Starting a Small Business - Free Essay Example

Sample details Pages: 9 Words: 2562 Downloads: 1 Date added: 2017/06/26 Category Business Essay Type Narrative essay Level High school Did you like this example? Staring a small business require the entrepreneur skills such as self-belief and awareness of the product or service, self-determination, commitment to work for quit long hours, to be initiative and proactive to reduce the possible risk etc. My business idea is to open the travel and tourism agency here in Muscat Oman which is located in Arab Peninsula. Travel Agency is the private provider of travel and tourism services such as airlines, cruising, hotel packages, tours, car rental and others. It acts as an agent on the behalf of the suppliers and the stock is usually are on hand (Sighn). My service is new but an existing one whereby there is less risky compare to diversification. I will locate my small travel and tours office in Al-Khuwair because it is at the center of the ministries, offices and the availability of several colleges in nearby in Bawsher where there are bunch of international students, a good example is here in Modern College of Business and Science, some students are from Tanzania, Kenya, Pakistan and other parts of the world and so easier travel excellence they will get hence success onto my side. This kind of business is very attractive to me because first I have the experiences in some airlines and travel agencies such as general sales agent of Marhaba tours and Travel and worked as sales and reservation supervisor in Yemen Airways. I did on-the-job training at Ethiopian airlines in previous year where I used to handle different types of people and work as a team work. Apart from that I used to design the travel ittenaries in travel agent, prepare tourist accommodation and dealing with the embassies and consulates in obtaining the visa. I also was responsible of collecting sales from my fellow staff every day evening, which is among the reasons that I am aware of this job. In addition to that, I undergo some IATA courses of diploma, consultant and the computer reservation system. The type of the business that I have select is sole proprietorship which said to be owned by one person, I choose the type of the business because it is easy to start and end the business anytime where there is no any special corporate tax that is needed to be paid (Legal Match). The name of my business agency is Easy to go travel and tourism because it will attract many people as they will eager to easy to go where, when and other details. The slogan of my small Agency will be Awaken and Discover New World and my logo shows the full globe with some airlines pictures, it is of two colors blue which indicates ocean and green which shows the land and peace Hopefully, my small business will beat the rivals like Zahara Travels and Marmul Travel Agency, both located in Al Khuwair due to my design and my unique selling point that I will introduce. Vision of my small business is to serve peopleà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢s travel tour demand and to be the best operator in the region. In order to provide the best service s that would satisfy my customers demand, there are some objectives that assist to accomplish my goal, among those objectives is customers satisfaction, profit as the most important aim of my business and performing a marketing research like competitor analysis, swot analysis and other so as to understand what are my strength, weakness, opportunity and threats. Having the business insurance is very important aspect to consider. At the first point, I have planned to offer few services like in air travels include dealing with designing the ittenaries, booking, and issuing the tickets, a good example of the major airlines are Emirates, Etihad, Ethiopian Airlines and other carries, advising the customers, importance of travel requirements like visa and informing the clients in case of any changes when occur, refunds, taxes, surcharges and many more. Furthermore, I will deal in organizing the certain group travel such as expatriates and students. Introducing the loyalty schemes wit h my frequent customers in which when a passenger accumulates certain amount of points can get free ticket of any carrier, this is my one among the unique selling point, not only that but also for legal couples travel together five times within a year, my travel agency will offer free return air ticket fare with no surcharges and taxes included and for the singles travelers they will be offered one way ticket across the continent destination. As the companyà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢s vision says that the company wants to fulfill the travel demand to everyone, due to the authorization from the car rental companies like Avis, I will be able to hire a cars for clients for a period of weekly and monthly hence easier tourist to be more comfortable in roving and roaming in town. According to the World Tourism Organization (WTO), every year the rate of tourists increase and so in tourism sector, I will deal with design the cruise shipping. So far Oman is said to be an old town with many histori cal forts and heritage sites like Bahla which attract many people. Other attractions that Oman has are the dessert Safari, Rock climbing, caving and gallery. All of these I will design as one of my service hence benefit for the benefit for the government because more income in tourism sector (Index Mundi). Operation requirement that I need are three computers, two for reservation and one for accounts and sales, two printers and one photocopy machines. For the employees, one permanent employee as a reservation staff and myself, one messenger and I will hire a contingent worker for a peak season. Balancing the personal and business wants is very important strategy to focus on so as to be able to keep them in a good position as well as reduce own stress level which could affects ones health. Potential profitability estimated sales revenue is R.O 250.000 and 60 % of the cost of sale. Marketing research is the process of accessing how the product is appreciated by the users, customers through survey, focus group, questionnaires etcetera. Marketing research help to control its target market and to discover its potential customers, this can be conducted by the organization itself or by the third party which specialize in market research (Investopedia). As I want my small business to be well-known, I have conducted both secondary and primary research. Through this research I will be able to follow the customers demand and build a good reputation for myself as well. During my research, I was able to visit Zahara Travels since one of my cousins is working there and so I got some important information like ownership and actual additional service charges per every ticket they issue and tour packages they design. I have conducted a primary research which involves the new out comings that no one has collected before, these include questionnaires, interview, survey in a focused group whereby I used a questionnaires and interview only. I prepared 120 ques tionnaires which consist of ten questions using qualitative method of research that uses the open ended questions, example of the questions that I have asked are what do you like in travel?, how many have you ever visit, where and why. I distributed my questionnaires to three different locations, in hotels such as Radisson in Al-Khuwair, in the colleges and in some entities. Nevertheless, I put some questionnaires questions in the social media such as face book, instagram and others but I used a closed ended questions. In addition to that, I have collected the figures from the government entities such as from Archive. Other method that I have used in primary research is interview with the Oman Ministry of Tourism on how many tourists are coming and from which parts of the world mainly outbound. To gather much information, I also have used secondary research which is said to be the data that are already existed, for instance of these data/statistics are from websites, the compe titorà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢s information, magazines and newspapers. However, I was aware when collecting this research because the data/information from websites may be old and outdated. Secondary information is divided externally and internally but for the entrepreneurs, only external research can be obtained. External research includes collecting the existence data from outsiders for example from the competitorà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢s information, for this, I have used main regional rivals such as Marmul Agency and Zahara Tours and Travel. Furthermore, I tried to concentrate and research about Pestle Analysis to determine the factors that will affect my business. Pestle analysis is a business tool that used by the businessman and entrepreneurs to monitor the political, economic, social, technological and legal factors that affects the business (Pestle analysis). Politics, a business may be affected by political factors like intellectual properties, consumer protection, taxation, t ariffs, environmental laws and others; therefore it is important to conduct research for the health of the business. Economic factors which may impact the business for instance inflation rate, recession, income, unemployment rate, exchange rate, fiscal policies, labor costs and many more in which I have to be aware and proactive on the certain changes when occur. Socio-Cultural Factors which I focused and considered include population, education level, health consciousness, and lifestyle, attitudes toward preserving green and cultural Beliefs. Technological Factors that I have researched about are including technology incentives and communication changes in order to manage my small travel and tourism agency. Last but not the least; in researching the Pestle Analysis, I have focused on the laws, when there are any new changes I have to go over with it. I have used Swot Analysis to create and develop my serves according to my clientà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢s preferences and to know my target market which may bring more profit to my business. It is all about Strength, Weaknesses, Opportunities and threats. To start with Strength, I have research what I need to do to in order to operate the best than others and knowing the unique selling proposition (USP). My strength include I myself have required skills and qualifications to be a travel consultant, appointed as the authorized general sales agent of the big carries and have efficient and strong distribution channels. Weaknesses, it is very difficult to lease the place/office due to the high rent in central location and another weakness that i have is that my clients cannot buy travels via mobile. Opportunities, travel demand is expanding day by day, increasing of the expatriates and international students is one of my opportunities that I have. Not only that bust also many tourists come to Oman for cruising, according to the Times of Oman à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã…“Oman attracted 300, 000 cruise passengers from October last year to June this year, compare that to the 2003 season when the number of cruise passenger arrivals was just 3,500à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚  ( Times Of Oman). Threats, due to the increment of price of oil, the air ticket tend to be very high hence sometimes reduction of customers. Insurance cost becomes higher and higher day by day and Change of climate is considered to be threat also (Travel Industry). After the research that I have conducted early of the previous month, so far I have prepared and distributed 120 questionnaires with open ended questions as one of the method that I have used in Primary Research. Out of 120 questions, the respond were only 95 with real and clear respond. The first question I have asked is what do you like in travels? About 65% of the respond they mentioned about the customer Relation, they want to have travel agency loyalty programs the same as frequent fliers travelers to the airlines vendors, they want frequent client to the travel ve ndor locator. I also observed that geographically segmented, my target customers are male expatriates from Europe, America and India, and international students, majority students from Modern College, Middle East College and Financial College, hence I will establish the relationship and agreement to these colleges where my target customers are. The feedback from the social Medias of Facebook and Instagram, where I have post the close-ended-questions and the sample of the questions were as follow which airline do you like the most? , what is your annual income? a) 6,000-10,000 b) 11,000-15,000 c) 16,000-20,000 d) above. For this question, according to demographic segmentation, the 70% respond were B. Due to these result, I add 10.00 Rial Omani to each ticket I will issue, the second reason that lead me to deduct 10.00 R.O per ticket is when I did the interview with the supervisor and some employees of Zahara Travels, they deduct 15.00 R.O as their service charge, hence I reduced 5 .00 R.O in each and every ticket. After the interview and conversation with the Oman Ministry of Tourism, the respond is many tourists are coming to Oman each year, hence my target market are tourists in a peak season which is in winter in November to early March. Market Demographics: due to this kind segmentation, my target market is early married couples who are eager to spend their honeymoon outside the country, during summer many students are leaving to their country home. Initially the pricing strategy that I will use is promotional pricing, it is a short-termed sale to stimulate the buyers to purchase, and then I will introduce the competitive method in the market because if I set the different very low price, people will consider my product as cheap with no guaranteed and my reputation may be destroyed. Not only that but also, I tried to arrange and calculate the cost of both fixed and variables where I set the margin of safety to be greater than cost of goods sol d. To conclude, that is how I design my small business as an entrepreneur I have conducted a research to determine the factors that can affect my business also to find where my target market are locate and how to price my services in order to obtain profit at the same time win large mass to fulfill customers demand. REFFERENCES: A. Scott, (n.d).pricing strategy. Retrieved on February 12, 2015 from, https://entrepreneurs.about.com/od/salesmarketing/a/pricingstrategy.htm Index Mundi, (n.d). Oman International Tourism. Retrieved on February 4, 2015 from, https://www.indexmundi.com/facts/oman Investopedia, (n.d). Market Reseach. Retrieved on February 8, 2015 from, https://www.investopedia.com/terms/m/market-reserch.asp J.Riley, (2012).Online Marketing Reseach. Retrieved on February on February 6, 2015 from, https://www.tutor2u.net/business/marketing/reseachlimitations-constraints.html Knowthis.com, (n.d). What is Secondary Research. Retrieved on February 3, 2015 fro m, https://www.knowthis.com/data-collection-low-cost-secondary-research/what-is-secondary-research Legal Match, (n.d). Advantages and Disadvatages of Sole Propriatorships. Retrieved on February 5,2015 from, https://www.legalmatch.com/law-library/article/advantages-and-disadvantages-of-sole-popriatorship.html Lisa, (n.d).Opodo Swot-analysis. Retrieved on February 8, 2015 from, https://www.travelindustry.blogspot.com/2011/11/opodo-swot-analysis.html?m=1 Travel Excellence, (n.d). Mission and Vision .retrieved on February 3, 2015 from, https://www.travelexcellence.com/our-company/mission-vision Times of Oman, (2014). Cruise industry booming as tourists flock to Oman. Retrieved on February 10, 2015 from, https://www.timesofoman.com/News/43106/Article-Cruise-industry-booming-as-tourists-flock-to-Oman Pestle Analysis, (n.d). Different between Steep and Steeple Analysis. Retrieved on February 10, 2015 from, https://www.pestleanalysis.com/pesta-analysis/ S. Sukhraj, (n.d). Slideshare Project on Role of Travel Agency. Retrieved on February 5, 2015 from, https://www.slideshare.net/mobile/sukhrajsingh7798/role-of-travel-agency A. Scott, (n.d).pricing strategy. Retrieved on February 12, 2015 from, https://entrepreneurs.about.com/od/salesmarketing/a/pricingstrategy.htm Don’t waste time! Our writers will create an original "Starting a Small Business" essay for you Create order

General George Washington As A Leader - 901 Words

General George Washington was conceivably the one indispensable man among the Founding Fathers. He was the only one out of many others to command the respect needed to lead the Continental Army to victory over Great Britain and presiding over the Constitutional Convention. He was indeed born as a leader to which a leader is defined as one who mobilizes others toward a goal shared by leader and followers. During the eight year Revolutionary war from 1775-1783 with Great Britain and America soldiers, General George Washington has proven himself to be a formidable leader that made him recognizable in a much later life such as his presidential selection. John C. Maxwell, the author of Communication Lessons From America’s Founding Father, draws the attention of General Washington strength qualities of being a leader as it explains â€Å"They watched him lead a bedraggled army of ill-equipped, under-clothed soldiers in battle against the world’s mightiest, most professional fighting force--the British Army.† In contrast, Mary Theobald, the author of Whatever happened to Benedict Arnold? argues â€Å"...trusted by Washington that the British thought him incorruptible, had attempted to betray his country by surrendering West Point.† Yet this disagreement raises the question, what does General Washington’s strengths and weakness lies during the Revolutionary War as he serves his role as the Commander in Chief? Based on research, General Washington’s leadership during that period had conveyedShow MoreRelatedGeorge Washington As A General Essay1078 Words   |  5 PagesGeorge Washington as a General. 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A Report On Succession Planning At Momentum Canada †Free Samples

Question: Discuss about the Report On Succession Planning At Momentum. Answer: Background Information Momentum is a reputable and leading tax, business consulting, and accounting firm in Canada. The company boasts of serving and responding to the needs of its clients both in the private and public sector. Additionally, it offers its services to non-profit organizations. The firm has remained steadfast in strengthening partner-led engagement in providing quality services. Further, Momentum endeavors to provide a cost-effective, collaborative approach as far as doing business is concerned. It suffices to point out that the company has developed strategies geared towards assisting other organizations to attain success in Canada and across the globe. The company is reputable for talent and leadership development[1]. The business activities are aligned to the mission and the need to enhance participatory management. Definition of Terms Succession planning is conceptualized as the entire process involving the identification and the development of a new crop of leaders when vacancies occur as a result of death, retirement, or leave[2]. In business realms, succession involves creating internal people with the ability to take up the key business leadership role in a company. Succession planning enhances the availability of experienced and skilled employees who can assume leadership roles in a company. Several studies have argued that talent mindset ought to be part of an organizational culture aimed at developing good leaders[3]. Indeed, succession management should be guided by the philosophy that top management in a company is central in gaining competitive advantage. By sticking to a good succession plan, a company or an organization is in a position to it employees for promotion or career advancement[4]. Therefore, succession planning is imperative in ensuring that an organization or a company is not hit by leaders hip vacuum if a particular employee exits[5]. Talent and leadership management is defined as processes and activities that occur throughout the life cycle of an employee. These activities include recruitment, training, onboarding, performance management, leadership development, professional development, workplace planning, work assignment, cross-functional roles, transition planning, and the exit process of an employee or a group of employees. It is imperative to point out that organizations often create elaborate models that are aimed at distinctively characterize their development and succession planning. In this endeavor, organizations succession planning must reflect repeated activities for leadership development[6]. The Objectives of the Companys Succession Plan The following objectives guide the company's succession planning: To create efficient mechanisms for the identification of potential leaders who can assume greater leadership roles in the company. To provide the essential development experiences to employees who are qualified to move into key positions in the company. Engaging the leadership so that they can adequately support the development of highly skilled leaders within the company. Creating a database which is used to guide the human resource management in making sound staffing decisions for critical roles. To enhancing the employee retention and satisfaction within the company as a result of continued career development. Countering the challenges that are associated with recruiting leaders externally. The Significance of Thoughtful Transition Planning and Strategic Succession It is imperative to establish from the outset of this report that transition and succession planning are critical to the future success of any company. Succession planning is a complex process that requires due diligence and commitment[7]. In most cases, it is a far more emotional encounter when a long-serving employee or when a founding member of a company has to leave[8]. For instance, a founding member who has founded an organization will find it very emotional to leave owing to the barriers that he/she had passed through; in the transition period. There is often strong attachment to the role and how the specific role is carried out. As a result of these reactions, most people find it hard to plan, or any plan that is developed does not occur in a thoughtful and proactive manner[9]. Certainties often face many organizations as to whether the successor possesses the experience and skills to steer it to success[10]. In many cases, the planning for succession become a challenge becau se the management is often busy based on the operational demands[11]. In most cases, more than fifty-percent of companies have no formal plan for succession. The company was awareness that the completion of a founders cycle of contribution to the company is imperative. It suffices to point out that proper succession and transmission planning requires transparency to avoid surprises. Additionally, the company in implementing its succession plan focused on leaders who have the ability to steer it to the next level in the coming future. The leader who is chosen to succeed the exiting leadership ought to be accepted and supported by other employees. The company has stressed the importance of employees and other stakeholders in the succession process. Additionally, the company has laid strong emphasis on candidates who are actually committed to the priorities, purpose, and vision of the company. The companys succession planning is centered on harmonizing three integral elements that include the vision, leadership and culture within the company, and the strategic direction of the company. The company aligned these three aspects for the strategi c selection of its successor. This step is imperative to ensuring that there is continuity of qualified leadership in the company. For the company, succession planning is aimed at enhanced growth[12]. The Process and practices of Succession in Momentum Company When Hossli who was the executive director of the company made an announcement regarding transitioning out of the company, he did this three years before exiting. The executive in this endeavor hired a coach who would assist him in his initial steps of departure. Additionally, Hossli sought assistance from two colleagues who worked in the private sector to help him. These two colleagues had undergone the succession process, and as such, they were able to avail insights and pieces of advice based on their personal experiences to Hossli. Further, the executive director of the company sought assistance from scholars who had vast experience in handling succession and transition. The announcement made by the executive director regarding leaving the company prompted the Human Resources committee to hire a consultant. The consultant developed a detailed and multi-stage succession plan for the company[13]. The plan began with discovery and culminated into the transition to the new leadership. In the multi-stage succession plan, pertinent issues such as the professional duty of defining the role of the executive director and the leadership needs of the company. Additionally, the plan focused on the facilitation of the decisions of the Board concerning the selection of the candidate and how to effectively identify and prepare both Momentum and the successor for a seamless transition. It is worth noting that the company identified and developed the crucial roles in the succession plan. This was integral in guiding the final assessment and confirmation of the successor. In doing so, the company highlighted the key motivational and the competencies regarding the prof ile need to partake in the role of the executive director. Key importance was attached to preparing employees to be ready to advance in key roles in the organization[14]. It is imperative to note that externally there was growing demand for Momentums services. This meant that the companys operations could not be affected or disrupted by a succession. In this regard, the management endeavored to continue meeting the needs of its customers while going ahead with the success plan. It is vital to point out that focusing on the internal environment of the company; its culture has always been embedded to ensure the competitive edge. The succession plan was designed to adhere to and strengthen the culture of the company. In the succession and transition, there was the realization that mentorship, significant knowledge transference, and interpersonal communication within the company was instrumental[15]. Additionally, there was the need to keep a good relationship with the outside stakeholders who had some uncertainty regarding the future of Momentum. For the company, the consultant acted as a third party between the staff and the board. The consultant developed an active profile of the future executive director. Additionally, the consultant was able to implement the executive director candidate feedback mechanism that was based interviews and surveys. Further, the consultant developed a leadership development plan that would guide the internal successor candidate. This detailed planning ensured collaboration and transparency in trying to choose the right successor. In developing the profile of the executive director the company undertook several tasks that including the following: Engaging in comprehensive document reviews that were conducted through company charts, role descriptions, and strategic plan. The company conducted intensive surveys and interviews the leadership and the board of management. The interviews and surveys were central in collecting further information about the successor in relation to the role specifications. There was an in-depth and thorough culture assessment so as to aid in gaining the full perspective of the companys culture. Cultural aspect was critical because it acts as a tool for the definition the values, attributes, and the requirements that are useful for the new executive director[16]. Organizational culture is imperative in the process of succession planning owing to the fact that culture defines the values and the ways of carrying out activities. After the consultant drafted a clear profile and applied in developing an updated executive director job description, the company had to make a decision based on the where the new executive director should come from; whether internally or externally. The company had two choices to make between searching for the new executive director internally or externally. The board of directors initially opted to begin the search for a new executive director externally. It suffices to point out that in the meantime, they were also considering the suitability of Jeff Looms who was part of the leadership in the company as a possible successor. After some time, the board of directors decided to evaluate the credentials of Jeff Looms potential and capacity for the success in the role of executive director. The decision to evaluate Jeffs credentials was informed by the Momentums strength and depth defined by the strong culture. The companys leadership was aware that by selecting an internal candidate would guard against compromising the culture of the company. Furthermore, by choosing an internal candidate, the company would be able to strengthen its existing culture[17]. Assessment Assessment is a critical practice in succession planning[18]. It is essential to point out that there are no specific guidelines for conducting the assessment. As such, different organizations use various mode of assessment. Several studies have shown the organizations and companies are struggling to locate practices that are practical in the process of succession planning. Evidence shows that leaders who only act on gut or instinct do not produce good outcomes. Assessments carried out through numerous methods are the best because they examine various aspects of the candidates. Multiple assessments, therefore, provide a way in which potential key leaders can be judged based on the right facilitation and tools[19]. In the case of the Momentum Company, cognitive, personality testing, and team-based interviewing was applied in searching for the next executive director. Indeed, assessing an individuals ability to manage complex job requirements and the formulation of a robust operational definition of business intelligence. The company leadership worked towards minimizing bias in the selection of the new executive director and selecting a qualified candidate for the position; it made a decision to Evaluate Jeffs abilities against the criterion established in the executive director profile. The evaluation was planned to take place a period of eighteen months, and this involved a total of three hundred and sixty assessments. These evaluations were aimed at enhancing transparency within the company. The rest of the company team was made aware of the fact that Jeff Looms was being considered to be the next executive director. This announcement provided all the team members with the opportunity to join what was essentially an extended job interview[20]. According to the board of directors, if Jeff failed in any of these assessments then they will be prompted to explore the external search for the next executive director. Lack of progress or any regress on the internal candidate would automatic lead to revoking of his candidacy for an external candidate. The company through its board of directors made it clear to Jeff that his appointment to the position of executive director will only be based on meritocracy. Additionally, Jeff was aptly and promptly informed that he would not be offered the job as an executive director of the company as a result of his role in Momentum. At this moment, the board of directors decided to confirm Jeff as the internal candidate for the next executive director. The decision by the board prompted the consultant to offer advisory and supported the companys staff as the transition plan was developed. It suffices to point out that an effective integration was integral in the transition plan of Momentum[21]. On his part, Jeff was to face new challenges as the new executive director. Additionally, he was meant to hold a vital strategic position within the company. To ensure that the transition was a success, the transitional plan was tailored to take place in two phases. These phases included the transition plan and the development plan. The Development phase In this phase of the transition, there was regular coaching in the company. The training entailed general decision-analysis sessions[22]. The company leadership also conducted meeting debriefs. It suffices to point out that the external coaching centered on the new successors key development goals. These development goals were central developing a comprehensive understanding of the companys context so as to support the transition and the succession plan fully. Furthermore, the company identified specific leadership courses were identified regarding the development goals that entailed change management, financial management, and active listening[23]. It suffices to mention that during the development process, many measurable processes were put into place so as to gauge the performance of the successor[24]. To achieve these measures, the company focused on the following: first, there was a focus on a development plan that built on concrete measures that were aimed at assessing the performance of the successor relating to the identified development areas. Additionally, the company laid emphasis on accountability agreement that outlined appropriate measures of progress. Secondly, the company conducted two more 360 assessments. One of the 360 assessments was carried out as a mid-point check-in. With this assessment; both the board of directors and the staff of the company had the opportunity to give their input. The final 360 assessment was conducted in order to give the successor the confirmation as a preferred internal candidate[25]. At this point, members of the board had the privilege for an informal evaluation of the successors progress. Some organizations succession plans are characterized by confidentiality, handpicking of executives, and rigidity in picking successors. At Momentum, the succession plan is more fluid, very transparent, and a process that leads to the identification of talented and qualified leaders. Additionally, Momentums succession plan sufficiently incorporates development programs that are tailor-made to prepare employees for top leadership roles. At Momentum, succession planning is an integral part talent management. The Transition Phase This plan focused mostly on the outgoing executive director, the human resource department, and the successor. This plan was spread over a period of seven months. It suffices to point out that every month in the transition plan provided the guide for transitioning particular area of roles forms the outgoing successor over to the successor. The company endeavored to provide both the staff and the board members with copies of the transition plan so as to keep them abreast with what was happening in the transition process. During this phase of succession planning, there was a lot of information and primary knowledge that was transferred[26]. There was coaching at every month of the transition plan between the successor and the outgoing executive director. The successor also had the opportunity to interview the outgoing executive director regarding the role, challenges, and opportunities of an executive director. It is worth noting that to reflect that the company was undergoing transiti on, the successor acquired the title Associate Executive Director. The Results The succession planning in Momentum Company was a success. This success was attributed to adequate preparations, the effort given to the succession planning, and transparency. The succession planning was seamless. When the successor stepped into the role of the executive director, he has already experienced responsibilities in the role in several aspects. The company has shown a continued strong operational outcome after the succession planning. Further, the company boasts of the prudent financial management and continued program results. All these attributes point to the fact that the succession planning was indeed seamless in the company[27]. There has been an external validation of the succession planning by the companys annual funder survey. The succession planning at the company has been considered a major success was because it gave all stakeholders the opportunity to be involved in the process. Further, the succession planning at the company showed no negative perception of th e companys stakeholder[28]. The company has continued to make meaningful and measurable progress towards achieving its mission. Key Lessons from the Case From the case of Momentum Company, it is very clear that the value of prioritization and preparation is crucial. Companies ought to recognize and be thoughtful of succession planning as an intellectual process and planning. The succession planning and the process are equally emotional. Furthermore, leadership plays an integral role in the success of the plan. In this regard, it is imperative that the Momentum dedicated both resources and time to ensure that the process was a success. Secondly, in the succession planning and process, transparency is important. It suffices to point out that one of the measures that the company stressed on in order to promote collaboration and transparency was creating a connection with all board members, external stakeholders, and the staff. This initiative allowed everybody to partake in the process of succession effectively. By doing this, the company was able to address all risks and uncertainties in real time. Further, the company cemented stronger relationships with other stakeholders along the way. Ideally, the benefits derived from an external communication plan provided for an appropriate relationship with the business community[29]. Third, for proper succession planning, all stakeholders need to collaborate effectively. During the succession planning at Momentum Company, there are considerable gains that were made by engaging the whole leadership team and the staff in coming up with the success plan. The enhanced collaboration provided the opportunity for various perspectives on how the succession planning should be done[30]. Fourth, the succession planning should embrace a holistic approach. It suffices to point out that despite the fact that this plan focuses so much on the transition, the company should not forget that the process is only one of the numerous roles of the leadership teams[31]. Therefore, there is need to invest in the significant development of all staff to enhance their chances of being leveraged within the company. In conclusion, the process of succession planning is robust and participatory. In the succession plan, the company stresses on the need of developing employees leadership capabilities so as to fill leadership gaps that may arise. Further, the company uses several assessments as a way of gauging and determining the suitability of candidate selected as successors. It is important to note that when companies are managing with talents internally, there is need to seek for the right people. These are individuals who are moving in the direction of the businesss mission and vision. Accordingly, a good succession planning strategy contributes to employees retention and a bright future for the organization. In approaching the succession planning, the company hired a consultant who provided useful insights into the process. By carrying out the succession planning in two phases, the company provided enough time and resources to examine the candidate for the role of executive director. Its visio n and mission guide the company's succession planning. It is worth noting that developing a seamless succession planning reduces the potential harm to the stakeholders. In a nutshell, the company has been successful in its succession processes because it has continued to a financial powerhouse and the production process has been satisfactory. Bibliography Armstrong, Michael, and Stephen Taylor. Armstrong's handbook of human resource management practice. Kogan Page Publishers, 2014. Barbuto, John E., and Ryan K. Gottfredson. "Human Capital, the Millennial's Reign, and the Need For Servant Leadership." Journal of Leadership Studies 10, no. 2 (2016): 59-63. Burney, Shamaila. "An Integrated Conceptual Model of Performance Appraisals and Succession Planning using Multi valued Evaluation." Pakistan Journal of Engineering, Technology Science 2, no. 2 (2016). Cohen, Debra J. "HR past, present and future: A call for consistent practices and a focus on competencies." Human Resource Management Review 25, no. 2 (2015): 205-215. Drury, Pauline, and Pauline Drury. "Passing the baton: Successful succession planning in a family business." Human Resource Management International Digest 24, no. 3 (2016): 35-37. Gandhi, Deepakshi, and Pradeep Kumar. "Succession planning: Developing leaders for tomorrow to ensureorganizational success." The International Journal of Business Management 2, no. 3 (2014): 1. Geroy, Gary D., Denise Caleb, and Phillip C. Wright. "Understanding and Articulating Effective Succession Planning: A Means for Infusing Influence by NAITTE Constituencies." Journal of STEM Teacher Education 42, no. 1 (2017): 3. Gothard, Suzanne, and Michael J. Austin. "Leadership succession planning: Implications for nonprofit human service organizations." Administration in Social Work 37, no. 3 (2013): 272-285. Grossman, Connie S. Succession planning and knowledge transfer in higher education. Northcentral University, 2014. Holland, Craig. The Art of Business Succession: Who will fill your shoes?. John Wiley Sons, 2016. Jackson, LeKeisha D. "A Critical Examination of Senior Executive Leadership Succession Planning and Management with Implications for Underrepresented Minorities." PhD diss., Mercer University, 2017. Karaevli, Ayse. "The Turnaround Trap of outsider CEOs: Causes and solutions for succession planning." Organizational Dynamics 45, no. 4 (2016): 278-282. LiouMcConnell, John J., and Qianru Qi. "Just Talk? CEO Succession Plan Disclosure, Corporate Governance and Firm Value." (2016). McKee, Gregory, and Karen Froelich. "Executive succession planning: barriers and substitutes in nonprofit organizations." Annals of Public and Cooperative Economics (2016). Murnane, Jennifer Aden. "Developing Organizational Citizens: Creating Business Impact and Greater Human Capital." Journal of Leadership Studies 10, no. 2 (2016): 64-68. ODonohue, Mary. "Using a Knowledge Management Approach to Support Effective Succession Planning in the Civil Service." PhD diss., Dublin Institute of Technology, 2016. Pepper, Donna. "Exploring the strategies organizational leaders need for implementing successful succession planning." PhD diss., Colorado Technical University, 2016. Sanchez, Paul. "The moderating effect of self-efficacy on the relationship between sources of self-efficacy and succession planning intentions." In United States Association for Small Business and Entrepreneurship. Conference Proceedings, p. BB1. United States Association for Small Business and Entrepreneurship, 2016. Sanghi, Seema. The handbook of competency mapping: understanding, designing and implementing competency models in organizations. SAGE Publications India, 2016. Santora, Joseph C., and Gil Bozer. "23 Leadership and Planning." Leadership Today: Practices for Personal and Professional Performance (2016): 401. Sharma, Aparna, and Tuhin Sengupta. "Perspective on succession planning in multiple MNCs: interview with Aparna Sharma." Human Resource Development International (2017): 1-9. Shirey, Maria R. "Lewins theory of planned change as a strategic resource." Journal of Nursing Administration 43, no. 2 (2013): 69-72. Stephens, Stephanie. "Succession Planning: Don't Get Caught Off Guard: Planning for Staff Transitions." Biomedical Instrumentation Technology 50, no. 6 (2016): 451-453. Timms, Michael. Succession Planning That Works: The Critical Path of Leadership Development. FriesenPress, 2016. Vance, David, and Jennifer Moss Breen. "The Challenge of Human Capital Leadership." Journal of Leadership Studies 10, no. 2 (2016): 34-38. Wilkinson, Heidi A. "Executives perceptions of succession planning efforts within global organizations." PhD diss., Colorado Technical University, 2016. Wilson, Angela K. "Successful Succession Planning for Chairs: Perspectives on Passing the Torch." The Department Chair 27, no. 1 (2016): 5-6.

Internet Identity Essays - Virtual Reality, Cyberspace, Identity

Internet Identity It is certain that the Internet impacts a person`s sense of identity. As humans, we are live by language, and as an Internet user, one submits himself to an existence that is pure language: written, audio, and visual language. This reality, distilled down to pure language, is appealing to most people. There is no violence online. There are no social expression norms. A person can be, say, or do precisely as he chooses. More than 131 million people populate the Internet. Why is VR so attractive? When a person is born, many things are decided for him. No one is asked if their name or visage adequately describes his person or psyche. His genetic makeup is created from that already contained in his parents, and they dress and feed him with things they personally enjoy. It is many years later before he can begin to make decisions about who he is, and by then, so much has been laid down as factual evidence to the content of his character. The Internet has now permeated our society. Someone can decide who they are at the beginning of a new life, to be reborn in cyberspace. There is the issue of naming oneself, to feel inside and find what makes someone himself. When one signs up with any Internet Service Provider, the first thing it will ask is for his new name. In *1*The Matrix*1* Mr. Anderson named himself Neo: "New" and also an anagram for the "One" he truly was. There is now also the ability to visualize the image of self and present that as an avatar in a visual virtual environment, a step up from nomenclature and font color self-expression. Deciding what one looks like as an imaginary character is also interesting, and like naming oneself it can be good psychotherapy. These are used in elaborate chat rooms where participants immerse themselves in whole new worlds, and where identity is defined by images and one's own character description. As in a story, dialogue will also define a character, virtual or otherwise. Your words are your deeds, your words are your body, says *2*Sherry Turkle*2*. There are even thousands of sites that offer self-inspection quizzes to help people define themselves in a few short questions. What is clear is that the Internet fluidly becomes an extension of the self, and can play an important role in defining our identities. Walt Whitman discusses childlike identity changes with, "A child went forth every day/And the first object he look'd upon/That object he became." In real life (RL) people are told what to do and where to be and how to do so. There are social norms that presume to inhibit our opinions. That is culture. Yet in Cyberspace, the immaterial existence of virtual reality (VR), people become in many ways, the masters of themselves and writers of the universe. How can that not be seen as more appealing?

Free Essays on Bob O

that they do know in or... Free Essays on Bob O Free Essays on Bob O Mid Term Exam 1.) Print-rich environment means using print in every form in the classroom. Using word walls, message centers, student’s writing samples, lots of books from every genre, learning centers, and real world objects that inspire study and reflections. 2.) Effective teachers would begin the school year by assessing the students in order to know where each student is at and what you will need to re-address or spend more/less time on. Also each student learns differently so you need to know how he or she learn best in order to accommodate their needs. Teachers must learn which reading skills each child already knows and does not know in order to plan appropriate instruction. 3.) The zone of proximal development is the difference between what a child can do alone and in collaboration with others. Once the zone of proximal development is identified, a teacher, parent, or more advanced peer could help a learner perform a task he or she would not be capable of doing alone. 4.) Expressive language is when the sender of a message encodes his or her thoughts into the symbol system of the language. Receptive language is when the receiver of a message decodes the symbol system (oral speech or print) of the language into meaning. 5.) Automaticity implies that readers, like computers have a limited ability to shift attention between the processes of decoding and comprehending. This is important because if readers are to busy decoding text they will not comprehend what it is they are to be learning. 6.) If a student had to read a textbook to study for a test in school this would be efferent reading. However, if a student were reading Judy Blume for pleasure this would be aesthetic. 7.) Structural analysis uses a reader’s knowledge of meaning â€Å"chunks† in words to identify familiar elements. If a student comes across an unfamiliar word when reading they can break it down into words that they do know in or...

Battle of Olustee in the Civil War

Battle of Olustee in the Civil War Battle of Olustee - Conflict Date: The Battle of Olustee was fought February 20, 1864, during the American Civil War (1861-1865). Armies Commanders Union Brigadier General Truman Seymour5,500 men Confederate Brigadier General Joseph Finegan5,000 men Battle of Olustee - Background: Thwarted in his efforts to reduce Charleston, SC in 1863, including defeats at Fort Wagner, Major General Quincy A. Gillmore, commander of the Union Department of the South, turned his eye towards to Jacksonville, FL. Planning an expedition to the area, he intended to extend Union control over northeastern Florida and prevent supplies from the region reaching Confederate forces elsewhere. Submitting his plans to the Union leadership in Washington, they were approved as the Lincoln Administration hoped to restore a loyal government to Florida before the election that November. Embarking around 6,000 men, Gillmore entrusted operational control of the expedition to Brigadier General Truman Seymour, a veteran of major battles such as Gaines Mill, Second Manassas, and Antietam. Steaming south, Union forces landed and occupied Jacksonville on February 7. The next day, Gillmore and Seymours troops began advancing west and occupied Ten Mile Run. Over the next week, Union forces raided as far as Lake City while officials arrived in Jacksonville to start the process of forming a new government. During this time, the two Union commanders began arguing over the scope of Union operations. While Gillmore pressed for the occupation of Lake City and a possible advance to the Suwannee River to destroy the railroad bridge there, Seymour reported that neither was advisable and that Unionist sentiment in the region was minimal. As a result, Gillmore directed Seymour to concentrate his forced west of the city at Baldwin. Meeting on the 14th, he further directed his subordinate to fortify Jacksonville, Baldwin, and Barbers Plantation. Battle of Olustee - The Confederate Response: Appointing Seymour as commander of the District of Florida, Gillmore departed for his headquarters at Hilton Head, SC on February 15 and directed that no advance into the interior be made without his permission. Opposing the Union efforts was Brigadier General Joseph Finegan who led the District of East Florida. An Irish immigrant and an enlisted veteran of the prewar US Army, he possessed around 1,500 men with which to defend the region. Unable to directly oppose Seymour in the days after the landings, Finegans men skirmished with Union forces where possible. In an effort to counter the Union threat, he requested reinforcements from General P.G.T. Beauregard who commanded the Department of South Carolina, Georgia, and Florida. Responding to his subordinates needs, Beauregard sent contingents south led by Brigadier General Alfred Colquitt and Colonel George Harrison. These additional troops swelled Finegans force to around 5,000 men. Battle of Olustee - Seymour Advances: Shortly after Gillmores departure, Seymour began to view the situation in northeast Florida more favorably and elected to commence a march west to destroy the Suwannee River bridge. Concentrating around 5,500 men at Barbers Plantation, he planned to advance on February 20. Writing to Gillmore, Seymour informed his superior of the plan and commented that by the time you receive this I shall be in motion. Stunned upon receiving this missive, Gillmore dispatched an aide south with orders for Seymour cancel the campaign. This effort failed as the aide reached Jacksonville after the fighting had ended. Moving out early in the morning on the 20th, Seymours command was divided into three brigades led by Colonels William Baron, Joseph Hawley, and James Montgomery. Advancing west, Union cavalry led by Colonel Guy V. Henry scouted for and screened the column. Battle of Olustee - First Shots: Reaching Sanderson around midday, Union cavalry began skirmishing with their Confederate counterparts west of town. Pushing the enemy back, Henrys men met more intense resistance as they neared Olustee Station. Having been reinforced by Beauregard, Finegan had moved east and occupied a strong position along the Florida Atlantic and Gulf-Central Railroad at Olustee. Fortifying a narrow strip of dry ground with Ocean Pond to the north and swamps to the south, he planned receive the Union advance. As Seymours main column approached, Finegan hoped to use his cavalry to lure the Union troops into attacking his main line. This failed to occur and instead fighting intensified forward of the fortifications as Hawleys brigade began to deploy (Map). Battle of Olustee - A Bloody Defeat: Responding to this development, Finegan ordered Colquitt to advance with several regiments from both his brigade and Harrisons. A veteran of Fredericksburg and Chancellorsville who had served under Lieutenant General Thomas Stonewall Jackson, he advanced his troops into the pine forest and engaged the 7th Connecticut, 7th New Hampshire, and 8th US Colored Troops from Hawleys brigade. The commitment of these forces saw the fighting rapidly grow in scope. The Confederates quickly gained an upper hand when confusion over orders between Hawley and the 7th New Hampshires Colonel Joseph Abbott led to the regiment deploying improperly. Under heavy fire, many of Abbotts men retired in the confusion. With the 7th New Hampshire collapsing, Colquitt focused his efforts on the raw 8th USCT. While the African-American soldiers acquitted themselves well, the pressure compelled them to begin falling back. The situation was made worse by the death of its commanding officer, Colonel Charles Fribley ( Map). Pressing the advantage, Finegan sent additional forces forward under the guidance of Harrison. Uniting, the combined Confederate forces began pushing east. In response, Seymour rushed Bartons brigade forward. Forming on the right of the remnants of Hawleys men the 47th, 48th, and 115th New York opened fire and halted the Confederate advance. As the battle stabilized, both sides inflicted increasingly heavy losses on the other. During the course of the fighting, Confederate forces began to run low on ammunition forcing a slackening of their firing as more was brought forward. In addition, Finegan led his remaining reserves into the fighting and took personal command of the battle. Committing these new forces, he ordered his men to attack (Map). Overwhelming the Union troops, this effort led Seymour to order a general retreat east. As Hawley and Bartons men began withdrawing, he directed Montgomerys brigade to cover the retreat. This brought the 54th Massachusetts, which had gained fame as one of the first official African-American regiments, and the 35th US Colored Troops forward. Forming, they succeeded in holding back Finegans men as their compatriots departed. Leaving the area, Seymour returned to Barbers Plantation that night with the 54th Massachusetts, 7th Connecticut, and his cavalry covering the retreat. The withdrawal was aided by a weak pursuit on the part of Finegans command. Battle of Olustee - Aftermath: A bloody engagement given the numbers engaged, the Battle of Olustee saw Seymour sustain 203 killed, 1,152 wounded, and 506 missing while Finegan lost 93 killed, 847 wounded, and 6 missing. Union losses were made worse by Confederate forces killing wounded and captured African-American soldiers after the fighting had concluded. The defeat at Olustee ended the Lincoln Administrations hopes for organizing a new government prior the 1864 election and made several in the North question the value of campaigning in a militarily insignificant state. While the battle had proved a defeat, the campaign was largely successful as the occupation of Jacksonville opened the city to Union trade and deprived the Confederacy of the regions resources. Remaining in Northern hands for the rest of the war, Union forces routinely conducted raids from the city but did not mount major campaigns. Selected Sources CWSAC Battle Summaries: Battle of OlusteeBattle of Olustee Civil War Trust: Battle of Olustee

Does corporate Social Responsibility influence consumers behaviors Essay

Does corporate Social Responsibility influence consumers behaviors - Essay Example According to Philip L. Cochran and Robert A, if CSR tend to be negatively correlated with financial performance of firms, managers should be paying more attention to this area. On the other hand, a positive relationship indicates the CSR principles of the firm are good for company. In addition, the social responsibilities can help companies improve the brand image and enhance the reputation, and attract more employees and potential business partner (Tsoutsoura, 2004). They are finally creating more value of the firm. Some recent article also exam CSR as having positive relationship with consumers’ behaviour. The study of Rahim, Jalaludin and Tajuddin (2011) indicates that all of the CSR components (economic, legal, ethical, philanthropic) have a significant relationship with consumers' buying behaviour in Malaysia. Problem Statement The 2009 report, dubbed ‘Green to the Core’ published by Consumer Focus (soon to be a victim of the cuts), rated the UK’s top nine supermarkets on how well they inform consumers about sustainability issues and help them to make more sustainable choices; both through provision of products and information. In this report, Sainsbury’s and M&S were ranked A. (Ethical consumers 2011). Many studies have been done in CSR regarding consumer purchasing decisions in countries. However, not many studies have been conducted in organizations, such as food retailers. CSR activities should enhance a corporation's image. According to Lafferty, Barbara and Ronald (1999), a positive corporate image is positively correlated to purchase intention and also helps consumers to differentiate between companies and their product or service offerings. Therefore, loyalty and commitment from customers are likely to increase if companies act responsibly and accountably in terms of their social and environmental impact (Brown & Dacin, 1997; Pirsch, Gupta, & Grau, 2007). Ethical consumers 2011 shows Corporate Social Responsibility Scores (see the table above) of the 8 main food retailers in UK. The research was divided into seven main area: animal welfare, climate change, health, toxics, waste, water and worker’s right. Co-op was the leading retailer on CSR with 56 %, and following is M&S (39%) and Sainsbury’s (29%) (Ethical consumers 2011). Aims and Objective The aim of the current study is to use M&S as a case to analyse the consumers’ behavior on CSR. Marks and Spencer plc (also known as M&S) is a UK based retailer and it is mainly committed to the selling of high quality food products, stylish clothing and home products. It was set up in 1884 by Michael Marks and Thomas Spencer in Leeds. Today, over 78,000 employees are hired by M&S PLC in the UK and abroad, and M&S has 731 branch UK stores and 387 stores across 43 areas around the world. According to the Annual Report of M&S (2012), there are 21 million people visiting the indoor stores every week. M&S is listed at the London STOCK Exchange and joined FTSE 100 index. Based on Interbrand 2012 Best Retail Brands Report, Marks & Spencer as the second most valuable retail brand in the UK and its brand value increased by 3% to. $6,256m (Perella, 2012). Significance of the Study M&S aims to become the world’s most sustainable retailer. Plan A is an environmental and ethical programme launched by M&S in January 2007 and set out 138 commitments in 2012. Plan B focus on climate change, reduce waste, use sustainable raw materials, trade ethically and help customers to

Discuss the proposition that welfare policies in relation to people Essay

Discuss the proposition that welfare policies in relation to people with disabilities tend to focus on what people with disabili - Essay Example The key characteristics of these policies are their strong dependency on the financial status of each particular country. From this perspective, developed countries are most likely to develop effective welfare policies for people with disabilities—compared to third-world and developing countries. However, problems and delays are identified in the development of these policies in practice. Most commonly, the welfare policies for people with disabilities focus on what these people cannot do, rather than on what they can do. Cross-Cultural Approach The level at which welfare policies address the needs of people with disabilities, refers to the obstacles that these people must overcome. It also aims to show the reason the policies referring to the needs, and the rights, of people with disabilities are based on these peoples’ inabilities and not on their potential and capabilities. Thus, the specific strategy, using this criterion for developing welfare policies for people w ith disabilities can be explained using multiple approaches. These strategies significantly vary from one country to another. However, similarities exist on which the relevant explanations can be based. Another notable discovery of this study is the expanding trend of focus on inabilities because specific interests are served, as explained analytically below. It should also be mentioned that the criteria used by legislators when developing policies related to the interests of people with disabilities is not standardized; the political characteristics of each country—as these characteristics are not constant over time—are of crucial importance for deciding on the terms under which disabled people will be supported (Combat Poverty Agency 1994, p. 114; Chaudhary 2006, p. 12). Moreover, often the reasons for which welfare policies are implemented are independent from political trends and social ethics within a given country. For instance, when these policies are applied ac ross a particular organization, the criteria on which these policies are based cannot be controlled using the common ethical rules. This issue is also explored, at the level that it helps to understand this trend. Historical Perspective The welfare policies developed within each society are usually related to local social needs and culture; however, infrastructure available for the relevant policies has also historically been considered to play a critical role in deciding the welfare policies that would be most appropriate for a specific country. On the other hand, an increase in the number of people with disabilities, not participatory in the workforce, leads to the assumption that more funds are required for their financial support (Cousins, 2007, p. 252). The identification of these funds can be a challenging task for a government—particularly in periods of financial crisis and in countries that face severe financial turbulences. For instance, as of October 2010, the World Bank reports disbursements totalling â€Å"a record $81 billion—

Silas Marner Essay Example for Free

Silas Marner Essay We expect that the relationship between a parent and a child is affectionate and caring; however, George Elliot explores and shows the reader that this is not always the case and relationships between different families are all very different. In the book there are many examples of relationships between parents and children. These include the relationship between Silas and Eppie, Squire Cass, Godfry and Dunstan also Godfry and Eppie. The Case of Godfry and Nancy’s sadness over not being able to have children also arises in the novel. One of the relationships between mother and child is Molly and Eppie. Molly was married to Godfrey and the only person who knew about his ‘secret’ life was his brother Dunstan. Molly was addicted to drugs and she lived in poverty, her relationship with Eppie was destroyed by her addiction, the only love Molly had in her life was the love to drugs. Instead of devoting herself to bringing up Eppie she devoted herself to being drugs. Perhaps this addiction was because Godfrey let her down and was ashamed of her so she had to rely on something and for her it was drugs. When Godfrey realises that his wife passed away, the expression ‘a weight was lifted of his shoulders’ is very relevant. Godfreys’ secret was kept and he was not prepared to claim Eppie even though she was motherless. As he was ‘free,’ he could now propose to Nancy without worrying about his wife. Godfrey entered this secret marriage as he was young and foolish, however he realised his mistakes when he realises he loves Nancy. He couldn’t get out of his marriage with Molly as Molly threatened to tell his father, so Godfrey would rather have a secret marriage than shame upon his name. However, Dunstan knew about Godfrey’s ‘secret’ life and having a family of his own, he constantly manipulated Godfrey over this, Godfrey did most of what his brother said as he was afraid that his brother was going to tell his father. Godfreys’ upbringing could be reflected on how he treated his wife and daughter. Godfrey was basically abandoned by his father, and was mostly brought up by his brother Dunstan. The Squire spent most of his hours in the local pub â€Å"the Rainbow† as he liked to drink and Dunstan became a lot like his father, he liked to drink and gamble; the villagers described him as â€Å"a spiteful jeering felloe†. If Godfrey and Dunstan had a mother raising  them and a father setting a better example, Dunstan and Godfrey would have more interests and be able to talk to each other instead of being afraid of their own father; keeping secrets from him and being afraid of him finding out the truth. The Squire’s household has no women to influence the upbringing of the two children, yet nor does Silas’, the upbringing of the children is very different because the Squire is harsh and Silas is very different in which he is very sympathetic towards others. Squire Cass is a man with authority and money who has to bring two children up. In Victorian England, child rearing and the development of good families were considered as a female role. The relationship between Silas and Eppie is one of the key parent-child relationships in the novel. A lonely man, feared by many villagers, is changed into a man who was admired by all of the villagers; he was changed by his adopted daughter Eppie. Throughout his life with Eppie, Silas regained his sense of faith and community. She changed his perspective of life, and taught him how to value human affection rather than gold. Eppie came into his life through an open door (which which could symbolise new place and a new beginning) and lay asleep by the hearth- in Celtic traditions the hearth was the heart of the home. Silas mistakes her golden curls for his lost money, he is stunned by her appearance just as he was when his money disappeared â€Å"Gold!brought back to him as mysteriously as it had been taken away! He felt his heart begin to beat violently, and for a few moments he was unable to stretch out his hand and grasp the treasure.† The child has the same affect on Silas as the gold does; the most important thing in Silas’ life was his gold. A metaphor; she becomes his new treasure. On first sight of Eppie, Silas associates her with gold and treasure. After calling upon a doctor to examine Molly, who is pronounced dead, Godfrey asks Silas â€Å"You’ll take the child to the parish to-morrow?† Godfrey recognises his child but he does not want anyone to know he is the father and he is willing to give her away. Silas wants to keep the child because he sees them both as lone creatures â€Å"it’s a lone thing and I’m a lone thing†. There is affinity between them and he is determined to bring her up himself as the child fills a gap that Silas has been missing- Love. From the start, there was a strong bond between Silas and Eppie. It is very  ironic how Silas, a stranger towards Eppie wants to be a father towards her, but her real father wants to offer her to a parish. Feeling sorry for his actions Godfrey gives money to Silas to buy clothes for Eppie so he feels he has given something towards her upbringing. In a short while, Silas becomes extremely attached and very possessive over Eppie, this is because he wants to bring her up himself; he wants to act like a father towards her. â€Å"I want to do things for myself, else it may get fond o’ some-body else, and not fond o’ me.† Love is jealous, with Silas only wanting Eppie to love him and no one else. Silas has a big desire to be loved, with this true and pure bond between them , Eppie transforms Silas’ life in many ways, she forms a ‘bridge’ between him and the villagers, with this link with the other villagers, he receives advice on how to bring Eppie up and they think of him as a good person. In Victorian England, to have a well brought up child, discipline and several beatings were the key. There was a strong belief that that children had to be ‘trained’ to be good, however Silas’ approach to disciplining Eppie was very different from how the other villagers punished their children. Silas tried to punish Eppie, after persuasion by Dolly, by putting Eppie in the coal hole but after â€Å"a little cry† he let her out again â€Å"she’s got no tricks but what she’ll grow out of.† In Victorian England the reader would be very surprised about his decision not to punish the child however a modern reader would think of his decision as being a typical loving parent. Silas’s decision on bringing up Eppie discipline free worked, she grew up to be a polite young woman. In the end after sixteen years, Godfrey confesses to Eppie about being her biological father, though she declines the offer to live with him and his newly wedded wife, the reader feels the true and loving relationship between Silas and Eppie as she chooses to stay with him â€Å"I can’t feel as I’ve got any father but one† referring to Silas. At the end of the novel Silas and Eppie stay together, the reader sees that she chooses the poor man over the rich, as there is love and care between them. The message seems to be that family affection can be found not in the well known richest families but in the poor families. The wealthiest family looses everything, for example, Dunstan dies and Nancy cannot produce a healthy child and it passes away (this could be a consequence as Godfrey  rejects his own child instead of taking responsibility of it). He gains a wife, but not the family he wanted.

Chaucers Canterbury Tales - The Incredible Wife of Baths Tale :: Wife of Bath Essays

Chaucer's Canterbury Tales - The Incredible Wife of Bath's Tale      Ã‚  Ã‚   In reading Geoffrey Chaucer's "Canterbury Tales," I found that of the Wife of Bath, including her prologue, to be the most thought-provoking. The pilgrim who narrates this tale, Alison, is a gap-toothed, partially deaf seamstress and widow who has been married five times.   She claims to have great experience in the ways of the heart, having a remedy for whatever might ail it. Throughout her story, I was shocked, yet pleased to encounter details which were rather uncharacteristic of the women of Chaucer's time.   It is these peculiarities of Alison's tale which I will examine, looking not only at the chivalric and religious influences of this medieval period, but also at how she would have been viewed in the context of this society and by Chaucer himself.      Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   During the period in which Chaucer wrote, there was a dual concept of chivalry, one facet being based in reality and the other existing mainly in the imagination only.   On the one hand, there was the medieval notion we are most familiar with today in which the knight was the consummate righteous man, willing to sacrifice self for the worthy cause of the afflicted and weak; on the other, we have the sad truth that the human knight rarely lived up to this ideal(Patterson 170).   In a work by Muriel Bowden, Associate Professor of English at Hunter College, she explains that the knights of the Middle Ages were "merely mounted soldiers, . . . notorious" for their utter cruelty(18).   The tale Bath's Wife weaves exposes that Chaucer was aware of both forms of the medieval soldier. Where as his knowledge that knights were often far from perfect is evidenced in the beginning of Alison's tale where the "lusty" soldier rapes a young maiden; King Arthur, whom the ladies of the country beseech to spare the life of the guilty horse soldier, offers us the typical conception of knighthood.      Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   In addition to acknowledging this dichotomy of ideas about chivalry, Chaucer also brings into question the religious views of his time through this tale.   The loquacious Alison spends a good deal of the prologue espousing her views regarding marriage and virginity, using her knowledge of the scriptures to add strength to her arguments.   For instance, she

Waterfront Revitalization and Cities

Waterfronts: being competitory by regenerating the cities†¦ . If merely it were that simple OutlineIntroduction:What is waterfront revival?Body:Purpose of waterfront revivalAdvantages of waterfront fightDisadvantages of waterfront fightDecisionCould Lebanese waterfronts come to a point to fall in the world-wide map of competitory waterfronts?Introduction:What is waterfront revival? Water was an of import natural resource in the growing of early colonies. By holding assorted characteristics -a defence component, a beginning for agricultural production and trade, a agency for transit and industrial uses- H2O offered many advantages for metropoliss. Therefore, locations that existed on water’s borders, particularly natural and protective seaports, became favourable sites for the foundation of ancient metropoliss. So, contrary to modern-day status, throughout the history, there was a close and incorporate water-city relation. The Waterfrontis the country of a town or a metropolis aboard a organic structure of H2O, normally waterfronts are meant to be the image of the city.. Waterfront revival has been the most singular urban development effort in the universe during the last two decennaries. Bruttomesso defines waterfront revival as a â€Å"genuine urban revolution† . ( Bruttomesso 1993, 10 ) Waterfronts had experienced the most extremist urban revival of twentieth century metropoliss by holding transmutation in their physical layout, map, usage and societal form. As most of the world’s large metropolis centres are located on water’s border, revival of waterfronts referred to downtown development. Waterfront revival emerges by and large in port metropoliss sing station industrial or post war passages, where the disused industrial and commercial infinites and installations on the waterfront undergo renovation into new mixed-use office and residential composites, and attach toing upscale retail services, leisure countries, and public comfortss. Sometimes the renovation involves gentrification and the transmutation of long standing blue-collar zones into in-between and upper income enclaves, occupied by a mix of occupant professionals and tourers.Body:As stated by Short, â€Å"What sells the metropolis is the image of the city.† ( Short 1996, 431 ) One of the grounds a metropolis should be revitalized is to heighten its image. City publicity and metropolis stigmatization About every metropolis now has a series of promotional booklets, postings and other cultural merchandises pass oning selective images of the metropolis as an attractive, hospitable and vivacious international metropolis in which to populate and work In fact, metropolis publicity has a long history as one of the basic tools to pull people and money, such as visitants, immigrants, houses and new investing, to metropoliss for economic development intents. Physical redevelopment and flagship developmentsPhysical environment provides the touchable footing of metropolis attraction. It non merely provides the basic functionality of a metropolis but besides gives it character. Superb physical environment is in itself an of import component in attraction, while physical decay and derelict land have badly damaging effects on it. In add-on, physical environment is expected to play an of import function in metropolis selling by supplying a material look to the metropolis images that metropolis stigmatization efforts to make. For illustration, the image of a metropolis as a â€Å"vibrant† and â€Å"cosmopolitan† topographic point that metropolis stigmatization is seeking to present can be realized in the physical signifier of the edifices and public topographic points that visitants encounter in the metropolis. Culture-led and event-driven urban regeneration Although cultural elements were sometimes included in public urban intercession, they have by and large been adopted basically as a public assistance service, in which the chief concern was to supply wider societal groups with entree to an artistic and cultural heritage, and chances to show themselves in the society, they are regarded as an effectual tool to hike urban touristry, which generates disbursement and creates occupations, in the hope that a significant figure of occupations would be created indirectly by cultural investing in the signifier of occupations that serve visitants and audiences in eating houses, stores and hotels. Another ground is the widely-perceived potency of cultural elements in heightening metropolis image and attraction. In fact, in many successful instances where considerable sweetening and betterment of metropolis image were achieved, alleged â€Å"culture-led† policies were a cardinal characteristic in the schemes. Behind this was a widely-shared premise that civilization possesses a strong pulling power over highly-skilled and originative workers, and that efforts to carry these people to turn up in certain metropoliss will be aided if they are associated with humanistic disciplines, civilization and amusement. Cultural substructure, such as theaters, museums, and galleries, acts as a powerful magnet for originative people by offering attractive lifestyle chances. In add-on to refashioning the urban image, revival of urban waterfronts is besides of import in the economic growing of metropoliss. This would set the metropolis on the world-wide competitory metropoliss map. But this does non come free from disadvantages: Though the cultural substructure is an indispensable key, some metropoliss end up by losing their historical individualities by over viing. Plus, an overly commercial-tourist maps could be besides an issue ; domination of these maps over residential and productive 1s are an of import hazard. Because, these countries are normally used a few hours a twenty-four hours and in the weekends. While about the undertaking country is done planning, in order to supply long term usage of this country should be besides added residential usage as an excess commercial-tourist. Plus the existent estate belongings value will increase dramatically which makes it impossible for low income individuals to take part in the metropolis and this would take to more societal class’s segregation.DecisionCould Lebanese waterfronts come to a point to fall in the world-wide map of competitory waterfronts? And to what extensions? The Lebanese waterfront has started to fall in the world-wide map of competitory metropoliss, particularly the metropolis of Beirut where the solidere planning of the metropolis, started to determine it with a new individuality and new ends: though the tests to restitute and to reconstruct parts of the architectural linguistic communication of the interior metropolis, the new waterfront aka the zaytoouna bay undertaking is presented as a new metropolis in Beirut, besides that a assorted sum of skyscrapers hitting the sky of Beirut which are someway different from its history, some of the old historical memorials are to be demolished and new edifice are to immerge. In my sentiment, metropoliss have to take for world-wide fight but on the other side, a metropolis should besides keep its historical face which besides helps in advancing the image of the metropolis. To be world-wide competitory, a metropolis must non wipe out its yesteryear and merely program futuristic and technologically powerful metropoliss, the history of metropolis along with it being modern-day can besides hike its economic system and take it to the fight. MentionsDalla Longa, R. ( 2010 ) .Globalization and Urban Implosion Creating New Competitive Advantage. Springer Heidelberg Dordrecht London New York.Krugman, P ( 1997 ) .Pop internationalism.The hand imperativeness, Cambridge, Massachusetts, London, England.Sakr, E ( 2012 ) .Waterfront City undertaking promises to make more occupations. Daily star ( 2012 ) retrieved on 4/5/2014 from:hypertext transfer protocol: //www.dailystar.com.lb/Business/Lebanon/2012/Feb-09/162704-waterfront-city-project-promises-to-create-more-jobs.ashx # ixzz2y0NW1lLPGiovinazzi, O. & A ; Moretti, M. ( 2010) .Port Cities and Urban Waterfront: Transformations and Opportunities. TeMALab Journal,Retrieved on: 05/05/2014 from: www.tema.unina.it ISSN 1970-9870 Vol 3 – SP – March ( 57 – 64 )

Diversity and Cross-Cultural Trends in psychology and Counseling Essay

Psychology has always been known to be the educated study about human behavior. For a long time now, psychology though has been expanding its social impact to the people that it aims to serve. Primarily, it is now utilized to understand the ways by which people could be assisted with their personal issues and thus be able to face the different challenges of human living. (Myers, 2006, 17) With the turn of time, handling human issues are also now subjected to different twists and several improvements that subject psychological procedures into conforming to the different trends of human society. The said trends include the issues of answering to the idealisms of the Black Americans [racial issues], feminists, and cross-cultural psychology approaches. Dealing with these different issues conscientiously actually define the modern process of psychology and counseling. (Myers, 2006, 19) How are the psychologists at present able to handle the said issues of human diversity to be strongly implicated within the existing system of traditional process of counseling? The differentiation of both the personal or human psychology and the different approaches used to explain social psychology could give a better view of how the said matter is implicated within the system. The concept of human action is generally concluded by the aspect of the scientific facts to be significantly caused by the works of the mind of every individual. This idea is generally expressed in the saying â€Å"what the mind can perceive, the body can conceive. † Thus, to empirically understand and explain the actions and personality of each individual in the society, their mind and their idealism must be critically explored finding the relevant relationship between each humanistic aspect of each individual. It is generally noted by the scientific research society that the very essence and personality of each individual resides intrinsically in their minds, which manifests as the source of their thoughts fueling their actions. Thus, for the very same reason that the field of psychology in the empirical world becomes an important aspect in the course of understanding the humanity and the path of their development becomes it intrinsically addresses the main core of each individual and the other aspects revolving around it. In this field, two specific branches become much intriguing and relevant to the scientific society’s concern namely the branch of scientific psychology and social psychology. Personal Human Psychology Psychology mainly pertains to the empirical study of the intrinsic nature of each individual through considering relevant elements such his or her mental processes, behavior, personal perception and identity and other human characteristics in relation to their actions and behaviors. The field of psychology firmly holds that every action of the individual has its own reason behind it causing the said manifestation and the said reason lies hidden in the mind of the involved person. In the study of the scientific psychology of the subject, aspects such as personal perception towards inward matters and outside factors, behavioral and personal motivation, and the learning process play a significant part in the psychological development of each individual manifested mainly in the personality of the person. In addition, psychology also addressed the aspect of abnormal behavioral characteristics studying its main causes and contributory factors thus, establishing a scientifically significant pattern for it. In application, psychology becomes an important aspect in every field of scientific studies involving society and human characteristics and in explaining the relevant relationship of the two. Social Psychology Social Psychology mainly deals with the influential relationship between the social environment and its elements and the human beings and their psychological aspect. This field mainly addresses the psychological field through the social structure and system in the society and how it significantly affects the mental processes of each individual. (Aronson, 2004, 18) This attitude generally perceive human beings as individuals or as a group as the main unit of analysis employing the common social behavior of interacting with other individuals as part of the social system developing their distinctive individuality and personality. In this concept, as each individual interact with other individuals, they develop their own identity with their own social perception and psychological personality. In the aspect of its application, this study is significantly relevant in profiling and understanding the psychological nature and personality of the subject by considering his or her social backgrounds and experiences while he or she interacts with others as part of the social system. (Aronson, 2004, 17) Thus, psychology indeed becomes an important aspect in the development of the society and the human civilization as a whole. This field of scientific study can be applied to every field addressing basic and critical human nature understanding and explaining the intrinsic behavioral pattern of each individual and the actions manifesting the said psychological elements. This field of study firmly holds that humankind cannot further advance without first understanding their very basic nature and characteristics as significant units in the generally concept of humanity. (Lesko, 2000, 17) Obviously, understanding human behavior both through the personal and social context of the matter subjects the process to the different issues that the human society is actually involved with. It is through these advancements in the society that understanding the issues of human behavior becomes more enlightened thus making the process of explaining human dispositions and relating them to the process by which people could be guided with their propositions in life is indeed effective and beneficial for all. References: Myers, David G. Psychology. Worth Publishers; 8th Edition. 2006. Aronson, E. & Wilson T. D. & Akert R. M. (2004). Social Psychology. Prentice Hall, NY, USA. 5th Edition. Lesko, W. A. (2000). Readings in Social Psychology: General, Classic and Contemporary Selections. Allyn and Bacon, Boston, USA. 5th Edition.

Analysis of Dead Man Walking Essay Example

Analysis of Dead Man Walking Essay Example Analysis of Dead Man Walking Paper Analysis of Dead Man Walking Paper Dead Man Walking Meaning The United States has one of the few overspent, and majority of citizens who condone and continue capital punishment. In the book Dead Man Walking, by Sister Helen Prepare, the topic of capital punishment is discussed through an eye-witness account of her experience befriending a death row inmate. It takes place in New Orleans and Baton Rouge, Louisiana from 1982-1991. Sister Helen is asked if she would be willing to correspond with a death row inmate. When she agrees, she is assigned to Elm Patrick Sonnies, a man convicted of raping and murdering a young woman and her boyfriend. This kook is written in a first-person, subjective narration from Preseasons perspective revolving Mr.. Sinners and Sister Helene interactions, and throughout the trial involving Mr.. Sonnies death sentence. There are many effective devices used in this book that strongly show her opinions towards capital punishment, and convincing the audience that capital punishment is morally wrong and fundamentally flawed. Sister Helen does this by using with the use of pathos. She utilizes the use of pathos predominately by her compassionate tone of voice, the importance of personal accessibility, and the moral cost of executions. This is her most effective argument showing why the death penalty is wrong. The first effective argument opposing the death penalty that Sister Helen uses is the use of pathos. She uses pathos by her compassionate tone of voice, the importance of personal responsibility, and the moral cost of executions. Her tone of voice can be interpreted by multiple passages. There is a clear passage showing her compassion towards Mr.. Sonnies. He looks up at me. Sister Helen, I am going to die. My soul rushes towards him. I am standing tit my hands against the mesh screen, as close as I can get to him. I pray and ask God to comfort him, cushion him, wrap him round, give him courage to face death, to step across the river, to die with love. The words are pouring from me. (88) This shows the compassion she has towards Mr.. Sonnies and the situation involving his death. She genuinely wants him to feel comfortable, loved, and peaceful in his last moments on Earth. Saying that her soul rushes towards him, meaning that she feels an internal force to comfort him, that she feels a compassion to help this man, not just an obligation. This tone of voice, showing compassion, using pathos by showing the audience the emotion involved in death row inmates and the people involved in their lives. This shows how Mr.. Sonnies is human, and others are still capable of having compassion for him. That regardless of his actions, he has people who care about him and who are we to in the name of Justice end these relationships and his life? This causes the reader to see the inmate on a more personal level. Compassion is more prevalent, once a person is able to see themselves in the persons situation. This can be seen discussed for centuries. In the story of Plainclothes was a good man and a good soldier. He one day was bitten by a snake, that caused him horrendous pain, which in return he shouted religious obscenities that offended his fellow soldiers. His commanders then decided to leave him to suffer. He lives in pain, with animals as his friends and his food. According to the story, the chorus of soldiers that heard about his story 10 years later, decided even before they see the man, they imagine vividly what it is like to be him- and they enter a protest against the callousness of the commanders and demand to go back and save him. For my part, I pity him- thinking of how, with no living soul to care for him, seeing no friendly face, wretched, always alone, he suffers with a fierce affliction, and has no resources to meet his daily needs. How in the world does the poor man survive? Nassau 27) This story is another example of how even when a person makes a mistake, if you can put yourself in that persons position, or see them on a more personal level, naturally humans are to have more compassion for the person. This is what Sister Helen does, by showing emotion and compassion through her tone of voice, aiming to make the audience see Mr.. Sonnies as a person, who deserves life. Another way Sister Helen uses pathos to express that all criminals deserve life is by solidifying the importance of personal responsibly. She explains the refusal for personal responsibility in this passage: Who killed this man [Patrick Sonnies]? Nobody. Everybody can argue that he or she was Just doing a Job the governor, the warden, the head of the Department of Corrections, the district attorney, the Judge, the Jury, the Pardon Board, the witnesses to the execution. Nobody feels personally responsible for the death of this man. 101) This aims to show the audience that each person involved in the case, and execution should feel as if in some aspect, it was if they each pulled the switch that caused the man to lose his life. That from the governor who feared a loss of support for his campaign if he was to oppose Mr.. Sonnies death, to the head of corrections who organizes the executions who which feels that the death penalty is morally wrong. She raises the question, if these people are against the death penalty, shouldnt they have a personal responsibility to stand up for the inmates facing execution? What is the severance between personal values, and personal duty? These are reasons she feels there is personal responsibility involved in the death penalty that people refuse to believe, adding to her argument opposing capital punishment. The last form of pathos she uses to show why capital punishment is wrong, is showing the morality involved in executions. She wants the reader to see the immoralities of killing a man in the name of Justice. How is a government to say they are powerful enough, or wise enough to take the life of a man? She claims Government cant be trusted to control its own bureaucrats or collect taxes equitably or fill a pothole, much less decide which of its citizens to kill (21) Society condemns the men who take the lives of others, but when it is done is the hands of the government, is it right and Just? How does the government have the right to such an absolute power, which is death? Throughout the whole first-person account, she is constantly questioning the morality involved with legal murder. She believes that an eye for an eye, is not to be taken literally. That the Jesus she believes in does not mete out violence with violence, pain with pain, torture with torture. She believes that people can be forgiven by God, and do not deserve to be removed from the world before they can redeem themselves to God. Also, as long as they removed from society, and the possibility to kill again, that is as moral and Just as punishment can be. The Iowa Supreme Court stated this, Crime indicates a diseased mind in the same manner that sickness and pain do a diseased body. And as in the one case we provide hospitals for the treatment of severe and contagious diseases, so in the other, prisons and asylums should be provided for similar reasons. (Regis) This goes along with Sister Hellene statement that imprisonment is the only moral way to punish criminals, that death passes the line of morality. As a hospital is made for the diseased, prisons are made for the criminally deranged. There are places made for people who commit crime, and they have a right to be put where they are designed to go. Death is a design far to cruel, for anyone with a moral conscience to enforce. Sister Helen has a very graceful way of explaining why the death penalty questions morality and does this through the strong use of pathos. Pathos are used in this non- action book by Sister Helene strong, compassionate tone of voice, the question of moral responsibility and the immorality of capital punishment. She does this through several passages, that show her compassion, her call-out to the people involved in Sinners murders, and how governments should not have an absolute power which is death. In conclusion Sister Helen makes many strong points that show multiple reasons why the death penalty is an unjust, and immoral way of punishment. She makes the reader question their opinions on capital punishment, and proves over and over how wrong it is. The opposing side is mentioned, but she always has an intelligent, emotion-stirring response.