8 Simple Steps To Help You Find a Job in 30 Days

8 Simple Steps To Help You Find a Job in 30 Days You need a new job and you need one fast. Maybe you’ve just been laid off, or quit, or you’re just starting out, or you’re doing some secret  job hunting from a position in which you’re miserable. No matter your reasons, if you follow these steps, you’ll have a great shot at scoring a new job in 30 days. 1. Make a spreadsheet.Excel is your friend in the organization game. And organization is the key to getting a job fast. Keep track of company name, position title, a link to the job posting itself, application materials, due dates, plus the date you applied, follow-up dates, and notes. If you hate Excel, try JibberJobber or Fresh Transition instead. But do keep all your details organized and easily referenced- you’ll be glad you did.2. Do your homework.Be informed- very informed- about the industry you’re applying into. Research every company and every position. Research the people who might be interviewing you and supervising you. R esearch the top people and the company’s mission. The more you know and the more prepared you are, the better you’ll do. And the more you strategize and target your applications, the more efficient your search will be.3. Budget your time.Once you have a game plan and an organizational system, you’ll want to devote time every day to your job search for 30 days. You couldn’t possibly spend all day every day on it, but even just 30 minutes of concentrated work every day will move you that much closer to the finish line.4. Dig deep.What do you actually want in a job? What have you liked and disliked about your current and former positions? Why do you want a change? Think about your values and which kind of work environments suit you best. Try to aim for places that match up with your innate talents and tastes first. You’ll be a better fit right out of the gate.5. Get social.Your promo toolbox consists of your social media platforms. Get them all up to fighting speed. Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn†¦ make sure you have these accounts and that they are active and up to date. Make sure you’re using them correctly and are working consistently toward building your personal online brand.6. Network.The one step you’d probably like to avoid is probably the most important. Sometimes all the difference is made in who you know and who knows you. Think of it as initiating mutually beneficial relationships. Keep in mind what you have to offer! It’s not just a one-way street.7. Follow up.Your interviewer will likely tell you that they will be in touch with you soon. Tell them immediately how much you appreciate their taking the time to interview you and mention that you are eagerly awaiting a response. Then follow up with the same. Send a handwritten thank you note- you’d be surprised at how effective this can be! Then follow up with a phone call if you haven’t heard back in two weeks. And don’t forg et to note when and how you’ve followed up on your spreadsheet.8. Be patient.Keep looking. Keep working at it. Don’t get discouraged after a few rejections. If you’re consistent and keep honing your tools, you’ll get there.That being said, once you’ve hit all of these checkpoints, you will need to develop your resume into an excellent promotional document. Take a look at these resume hacks that will help you  turn your resume into a top notch contender, for any job. Remember, your resume is a document that sells you and your qualifications to the employer. The more effort you put into it, the better off you’ll be.

Free Essays on Jewish Synagogues And Islamic Mosques Compare And Contrast

Compare and Contrast Jewish Synagogues and Islamic Mosques "I hereby attest that this essay is entirely my own original work, excepting only that the work of others is properly noted and cited where incorporated into my own work. Thus, it is fair and honest for me to ask this work to be evaluated and marked by the instructor for a grade in this Humanities I course." The Jewish word for synagogue is beth ha-knesset, house of assembly. This means that wherever Jewish people live, the synagogue lies at the very center of communal life. (Gruber, 1999) Of all Muslim institutions, the mosque is the most important place for the public expression of the Islamic religion and communal identity. A mosque is physical proof of the public presence of Muslims and serves as a point of convergence for Islamic social and intellectual activity. (Frishman, 1994) The Jewish synagogue and the Islamic Mosque have some things in common as to what they represent in a city and how everyday life and practices are centered around them. There are also some similarities as to what one would find inside a synagogue and a mosque. But there are some differences as well. These differences include certain things that are not allowed one building that may be allowed in the other. Another difference would be the architectural styles that were used to build these buildings a nd the meanings they represent. But one similarity between the two places of worship is that throughout history, they have both allowed themselves to be changed to better suit the host community. For instance, Spanish synagogues of the Muslim period had horseshoe arches and beautiful stucco arabesques. (Gruber, 1999) Oriental synagogues tended to seat its worshippers on rugs or cushions (like some mosques). Polish 18th century synagogues resembled distinctive pagodas. Later, European emancipation introduced new styles: Baroque, Romanesque, pseudo-Byzantine and Greek temple. Some mo... Free Essays on Jewish Synagogues And Islamic Mosques Compare And Contrast Free Essays on Jewish Synagogues And Islamic Mosques Compare And Contrast Compare and Contrast Jewish Synagogues and Islamic Mosques "I hereby attest that this essay is entirely my own original work, excepting only that the work of others is properly noted and cited where incorporated into my own work. Thus, it is fair and honest for me to ask this work to be evaluated and marked by the instructor for a grade in this Humanities I course." The Jewish word for synagogue is beth ha-knesset, house of assembly. This means that wherever Jewish people live, the synagogue lies at the very center of communal life. (Gruber, 1999) Of all Muslim institutions, the mosque is the most important place for the public expression of the Islamic religion and communal identity. A mosque is physical proof of the public presence of Muslims and serves as a point of convergence for Islamic social and intellectual activity. (Frishman, 1994) The Jewish synagogue and the Islamic Mosque have some things in common as to what they represent in a city and how everyday life and practices are centered around them. There are also some similarities as to what one would find inside a synagogue and a mosque. But there are some differences as well. These differences include certain things that are not allowed one building that may be allowed in the other. Another difference would be the architectural styles that were used to build these buildings a nd the meanings they represent. But one similarity between the two places of worship is that throughout history, they have both allowed themselves to be changed to better suit the host community. For instance, Spanish synagogues of the Muslim period had horseshoe arches and beautiful stucco arabesques. (Gruber, 1999) Oriental synagogues tended to seat its worshippers on rugs or cushions (like some mosques). Polish 18th century synagogues resembled distinctive pagodas. Later, European emancipation introduced new styles: Baroque, Romanesque, pseudo-Byzantine and Greek temple. Some mo...

Bank of America or McDonald's Case Study Research Paper

Bank of America or McDonald's Case Study - Research Paper Example 1. Outlining the Talent Management Program That Led to Success for the Company McDonald's talent management program is behind the company's success, and its multipronged nature can be divided into five stages, as shall be seen. The first step of McDonald's talent management program is the redesigning of the company's performance development system for McDonald's rank and file, as a way of instilling accountability (Goldsmith and Carter, 2010). According to Goldsmith and Carter (2010), the second step of McDonald's talent management program involved designing the global talent review process, in order to help the company's staff align itself with changes that are taking place in the global market. There is the diagnosing of individual employees' ability and actual performance in different circumstances, as a way of determining an employee's inherent skills. The step above will be followed up with the analysis of the results that have been displayed by the employee being examined in or der to interpret the actual extent of the employee's talents and skills. The final step may involve action planning which portends, factoring the manner in which the displayed talents and skills by a particular employee can be consolidated and nurtured, so that newer skills are acquired without nascent talents being forfeited. This step may also involve integrating the talents detected into organizational (or McDonald's) synergy and operations. 2. Identifying Strengths of the Program and How They Led to Goal Accomplishment According to Handfield-Jones, Michaels and Axelrod (2001), the strengths attributable to the programs above led to the accomplishment of McDonald's goals. Particularly, redesigning the company's performance development system for McDonald's employees helped foster accountability at the intrapersonal level. Thus, this paves way for the eradication of abuse of office, underperformance, and professional negligence. In the same manner, the step served as an important artifice to encourage efforts towards the attainment of goals relevant to a particular office and officer, since these officers are accountable. All these are factors that fast-track optimal performance and thereby helping in the realization of the previously set performance target. Designing the global talent review process also serves as a point of strength, for talent management, since it gives talent management a wider and more global scope. Instead of focusing on employees' performance ability and skills at the intra-organizational level, employees' talents and abilities are weighed against global expectations and thereby helping McDonald's employees focus on maintaining the competence that is needed to thrive in a competitive global business environment. In the same wavelength, embarking on the global talent review process empowers employees to be abreast with the challenges and requirements that characterize the global market. In this case, by engaging its employees in the gl obal talent review process will help McDonald employees navigate complex matters in the global market, with these matters ranging from cultural restrictions on diet, local trade laws and commercial laws on multinationals, regional technological disparity, the local market's structure, competition and purchasing power. Another strength in engaging employees in designing the globa

European Union Term Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2500 words

European Union - Term Paper Example This paper will also outline various aspects that shape business among EU member states such as the law as well as other constraints that may exist. Having realised the destructive effects and killings caused by WW2, Europe is split into East and West. â€Å"West European nations create the Council of Europe in 1949. It is a first step towards cooperation between them, but six countries want to go further† European Union, 2013). Essentially, the main reason of cooperation among the European countries was to promote peace and economic activity among member states. The member states agreed that they will run their heavy industries involving coal and iron under common management and that the member states of the organization would not turn against each other. Initially, the Council of Europe was comprised of six founding countries namely: Germany, France, Italy, the Netherlands, Belgium and Luxembourg. After realising the success of the Coal Treaty, the member states expanded coo peration to include other sectors of the economy. Ideally, the aim was to create a situation where people, goods as well as services could freely move across borders. As time moved, more countries joined the EU and more laws and policies were formulated to strengthen the ties among the member states. The single market was established in the early 2000s and it sought to establish four freedoms: the free movement of goods, services, people and money (EU, 2013). In 2004 the 25 EU countries sign a Treaty establishing a European Constitution. According to the EU website, this decision was meant to democratise the decision-making and management in an EU. A single currency, the Euro is then introduced and meant for commercial and financial transactions only among the member states. This liberalised trade among all member states such that they no longer face any trade barriers when they want to engage in trade with other member states. The main advantaged of free trade is that the member st ates can immensely benefit since they would not be subject to harsh operational conditions such as high tariffs when trade is taking place between non-member states. The EU has also been designed in such a way that it attracts investment in different member countries. There are high chances of economic growth and development when investment tales place in different countries. Jobs are created and more revenue will be generated from such programs. The EU also plays a pivotal role in assisting developing countries so that they can also develop their economies. This bloc also promotes trade with the developing countries where it also benefits from the raw materials that are not found in this area. The EU has created equality among all member states where it can be observed that they can engage in fair trade. Fair trade practices among the member states are intended to stimulate economic growth as well as to improve the welfare of the citizens in the member states. In as far as the rule s that guide the operations of the EU are concerned, it can be seen that an agreement is reached before they are adopted as laws. The EU also set trade practices and standards among all members and these ought to be followed by all nations involved. 2. The EU

THE EARLY REPUBLIC Coursework Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words

THE EARLY REPUBLIC - Coursework Example He one time owned more than 40 slaves in his plantation in early 1774 including children belonging to his slaves who began working for him at the age of ten. People felt that his acts contradicted his belief where every human had a right to liberty. He was forced to abolish the slave trade, thus upsetting other elite planters who depended on slavery for their riches. Thirdly, Artisans in England consisted of individuals such as Paul Revere who is termed as a revolutionary of his time. In 1964, he opposed the British policies that touched on revenue, thus spending much of his time attending meetings and educating people through his anti-British slogans. One of the policies that he was upset at is referred to as â€Å"Resisting the Navigation Act† which restricted their trading practices with other people. (Andrews 31) Yeomen farmers occupied the smallest lands in the southern colonies an idea that made fee neglected by the government. Despite spending much of their energy working hard on their farms, they found themselves in powerful positions in the imperial government. The main reason Yeomen wanted political positions were for them to get a favorable channel where they could address their grievances such as the infringement of a free man’s right. Lastly, the frontier settlers included the Scots and Germans who were awarded a piece of land under the â€Å"Declaration of trans-Appalachian settlement policies† by King George III (Andrews 53). He declared that the mountainous land situated to the west of Appalachian would not be occupied by any white because it belonged to the Indians. The whites’ were upset with this decision because this land was not to be sold to them and that the existing residents were forced to

Heart of darkness

Heart of darkness One of the central issues that arise from Joseph Conrads Heart of Darkness (1899) is the colonialist bias used to misrepresent the African race. Whilst Conrad was not himself accountable for the xenophobic westernised image of Africa, his story maintains the damaging stereotyping of native people. By painting them as bestialised, barbaric, primitive and uncivilised, he explores the black race through the lens of a hegemonic European representation; Conrads uses of myth and metaphor supported the colonial conquest of African people on the colonisers assumption that these people were racially inferior. Nevertheless, Conrad was writing at a time when the historical representation of Africans had always been a discourse of racism. Also, perhaps Conrad failed to appropriately depict Africans because he recognized little of their culture, having primarily spent time with white men during his 6 months at the African Congo. Moreover, by undermining imperial superiority and giving satanic ref erences to the colonisers, one may contend he is similarly insulting towards the Europeans, and that his exaggerated racism seeks to ridicule Europes civilising mission, and expose the ingrained racist ideals of Victorian imperialists. Marlow, the central protagonist and narrator of Heart of Darkness, expresses old racist prejudices against the Africans: They howled and leaped, and spun, and made horrid faces, but what thrilled you was the thought of their humanity like yoursUgly. Not only does he deny the Africans a distinction of a name, he also rids them of normal human behaviour. Marlow belittles them with derogatory language, stressing that they mimic animalistic behaviour and have no methods of speech outside of violent babble and crude grunts. According to Chinua Achebe, these representations call the very humanity of black people into question. On the matter of communication, it is noteworthy that a small amount of English syllables are placed into the mouths of one or two Congolese Africans. It is in submitting to the hegemonic language of the coloniser that Conrad replaces native culture with his own, which he considers superior. It is this supposition of an advanced humanity which leads Achebe to brand Conrad a through-going racist. Nonetheless, it can be argued that Marlow is a product of a fairly racist era in history; a period in which racist discourses remained structured by Empire to legitimize its political ideology of suppression over the Africans. Like his contemporaries, Conrad is writing at a time where it was acceptable to view Africans as the other, and by overusing the words savage and nigger, he conforms to the racist sentiments of the day. Consequently, his story which was published in the Blackwood magazine, targets the conservative politics of the late nineteenth century. Furthermore, Conrad mentions in his authors note that his over exaggeration of the savage image had the purpose of bringing it home to the minds and bosoms of the reader. This admittance of a distorted characteristic account of the natives may explain his savage depiction of them. He also uses these images to make the setting realistic, accentuating the novels grave themes of darkness, and fear of the unknown. Being a victim of his time, Conrads portrayals of the African race also conform to the evolutionary trope of Charles Darwins theory of evolution. By painting Africans as the prehistoric man, and portraying Marlows voyage upriver as travelling back to the earliest beginnings of the world, Conrad integrates the temporal evolutionary trope in Heart of Darkness; he suggests that Europeans are at a more superior position, since the Africans have not yet emerged from prehistory. His repeated animalistic images of the natives place Africans at the low end of the scale: one of the creatures rose to his hands and knees and went off on all fours towards the river to drink. Linking in with Darwinism science, Conrad reduces the Africans into a subspecies between apes and Caucasians. The African here is represented as a modern ancestor, an animal, a barely human body without intelligence. Consequently, he views the Africans as prehistoric evils in desperate need of European influence and evolutio n; an outlook which reaffirms him as the personification of colonialism. Darwins views which had become entrenched in society are used here by Marlow to provide the principal ideological support for imperialism. Suggests that Europeans are at a more superior position, as opposed to the Africans since the latter has not yet emerged from prehistory Though truthful, Marlow is a prejudiced man; he is the personification of colonialism. Going into the Congo, Marlow views the natives as prehistoric evils in desperate need of white influence and civilization. Throughout the physical journey, Marlow is confronted with the natives time and time again, seeing them chained as slaves, living in a village and attacking his own steam boat. Marlow holds fast his prejudiced view of the natives, referring to them as savages or calling them by more derogatory terms such as niggers. Through his exploration, he questions the humanity of Africans. According to him this deliberate stylistic obfuscation merely aided to satisfy the racial sentiments of the day, and Conrad was only acting as the purveyor of comforting myths Counter argue that he was a polish writer who had to show his mettle with the English language However, in his authors note he writes how over exaggeration is used. Sombre theme given sinister resonance perhaps explains the extreme savage image. It can also be said Much of his animalistic language of the black race conforms to the evolutionary trope of Charles Darwin whose views became entrenched in society. African on all fours like ants. So for someone, who had little contact, he makes use of these derogatory stereotypes, and it can be said that he relies on these preconceived ideas and western baggage since they dominate his descriptions. Maintains, and justifies imperialism, and although he witnesses the horror of colonialism and suppression of the Africans, it is interesting to note his approval of efficient imperialist activity. However, his constant questioning of imperialist values, and the sham of it all, reveal his anti essentialist views. slightly flatter noses. This acknowledges that the black race is more or less equal to whites, barring a few inconsequential physical attributes. Kurtz on the other hand shows no remorse whatsoever. He holds the absolute essential view to exterminate all the blacks. He holds the ideology of making the black race extinct. Hes a ruthless ivory trader, and arranges for the dead heads to displayed on poles. The white race use crude violence, and brute force. Very occasionally the natives show resistance, but their left largely helpless against the overpowering military control of the Europeans. They have no authority or voice. The colonists have become corrupted. They are blinded by the notion that this is their sacred duty to uphold the superiority of the colonial empire and white heritage. Through Marlow disapproval, he shows and exposes the Europeans, is equally deameaning, offensive, and undermines their superiority. flabby white devils.. Critiques immoral European behaviour. Transcends such prejudice, shows him to rise above racism. Ridicules benevolent project of civilisation. Uses an ambivalent tone to show the violent colonial enterprise. Kurtz the ultimate satanic, racist. Has the heart of darkness. However if he is showing Africa to be the reason for the deterioration of the European mans morale, it merely becomes a backdrop which eliminates the African as human factor. They have become marginalised. This marginalisation shows further through Kurtz mistress. He is racist towards her, but not so to his white woman. 333 But its interesting, that Marlow does approve of efficient colonialism. Puts in a section of Brtish colonialism. It is almost with this preconceived mindset that Marlow almost succumbs to this same worst impulsive violent mindset (look at thinking lit answer bold). Going further into self discovery and realises his own heart of darkness. Paints Africa as the heart of darkness, suggesting that its wilderness and wild inhabitants drive the Europeans to insanity and violence. Takes this stance to almost show how the Dark Continent is responsible for his behaviour, thus showing it to be the cause of Kurtzs insanity. Almost blaming Africans that they hold out temptations. His racist sentiments continue throughout. However, unlike the other colonists, Marlow does show some sympathy and admiration towards the natives; a viewpoint, emphasising his forward thinking mindset. Upon his very first encounter, he praises there vitality, muscles and seems entirely at peace with them. Gives the dying man a biscuit, and becomes friends with helman. Has a remote kinship with them as opposed to nothing with Europeans. Therefore it can be evaluated that he is just brainwashed by the politics of the time, but his contemplative nature, allows him to see through the cracks, and appreciate the African race. Later descriptions thus allow for readers to see the absurdity of racism. (Cedric Watts) Conclusion Although Marlow shows himself to be concerned with the heart of humankind, and the souls of individuals, the text emerged out of the very centre of racism and imperialism, therefore Marlow can be seen as merely replicating the colonial discourses available to him. Although he criticises the extreme brutal ness of Imperialism, he discourse is grounded in political, economic interest. He simply looks at Africa through a haze of distortions and cheap mystifications. It can be said that Conrad just uses Marlow to confirm and consolidate the wildest fantasies of the African savages to his European readers. However in my opinion his racist exaggeration and imperialist critique, are used to show how absurd racism was.

Stereotypes About People With Disabilities Essay -- Stereotypes of Dis

Disabled people are often stereotyped. A stereotype is an over simplified mental picture of a person or group. Stereotypes of disabled people are things such as; they should be pitied; they are receivers of charity; they are brave; 'super crip' or even aggressive and angry, an example of these stereotypes are put to use in Forrest Gump. It shows Lieutenant Dan as being bitter and having a chip on his shoulder; it also shows Forrest Gump as being like a super crip an extraordinary person who does marvelous things without meaning too. Stereotypes probably originate from feelings like fear; superiority; repulsion and pity. These feelings are likely to have been given through primary and secondary agents of socialization, i.e. parents, friends and the media. I have watched a film advertisement for multiple sclerosis, which has stereotypes within it; I will analyze it and write about any changes that could be made to estimate stereotypes To make a film representation of an issue several elements are involved. Firstly there is editing controls, what happens between shots, it helps control time and space and highlight similarities and differences between shots. In the multiple sclerosis advert editing is used to cut between a long shot of a woman, to an extreme close up of her eye, this shocks the audience holding their attention as well as showing the women's pain. Secondly camera shots decide on how you look at something, how far or near, from what angle and how the camera moves. In the advert, extreme close-ups are used to show the lady's hand clenching some fabric; it has the effect of showing the audience she is in pain. ... ...they have different physical and mental characteristics  · Show the societal barriers that keep them from living a full live. Disabled people face more barriers in life then most people, barriers from prejudice to a door that can't be opened, these should be highlighted and tried to be amended or solutions found.  · Disabled people are not sexual; show them as having loving relationships and the same sexual needs and desires as someone who isn't disabled.  · Show them as being part of life in fictional and factual representation because they are part of life and this should be accepted.  · Most importantly, train them, cast them and write them into scripts programmes and publication just like everyone else, this way disabled people can present themselves These will all improve representation in the media. Stereotypes About People With Disabilities Essay -- Stereotypes of Dis Disabled people are often stereotyped. A stereotype is an over simplified mental picture of a person or group. Stereotypes of disabled people are things such as; they should be pitied; they are receivers of charity; they are brave; 'super crip' or even aggressive and angry, an example of these stereotypes are put to use in Forrest Gump. It shows Lieutenant Dan as being bitter and having a chip on his shoulder; it also shows Forrest Gump as being like a super crip an extraordinary person who does marvelous things without meaning too. Stereotypes probably originate from feelings like fear; superiority; repulsion and pity. These feelings are likely to have been given through primary and secondary agents of socialization, i.e. parents, friends and the media. I have watched a film advertisement for multiple sclerosis, which has stereotypes within it; I will analyze it and write about any changes that could be made to estimate stereotypes To make a film representation of an issue several elements are involved. Firstly there is editing controls, what happens between shots, it helps control time and space and highlight similarities and differences between shots. In the multiple sclerosis advert editing is used to cut between a long shot of a woman, to an extreme close up of her eye, this shocks the audience holding their attention as well as showing the women's pain. Secondly camera shots decide on how you look at something, how far or near, from what angle and how the camera moves. In the advert, extreme close-ups are used to show the lady's hand clenching some fabric; it has the effect of showing the audience she is in pain. ... ...they have different physical and mental characteristics  · Show the societal barriers that keep them from living a full live. Disabled people face more barriers in life then most people, barriers from prejudice to a door that can't be opened, these should be highlighted and tried to be amended or solutions found.  · Disabled people are not sexual; show them as having loving relationships and the same sexual needs and desires as someone who isn't disabled.  · Show them as being part of life in fictional and factual representation because they are part of life and this should be accepted.  · Most importantly, train them, cast them and write them into scripts programmes and publication just like everyone else, this way disabled people can present themselves These will all improve representation in the media.

Coffeehouse and Starbucks

1. Original Strategic Vision for Starbucks Howard Schultz’s original strategic vision was to transform Starbucks into a national company with an emphasis on placing great value on its employees. He believed that the key to success was for Starbucks to capitalize on its people; he wanted a somewhat decentralized organizational structure which emphasized the importance of including employees in the decision-making process. Schultz wanted to place an image of Starbucks as an employer that cared for the general well-being of its employees and one that employees could be take pride in being a part of.A key strategic objective espoused by Schultz in his original strategic vision was to transform Starbucks into â€Å"the most respected brand name in coffee and for the company to be admired for its corporate responsibility. † Also worth noting is the fact that after visiting Milan, Italy Schultz also made it part of his strategic vision to transform Starbucks as a remake of the Italian coffee bar culture. He wanted customers to perceive a visit to a Starbucks coffee shop as a social gathering where customers could grab a fresh-brewed beverage, meet their friends and visit.He believed that creating this emphasis on customer â€Å"experience† could distinguish Starbucks from its competitors. Schultz’s 2010 strategic vision for Starbucks is an extension of his original vision from the 1980s which has been expanded to include more innovative and cost cutting practices. It can also be argued that some of his new strategic objectives are more prudent instead of being fully aggressive. For example, while Schultz still believed that the company should continue to pursue international expansion, he makes it evident that this should be pursued at a slower, more methodical pace.In addition, with regards to the volume of stores in the US, he acknowledges the fact that expansion efforts were not properly coordinated with regards to the close proximities of many Starbucks shops. Therefore he closed 900 underperforming shops, three quarters of which were located three miles away from a nearby shop. The 2010 strategic vision also continued to emphasize the customer experience. He believed that employees have lost their â€Å"soul of the past† in their passion to educate customers about their products and provide customers with a quality experience .As a result in 2008, Schultz ordered 7,100 US stores to be temporarily shut down for three business hours to provide special training for store employees. The purpose of this was to give their baristas hands-on training to aid in improving the quality of the beverages they served. It was also an effort to renew and reignite Starbucks’ culture of a customer-centric focus to help employees understand the importance of a satisfying customer experience. Lastly, much innovation and cost-cutting practices were incorporated into the 2010 strategic vision.For example as part of a seri ous cost-cutting strategy, the company undertook a 1000-person cut in staffing to cut down on administrative costs from the company’s organizational support infrastructure. With regards to innovation, the company also implemented ideas such as internet-based software for scheduling work hours for store employees and new resources such as laptops for store employees. Innovation was also implemented in the products the company offers.An example of this is the launch of VIA instant coffees and menu items designed to offer healthy breakfast choices for people with busy lifestyles such as fruit cups and healthier bakery selections. 2. Has Starbuck’s strategy evolved as the strategic vision has evolved? 3 . The Broad Differentiation strategy most closely approximates the competitive approach used by Starbucks. This is supported by the fact that the company’s target segment is not limited to a specific niche market.As reinforced by the company’s resurging commit ment to expand to global markets, it is committed to serving the needs of a broad market with widely diverse preferences. Supporting Starbuck’s use of a Broad Differentiation strategy is the fact that Starbucks tries to distinguish itself from competitors by offering a service devoted to going the extra mile to deliver a satisfying customer experience. This is congruent with the company’s theme of â€Å"just say yes† to customer requests.Another key aspect of the Broad Differentiation strategy that Starbucks practices is the offer of a wide selection of products which emphasize differentiating attributes. An example of this would be Starbuck’s introduction of VIA Ready Brew Coffee. These were packets of coffee that could be prepared instantly by simply adding them to a cup of water. VIA coffee had the superior attribute of easy preparation while replicating the same rich full-bodied taste of fresh-brewed coffee delivered by Starbucks from its coffeehouses .Another unique product introduced by Starbucks with a differentiating feature is the introduction of Vivanno â€Å"better-for-you† smoothies. These smoothies offered those health-conscious customers with little to think about with only 250 calories, one serving of fruit, 16 grams of proten and 5 grams of fiber. 4 The key policies, practices, principles and procedures that underlie how Howard Schultz and Starbucks management have implemented and executed the company’s strategy are as follows: Emphasis on providing employees with a caring, desirable work environment in which they can contribute to the success and development of the company.It is clear that Shultz believes in taking care of his employees to win their commitment to enhancing the well-being of the company. As evidence, Schultz instilled a comprehensive benefits package which unlike the norm for other businesses, were offered not only to full-time employees but part-time employees as well. In order to empha size the connection between employee contributions and the company’s market value, Schultz also implemented Bean Stock- Starbuck’s stock option plan.The purpose of this was to allow each employee to become a partner and share in the success of the company to promote a positive long-term effect on the company’s operations. Applying ethical and high standards of excellence to the purchasing, roasting and fresh delivery of coffee. Evidence for Starbuck’s commitment to ethical sourcing of its coffee can be supported by its partnership with Conservation International Center to develop Coffee and Farmer Equity (C. A. F. E. ) Practices. Such practices were designed to help farmers grow coffee in ways that prevented harm to the planet.These practices were designed to cover safe and humane working conditions (ensuring congruence with minimum wage requirements as well as child labor provisions), and making sure that the prices Starbucks paid were sufficient to allo w farmers to cover their production costs and provide for their families. In addition, the company’s resoluteness to provide excellent standards in the roasting and serving of coffee is supported by Starbuck’s rigorous training program for all its partners/baristas.The program includes a minimum of 24 hours of training in the first two to four weeks of training and involves classes in coffee history, drink preparation, coffee knowledge and customer service. The enthusiastic development of satisfied customers all of the time. It is clear that Schultz is adamant about ensuring that customers are provided with the best experience every time they visit a Starbucks coffee shop. This meant paying careful attention to what pleases their customers.The company employs a customer-centric culture where they are trained to take extra measures to ensure that the customer was fully satisfied, and to employ a â€Å"just say yes† theme to customer requests. Make a positive cont ribution to the communities in which we operate our business. In order to give back to the communities in which their numerous shops reside, the company participates in many philanthropic events which are coordinated by the Starbucks Foundation. Some of their activities include participation in local charitable projects as well as community development activities.Recognition of profitability as essential to our success. Starbucks is aware that in being able to deliver in all of the aforementioned areas, that it will be able to enjoy the success that its shareholders desire. As a result, the company believes that it is fully accountable to performing well in each of these areas so that Starbucks and its various stakeholders can continue to â€Å"endure and thrive. † 5. What values does Starbucks have? How well do they connect to the strategy and the way the company conducts its business? 6. Social Responsibility: * C. A. F.E : Coffee and Farmer Equity- Partnership in which Sta rbucks sought to develop practices to help farmers grow high-quality coffees in ways that were good for the planet. This covered practices such as safe and humane working conditions including compliance with minimum wage requirements and child labor provisions) and environmental responsibility P359 * Definition for social responsibility- Wikipedia: Starbucks’ corporate culture involves the moral binding of partners to run the company’s operations with consideration of the well-being of others around them.Ie: the company purchases a growing percentage of coffees that Starbucks purchases are grown organically without the use of chemical fertiliziers, pesticides and herbicides. This supports the company’s devotion to socially responsible practices. Such efforts helps in maintaining the cleanliness of groundwater and prevents degradation of environmental ecosystems nearby. embrace As indicated by its countless efforts to manage business in a way that promotes social and environmental concern, Starbucks has very strong dedication to its corporate social responsibility.Not only has this effort to â€Å"build a company with soul† has also been ingrained in the company’s mission statement, Starbuck’s has also received wide recognition for its efforts in this area. In fact in 2010, the company was named to Corporate Responsibility’s list of â€Å"The 100 Best Corporate Citizens† for the 10th time. In addition the company has received over 25 awards for its efforts in the areas of philanthropic, community service and environmental activities.As one of its most noteworthy efforts, in 1997 the company established The Starbucks Foundation to organize the company’s philanthropic undertakings. Under the Foundation, many of its coffee shops participated in regular charity events and community improvement initiatives. Starbuck’s social responsibility is also reflected in its generosity towards worthy causes. For example, in 2005 the company made a $5 million, five year commitment to aid in the relief and recovery of victims of Hurricanes Katrina and Rita.More recently in 2010, the company also donated funding worth $1 million to support the American Red Cross’ efforts to provide relief for those who survived the earthquake in Haiti. In view of such devout efforts to these environment and humanitarian concerns, it can definitely be argued that Starbuck’s social responsibility strategy is genuine. The company’s past and continued devotion to such undertakings support this conjecture, making it evident that Starbucks is true to its cause and is not only publicizing its social responsibility strategy to instil a positive image in its takeholders. 7. Assessment of Starbuck’s financial performance during 2005-2009? 8. Assessment of Schultz’s Transformation Agenda for Starbucks during 2008-2010? (C-363-C-363) Has he done a good job since his return as Starbu cks’ CEO? Why or why not? While Howard Schultz has managed to instil a very strong corporate culture based on delivering the best customer experience possible during his tenure at Starbucks, it seems that the guidance of the company under Jim Donald as CEO starting in 2006 has brought on cultural change.The introduction of Donald as the new CEO has brought on two factors of cultural change as indicated in Figure 1 below: shifting internal conditions (brought on by Donald’s assumption of role as Starbucks CEO) and rapid growth of the firm through his introduction of an aggressive corporate culture that pursued rapid store expansion at the expense of the long-established commitment to customer service.This new focus on aggressive growth with less emphasis on maintaining customer relationships spurred uneasiness amongst member of Starbuck’s board and eroded customer traffic in US stores starting in 2007. Investors became distressed about the company’s steadi ly declining stock price. As a result, in January of 2008, Starbucks asked Howard Schultz to overtake his original position as CEO. Thus he proposed to fix the inefficiencies that impaired Starbuck’s original customer-centric culture.This initiative was set out in a very well-developed set of directives which came to be known as Schultz’s 2008-2010 transformation agenda. By analyzing the various steps necessary in trying to implement change in a problem culture (shown in Figure 2 below), one can see that Schultz’s actions and numerous objectives as set out in his agenda are congruent with those outlined in these steps.Step1: Identify facets of the present culture that are conducive to good strategy execution and those that are not In his letter to All Starbucks Partners written in February 2008, Schultz makes it clear what he believes is necessary to return Starbuck’s at its original competitive position. Of the utmost importance is Howard Schultz’ s address of the waning of Starbuck’s emphasis on providing a distinct quality customer experience. He indicates has concern by saying â€Å"We are in the people business and always have been†¦It means you make the difference.We succeed in the marketplace†¦[by] embracing the values, guiding principles and culture of our company and bringing it to life one customer at a time. † As a result, in his letter Schultz affirms his goal to reintroduce a renewed clarity of purpose devoted to a â€Å"laser-focused† customer experience. Another of these beliefs is his continued persistence to include all employees as partners in the effort to move the company to success. Schultz continues to encourage employees to voice their opinions on how to improve the company’s operations.This makes evident Schultz ‘s belief in holding serious esteem of the opinions of employees. Such a practice is conductive to good strategy execution as he states: â€Å"thank you for your ideas and suggestions†¦keep them coming. No one knows our business and our customers better than you. † Step 2: Specify what new actions, behaviors and work practices should be prominent in the â€Å"new† culture With regards to revitalizing the company’s original customer-centric focus, Schultz clearly states â€Å"we are not going to embrace the status quo.Instead we will be curious, bold and innovative in our actions and, in doing so, we will exceed the expectation of our customers. † In addition Schultz outlines several new objectives in his transformation agenda which establishes the new culture. By analyzing some of these, it becomes evident that much prudence was taken in developing these objectives to correct some of Schultz’s own past inefficiencies.For example, instead of continuing an aggressive expansion policy, the agenda sets out to â€Å"slow the pace of new store openings in the US,† as well as â€Å"closing 900 underperforming company-operated stores in the US,† which were in close proximity of an existing Starbucks store and cannibalizing on its customer base. Step 3: Talk openly about the problems of the present culture and how new behaviors will improve company performance 9. Issues that confront the company as of mid 2010? What should management be worried about? 10. Recommendations to Schultz to sustain the company’s growth and support continued strong financial performance? Coffeehouse and Starbucks 1. Original Strategic Vision for Starbucks Howard Schultz’s original strategic vision was to transform Starbucks into a national company with an emphasis on placing great value on its employees. He believed that the key to success was for Starbucks to capitalize on its people; he wanted a somewhat decentralized organizational structure which emphasized the importance of including employees in the decision-making process. Schultz wanted to place an image of Starbucks as an employer that cared for the general well-being of its employees and one that employees could be take pride in being a part of.A key strategic objective espoused by Schultz in his original strategic vision was to transform Starbucks into â€Å"the most respected brand name in coffee and for the company to be admired for its corporate responsibility. † Also worth noting is the fact that after visiting Milan, Italy Schultz also made it part of his strategic vision to transform Starbucks as a remake of the Italian coffee bar culture. He wanted customers to perceive a visit to a Starbucks coffee shop as a social gathering where customers could grab a fresh-brewed beverage, meet their friends and visit.He believed that creating this emphasis on customer â€Å"experience† could distinguish Starbucks from its competitors. Schultz’s 2010 strategic vision for Starbucks is an extension of his original vision from the 1980s which has been expanded to include more innovative and cost cutting practices. It can also be argued that some of his new strategic objectives are more prudent instead of being fully aggressive. For example, while Schultz still believed that the company should continue to pursue international expansion, he makes it evident that this should be pursued at a slower, more methodical pace.In addition, with regards to the volume of stores in the US, he acknowledges the fact that expansion efforts were not properly coordinated with regards to the close proximities of many Starbucks shops. Therefore he closed 900 underperforming shops, three quarters of which were located three miles away from a nearby shop. The 2010 strategic vision also continued to emphasize the customer experience. He believed that employees have lost their â€Å"soul of the past† in their passion to educate customers about their products and provide customers with a quality experience .As a result in 2008, Schultz ordered 7,100 US stores to be temporarily shut down for three business hours to provide special training for store employees. The purpose of this was to give their baristas hands-on training to aid in improving the quality of the beverages they served. It was also an effort to renew and reignite Starbucks’ culture of a customer-centric focus to help employees understand the importance of a satisfying customer experience. Lastly, much innovation and cost-cutting practices were incorporated into the 2010 strategic vision.For example as part of a seri ous cost-cutting strategy, the company undertook a 1000-person cut in staffing to cut down on administrative costs from the company’s organizational support infrastructure. With regards to innovation, the company also implemented ideas such as internet-based software for scheduling work hours for store employees and new resources such as laptops for store employees. Innovation was also implemented in the products the company offers.An example of this is the launch of VIA instant coffees and menu items designed to offer healthy breakfast choices for people with busy lifestyles such as fruit cups and healthier bakery selections. 2. Has Starbuck’s strategy evolved as the strategic vision has evolved? 3 . The Broad Differentiation strategy most closely approximates the competitive approach used by Starbucks. This is supported by the fact that the company’s target segment is not limited to a specific niche market.As reinforced by the company’s resurging commit ment to expand to global markets, it is committed to serving the needs of a broad market with widely diverse preferences. Supporting Starbuck’s use of a Broad Differentiation strategy is the fact that Starbucks tries to distinguish itself from competitors by offering a service devoted to going the extra mile to deliver a satisfying customer experience. This is congruent with the company’s theme of â€Å"just say yes† to customer requests.Another key aspect of the Broad Differentiation strategy that Starbucks practices is the offer of a wide selection of products which emphasize differentiating attributes. An example of this would be Starbuck’s introduction of VIA Ready Brew Coffee. These were packets of coffee that could be prepared instantly by simply adding them to a cup of water. VIA coffee had the superior attribute of easy preparation while replicating the same rich full-bodied taste of fresh-brewed coffee delivered by Starbucks from its coffeehouses .Another unique product introduced by Starbucks with a differentiating feature is the introduction of Vivanno â€Å"better-for-you† smoothies. These smoothies offered those health-conscious customers with little to think about with only 250 calories, one serving of fruit, 16 grams of proten and 5 grams of fiber. 4 The key policies, practices, principles and procedures that underlie how Howard Schultz and Starbucks management have implemented and executed the company’s strategy are as follows: Emphasis on providing employees with a caring, desirable work environment in which they can contribute to the success and development of the company.It is clear that Shultz believes in taking care of his employees to win their commitment to enhancing the well-being of the company. As evidence, Schultz instilled a comprehensive benefits package which unlike the norm for other businesses, were offered not only to full-time employees but part-time employees as well. In order to empha size the connection between employee contributions and the company’s market value, Schultz also implemented Bean Stock- Starbuck’s stock option plan.The purpose of this was to allow each employee to become a partner and share in the success of the company to promote a positive long-term effect on the company’s operations. Applying ethical and high standards of excellence to the purchasing, roasting and fresh delivery of coffee. Evidence for Starbuck’s commitment to ethical sourcing of its coffee can be supported by its partnership with Conservation International Center to develop Coffee and Farmer Equity (C. A. F. E. ) Practices. Such practices were designed to help farmers grow coffee in ways that prevented harm to the planet.These practices were designed to cover safe and humane working conditions (ensuring congruence with minimum wage requirements as well as child labor provisions), and making sure that the prices Starbucks paid were sufficient to allo w farmers to cover their production costs and provide for their families. In addition, the company’s resoluteness to provide excellent standards in the roasting and serving of coffee is supported by Starbuck’s rigorous training program for all its partners/baristas.The program includes a minimum of 24 hours of training in the first two to four weeks of training and involves classes in coffee history, drink preparation, coffee knowledge and customer service. The enthusiastic development of satisfied customers all of the time. It is clear that Schultz is adamant about ensuring that customers are provided with the best experience every time they visit a Starbucks coffee shop. This meant paying careful attention to what pleases their customers.The company employs a customer-centric culture where they are trained to take extra measures to ensure that the customer was fully satisfied, and to employ a â€Å"just say yes† theme to customer requests. Make a positive cont ribution to the communities in which we operate our business. In order to give back to the communities in which their numerous shops reside, the company participates in many philanthropic events which are coordinated by the Starbucks Foundation. Some of their activities include participation in local charitable projects as well as community development activities.Recognition of profitability as essential to our success. Starbucks is aware that in being able to deliver in all of the aforementioned areas, that it will be able to enjoy the success that its shareholders desire. As a result, the company believes that it is fully accountable to performing well in each of these areas so that Starbucks and its various stakeholders can continue to â€Å"endure and thrive. † 5. What values does Starbucks have? How well do they connect to the strategy and the way the company conducts its business? 6. Social Responsibility: * C. A. F.E : Coffee and Farmer Equity- Partnership in which Sta rbucks sought to develop practices to help farmers grow high-quality coffees in ways that were good for the planet. This covered practices such as safe and humane working conditions including compliance with minimum wage requirements and child labor provisions) and environmental responsibility P359 * Definition for social responsibility- Wikipedia: Starbucks’ corporate culture involves the moral binding of partners to run the company’s operations with consideration of the well-being of others around them.Ie: the company purchases a growing percentage of coffees that Starbucks purchases are grown organically without the use of chemical fertiliziers, pesticides and herbicides. This supports the company’s devotion to socially responsible practices. Such efforts helps in maintaining the cleanliness of groundwater and prevents degradation of environmental ecosystems nearby. embrace As indicated by its countless efforts to manage business in a way that promotes social and environmental concern, Starbucks has very strong dedication to its corporate social responsibility.Not only has this effort to â€Å"build a company with soul† has also been ingrained in the company’s mission statement, Starbuck’s has also received wide recognition for its efforts in this area. In fact in 2010, the company was named to Corporate Responsibility’s list of â€Å"The 100 Best Corporate Citizens† for the 10th time. In addition the company has received over 25 awards for its efforts in the areas of philanthropic, community service and environmental activities.As one of its most noteworthy efforts, in 1997 the company established The Starbucks Foundation to organize the company’s philanthropic undertakings. Under the Foundation, many of its coffee shops participated in regular charity events and community improvement initiatives. Starbuck’s social responsibility is also reflected in its generosity towards worthy causes. For example, in 2005 the company made a $5 million, five year commitment to aid in the relief and recovery of victims of Hurricanes Katrina and Rita.More recently in 2010, the company also donated funding worth $1 million to support the American Red Cross’ efforts to provide relief for those who survived the earthquake in Haiti. In view of such devout efforts to these environment and humanitarian concerns, it can definitely be argued that Starbuck’s social responsibility strategy is genuine. The company’s past and continued devotion to such undertakings support this conjecture, making it evident that Starbucks is true to its cause and is not only publicizing its social responsibility strategy to instil a positive image in its takeholders. 7. Assessment of Starbuck’s financial performance during 2005-2009? 8. Assessment of Schultz’s Transformation Agenda for Starbucks during 2008-2010? (C-363-C-363) Has he done a good job since his return as Starbu cks’ CEO? Why or why not? While Howard Schultz has managed to instil a very strong corporate culture based on delivering the best customer experience possible during his tenure at Starbucks, it seems that the guidance of the company under Jim Donald as CEO starting in 2006 has brought on cultural change.The introduction of Donald as the new CEO has brought on two factors of cultural change as indicated in Figure 1 below: shifting internal conditions (brought on by Donald’s assumption of role as Starbucks CEO) and rapid growth of the firm through his introduction of an aggressive corporate culture that pursued rapid store expansion at the expense of the long-established commitment to customer service.This new focus on aggressive growth with less emphasis on maintaining customer relationships spurred uneasiness amongst member of Starbuck’s board and eroded customer traffic in US stores starting in 2007. Investors became distressed about the company’s steadi ly declining stock price. As a result, in January of 2008, Starbucks asked Howard Schultz to overtake his original position as CEO. Thus he proposed to fix the inefficiencies that impaired Starbuck’s original customer-centric culture.This initiative was set out in a very well-developed set of directives which came to be known as Schultz’s 2008-2010 transformation agenda. By analyzing the various steps necessary in trying to implement change in a problem culture (shown in Figure 2 below), one can see that Schultz’s actions and numerous objectives as set out in his agenda are congruent with those outlined in these steps.Step1: Identify facets of the present culture that are conducive to good strategy execution and those that are not In his letter to All Starbucks Partners written in February 2008, Schultz makes it clear what he believes is necessary to return Starbuck’s at its original competitive position. Of the utmost importance is Howard Schultz’ s address of the waning of Starbuck’s emphasis on providing a distinct quality customer experience. He indicates has concern by saying â€Å"We are in the people business and always have been†¦It means you make the difference.We succeed in the marketplace†¦[by] embracing the values, guiding principles and culture of our company and bringing it to life one customer at a time. † As a result, in his letter Schultz affirms his goal to reintroduce a renewed clarity of purpose devoted to a â€Å"laser-focused† customer experience. Another of these beliefs is his continued persistence to include all employees as partners in the effort to move the company to success. Schultz continues to encourage employees to voice their opinions on how to improve the company’s operations.This makes evident Schultz ‘s belief in holding serious esteem of the opinions of employees. Such a practice is conductive to good strategy execution as he states: â€Å"thank you for your ideas and suggestions†¦keep them coming. No one knows our business and our customers better than you. † Step 2: Specify what new actions, behaviors and work practices should be prominent in the â€Å"new† culture With regards to revitalizing the company’s original customer-centric focus, Schultz clearly states â€Å"we are not going to embrace the status quo.Instead we will be curious, bold and innovative in our actions and, in doing so, we will exceed the expectation of our customers. † In addition Schultz outlines several new objectives in his transformation agenda which establishes the new culture. By analyzing some of these, it becomes evident that much prudence was taken in developing these objectives to correct some of Schultz’s own past inefficiencies.For example, instead of continuing an aggressive expansion policy, the agenda sets out to â€Å"slow the pace of new store openings in the US,† as well as â€Å"closing 900 underperforming company-operated stores in the US,† which were in close proximity of an existing Starbucks store and cannibalizing on its customer base. Step 3: Talk openly about the problems of the present culture and how new behaviors will improve company performance 9. Issues that confront the company as of mid 2010? What should management be worried about? 10. Recommendations to Schultz to sustain the company’s growth and support continued strong financial performance?

The Hunger Games

The Hunger Games Introduction The hunger games was a book written by Suzanne Collins and has been acknowledged and criticized. The play is based on the period when North America government was reduced to Panem country. The disintegration resulted to twelve districts which were controlled by Capitol.Advertising We will write a custom essay sample on The Hunger Games specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More The hunger games were held in Capitol annually. Two tributes from both genders were drawn from the twelve districts and engaged in a fight to death. The essay will focus in answering questions that arise in an attempt to review the book. Themes of poverty, social inequality and love are well featured in the book. Further, the essay will relate some of occurrences to the situation in United States. Discussion Theme of inequality runs throughout the book. Capitol controls twelve districts and influences their lives. Katniss lives in a place nicknamed Seam beca use it harbors poor coal miners. The twelve districts must comply by selecting two tributes to participate in the game. Once a tribute is chosen he or she must go to Capitol. Career tributes come from the rich families and are favored. Career tributes are trained intensively since they come from rich families. Career tributes compete with other tributes from poor families who are not trained. The uncompromised fight to death shows inequality between the authority and subjects. Capitol manipulates wasps and wolves mutants as a way of frustrating tributes from poor families. The change of rules during game shows how Capitol can influence the outcome (Collins 79). Panem is a meritocratic system where success is based on ability and performance. The career tributes yearn for the hunger games since they will be rewarded for their skills. The intense training depicts the importance of reward to the tributes. Katniss and Peeta tell Haymitch to be dedicated in his work so as to ensure they get rewards and sponsorship at the end of the game. Further, tributes are dedicated in killing each other so as to emerge as winners. After Peeta and Katniss are declared winners they are overjoyed because of the rewards. Further, when Peeta and Katniss return home, their people are happy and they pose for cameras (Collins 154). Media influences the social structure of Panem to a great extent. As a result, the citizens are more cohesive and learn to appreciate each other. Before the games begin all tributes are interviewed by a television host. The society gets to know how prepared their tributes are for the hunger games.Advertising Looking for essay on american literature? Let's see if we can help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn More Peeta gets to inform the rest of the society including Katniss of his true feelings for her. After Peeta and Katniss return home victorious media aspect is involved (Collins 165). The two victors pose for cameras as they unite with their people. Tributes get to know each other better via media. Further, the society is in touch with the preparedness of their tributes via media. Media influence in social aspect is similar to the situation in United States. Media plays a crucial role in promoting social cohesion among the citizens of the United States. For example, during the political campaigns the rivals get to know each other’s strategies via media. The supporters gauge the success chances of their political representative via media. The cohesion in the society is promoted as people are united by media. People from different sides are featured equally thus enhancing social equality. The social relation between politicians and their supporters is enhanced by media. Political parties accept defeat and success of the rival due to trust and reliability that is associated with media in United States. According to Allan Johnson, social structure is prone to many forces. Many factors are consi dered in establishment of social structure. Social structure varies with the change in attitude, norms and beliefs. Path of least resistance is interpreted as the common expectations by a specific social structure. Path of least resistance is associated with acceptance while the opposite leads to rejection and punishment. In Panem, path of least resistance is well laid by the Capitol. All districts present two tributes from both sexes during the hunger games as spelt by the government. Katniss volunteers in place of her sister to ensure that her family do not defy with the set orders. Haymitch trains Katniss skillfully so as to ensure that she will be successful by doing what is required. For example, the tactic of running from her rivals increases her chances of being victorious (Collins 179). Katniss teams up with Rue since she knows that they are more likely to win by forming a bond. There is one instance when Katniss and Peeta fail to follow the path of low resistance. When the second announcement during the game demands that they should kill each other, they opt to commit suicide. Peeta and Katniss attempt to eat the poisonous berries and defy the orders of Capitol. Despite their disobedience, they are both proclaimed winners. However, Haymitch advices Katniss to tell the authority that she was in love with Peeta and could not be able to kill him so as to show that she was not being disobedient (Collins 180).Advertising We will write a custom essay sample on The Hunger Games specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More The hunger Games is a book that highlights significant issues in sociology arena. Social structure is one of the aspects featured in the book. Gender equity is well pronounced when the districts are supposed to produce tributes from both genders (Collins 212). Further, all districts take part in the games which shows social cohesion. Power distance model involving the relationship between the authority and subjects is well featured. The social activities involved in the livelihood of the people of Panem promote cultural knowledge and acceptance. The book highlights instances of inequity and relates them with negative effects. Equity is associated with positive impacts to the society. The book discourages inequity and advocates for social cohesion. The hunger games take place in a place that is not well known by the tributes. The hardships and the different situations are meant to make tributes adjust and survive all conditions. The hunger games involve participation of all districts which promotes cohesion (Collins 260). The rich compete with the poor at a place where they are exposed to similar conditions. However, Collins successfully highlights some of the benefits accorded to the rich tributes. The nature of meritocracy ensures that the tributes of high merit are accorded great rewards. The book bridges the gap between the rich and the poor by negating the benefits accorded to rich and boosting the ability of the poor tributes. Miner’s story on Nacirema attempts to bridge the gaps existing between different cultures. There are cultures that are considered being superior to others. The attempt of Miner is to reduce the intensity of culture disregard and promote acceptance. Miner features Nacirema people who thought that their bodies were vulnerable to diseases and sought for magic to heal them. Miner talks of the shrine in which every Nacirema was supposed to pray and drink substances given by medicine men. Miner compares the culture of Nacirema with that of Americans. He refers to the shrine as being a bathroom according to Americans. Their belief in magic is associated with cosmetics and makeup used by Americans. The magical drinks are interpreted as medicine given by doctors in America. The hunger games features Panem society that can be compared with American society. The games could be interpreted as political campaigns where the victorious po litician is accorded reward. The participation of all districts in the games can be interpreted as equality exercised when supporters vote (Collins 289).Advertising Looking for essay on american literature? Let's see if we can help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn More Consequently, inequality can be associated with the discrimination accorded to people of lower status in America. The book is well suited for youths since entertainment and theme of love is well featured. The protagonist is outstanding especially with her ace of hunting. Romance is the only excuse for not following the path with least resistance. Conclusion The Hunger Games is a very entertaining book that has been successful in highlighting aspects of social structure. The book contributes significantly to sociology literature as it identifies issues associated with negative as well as positive impacts in the society. Easy manipulation by Capitol shows influence and power distance involved in governance of Panem society. Meritocracy system is adopted by the government of Panem. Meritocracy ensures rewards are given to people who deserve them thus ensuring fairness and justice. Further, the issues of a fight to death and the uncompromised participation depict severe control on the c itizens. However the mutant wolves and availability of treatment for Peeta should have been more twisted Collins, Suzanne. The Hunger Games, New York: Scholastic publishers. 2008. Print.

The History of Basketball †Fitness Research Paper

The History of Basketball – Fitness Research Paper Free Online Research Papers The History of Basketball Fitness Research Paper Dr. James Naismith came up with the idea of basketball in Springfield, Massachusetts, 1891. Dr. Luther Gulick, head of Physical Education at the International Young Men’s Christian Association Training School, ordered Naismith to create an indoor game that would provide a distraction for students throughout the winter. He developed the original 13 rules and thus the game of basketball emerged. The first official game of basketball was believed to be played on December 21, 1891. Naismith’s gym class in Springfield, Massachusetts, played it. The equipment used to play the first game was a soccer ball, peach baskets, and nine players to each team. Since then, there have been major changes to the game. The court dimensions for any basketball court have not changed very much. The sideline, the line where the bench and stands are, is ninety-four feet long. The baseline, line underneath the hoop, is fifty feet long. The three-point line is nineteen feet, nine inches from the hoop. The free throw line is fifteen feet from the hoop. The hoop is ten feet above the ground. Each basket is worth two points, foul shots are worth one point, and of course the three-point shot from outside the three-point line. Adding to the original 13 rules to basketball, we now have quite a few more. The rules started to change about two years after the original 13 were developed. The first rule changes were the four fundamental principles of the game. Players with the ball must not make progress, the goal is above the head of the players, roughness is eliminated, and a player may not receive the ball by use of contact, these are the four fundamental principles. Five players were allowed on the court from each team after 1897 since the original nine were too many players to have on the court at one time. Players were allowed unlimited fouls up till 1908 when the five foul limit was adopted. Once a player reached the foul limit they were removed from the rest of the game. The next two rules were changes of equipment. Glass backboards replaced the wood ones, and a basketball was invented, so the soccer balls were no longer needed. In 1906, the hoops were changed from peach baskets to metal baskets. The metal baskets had a hole in the middle and a pole was used to hit the ball out of the hoop. Climbing a ladder was originally how the ball was retrieved after a shot was made. Finally, in 1913, the hoops we have today were developed, the metal rims and net. This was the last edition to the equipment rule changes. The next major changes that helped to increase the speed of the game were the dribbling and shooting rules. Dribbling was allowed from the beginning; however you were not allowed to dribble in and take a shot. In 1934, this rule changed and we now have lay-ups and fast breaks. A jump ball is when the referee tosses the ball up at half court and two players jumped to win the ball out of the air. Jump balls were used for everything from fouls to some sort of play stoppage until 1937 when the uses of jump balls were eliminated. Free throws, otherwise known as foul shots, have been around since 1895, but it was only since 1923 that the person fouled had to shoot the foul shots. Anyone could shoot the foul shot, in which case teams had one player who specialized in foul shooting, this rule had to change because of disadvantages towards each team. Throughout the 1940’s, all different kinds of shots were developed. The jump shot was first brought into play, along with dunking. In addition to dunking, goaltending was right there to defend it. The game speed picked up immensely with all of the rule adaptations. To increase the game speed even more, the three-second rule was added along with a 24-second shot clock in the 1950’s. Another time change is the addition of the 10-second rule, which is used when the offense has the ball and is bringing the ball up the court. The ten seconds is how long they have to bring the ball across mid-court. These new rules went against the offense so that they could not stall the ball. The final rule change to help the game was the three-point line and three-point shot which were introduced to the game in the 1960’s. There were a number of basketball leagues throughout the years. However, most of them were unsuccessful after so many seasons. The first basketball league was the National Basketball League (NBL), which developed in 1898. The first professional league was the American Basketball League (ABL) which formed in 1925. In 1936, basketball was recognized as an Olympic Team. The National Basketball Association (NBA), which is still exists today, was formed in 1949. The Basketball Association of America and the National Basketball League combined to form the NBA. The NBA had seventeen teams in three divisions. The last league to develop was the American Basketball Association (ABA) nicknamed the Lively League. The ABA existed for nine seasons from 1967-1976. This league differed from every other league because they used red, white, and blue colored basketballs. The ABA was more of a show league then anything else. The ABA and NBA were rival leagues. In June 1976, the rivalry ceased. The leagues joined together. The four strongest ABA teams survived the merger. The teams were the New York Nets, Denver Nuggets, Indiana Pacers, and San Antonio Spurs. The other ABA teams vanished along with the league itself. Julius â€Å"Dr.J† Erving, (one of the most well known basketball players in his day) played in ABA before the merge. Women’s basketball was always around but was not a popular event for men to watch. After Naismith invented basketball, a girl’s school nearby caught on and started to play as well. The woman who started women’s basketball was Senda Berenson, a teacher of physical education at Smith College. Berenson thought that there should also be a separate set of rules for women. She devised a few rules. She divided the court in to three sections. For a five-woman team, there were two shooting guards, one center, and two forwards. The shooting guards scored all the points, the center distributed the ball to the guards, and the forwards played defense and passed the rebounds they got to the center. Playing defense on a nine-woman team were two forwards and a goal keeper. On offense there were two guards and a goal guard. In the center section there were three centers, a forward center, back center, and jumping center. In contrast to men’s basketball, the women were allowed three dribbles a piece, than could hold the ball for three seconds before passing it to a teammate. If the player took more dribbles, or held the ball longer then three seconds a foul was called. The first set of rules for women’s basketball was published in 1901. The rules followed with Berenson’s original idea. Snatching or batting the ball was not permitted and was considered a foul. Also, the court was divided up in three sections. The number of players on the court ranged from 5-10 due to how big the gym was. In 1903, the rules changed again. The number of players now ranged from 6-9. Play was stopped constantly during basketball games because of the fouls and the hoop. The hoop still had a basket with a bottom on it. The open net hoops were against the rules for fear of the ball going through the nets so quickly the officials will not know if the team scored or not. Every time a player was fouled; it lead to a foul shot. If someone held the ball too long, stepped out of bounds, or even double-teamed a player who was attempting to shoot got a foul called on them and a foul shot was awarded to the other team. To keep the game more feminine, the rules committee suggested making sure the women were not using slang, chewing gum, or sitting on the floor and that their appearance was acceptable. Unsportsmanlike conduct was introduced to prevent kicking, hair pulling, and slapping, any display of temper was to be considered a foul. If the coaches shouted at one of the players, whether good or bad, it was considered to be a foul. I believe this is where we get the technical foul rule used today. The dribbling rule was eliminated in 1910 but restored in 1913 because of complaints that the game was boring. Defensive restrictions were also made. The two-handed, overhead pass and shot was perfected because it was very hard to block. Defensive players had to remain in a vertical plane and could not lean over because it gave them an advantage for blocking shots and passes. For a time, the two-handed, overhead shot was only worth one point instead of two points because it was impossible to block without breaking the vertical plane. Women of all ages started to play basketball. The sport was becoming very popular for younger girls. Basketball was started to be played in high school, as well as college. However, women did not have an official league to play in after college. For a while, they did not have an Olympic team either. The Olympic team developed in the 1970s. All women who had a lot of talent played in the Olympics. That is until April 24, 1996, when the NBA introduced the idea of having the Women’s National Basketball Association. The WNBA began playing in June of 1997. Sheryl Swoopes, Rebecca Lobo, and Lisa Leslie were the first players to sign with the WNBA in October 1996. Other member of the Olympic Gold Medal team also joined the WNBA. To start the league, there were eight teams, and those eight teams still exist today. Basketball has come far from the first game in 1891. Many men and women have made names for themselves over the years. Some of the best players in basketball consist of Michael Jordan, Larry Bird, Patrick Ewing, and Magic Johnson just to name a few. Sheryl Swoopes, Susie McConnell, Cynthia Cooper, Lisa Leslie, and Rebecca Lobo are some of the best players to have played in the WNBA. Along with these greats, there are many aspiring basketball players out there who will make a name for their selves in years to come. Bahr, Lauren S. (1995). Collier’s Encyclopedia: Basketball. Connecticut, P.F. Collier, Inc. Internet source www.hoophallhistory.com. Chernow, Barbara A. (1993). The Columbia Encyclopedia: Basketball. New York, Columbia University Press. Internet source www.hoophallhistory.com. Halsey, William D. (1975). Merit Student Encyclopedia: Basketball. New Jersey, Macmillian Company Inc. Internet source www.hoophallhistory.com. Lannin, Joanne. (2000) A History of Basketball for Girls and Women: From Bloomers to Big Leagues. Minnesota, Lerner Publishing Group. Morse, Joseph. (1973). Funk Wagnalls New Encyclopedia: Basketball. New York, Funk Wagnalls Inc. Internet source www.hoophallhistory.com. National Collegiate Athletic Association. (1999). Original Rules of Basketball. Internet source www.ncaa.org/champadmin/basketball/original_rules.html. Nix, Charlie. (2000). Skills, Drills Strategies for Basketball. Holcomb Hathaway Publishers, Inc. Section 2 The Game (pp. 24-25). Arizona. Shashi, Tom. (1998). Basketball History. Internet source www.geocities.com/fruitfax/basketballhistory.htm. Research Papers on The History of Basketball - Fitness Research PaperThe Hockey GameTrailblazing by Eric AndersonMarketing of Lifeboy Soap A Unilever ProductPETSTEL analysis of IndiaCapital PunishmentStandardized TestingCanaanite Influence on the Early Israelite ReligionThe Project Managment Office SystemQuebec and CanadaHip-Hop is Art

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