by cjxpadmin | May 1, 2013 | Uncategorized
By Ann Kemmy
My name is Ann Kemmy and I am an Organizational Development and Training Professional with twenty years of experience.
Organizational Development has been around for many years and is often housed in Human Resources. While 
both deal with people aspects of the business, each of these two functions requires special expertise.
Organizational Development or “OD” by definition is “a planned, organization-wide effort to increase efficiency and effectiveness.” We work with any part of the company, whether it be a work team, a shift of workers, a new manager adjusting to responsibilities, or on specific company-wide initiatives like improving product quality or workplace safety. Over time, almost every department in a given organization will be our client for at least one area of improvement.
The tools we use are developed for working with people. When a problem is brought to our attention, we begin by focusing on background data and assessing needs, recognizing a lack of clarity in goals, resolving conflicts between groups, dealing with changes in the workplace, helping new managers fit in, and planning for orderly succession into jobs.
Our day-to-day work involves projects like building more effective teams and giving 360 degree feedback to employees to help them meet the expectations of their bosses, their colleagues, or those who report to them.
Theoretically, OD can be applied in every setting. Practically, however, it is used when the outcomes can be measured in terms of greater trust and cooperation between employees, greater job satisfaction and commitment, and increased problem-solving by employees.
OD is built on the medical model that doctors use to diagnose and treat patients. The client presents a problem. 
The OD practitioner gathers more information by reviewing data, conducting interviews, and by first-hand observation.
The practitioner comes back to the client with a report of what has been discovered and a plan for changing/improving the situation. Ideally, the intervention plan will reflect the input contributed by team members during the interviews. This improves the odds that team members will cooperate and make the changes that must be made. Metrics and measurement are developed to ensure follow-up and to determine the success of the effort.
Practitioners’ skill levels and the ability to find the simplest and most efficient solutions grow with experience and the range of problems they have dealt with in the past. Over the last 20 years, I have worked with oil companies, hospitals, banks and education. Some of these areas, such as banks, typically reflected more top-down management needs to meet regulatory requirements. In other cases, managers and union representatives had to work together to reach common goals of safety and product quality that made things better for everybody.
Some interventions are very complex and impact many people and the profitability of a company. One that stands out for me was in a large US refinery with some 1,800 union represented employees. The Refinery Manager wanted to take the refinery from 360 thousand barrels-per-day of production to 400 thousand. But the plant was an old one and corporate senior management was leery of a huge investment there.
The union also saw the value of the investment for job security for their members. But they had reservations about changing work rules and relationships. For a while, it looked as if shared goals might not be enough to drive the needed change for greater management-union cooperation.
Finally, it appeared they could find common ground on improving the refinery safety record. To make that happen, all levels of employees had to understand and commit to both the new direction and the new goal.
Individuals had to develop skills in problem-solving, communication, and conflict resolution – all of which were needed to achieve the overall goal of increased plant safety.
I put together a five-year plan – an organizational development intervention. It was primarily carried out in a 
classroom setting. Each year, every supervisor, superintendent, and manager – about 500 persons in all – attended a one-week development workshop that was facilitated and taught by union reps, refinery management, and me. I was based at the refinery for the whole period.
The session focused on understanding refinery direction and goals, dealing with gaps between where the refinery was now and where it wanted to be, and developing new skills. Everybody graduated with a videotape of his or her daily improvement in the skill area being focused on during that year. They had improved and they knew it. And they put their new skills into practice.
The process continued to be implemented even though the position of Refinery Manager turned over four times in the five years it was under way.
At the conclusion, there had not been a major safety incident in that five-year period. Both the union and Refinery Manager agreed that the process focusing on that goal had been largely responsible for the improvement.
And yes, the refinery received the investment and upgrading and is now over the original 400 thousand barrel-per-day goal.
Going forward and in summary, what I find most rewarding is working with organizations and people who share the goals and vision of a workplace progressive, pleasant and productive. If your organization desires a development and training facilitator, I am your candidate and would love the opportunity to discuss my qualifications with you. △
by cjxpadmin | May 1, 2013 | This Issue's FEATURE
By Sheena Williams
There are times when you need a doo-hickey, a whatchamacallit or a thingamabob. There are times when you are searching for something, and it makes your day even better when you find it. Sometimes there’s a mishap and you need to get it cleaned up before your boss gets there, or before someone you know sees you. As we might not be able to supply you with all of these things, we can help you get a kit together so that you can do quick touch-ups, or fix a mess before it becomes a catastrophe! All of these things can be found for a dollar or less at your local store. Think travel sizes.
For Everyone!
Mirror — Last minute checks, is your makeup smudged, is there something in your teeth, or is your hair in place? Your mirror has got you covered! Not only does it allow you to check on your appearance, it allows you to see who is coming up behind you in your cubical or workstation. Don’t leave yourself open for a surprise.
Toothpicks — It’s after breakfast or maybe after lunch and you may have something stuck in your teeth. Rather than let it bother you forever, get it taken care of. No sense meeting your new partner with spinach in your teeth! Yuck!
Breath Mints or Gum — Not only does gum make your breath minty fresh, but it’s a good way to keep from snacking, and it helps you think. It is said that 76% of gum chewers stay focused on tasks longer than those non-chewers! Who doesn’t need that extra bit of concentration?
Deodorant — A travel size deodorant doesn’t take up a lot of space, but it can make a big impact on your day. You may find yourself having to move around a lot or sometimes stress makes you sweat. Having small items like these in your possession will keep you from stressing about your appearance (or smell) when your employer comes knocking.
Healthy Snacks — Let’s face it. You are going to snack at your place of work. It’s unavoidable. It doesn’t matter where you work or what you do, there is a large chance that there is food available at all times of day. Having healthy snacks on hand will keep you from munching on cookies and candy all day! Unless you want to, then by all means!
Stress Ball — You’re at work. You need the stress ball! There are going to be times when you are really stressed out. Though we can’t stop the stress from finding you, we can suggest something that will take the focus off the stress. Stress balls not only work your arm muscles, but they also let you focus on something other than your stressors.
Instant Coffee or Tea — Is it morning and you’re still a little groggy? Maybe you’re a little stressed and a quick cup of chamomile will take the edge off. Whatever the reason. having these items easily available will ensure that you don’t have to go looking for them later!
A Small Book of Inspirational Sayings — There are times when you have to remember why it’s worth it. You may be having a hard day at work or things are just not going your way. Having a little something that can uplift you can really work magic for your day!
A Nail File — You laugh, but there have been numerous times a nail file has served as a screw driver in a pinch. Maybe you need to open a stubborn bag of peanuts. Think outside of the box when building your kit.
Hand Sanitizer — Every day is the day for flu and colds. You shake hands, handle people’s money, touch tools that have been used by others. If you can’t go wash your hands right way, hand sanitizer will hold you over until you get there!
Clean Up Wipes — Everyone can have a clumsy moment now and then. You spill a soda, drop some spaghetti on your uniform, or maybe your keyboard is dusty. Whatever the case, disinfectant wipes will get you on the road to recovery!
Chapstick — You are going to be doing a lot of smiling. Make sure you can do it without splitting your lip, ouch! Not only does Chapstick give you smooth lips, it makes it 5 times easier to smile!
These are just starter suggestions for your kit. Everyone’s box is going to be a little different depending on what you’re doing for a living. Maybe you have an extra outfit, or maybe even a pair of weights so you can pump some iron while you wait on something to load on the computer. Maybe you have a bandana that you can tie around your forehead to keep sweat from getting in your eye. Whatever the case, maybe a kit can make your day a little easier, and everyone has time for that! △
by cjxpadmin | May 1, 2013 | This Issue's FEATURE, Uncategorized
By Sheena Williams
There are days when you’re working or about to start a job, when you might find yourself falling into the pitfalls of work don’ts. It’s easy to do, you get comfortable in your position, and you feel that you have some leeway. Though this may be true in some offices, there are some things that you shouldn’t do, no matter how long you’ve been at your place of work. These things can make or break your career, and it’s best to avoid them as much as possible!
Office Gossip — You know, the old “he said, she said” bit. Don’t get pulled into that trap. Your reputation, as well as the person being discussed, is in jeopardy. It’s good to know what is going on in your company, but if it is not work-related or substantiated by the person being discussed, then, take no part in it! You don’t want to be known as a gossip, and you don’t want to be the one who gets caught spreading it.
Social Networking During Work — We’ll leave the part about how you should not be doing anything personal on your work computer anyway. It doesn’t matter if it’s in your office or the break room. But saying negative things about your work or co-workers while people on your page are people you work with is not a good idea, regardless of whether you are at work or not. You are in a world where if someone can walk over you to get ahead, they will. So, it won’t be anything to them to report you to higher authorities.
Relationships — Your work relationships and your personal relationships are two different things and the two shall never meet. If you are fighting with your boyfriend, then, that stays at home. You don’t bring it to work with you. If it’s not work-related, then, it doesn’t follow you to work. If your work day ends at 5:00 pm, then, your work shouldn’t follow you home. When you meld the two together, you find yourself crossing boundaries that you wouldn’t normally cross during your on or off hours. Do yourself, your family, and your job a favor and keep those two relationships far away from each other.
Making Commitments You Can’t Keep — If you sign a contract, that means that you are legally bound to follow it. If you don’t read your contract and later find that you can’t uphold your end of the bargain, then, that’s on you. Don’t over-promise. Your employer and other employees are expecting you to do what you said you would do. At the end of the day, all you have is your word, and if you are not able to keep it, then, you’re wasting not only their time, but yours.
Getting Angry — Being angry is a natural emotion; however, being irrational and starting a screaming match in the middle of the office is not acceptable. There are days that you may feel angry and you may have every right to feel it. You worked hard on getting that promotion, and then, it went to someone else. You’ve put in your full time hours and you’ve done what you were asked to do, however, your employer feels that you should do more. Get over it! Either it’s enough of a problem that you are discussing it with your employer in a calm manner, or it’s not worth it. It not only makes you look bad, but that kind of problem can follow you to your next job.
Whining — No one likes it. Stop it. It is a well-known fact that people who are doing the whining are usually the ones who are making the work day miserable. Whining doesn’t give you any kind of results. It’s just that — whining! When something happens, take a deep breath, slowly count to 10 and reflect on all of the positive things in your favor. You are in control of your happiness, and it is up to you to make sure that you are happy! CHOOSE TO BE HAPPY!
There are so many things that we didn’t cover on what not to do, but these should get you through your work day without too many problems. Remember, only you can tell you what is going to keep you happy. If you find that you are having a hard time with any of these, maybe a change of workplace is in order. No on can make you happy, and you have to do what it takes to get you there! △
by cjxpadmin | May 1, 2013 | This Issue's FEATURE, Uncategorized
Top 10 Companies Hiring This Week
By Jake Thiewes
Updated Apr 22nd 2013 @ 8:58AM
Filed under: Companies Now Hiring, Top 10 Lists
A job search can get quite frustrating these days, with so many people competing for too few openings.
To ease the burden, AOL Jobs tracked down the 10 top companies that are hiring this week.
From sales jobs to finance positions, full-time to part-time, these employers have a plethora of openings they’re looking to fill.
Good luck job hunting!
1. Pizza Hut Jobs: 6,257 Openings
Pizza Hut continues to expand, adding new locations nationwide. For those with a knack for customer-service-with-a-smile, these jobs could be for you. Work in the store, or get behind the wheel as a delivery driver.
Employee Review: “Decent hours, fun working environment, challenging (but not too much), rewarding, quick training (I was cross-trained, so I could fill any role necessary).”
2. UnitedHealth Group Jobs: 3,367 Openings
UnitedHealth Group currently provides health insurance services to more than 75 million people worldwide.
Employee Review: “I really enjoyed my time at UnitedHealth Group. The trainers were very knowledgeable and were always there to answer any questions that I had. I worked as a claims associate for just a few short months before being promoted to another department. I then went on to work from home! Only left this company because of personal issues not related to my job. Great place to work!”
3. Macy’s Jobs: 1,984 Openings
Even though sales are down slightly, the retail giant continues to hire in large quantities nationwide.
Employee Review: “The management is competent. Employees are given a good discount and still able to use coupons. You can pick up more hours online when they become available.”
4. Chrysler-Mopar Jobs: 1,889 Openings
The company continues to add jobs throughout the country, with its latest hiring spree looking for workers to build Jeep vehicles in Toledo, Ohio.
Employee Review: “The company is extremely adaptable and resilient after its financial distress in recent years, and the company is very hopeful for the future. The need for young and creative people is overwhelming — those without automotive background may be better positioned than they think!”
5. AT&T Retail Jobs: 1,864 Openings
Wireless giant AT&T continues to hire in large volumes, as many customers upgrade their smartphones and purchase tablets that require LTE data plans.
Employee Review: “They provide great benefits and pay. I know they match quite a bit for 401(k) investment. It is a great job for someone interested in technology and learning about new technologies. Also, it is great to know that you are helping others out on a daily basis.”
6. Raytheon Jobs: 1,690 Openings
With annual sales of nearly $25 billion, Raytheon employs thousands, including veterans who are home again.
Employee Review: “The people and the technology were the best. Worked for them for 25 years. Excellent resource groups and activities.”
7. Wells Fargo Jobs: 1,354 Openings
In addition to fulfilling corporate-level positions, Wells Fargo has announced hundreds of open teller positions across the country, from Arizona to Idaho.
Employee Review: “Large company with a lot of training; encouraged to change positions/departments within bank to grow and learn; good senior management and diversity commitment.”
8. Allstate Jobs: 720 Openings
Insurance provider Allstate is not only looking for sales agents. They’re opening call centers around the country and need friendly, professional customer support staff to fill those jobs. The company is the second-largest personal insurer in the country.
Employee Review: “Over the past two years, the organization has really started to recognize the importance of retaining good talent by offering new developmental opportunities to all employees. The environment is also very inclusive and supportive. In my department, we work hard but have a lot of fun together as a team. Management recognizes the importance of work-life balance.”
9. Olive Garden Jobs: 313 Openings
Operating more than 800 locations globally, Olive Garden is one of several restaurant brands owned by Darden Restaurants. Most Olive Garden employees are part-time and earn the majority of their wages in tips.
Employee Review: “They give a good amount of hours and many of the workers work extra hard to help each other out.”
10. Rent-A-Center Jobs: 274 Openings
Operating more than 3,000 stores in the United States, Rent-A-Center, most recently in the state of Texas, followed other store openings throughout the year. The company plans to expand in Mexico as well.
Employee Review: “Always something new every day, never a dull moment. Small stores, opportunities to develop strong relationships with customers. Virtually no scripts to follow, no “dumbing-down” … employees are encouraged and empowered to answer challenges and solve problems.”
*All employee reviews sourced from Glassdoor, a free jobs and career community that offers the world an inside look at jobs and companies. △
by cjxpadmin | May 1, 2013 | This Issue's FEATURE, Uncategorized
The Best Job You Never Thought Of
By Annalyn Kurtz @CNNMoney April 25, 2013: 6:32 AM ET
One of the best jobs in America often flies under the radar.
It’s in high demand, can pay six-figures a year, and your employer often foots the bill for on-the-job training. No grad school required!
It’s an actuary, and for the past several years, it’s been highly ranked as one of the best jobs in America on various lists, the most recent of which was compiled by CareerCast.
Despite all the good publicity, I can tell you from personal experience that most people still don’t have an inkling what an actuary does.
My husband is an actuary, and when I introduce him to others as such, blank stares are common. Occasionally someone may say, “Oh, like the Ben Stiller character in Along Came Polly?” The next inevitable question: “Can he predict when I’ll die?”
So what is an actuary?
The job entails using statistics to estimate risks, usually for insurance companies. Actuaries set prices for insurance contracts and advise insurance companies just how much money they should set aside to pay out for future claims. They can also design pension and healthcare plans.
For example, an actuary may try to predict how much money an insurance company would have to pay out to cover damage from future hurricanes. Insu- rance companies and insurance-related consulting firms are their largest employers, but actuaries are also scattered throughout academia and the government (they’re crucial in the Social Security Administration, for example).
It’s still a relatively small occupation, employing about 22,000 people in the United States, but it’s expected to grow quickly. (By comparison, there are about 190,000 accountants in the country.)
The Labor Department forecasts the actuarial field will grow 27% between 2010 and 2020, adding 5,800 jobs during that decade. That’s more new jobs than are expected from the economist, statistician and mathematician occupations combined.
That said, it’s not an easy job to land, and it’s certainly not the best fit for everybody.
The key to becoming a full-fledged actuary lies in passing an intense series of seven to nine exams, which can take between six to eight years to complete.
The good news is that employers often pay for the studies. Employers will often hire math, statistics or business majors with starting salaries around $45,000 to $50,000 a year, and then give them paid time off to study and take their exams, said Tom Miller, principal of Pinnacle Group Actuarial Recruiting.
Related: Top-Paying Jobs
Usually the salary increases with each passed exam. By the time all the exams are completed, the salary could have doubled, to around $90,000 a year, plus a bonus, Miller said. The exams are notoriously difficult, and even among these math whizzes, it’s not uncommon to fail one or two.
“These are people who have probably never failed an exam in their lives. They’ve gotten straight A’s their whole life, and the failure rates can run as high as 60% on these exams. It’s very, very challenging,” Miller said.
Just go to a bar with a young actuary, and all they’ll talk about is studying. The standard practice is to study 300 to 400 hours per exam.
If you can pass all the exams, the job is considered high paying and secure. One study, by the Georgetown University Center on Education and the Workforce, finds that actuarial science graduates had a near-zero unemployment rate in 2010.
“It’s a great job and one of the reasons why is the stability of the profession. Demand is greater than supply, and it’s been that way for 30-plus years. There’s no expectation that will change,” Miller said.
The few occupational hazards entail sometimes working 10-hour days, and of course, the occasional jokes about being a math nerd. As an accountant put it to me last month — “an actuary is someone who wanted to be an accountant, but didn’t have the personality for it.”
Actuaries often like to tell it the other way around. 
△
First Published: April 25, 2013: 6:32 AM ET
