Archive for August, 2009

Five Negotiating Skills in One Movie

Dog Day Afternoon is probably the best single film on negotiating that you can watch. Millions have seen a very young Al Pacino and Charles Durning turn in virtuoso performances as captor and cop in this classic film. Based on the true story of a bank robbery that turned into a hostage situation, the film [...]

Top Stocks Pick for 2009

H&R Block (HRB) is one of the most widely recognized consumer brands, as the company is nearly ubiquitous across the country at tax time. H&R Block misstepped badly during the housing bubble, making a major foray into mortgage loans. This mistake is now behind the company, so future value creation will depend mostly on H&R [...]

Designing Knowledge-Based Test Questions

Many organizations are trying to put different labels on measures that look for knowledge or skill-gain, believing that the word test may sound unprofessional, particularly for management personnel. For the purpose of this discussion, the word test is used because it is the word that is most commonly used throughout this country and others. The [...]

401(k): What It Is and How It Works

A 401(k) plan is a savings plan that allows you to divert a portion of your income into a tax-sheltered savings account, which accumulates without your having to pay income taxes on it.
This program falls into the defined contribution retirement category because the law defines, or limits, how much you can contribute to your 401(k) [...]

Understanding Intellectual Capital Accounting

According to Roslender and Fincham (2001), intellectual capital is currently the focus of significant discussion and enquiry across the management disciplines and beyond. This reflects the recognition that intellectual capital provides a crucial source of value for the contemporary business enterprise. It is a resource that requires careful management if it is to fulfill its [...]

How to Keep Your Work Space Uncluttered

Despite what some people believe, a cluttered desk does not indicate genius. Au contraire! It signals confusion and creates stress. Even mini-clutter will grow and eventually fill every inch. Keep your desk clear of everything except your project du jour and your family picture.
Get rid of that paper! Shuffling and reshuffling paper from pile [...]