it, a face basin. I keep a dictionary, a Bible, a deck of cards and a bottle of sherry in the room. I try to get there around 7, and I work until 2 in the afternoon.”Every day for many years of her life, Angelou would sit down and write for several hours.It didn’t matter if she didn’t feel like it.It didn’t matter if the weather outside was bad.It didn’t matter if her writing was poor.She showed up every day because she was a professional and not an amateur.The difference between amateurs and professionals“The difference between an amateur and a professional is in their habits. An amateur has amateur habits. A professional has professional habits. We can never free ourselves from habit. But we can replace bad habits with good ones.” â€"  Steven PressfieldThe difference between amateurs and professionals is entirely based on their habits and mindset.Professionals have developed habits and routines that help them to stay at the top of their game.Here are 5 key differences between Amateurs and Professionals …1. Amateurs wait to feel inspired. Professionals stick to a schedule.Amateurs only work and practice when they feel motivated to do so.They wait for inspiration, or permission from somebody else, to take action towards their goals- to exercise, to write more and so on.Professionals don’t let their feelings dictate their actions.They intentionally create and stick to a schedule come rain or shine.2. Amateurs focus on goals. Professionals focus on habits.Amateurs are obsessed with the outcome. They seek the instant gratification of quick results and look to ‘sprint’ to success.They struggle with ‘resistance’ and procrastination because of their intense focus on the end result.Professionals treat success like a marathon and not a sprint. They focus on developing the habits that will naturally help them to achieve their goals as a by-product.3. Amateurs strive to achieve. Professionals strive to improve.Just like a recreational runner preparing for a marathon, Amateurs strive for the achievement of finishing the marathon.After the marathon, the recreational runner no longer strives to improve their running. The achievement has now been reached, so the incentive to stay consistent with practice is very little.The professional understands that an achievement is simply an indication of how much they’ve improved.They are focused on continuous growth and seek to find new ways to improve themselves.4. Amateurs stall after failure. Professionals grow after failure.Amateurs try to avoid failure at all costs. They fear criticism and worry too much about what people would think if they failed.Amateurs give up when faced with adversity and tough challenges. They lack the mental toughness to push forward and succeed.Professionals understand that failure is an inevitable and necessary part of growth.They treat failure a nd criticism like a scientist - discarding the irrelevant information and using the relevant feedback to become better at what they do.5. Amateurs live for opinions. Professionals live for the truth.Amateurs are easily swayed by the opinions and ‘best practices’ of the majority of people in their field.The basis of an Amateur’s decision-making is their belief that “I’m right because I believe I am.”Professionals actively question widely held assumptions about how things should be done.A professional’s decision-making process is based on objectivity, not opinions. This type of thinking prevents them from making bad decisions.The path to turning pro“The amateur plays for fun. The professional plays for keeps.” “The amateur plays part-time. The professional plays full-time.” “The amateur is a weekend warrior. The professional shows up seven days a week.” -  â€˜The War Of Art’, Steven PressfieldTurning ‘Pro’, or professional, is simple - but, you must abide by the two commandments of the pros.1. Thou shalt commit to a schedule.A schedule is simply a pre-commitment to consistently put in your ‘reps’ and hours in your craft.For example, if you want to become a better writer, you could create a schedule with times and days of the week for writing.In my case, my writing schedule is to publish a new article every Monday and Thursday to the readers of the free newsletter.Likewise, you could commit to 3 days a week of exercise or improving a specific part of your business.Just like any new habit, your willpower and ability to delay gratification will also affect your consistency levels.2. Thou shalt believe that they are ‘Pro.’You can’t think and act like a Pro, if you still believe you’re an amateur.This is why it’s so important to shift your identity. You have the power right now to believe that you’re a professiona l.To say that you believe you’re a pro isn’t enough because actions speak louder than words.Prove to yourself that you’re really a pro and do the things that a pro would do every day.On a final note, here are a few things to think about: Are you committed to being a professional in any area of your life? Is there anything holding you back from going pro? What can you do create the schedule and identity of a pro? Mayo Oshin writes at  MayoOshin.com, where he shares practical self-improvement ideas and proven science for better health, productivity and creativity.  To get practical ideas on how to stop procrastinating and build healthy habits, you can join his free weekly newsletter  here.A version of this  article  originally appeared at  mayooshin.com  as “5 Differences Between Amateurs and Professionals.” The 5 differences between amateurs and true professionals The only way to become better at anything is to spend time working on it.But, how can you put in your ‘reps’ if you’re not consistent enough?And, why do some people live up to their potential, whilst others don’t even scratch the surface of success?Follow Ladders on Flipboard!Follow Ladders’ magazines on Flipboard covering Happiness, Productivity, Job Satisfaction, Neuroscience, and more!The answer to this dilemma lies within the difference between amateurs and professionals.Here’s what you need to know to set yourself up for success.Maya Angelou’s ‘pro’ routineMaya Angelou was a famous writer, poet, civil rights activist and award-winning author best known for her acclaimed memoir, I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings.Her book has sold millions of copies worldwide. In 2011, the Time Magazine ranked this as one of the top 100 most influential books written in English since 1923.But, let’s not get carried away with her success story.Maya Angelou’s creative genius and great work over her lifetime wasn’t a fluke.It was the by-product of a consistent routine, habits and a decision to ‘turn pro.’In the book, Daily Rituals (audiobook), Angelou describes her ‘pro’ daily routine.“I usually get up at about 5:30, and I’m ready to have coffee by 6, usually with my husband. He goes off to his work around 6:30, and I go off to mine. I keep a hotel room in which I do my work - a tiny, mean room with just a bed, and sometimes, if I can find it, a face basin. I keep a dictionary, a Bible, a deck of cards and a bottle of sherry in the room. I try to get there around 7, and I work until 2 in the afternoon.”Every day for many years of her life, Angelou would sit down and write for several hours.It didn’t matter if she didn’t feel like it.It didn’t matter if the weather outside was bad.It didn’t matter if her writing was poor.She showed up every day because she was a professional and not an amateur.The difference between amateurs and professionals“The difference between an amateur and a professional is in their habits. An amateur has amateur habits. A professional has professional habits. We can never free ourselves from habit. But we can replace bad habits with good ones.” â€"  Steven PressfieldThe difference between amateurs and professionals is entirely based on their habits and mindset.Professionals have developed habits and routines that help them to stay at the top of their game.Here are 5 key differences between Amateurs and Professionals …1. Amateurs wait to feel inspired. Professionals stick to a schedule.Amateurs only work and practice when they feel motivated to do so.They wait for inspiration, or permission from somebody else, to take action towards their goals- to exercise, to write more and so on.Professionals don’t let their feelings dictate their actions.They intentionally create and stick to a schedule come rain or shine.2. Amateurs focus on goals. Professionals focus on habits.Amateurs are obsessed with the outcome. They seek the instant gratification of quick results and look to ‘sprint’ to success.They struggle with ‘resistance’ and procrastination because of their intense focus on the end result.Professionals treat success like a marathon and not a sprint. They focus on developing the habits that will naturally help them to achieve their goals as a by-product.3. Amateurs strive to achieve. Professionals strive to improve.Just like a recreational runner preparing for a marathon, Amateurs strive for the achievement of finishing the marathon.After the marathon, the recreational runner no longer strives to improve their running. The achievement has now been reached, so the incentive to stay consistent with practice is very little.The professional understands that an achievement is simply an indication of how much they’ve improved.They are focused on continuous growth and seek to find new ways to improve themselves.4. Amateurs stall after failure. Professionals grow after failure.Amateurs try to avoid failure at all costs. They fear criticism and worry too much about what people would think if they failed.Amateurs give up when faced with adversity and tough challenges. They lack the mental toughness to push forward and succeed.Professionals understand that failure is an inevitable and necessary part of growth.They treat failure a nd criticism like a scientist - discarding the irrelevant information and using the relevant feedback to become better at what they do.5. Amateurs live for opinions. Professionals live for the truth.Amateurs are easily swayed by the opinions and ‘best practices’ of the majority of people in their field.The basis of an Amateur’s decision-making is their belief that “I’m right because I believe I am.”Professionals actively question widely held assumptions about how things should be done.A professional’s decision-making process is based on objectivity, not opinions. This type of thinking prevents them from making bad decisions.The path to turning pro“The amateur plays for fun. The professional plays for keeps.” “The amateur plays part-time. The professional plays full-time.” “The amateur is a weekend warrior. The professional shows up seven days a week.” -  â€˜The War Of Art’, Steven PressfieldTurning ‘Pro’, or professional, is simple - but, you must abide by the two commandments of the pros.1. Thou shalt commit to a schedule.A schedule is simply a pre-commitment to consistently put in your ‘reps’ and hours in your craft.For example, if you want to become a better writer, you could create a schedule with times and days of the week for writing.In my case, my writing schedule is to publish a new article every Monday and Thursday to the readers of the free newsletter.Likewise, you could commit to 3 days a week of exercise or improving a specific part of your business.Just like any new habit, your willpower and ability to delay gratification will also affect your consistency levels.2. Thou shalt believe that they are ‘Pro.’You can’t think and act like a Pro, if you still believe you’re an amateur.This is why it’s so important to shift your identity. You have the power right now to believe that you’re a professiona l.To say that you believe you’re a pro isn’t enough because actions speak louder than words.Prove to yourself that you’re really a pro and do the things that a pro would do every day.On a final note, here are a few things to think about: Are you committed to being a professional in any area of your life? Is there anything holding you back from going pro? What can you do create the schedule and identity of a pro? Mayo Oshin writes at  MayoOshin.com, where he shares practical self-improvement ideas and proven science for better health, productivity and creativity.  To get practical ideas on how to stop procrastinating and build healthy habits, you can join his free weekly newsletter  here.A version of this  article  originally appeared at  mayooshin.com  as “5 Differences Between Amateurs and Professionals.”You might also enjoy… New neuroscience reveals 4 rituals that will make you happy Strangers know your social class in the first seven words you say, study finds 10 lessons from Benjamin Franklin’s daily schedule that will double your productivity The worst mistakes you can make in an interview, according to 12 CEOs 10 habits of mentally strong people