The difference between a winner and a loser

Winners are playmakers and losers are heart breakers , champions make history , while losers watch it happen !

http://daniel-j-stone.blogspot.com (C) 2009-14

Eckerd College kicks male ELS students off campus in response to sexual assault concerns

http://www.tampabay.com/news/humaninterest/fearing-sexual-offenses-eckerd-college-kicks-male-els-students-off-campus/2199646

ST. PETERSBURG — The invitation to foreign students on the Eckerd College website looks irresistible, with images of glistening beaches and sailboats knifing through the water.

Over the past 40 years, "tens of thousands of students from all over the world" have learned English at an ELS Language Center on the Eckerd campus. They can eat in the cafeterias, swim in the pool, enjoy the waterfront or work out in the gym.

This week, however, Eckerd administrators reduced those liberties.

"As of Monday, September 22, 2014, only female ELS participants will be permitted to reside in campus housing," Lorisa Lorenzo, Eckerd's associate dean for student life, wrote in an email sent Wednesday to all students.

The sudden policy shift, undertaken by Eckerd and acceded to by ELS, follows a tumultuous August. Authorities last month dealt with violations ranging from alcohol and catcalls to two allegations of sexual assault reported by female Eckerd students.

It is unclear whether either alleged attacker has been identified. Nonetheless, all four male ELS students on the campus have moved into homes or nearby hotels.

The ban also affects future ELS students and runs indefinitely, or at least until Eckerd and ELS administrators can work out an agreement that could allow male ELS students to return to a dormitory. The new policy also imposes an 8 p.m. curfew on the 42 ELS students now living off the campus, male or female, by which they must have left the property.

"We completely abide by Eckerd College's decision on how to proceed in the investigation and their interpretation of Title IX policies and procedures," said Alexandra Zilovic, the ELS senior vice president for operations and business affairs for North America. The private company provides English language education to foreign students.

Title IX is a federal law that prohibits gender discrimination in education programs that get federal funds. The law has gotten national attention recently because of the investigation by Florida State University authorities into alleged misconduct by quarterback Jameis Winston.

Eckerd's action was made after a freshman told campus security on Sept. 1 she was sexually assaulted three weeks earlier, St. Petersburg police spokesman Mike Puetz said.

The student said she accepted a drink from a group of ELS students from Spain and subsequently blacked out. She woke up in her dorm room "in a state of undress," Puetz said.

"A lot of her physical state seemed to suggest that she had engaged in some sort of sexual act to which she did not give her consent," he said.

She was interviewed and signed a waiver of prosecution.

That incident was after another report from August by a different female Eckerd student, who asked the school not to report her assault to police.

"We can safely say that the level of seriousness in at least one of the incidents was part of the reason we have responded as we have," said James Annarelli, Eckerd's vice president for student life and dean of students..

Some ELS students see the new policy as unfair and discriminatory.

"The problem is one or two of the men. It's not all the men," said Mariadelcarmen Jimenez, 27, of Paraguay, who has lived on the campus while studying at ELS for seven months. "Eckerd and ELS students have the same problem about drinking and drugs. The students at Eckerd don't move. But the students at ELS move."

Both sides are eager to portray recent behavioral issues among ELS students as a hiccup in a mutually beneficial relationship. English Language Services, a program based in Princeton, N.J., that does business as English Language Centers, has at least 60 schools across the United States. Students representing up to 130 countries have visited Eckerd since the 1970s.

A problem with some male ELS students became apparent about three years ago, Annarelli said, one that included "harassing language, which in the context of the United States and Eckerd College is not acceptable."

Malena Carollo, a recent Eckerd graduate, said she noticed ELS students, particularly from Saudi Arabia, making catcalls and other unwelcome gestures.

"The past couple of years there has been some tension because largely male students had a little bit of trouble assimilating properly with some of the girls," said Carollo, 22.

Eckerd's crime statistics reported to federal authorities show that hundreds of its students have violated policies and broken laws in recent years.

From 2010 through 2012, the college recorded 250 liquor law violations, 402 drug law violations and 15 sexual assaults. None of the sex offenses resulted in arrests.

Annarelli acknowledged those blemishes but said Eckerd students have cleared background screenings and submitted letters of recommendation.

Students who apply to ELS online, by comparison, need only be able to fill out the application, sign a health statement and pay $1,350 to $1,790 for a four-week course.

Both Eckerd and ELS administrators have expressed hope that they will come up with a plan to bring male ELS students back on the campus soon.

"ELS has zero tolerance for (sexual offenses)," Zilovic said. "I find it unfortunate that there has developed now an impression among the (Eckerd) students that somehow these international students may not be safe or know how to behave — because that truly is not the case."

Researcher Caryn Baird contributed to this report. Contact Andrew Meacham at ameacham@tampabay.com or (727) 892-2248. Follow @torch437.

http://daniel-j-stone.blogspot.com (C) 2009-14

A Way Of Life- Eat Mor Chikn'

Monday, September 8th, 2014- I am saddened to learn of Mr. Cathy's passing. He was a good man and his first book, "Eat Mor Chikin- And Inspire More People" is a must read for anyone entertaining the idea of starting their own business and serves as a reminder to those of the 20th Century that paved the way and the challenges they faced.

Around the birth of my daughter, I was moved to write what Chick-Fil-A meant to me. To read this article, please read below or visit http://www.chick-fil-a.com/Story/Detail/5074.

It's a fact that I've been going to Chick-fil-A since the late 1970s when I would go with my dad to Furman football games in my hometown, Greenville, SC in the back of a station wagon. As I got older, in the 80s, I went to Chick-fil-A at Haywood Mall with my teammates wearing my football jersey for the pre-game meal on Friday nights. Going to the mall was a big deal and going there with your teammates all wearing the same jersey was like being the big man on campus. In the 90s, I moved away from the South and served two tours in the Persian Gulf in the US Navy. Afterwards, I stayed in CA and pursued my bachelor's degree. My wife, who was my girlfriend at the time, would go with me on dates to one of the only Chick-fil-A restaurants in CA.

As I was completing my undergraduate degree, in the early '00s, my dad gave me Mr. Cathy's first book, "Eat Mor Chikn': Inspire More People". I fell in love with the book as it gave me an inside look to how my grandfather was raised as Mr. Cathy and my grandfather come from the same hometown in GA and grew up during the depression. I was moved to hear how Mr. Cathy would treat his employees, how he would donate money to his causes. I was able to get an inside look to how my parents were as younger adults raising my sister and I in the 1970s and 1980s when the US Dollar went off of the gold standard, there were lines to buy gas, and the interest rate to buy property was 25%. Mr. Cathy was expanding his business at that time and had to go all of 1982 with no salary due to the hard times that people faced at that time. In the '10s, I finally met my full potential as a director of a school for international students. I would try to lift everyone's spirits by treating my teachers to Chick-fil-A Biscuits from time to time.

It is more than Chicken Sandwiches, Waffle Fries and sweet tea. Chick-fil-A is a way of life in more ways than I can imagine, especially for people from the South.

Chick-fil-A Appreciation Day? I appreciate Chick-fil-A and its values every day.

http://daniel-j-stone.blogspot.com

(C) 2009-14

When hiring an Independent Contractor

Make sure to do the following:

Have contractor complete a W-9 form to retained for your records.

Provide contractor a 1099 form.  Make a copy for your records once completed.

In your agreement, inform contractor of the following:

1.  Start and end dates,

2.  Services provided,

3.  Rate of compensation

http://daniel-j-stone.blogspot.com (C) 2009-14

Country Analysis- The Republic of South Africa

Country Analysis-  The Republic of South Africa

Daniel Stone

Ohio Dominican University

           Executive Summary.  The Republic of South Africa has the largest economy in the African continent with a Gross Domestic Product (GDP) of approximately US$364 billion in 2010.  This is in part due to its location which has an impact on business that distinguishes itself from the rest of Africa since South Africa and its neighboring countries have the main exports of natural resources.  The climate in South Africa also allows for a strong and robust economy and distinguishes itself from the rest of the African continent since the climate permits a flourishing wine and gardening industries in the southern part of South Africa. 

            Also, due to South Africa's expansive infrastructure, the natural resources that originally built the South African economy can be transported with little resistance.  It's infrastructure has an impact on business by allowing goods and services to be moved in a more streamlined fashion on the one hand, while allowing an increase in labor productivity on the other hand resulting in lower absenteeism due to the lessening resistance for commuters. 

            A possible risk in business development is the low involvement in the political process.  Nearly 50% of the population in South Africa is under the age of 24.  Known as the "Born Free" generation, this large demographic hasn't been very engaged in the political process and those that are politically involved are not satisfied with the established ruling parties. 

            However, the readiness or competitiveness of South Africa is strong and a good fit for foreign direct investments.  This is due to South Africans having the right to the various levels of public education.  As a result, there is a large pool of young and educated workers found in this country that will take to on-the-job training and retain the newly acquired knowledge. 

            Risks to business development is the South African government.  On the one hand, the South African political system, led by the African National Congress (ANC) has been the overwhelming majority for the past 20 years.  During this period, the South African governmental and legislative system has the trends toward legislation that may be favorable to business development of a manufacturing company due to a mixed economic system.  However, since Nelson Mandela left office in 1999, Mandela's successors have been sorely flawed.  Corruption within the ANC has become more flagrant.  With this being said, another possible risk in business development is the overall legislative and regulatory climate in South Africa since corruption is not regulated. 

                Location.  Found on the southern tip of the African continent, South Africa has the main exports of platinum, diamonds, gold, and uranium which have an impact on business of a manufacturing company (Central Intelligence Agency, 2013).  A possible risk in business development for a US-based manufacturing company is the distance between the North American and African continents.  However, the readiness of South Africa in global business is strong for establishing a local office and develop a local management team (Daniels, Radebaugh, and Sullivan, 2013).

            Climate.   The climate in South Africa is mostly semiarid and subtropical along the east coast.  The competitiveness of the country in global business is strong due to this climate since in the day it is normally sunny and in the night it is normally cool yielding ideal work conditions.  For example, South Africa's climate is as such that it has a positive impact on business by allowing a flourishing wine industry in the southwest part of South Africa (Central Intelligence Agency, 2013).  Along the southeast coast, there is enough rainfall which provides South Africa green landscape for another flourishing gardening industry (Central Intelligence Agency, 2013). 

            Infrastructure.  South Africa has a number of highways, airports, seaports, and other facilities for its infrastructure.  Accessibility to South Africa by sea is strong due to its eight commercial seaports in South Africa (Central Intelligence Agency, 2013).  Before the Panama Canal, South Africa was the home of one of the biggest shipbuilding and ship repair places due to the number of unsuccessful attempts transiting the Horn of Africa off of South Africa's southern tip.  A possible risk in business development is for ocean freight shipments to and from South Africa that are unable to transit the Panama Canal due to the long transit times (Central Intelligence Agency, 2013). 

            The competitiveness of South Africa is strong from an aviation standpoint due to the country's five international airports, two of which are in the nation's largest city, Johannesburg.  Furthermore, South Africa's readiness in global business is strong due to the country's extensive network of highways that connect ground transportation throughout the country.  Most of these highways were upgraded in preparation for the 2010 World Cup.  These upgrades created new bus lanes that have shorten commuting times.  Also, South Africa has its first high speed rail link as part of the build up for the World Cup (RSM International Limited, 2013).

            As a result of South Africa's expansive infrastructure, the natural resources that originally built their economy can be exported with little resistance.  It's infrastructure has an impact on business of a manufacturing company by allowing goods and services to be moved in a more streamlined fashion on the one hand and lower absenteeism and increased labor productive on the other hand (RSM International Limited, 2013).

           Social Environment.  South Africa has a total of 11 official languages including English, Afrikaans, Sesotho, Setswana, Xhosa and Zulu (Adam, 1997) .  On the one hand, the readiness of the country in global business is strong due to the majority of South Africans able to communicate in English.  However, on the other hand, a possible risk in business development is a lack of continuity from a historical standpoint between these different languages (Adam, 1997) .        Another example of the readiness of South Africa is the country's demographics.  For example, South Africa's Caucasian settlers demographic, known as Afrikaners, come from industrialized nations to a greater extent from the Netherlands, Germany, France and to a lesser extent from England, Scotland, and Ireland.  As a result, a foundation conducive for business was established in the 19th and 20th century.  However, in the middle of the 20th century that the Afrikaners instituted apartheid, which alienated the rest of the demographics because of their race (Adam, 1997) .

            A direct correlation to the end of apartheid that shows the readiness of South Africa as a country in global business are the growth of the black middle class.  As a result,  South African has alleviated pressures of welfare spending (BBC News, 2013).  Considering that Xhosa and Zulu are the local African groups that comprise of the majority of the South African population, having a growing black middle class is an indicator of the readiness of South Africa in global business in the 20 years since the end of apartheid.  While this is a much needed economic improvement, barely 40% of working age in South Africa have jobs.  Yet, while South Africa is a country considered rich in resources, 33% in South Africa live on less than $2 a day (The Economist, 2013).  Many in South Africa consider race that was the biggest division in South Africa's past, however, the economic disparity among much of South Africa is what will keep the country divided in the future (Bourdain & Freeman, 2013).

            One other example that shows the competitiveness of South Africa in global business is their desire to obtain the finer things in life.  As South Africans continue to acquire more and more wealth, they will desire better smart phones, faster high speed internet, and other technological advances that established developing countries have for example (Bourdain & Freeman, 2013).

            While the Afrikaners were the ruling class until the mid-1990s and the blacks were the majority in South Africa, there is also a mixed culture comprising of ancestry of Europeans and other indigenous African and Asian people are known as Cape Coloreds.  Those receiving this classification aren't necessarily black, just not Caucasian.  Much of this consists of a sizeable Muslim community in South Africa's metropolitan areas such as Johannesburg (Bourdain & Freeman, 2013).

            Another possible risk in business development is South Africa's trends in population  since it has excess mortality due to AIDS.  Life expectancy is lowered (65 years and over equate to 6.1%).  Another risk is South Africa's youthful demographic.  Nearly 50% of the population in South Africa is under the age of 24 meaning that involvement in the political process is low.  Many of the younger South Africans do not support the current politicians.  This demographic does not have the passion as their parents once did for the political process due to the oldest of this age group being born after apartheid was abolished (Central Intelligence Agency, 2013). 

            Known as the "Born Free" generation (Bourdain & Freeman, 2013), this bottom-heavy age structure has a good fit for foreign direct investments such as those from fast-foods giant, McDonalds.  McDonalds has 177 restaurants in South Africa and with this youthful age group, this trend is attracting other foreign direct investment from Burger King in who plans to enter the South African market in 2014 (Joy, 2013).  Not only do companies from the U.S. see the readiness of South Africa in global business, but also does the rest of the African continent.  South Africans see their country as a beacon of hope for the rest of the African continent due to people from other African nations going to South Africa in the past 20 years when apartheid was finally abolished (Bourdain & Freeman, 2013).

            Along with its natural resources, one of the brightest signals that shows the readiness of South African in global business is their high literacy rate.  This is due all South Africans having the right to basic education, adult basic education, and further education.  South Africa has one of the highest rates of public investment in education in the world.  These education levels combined with South Africa's population trends impact business positively for a manufacturing company to conduct a foreign direct investment.  South Africa is globally competitive since not only will local staff be young and impressionable to take to training, but also educated enough to retain the knowledge and provide solid workmanship (BBC News, 2013).  

            A possible risk in business development in South Africa's cultural environment that has the impact on the business of a manufacturing company is limited amounts of skilled capacity in engineering, technology, and economic disciplines.  While the South African public sector provides funding for educational programs and the pathway to education by South Africans has little to no resistance; skilled engineers, technology, and economic professionals are few in numbers (Heinrich Boll Stiftung, 2013). 

            Cultural Environment.  With literacy being one of the brightest signals in South Africa, corruption throughout the  African continent one of the biggest signals for concern since these African countries rank as the most corrupt region in the world with 90% of the countries scoring as very corrupt (Dell, & Heimann, 2012).  On the other hand there is a traditional African concept known as Ubuntu.  This is widely respected in South Africa that emphasizes people's allegiances and relations with each other.  Qualities associated with this is interdependence, unity, collective work and responsibility (Ubuntu Africa, 2013). 

            While corruption in a threat to business development in South Africa, the South African's attitudes towards social institutions such as family, church, labor, and other organizations are similar to those found in other Western countries that were established and grew to prominence in the 20th century.  From a religious standpoint; Protestants, Catholics, and other Christians comprise of nearly 80% of the religions found in South Africa.  From a public sector stand point, the South African government is a republic meaning that it is a sovereign state where politicians are elected.  These show South Africa's readiness in global business due to the degree of sophistication necessary to operate a government where politicians are elected has a direct correlation to a government where the economy is strong (Central Intelligence Agency, 2013). 

            The readiness on business of a manufacturing company in South Africa in global business is strong because English is one of South Africa's official languages.  As a result, English-speaking nations are able to communicate and make few alterations to packaging of imported and exported products due to this main common value.  Trade barriers have been minimized in some cases for products coming from those countries of Botswana, Lesotho, Namibia, and Swaziland to South Africa known as the Southern African Customs Union (SACU) (Charalambous, 2012).

            The cultural factors found in South Africa have constituted informal trade barriers in the past due to apartheid. For example, Israel offered to provide aid to South African blacks which bothered the ruling white South Africans.  In 1962, the United Nations passed a resolution condemning South Africa and their apartheid policies.  As a result, there was a voluntary arms embargo and in the 1970s, South Africa received a number of economic sanctions (Coutsoukis, 2004).  This may be a possible risk in business development since historically South Africa was viewed in a negative light at the global level. 

            Economic Situation.  The readiness of South Africa in global business in terms of its economic situation for global business is strong.  This is due to the fact that South Africa has the largest economy in the African continent with a Gross Domestic Product (GDP) of approximately US$364 billion in 2010 (Central Intelligence Agency, 2013).  South Africa's current economic situation is a middle-income, emerging market with an abundant supply of natural resources; well-developed financial, legal, communications, energy, and transport sectors and a stock exchange that is the 15th largest in the world. 

            Despite these findings, there are possible risks in business development due to South Africa's economic situation.  In 2007, their economy began to slow in terms of growth due to a electricity crisis.  South Africa's economic growth further slowed due to the global financial crisis which reduced the prices of commodities, South Africa's main export.  This combined by a global demand for commodities falling off caused South Africa's GDP to fall by 2% which hasn't recovered since then.  South Africa has budget deficits which is 40% of their GDP that has prevented them on dealing with pressing economic problems such as controlling inflation and unemployment of nearly 25%.  In 2012, South Africa's real growth GDP rate was at 2.5% and the inflation rate is 5.7%.  Inflation rates have risen due to the commodities boom which went into effect prior to the global financial crisis.  In 2007, South Africa implemented the National Credit Act to curb reckless lending practices.  While there have been bank defaults on loans due to the fallout of the global financial crisis, nothing that was too alarming for South Africa because of the National Credit Act.  Rising food and fuel prices are no different in South Africa than the rest of the world but are worse due to high interest rates (Heinrich Boll Stiftung, 2013). 

            New developments and trends for South Africa's economic situation are the global financial crisis has reduced prices and world demand of commodities.  While South Africa has survived the collapse of the commodities markets, credit crunch, and bursting of assets bubbles, analysis debate if South Africa is insulated from world financial markets.  This is due to foreign investors now being able to send back to their home country funds which was the problem that came from the apartheid era to prevent capital flight.  The ratio of capital to risk-weighted assets of the average South African bank's capital adequacy is above 12%, a benchmark that European banks are expected to clear.  While there have been large numbers of panicked withdrawal of funds in the U.S. and Europe on the global level, there are no signs of a loss of confidence taking place in South Africa.  South Africa's exports are approximately 50% to the U.S. and the Euro Zone, and the other 50% to China.  While the price of precious metals such as coal have plunged along with demand in the U.S. and the Euro Zone, the demand and price has not been hit so hard in China (Heinrich Boll Stiftung, 2013). 

            South Africa's currency, the Rand, has collapse in line with global equity markets, however, since mining production comprises of over half of the nation’s exports, and mining in South Africa is struggling, the strength of the South African Rand will improve as the mining situation improves.  (Future Currency Forecast, 2014). 

            Political Environment.  South Africa's current political environment is led by Jacob Zuma, of the African National Congress (ANC).  The ANC's governmental and legislative system has the trends toward legislation that may be favorable to business development of a manufacturing company due to a mixed economic system  of command and market that the ANC influences (Daniels et al., 2013).

            A risk to business development is the current political scene which has a lot of bitter fighting.  Mandela served as president from 1994-99.  His successors have been considered sorely flawed.  For example ,corruption within the ANC has become more flagrant (The Economist, 2013).  As a result, the political party that fired South Africans from white rule, the ANC,  is not universally admired in recent years.  The ANC is being criticized for corruption, political cronyism resulting in opposition parties gaining strength. In short, the political party that led the country after apartheid is now considered to proceed awkwardly and uncertainly at present.  In the 20 years since the abolishment of apartheid, South Africa's political environment has been considered a demographic experiment and like most things, in need of a tune up (Bourdain & Freeman, 2013).  This of course is a risk to business development. 

            Another threat to business development are formal trade barriers like tariffs, import and export regulation has restricted business to and from South Africa.  There is a lack of coordination across government ministries and regulatory authorities has caused delays in authorizing trade for new products.  For example, one South African retailer spent three years getting permission to export processed beef and pork from South Africa to Zambia (South Africa'.info. 2013).  One of the country's biggest assets, iron ore mining, had a bitter dispute between a foreign direct investor and a local investor.  While the country's constitutional court upheld the foreign direct investor's forfeited stake for a local investor's stake in the iron ore mining company, another public agency, the South Africa Department of Mineral Resources, granted that same forfeited stake to a different local investor with political connections as the reason (Charalambous, 2012). 

            The signs of a convoluted public sector interfering with business development is obviously a risk, however there are signs that the ethical climate for business of a manufacturing company in South Africa is improving.  In May 2011, The Ministry of Finance announced that South Africa had established a Multi-Agency Work Group (MAWG) to coordinate and investigate corruption-related supply chain management practices in an effort to emphasize openness, effective competition and fair dealings in the public sector (South Africa'.info. 2013).

           The public sector in South Africa's attitude towards corruption and unethical business practices are improving.  The 9th and 10th least corrupt country in 2012, Canada and Netherlands, had a score of 84.  South Africa's scored 42 out of 100 in 2013.  By no means is South Africa setting the standard for a public sector in terms of a lack of corruption, however in comparison to some of the other counties in Africa, two countries from the Sub Saharan African region that made the top 10 list of the most corrupt countries in the world, which are Sudan with a score of 13 and Somalia with a score of 8 (Standard Bank Group, 2012).

            Legal Environment.  Intellectual Property in South Africa is a newer concept that is being enforced by following the model carried out by the U.S.  This fact combined with the high level of corruption in the country's public sector is a risk to business development.  However, in South Africa, intellectual property protection is granted and facilitated by the Companies and Intellectual Property Registration Office (CIPRO).  This organization is responsible for the registration of patents, trademarks, designs, and copyright.  Also, this organization also keeps track of patents, trademarks, designs, and copyrights in South Africa (Heinrich Boll Stiftung, 2013). 

            Another threat to business development is the overall legislative and regulatory climate in South Africa is one of which corruption is not regulated.  There are four classifications of enforcement, which are active enforcement mainly found in developed countries, moderate enforcement and little enforcement found in newly developed countries and developing countries.  There are eight countries in the world that have no enforcement.  Active enforcement is considered an adequate deterrent to foreign bribery whereas moderate and little enforcement indicates stages of progress in enforcement, but are still inadequate and lastly, no enforcement which is no deterrent for foreign bribery.  (Dell, & Heimann,, 2012).

            The political and legal environment analysis would not be complete without mentioning what Nelson Mandela contributed to South Africa in these areas.  In Mandela's passing, South Africans feel as though they currently have the correct foundation to move forward.  This foundation was overseen by Mandela who is given credit for engineering the transformation of South Africa's political and legal environment that saw the country become a multiracial free-market democracy with little bloodshed (The Economist, 2013).  In comparison to the rest of the African continent, South Africa has the readiness in global business from a legal standpoint due to the current foundation put in place 20 years ago Dell & Heimann, 2012). 

                Summary.  Based on the above analysis, the attractiveness of South Africa for new business development by a U.S. manufacturing is strong.  South Africa is located where natural resources are abundant, the climate is favorable for business, and the infrastructure is robust.  English is the main language, a foundation conducive for business has been in place since European settlers began migrating to South Africa in the 1800s.  Also, South Africa has a youthful workforce that has adequate education.  A political system that is socialist capitalism, and a legal system that is on the verge of developing a intellectual property protection system are other indicators that South Africa is an attractive country for new business development. 

            Johannesburg is the largest city in South Africa and referred to as the economic powerhouse of the country (Bourdain, & Freeman, 2013).  This place would be ideal for setting up a multinational corporation as it has two of the five international airports found in South Africa making air freight and air travel easily accessible.  Also, this place has a very diverse population meaning that a multinational corporation will have a wide variety of candidates for the various positions needed for the local workforce.  While there are a ample number of possible risks in business development, with all things considered, South Africa's readiness and competitiveness is good for global business.

References 

Adam, H. (1997) . Countries and Their Cultures:  South Africa.  Retrieved from:    http://www.everyculture.com/Sa-Th/South-Africa.html

BBC News, (2013).  South Africa profile.  Retrieved from:  http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-     africa-14094835

Bourdain, A. & Freeman, S., (December 26th, 2013). Anthony Bourdain, Parts Unknown:             South Africa.  Atlanta, GA: Turner Broadcasting Systems, Inc..

Central Intelligence Agency, (2013).  The World Fact Book:  South Africa.  Retrieved from:              https://www.cia.gov/library/publications/the-world-factbook/geos/sf.html

Charalambous, L. (2012).  Tax-News.com.  Trade Barriers Hindering African Growth.      Retrieved from:  http://www.tax-news.com/news/Trade_Barriers_Hindering_African_       Growth____53899.html

Daniels, J., Radebaugh, L. and Sullivan, D. (2013).  International Business:  Environments &        Operations.  14th ed.

Dell, G. & Heimann, F. (2012).  Transparency International.  Exporting corruption?  Country        Enforcement of the OECD Anti-Bribery Convention Progress Report 2012.  2nd edition.

Future Currency Forecast, (2014).  Pound to South African Rand (GBP/ZAR) Exchange Rate      Consolidates Gains before UK Sales DataRetrieved from:           http://www.futurecurrencyforecast.com/pound-to-south-african-rand-gbpzar-exchange-        rate-consolidates-gains-before-uk-sales-data/23710

Heinrich Boll Stiftung. (2013).  The Global Financial Crisis and Emerging Economies: Role Model             South Africa. Retrieved from:  http://www.za.boell.org/web/publications-258.html

Joy, O. (2013).  Fast-food giants want pizza the action in Africa.  CNN International.  Retrieved   from:  http://www.cnn.com/2013/10/04/business/fast-food-giants-africa/

RSM International Limited.  (2013).  Economic impact of the World Cup   http://www.rsmi.com/en/global-challenges/economic-impact-of-the-world-cup---gc.aspx

South Africa'.info. (2013).  Regulations for importers.  Retrieved from:              http://www.southafrica.info/business/trade/import/922450.htm#.UtbwRZV3vIV

Standard Bank Group, (2012).  South Africa ranked 69th most corrupt country in the world -         2012 International Corruption Perception Index.  Retrieved from:  http://www.stanlib.

Transparency International.  (2013).  Corruption by Country/Territory:  South Africa.  Retrieved   from:  http://www.transparency.org/country#ZAF

The Economist, (2013).  Nelson Mandela-  A giant passes?  Retrieved from:              http://www.economist.com/blogs/baobab/2013/12/nelson-mandela-0

Ubuntu Africa, (2013).  Who We Are.  Mission Statement.  Retrieved from:             http://ubafrica.org/about-us/

http://daniel-j-stone.blogspot.com (C) 2009-14

Maybe my daughter is learning more than sandbox at day care?!?!

http://daniel-j-stone.blogspot.com (C) 2009-14

Milestones

Last week of June is turning out to be one full of milestones:

2010- Moved to Columbus to open the language school at ODU.

2011- Moved into first home.

2014- Maddie was born 21 months ago.

2014- Signed the "front" of a check for the first time after signing the "back" of checks since 1989. Ask your nearest entrepreneur the significance of this.

2014- It only took two years of persistence but I received a job offer from OSU. A job offer that I won't be accepting at this time.

http://daniel-j-stone.blogspot.com

(C) 2009-14

Focus on those who bring out your best and are a blessing in your life.

Never ever give up. Why settle for mediocrity when you deserve the very best!!

 

 

 



Feedback:

JET Alum: Congratulations. It's a big achievement and impressed with what you've done while pursuing the degree as well.

Classmate from CSUDH: Congratulations for the graduate! Proud of you Dan!

Sister: I would like to congratulate my brother Daniel Stone on completing his master's degree & graduating today. Hate we are not there to celebrate. We will be soon!! So very proud of the man you have become!

JET Alum: おめでとう！

Shipmate from USS Valley Forge: You helped me just as much, if not more, than I helped you. Anyway, enjoy the time in the spotlight. You've more than earned it. I only regret not being able to attend the ceremony.

Former ELS Employee: Congratulations! You have accomplished so much and you will continue to do great things in the future! I hope all the best for you and your beautiful family!

Childhood friend's mother: You're looking good graduate!

Childhood friend: Good job. Congrats

Former ELS Employee: I congratulate you on completing your MBA!! What a wonderful accomplishment. I also admire that you did not stop, but pressed on and saw it through to completion, even in the midst of challenging circumstances. Your resilience will serve you as well or more so, than the degree. When you put the two together, I am very excited about your future. I wish you all the best!

ODU Department Head: Thanks, Dan, for helping our students to complete field hours and, in some cases, gain employment in TESOL. Good luck in your new endeavor.

ODU Employee: Congratulations on all of your accomplishments! Good luck in your new position!

Former ELS Employee upon learning that I would no longer serve as her supervisor. English is her second language so please pardon the errors, September 2012: I hope you are doing fine. I have been missing you a lot. Many time I cry. It's been week I have not sleep good. Every morning when I pray you and your baby is in my pray.

XXXXXX is very happy for sure. I did want to call you I didn't have your personal number.

JXXX and I were talk about you lot. We had lot of work contact with you now they just throw us our own. I hope things will go well with you.

Just think positive. God may have give you better chance to be close to your family. You can spend time with your baby worried free. Let me know when your baby comes if you allow me I will come see your baby. Also I will come on your graduation.

Remember, I always have respect for you.

ODU Employee upon receiving word of my official last day at ODU in May 2014: Please stop sending me these emails.

http://daniel-j-stone.blogspot.com

(C) 2009-12

7 Personality Traits of a Great Leader

If you want to be a leader who attracts quality people, the key is to become a person of quality yourself. Leadership is the ability to attract someone to the gifts, skills and opportunities you offer as an owner, as a manager, as a parent. Jim Rohn calls leadership the great challenge of life. What’s important in leadership is refining your skills. All great leaders keep working on themselves until they become effective. Here’s how:

1. Learn to be strong but not rude. It is an extra step you must take to become a powerful, capable leader with a wide range of reach. Some people mistake rudeness for strength. It’s not even a good substitute.

2. Learn to be kind but not weak. We must not mistake kindness for weakness. Kindness isn’t weak. Kindness is a certain type of strength. We must be kind enough to tell somebody the truth. We must be kind enough and considerate enough to lay it on the line. We must be kind enough to tell it like it is and not deal in delusion.

3. Learn to be bold but not a bully. It takes boldness to win the day. To build your influence, you’ve got to walk in front of your group. You’ve got to be willing to take the first arrow, tackle the first problem, discover the first sign of trouble.

4. You’ve got to learn to be humble but not timid. You can’t get to the high life by being timid. Some people mistake timidity for humility. Humility is almost a God-like word. A sense of awe. A sense of wonder. An awareness of the human soul and spirit. An understanding that there is something unique about the human drama versus the rest of life. Humility is a grasp of the distance between us and the stars, yet having the feeling that we’re part of the stars. So humility is a virtue, but timidity is a disease. Timidity is an affliction. It can be cured, but it is a problem.

5. Be proud but not arrogant. It takes pride to win the day. It takes pride to build your ambition. It takes pride in community. It takes pride in a cause, in accomplishment. But the key to becoming a good leader is being proud without being arrogant. In fact, I believe the worst kind of arrogance is arrogance from ignorance. It’s when you don’t know that you don’t know. Now that kind of arrogance is intolerable. If someone is smart and arrogant, we can tolerate that. But if someone is ignorant and arrogant, that's just too much to take.

6. Develop humor without folly. That’s important for a leader. In leadership, we learn that it’s OK to be witty, but not silly. It’s OK to be fun, but not foolish.

7. Lastly, deal in realities. Deal in truth. Save yourself the agony. Just accept life like it is. Life is unique. Some people call it tragic, but I’d like to think it’s unique. The whole drama of life is unique. It’s fascinating. And I’ve found that the skills that work well for one leader may not work at all for another. But the fundamental skills of leadership can be adapted to work well for just about everyone: at work, in the community, and at home.

- See more at: http://www.success.com/article/7-personality-traits-of-a-great-leader#sthash.qo8j96UM.dpuf http://daniel-j-stone.blogspot.com

(C) 2009-14

The Graduate

Tuesday, April 22nd, 2014

Columbus, OH- Tickets are available for the 2014 Ohio Dominican University graduation ceremony held on Saturday, May 10th, 2014 in Columbus, OH.

Daniel J. Stone

Master in Business Administration

http://daniel-j-stone.blogspot.com

(C) 2009-14

You've got to keep your emotions in check. Sports Media Wants Derek Jeter to Cry.

Sports Media Wants Derek Jeter to Cry

February 20, 2014

BEGIN TRANSCRIPT

RUSH: Let's go to Tampa. As you know, Derek Jeter has announced his retirement from the New York Yankees. Yesterday he held his retirement press conference, although it wasn't called that, but I mean that's what it was. And, honestly, the sports media is upset that Derek Jeter didn't get emotional and cry at his retirement press conference. Here's CBS correspondent Jon Heyman talking to Derek Jeter.

HEYMAN: We've seen a lot of these over the years of all-time greats retire, Mike Schmidt comes to mind, but others as well, who were very emotional. You're not an emotional person, at least it is not outwardly. Do you feel more emotional inside than a normal day? 'Cause you're not really showing that, if you are.

JETER: You trying to get me to cry, Jon? Just spit it out if you trying to get me to cry. Yeah, I'm emotional, but it's kind of difficult because we still have a season to play. You know, it might be different if it was the end of the year, but right now, yeah, I have feelings, um... (laughing) you know what I'm saying. I'm not emotionally stunted. You know, there's feelings there, but, um, yeah, I think I've just been pretty good at trying to hide my emotions throughout the years. I try to have the same demeanor each and every day.

RUSH: It used to be called manliness, folks. For those of you that may not know, Derek Jeter's a man. You used to hide your emotions. Now that's not cool. Now you not only wear your feelings, you broadcast 'em, you act 'em out. That's the new manliness. And he's saying, I'm not going there. So another unidentified correspondent kept at this. They wouldn't let go. And now they're looking at him almost with some air of suspicion because he will not vomit his emotions at them.

REPORTER: You said you're an emotional guy like everybody else. You've done a good job of hiding it and protecting it. How have you done that? And has that been difficult for you? Because a lot of people don't do that.

JETER: You're gonna fail more than you succeed. If you're not able to keep your emotions in check, then I think it's kind of difficult to come to the field every day. I just think that's the only way to maintain -- I guess to have sustainability in this game is to keep your emotions in check.

RUSH: Now, it's important to listen to that. You're listening to one of the best. You're listening to a champion. You're listening to somebody who excels, and he admits, in this game, you fail more than you succeed. You can't lose it. You've got to come back the next day. You can't get down on yourself. Even if you hit .350. That means 65% of the time you're making an out. You fail more than you succeed. You lose more than you win. You've got to keep your emotions in check. But that's just not manly anymore. And these reporters, it kept going. I mean, they're not understanding it, folks.

END TRANSCRIPT

http://daniel-j-stone.blogspot.com

(C) 2009-14

Stephen A. Smith Explains Kobe's Take on Trayvon Martin

It is one of the most articulate expressions of the “conservative” outlook on what would best liberate the black community that one will find.  A must watch for students of Emotional Intelligence (EQ).

 

http://daniel-j-stone.blogspot.com(C) 2009-14

Operator of English Language School/International Education Center

Strategies for Success: Operator of English Language School/International Education Center

(BUS 510) Course

Daniel J. Stone

Ohio Dominican University

Abstract

Becoming an operator of an English language school/International Education center located in the Asian region was examined in the context of personal, academic, and professional strategies based off of the results from StrengthsFinder assessments. My personal strategy is to rely on my strengths that were drawn from research since this plays to my success in becoming an operator. My academic strategy is to obtain my MBA by October 2013 and to pursue some teaching and language certifications. My professional strategy is to become a franchisee and to develop a partnership who will act as my go-between. Together, these findings coupled with my professional and personal experiences from the past and present suggests that this venture will lead to success. Keywords: English language school, International Education center, Asian Region, StrengthsFinder Assessment, CELTA certification, Japanese-language Proficiency Test, franchisee, go-between.

Introduction

Overview

How many international firms send employees to the US who can’t speak English? Modern technology such as the evolution of the Internet has allowed people access to information throughout the world. Jumbo jets can transport people and freight from one corner of the world to another in the matter of hours. As the global economies continues to become more integrated, employees are increasingly aware of the need to work productively with people from different cultures and backgrounds (Harrison, 2006). Price and value of a degree of higher education in the US remains strong for international students due to the weakness of the US dollar. Also, universities in mainland China for example are overcrowded forcing international students to study in overseas countries such as the US (Appendix B).

For assistance is English language instruction in Japan, South Korea, Taiwan or Mainland China also known as “The Asian Region”, people can turn to a number of service providers who specialize in Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages (TESOL). My goal is to become an operator of an English language school/international education center located in the Asian region for people who intend on improving their English skills for not only English for Academic Purposes but also for professional or recreational purposes (Harrison, 2006).

Situational Analysis

At present, I’m a person with the following signature themes: responsibility, belief, restorative, focus, and futuristic. First, the data states that since I am talented in the Responsibility signature theme that I am committed to stable values such as honesty and loyalty. Also, I take psychological ownership of what I say I will do and have conflict when I have to deal with those who do not share these values or take ownership. Next, since I am talented in the Belief signature theme, I have a defined purpose for my life that comes from certain core values that are unchanging. Then, since I am talented in the Restorative signature theme that I am good at figuring out what is wrong and resolving it since I am adept at dealing with problems. Furthermore, since I am talented in the Focus signature theme, I can prioritize and then act because I can take a direction, follow that direction through to its completion. Lastly, since I am talented in the Futuristic signature theme, I inspire others with their visions of the future because I am inspired by what the future holds (Anderson, Clifton, and Schreiner, 2006).

Research

Personal Strategies

Responsibility signature theme. The reputation of the organization that I represent depends on it. Because of this, I have been known to look for ways to make up a service shortcoming to a customer if for some reason I am unable to deliver. I have always viewed an apology as an excuse and have always felt that excuses are unacceptable. I will be at odds with myself until I have corrected the problem at hand. Because of this, I am viewed as dependable because I have the following cornerstones: (a) doing things right, and (b) possessing impeccable ethics. Therefore, people will look to me first because they know that the task at hand will get done and get done right (Anderson, Clifton, and Schreiner, 2006).

The downside of this talent is people will come to me for help. I need to be selective in giving help because to operate as a fully functional leader, I need to focus on what only I can do as a leader of an organization. In the past, my willingness to overcompensate led me to take on more than I should. To ensure this, I need to hire people who are smarter than I am and hire people who have a positive attitude and understand that whatever skills they do not possess can be instilled through training (Pozen, 2011).

Belief signature theme. In possessing the belief signature theme, my behavior is affected by the following core values that cause me to be family-oriented, have feelings of duty, loyalty, spiritual, and to value responsibility and high ethics in myself and others. Because of this, I have the additional cornerstones of: (a) meaning and satisfaction to my life and (b) success is more than money and prestige. These cornerstones are my compass that guides me through the challenging periods that we all face. As with responsibility signature theme, many consider me to be dependable because they know where I stand (Anderson, Clifton, and Schreiner, 2006).

The downside of this talent is that if I am working in an environment that doesn’t blend with my values, I am at odds with myself. The work that I do must be meaningful and matter to me. The work that I do will matter to me if I am given a chance to live out my values. In the area of financial rewards, salaries need to be compatible with the fair market value of an area, bonuses are awarded based on merit and benefits are accrued and provided for by a reputable organization (Davis-Ali, 2009).

Restorative signature trait. In possessing the restorative signature trait, I am talented in identifying what is wrong and the solution to the problem. If given the choice, I prefer practical problems and seek out specific kinds of problems that I have dealt with many times before and that I am confident I can fix. One of the most satisfying feelings is to bring thing back to life by restoring something to its true glory by identifying the undermining factors and getting rid of them. I have a strong connection to my feelings and because of this, I know that if I do not intervene, the person, place, or thing that is the root source of the problem might cease to function (Anderson, Clifton, and Schreiner, 2006).

The downside of this talent is that I overlook my public image and “look bad” in the name of service of their team and customers. However, by “looking bad”, I am allowed to ask the difficult questions and challenge existing norms. Because of this calculated intervention, the risk is worth the reward if the collective whole can see the positive aspects that are being brought by my talent of identifying what is wrong and then giving a solution to the problem (Ely, Frei, and Morriss, 2011).

Focus signature trait. In possessing the focus signature trait, I am talented in setting goals. By setting goals, I am given a clear destination. When I don’t set goals, my life and work can quickly become frustrating. It is important that each year, each month, and even each week I set goals. These goals then serve as my compass, helping me determine priorities and make the necessary corrections to get back on course. My ability to focus allows me to evaluate whether or not a particular action will help me move towards my goal. Because of this, what isn’t going to help me move towards my goal is ignored therefore forcing me to be efficient (Anderson, Clifton, and Schreiner, 2006).

The downside of this talent is that I become impatient. I view delays, obstacles, and even tangents as something that keeps me from focusing. Focusing on results rather than hours has the added benefit of allowing a better balance between family and work. To that end, I have been known to say, “Back on point” when others start to wander away from the task at hand. It is important that I remind myself that if something is not helping me move towards my goal, then it is not important. If it is not important, then it is not worth my time. Because of this, I am viewed by the team as a valuable asset (Pozen, 2011).

Futuristic signature trait. In possessing the futuristic signature trait, I am talented in seeing in detail what the future might hold. I am driven by a better life, a better team, putting out a better product and living in a better world. I follow my heart by chasing my dreams by envisioning what could be. I am energized by these visions when the present proves too frustrating and the people around me are resistant to change (Anderson, Clifton, and Schreiner, 2006).

The downside of this talent is that people look to me to describe my visions for the future. They want a picture that can raise their sights and thereby their spirits. There is a lot of pressure in painting this picture for them. Because of this, there is a lot of trial and error. Being careless with communications will lead me to trouble since people will want to latch on to the hope I bring. By carefully laying out my goals, objectives and prioritizing activities to work relentlessly toward those objectives, the better things in life that I am working towards will become a reality in the future (Collins, 2003).

Academic Strategies

Summary. The current plan of obtaining my Masters of Business Administration (MBA) degree from Ohio Dominican University’s LEAD Program by October 2013 should provide the academic training needed to be knowledgeable as an operator of an English language school or international education center. This is because the degree offers courses in the following courses: Graduate Learning Strategies, Business Ethics, Quantitative Business Analysis, Business Law, Case Studies in Accounting, Managerial Economics, Strategic Marketing Management, Managerial Finance, Strategic Management of Technology and Information, Global Business Issues, Business Policy and Strategy, and Leadership and Change Management (Appendix A).

Essentials. In addition to the MBA degree, I should obtain the Certificate in Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages (CELTA). This is an initial qualification for people with little or no previous teaching experience and is one of the most widely taken qualifications of its kind. By obtaining this certificate, I can be a positive contributor in the classroom as a TESOL instructor (Appendix E).

Japanese is my second language and has not been studied formally since 2007. The more knowledgeable I am with this language, the more self sufficient I will be. Therefore, I should be able to pass level 4 of the Japanese Language Proficiency Test before leaving for the Asian region and pass level 3 twelve to eighteen months after arriving in the Asian region. (Appendix F).

Professional Strategies

Summary. The two safest ways to become an operator of an English language school or international education center in the Asian region which is to become a franchisee or to buy an existing business. This is due to the exorbitant costs associated to property coupled by the importance to have a go-between that is trusted by my prospective customers and clients (Roberts and Roberts, 1999). Franchising. In order to become an operator of an English language school/international education center located in the Asian region for people who speak English as a Second Language (ESL) I will need to meet the criteria of franchising. As the operator, I am the CEO, manager, president, treasurer of my own business. By franchising, the owner makes the necessary investment of buying the real estate and building the language school/education center. Furthermore, I will be supported by training, technology, and anything else that I need. In turn, as an operator, I will have to use my honesty, integrity, commitment, and loyalty to customers and the owner. While there would be a tremendous amount of trust placed on me as the operator but this is worth the owner’s risk since this plays into my strengths (Cathy, 2002).

Buying an Existing Business. It is extremely unusual for a foreigner to enter the Asian region with the intention to buy an existing business. The exception to this is likely to be in very specialized areas such as an English language school (Roberts and Roberts, 1999).

Relationship Management. In the Asian region, it is common for businesses to utilize the services of an introducer or third party vouch for me and my operation. This is because in this region, it is extremely difficult to establish business relationships with companies or organizations if I am unknown to them. By doing this, my local go-between will act on my behalf with my prospective colleagues evaluate my position and prestige and will lay the foundations of a business relationship based on trust. Therefore, I need to establish relationships and conduct research on potential introducers since it is important that these people are well-known and highly respected by the colleague with which I hope to do business. This sort of arrangement will result in contractual obligations that will be made directly in the form of money or indirectly through the allocation of a share of resulting business. Furthermore, American business practices such as cold-calling or even responding to letters from unfamiliar parties are outside the status quo (Roberts and Roberts, 1999).

Government Incentives. The governments of the Asian region are keen to encourage international investment, particularly in the present economic climate. To offset some of the exorbitant costs in establishing a new business, there are a number of incentives available. The most substantial assistance available is through government-sponsored that are designed to help small and medium-sized foreign-owned companies who would otherwise have difficulties in securing host country guarantors for their business loans (Roberts and Roberts, 1999).

Traditional Office Space. As stated earlier, the franchisee route takes the burden off of the operator as the owner assumes the costs associated to renting office space. An alternative would be for me as the operator to assume the responsibility to rent. Rental space can be found at a lower rate outside of central Tokyo and in an older office complex for example. With a monthly rental fee, a year’s worth to the landlord of rent is needed in advance (Roberts and Roberts, 1999).

Virtual Office Space. Virtual offices are becoming the new norm in large business hubs throughout the Asian region. As an operator, a virtual office space allows me maximum visibility with a minimum cost, risk and commitment. Therefore, an office is provided at a cost effective alternative and allows considerable competitive advantages over my competitors. The flexibility that comes with virtual offices being available to be used immediately and requires no long term commitment will come in handy if the opportunity to be a franchisee doesn’t work out (Appendix G).

Office Equipment. Since in the Asian region, office space is rented unfurnished and without any computer or communications equipment, a decision to purchase or lease will need to be made. The best practice is to consult with the home country’s external trade organization and/or commercial office of the US Embassy as to how proceed (Roberts and Roberts, 1999). Legal and Accounting Expenses. Legal expenses incurred in setting up a business in the Asian region will be high in the case of a new Japan-based enterprise for example. Therefore it is essential to go the franchising route as the owner assumes this financial responsibility. However, if the opportunity to purchase an existing business does arise, it is essential for me to seek legal and accounting advice at every stage of the proceedings (Roberts and Roberts, 1999).

Market Research. The Japan External Trade Organization (JETRO) for example offers a wide variety of support to potential investors, including a business library, information services, databases, and investment advice. They provide business support centers for companies doing business in Japan or considering setting up in the Japanese market. Furthermore, JETRO publishes a series of books, available free from their offices worldwide, on doing business in Japan (Roberts and Roberts, 1999).

Employing Staff. As an operator of an English language school/international education center I will need one native English speaker competent in the area of TESOL per 15 students. I will need one head teacher who will likely be a native English speaker who is competent in scheduling and manpower allocation to oversee the academics side of the operation. I will need one office manager who is preferably bilingual in the home country’s native tongue and English that will need to be competent in the area of accounts receivable, accounts payable and basic record and bookkeeping (See Figure 1).

Figure 1. English language school/International Education center hierarchy chart.

Owner

Director of Operations (Me)

Head Teacher Office Manager

English to Speakers of Other Language Instructors Temporary and seasonal administrative staff.

Clients/Customers/Students

Development Plan/Gap Analysis

Overview

The main signature strengths that I will need to obtain before departing for the Asian region will be Winning Others Over (WOO) and Communications. These skills will help me in getting others to relate to me in order to know what I believe in and provide the words necessary to describe what I envision for the future. To be better prepared for the future, research suggests that I partner with people who have strengths in the signature strengths of Discipline and Arranger (Anderson, Clifton, and Schreiner, 2006). Because of my tendency to anticipate the future may mean that I’m disconnected from fully enjoying the moment. By partnering with people who have strengths in Adaptability, Context or Positivity will address this area. In asking a support group such as an owner or a small group of trusted colleagues before important decisions are made, it is important that I figure out how to fully meet the expectations even if that means that I go above and beyond. By partnering with Developer talents to coach others in solving their problems, my talents will be refined and help others learn and grow. In talking to other professionals such as designers, commercial artist, and city planners will allow the opportunity to envision the future (Anderson, Clifton, and Schreiner, 2006). Managing others has been frustrating for me since their standards or responsibility does not match my own. Lastly, I should interview people who have a reputation for salvaging bad situations, turning companies around, or stepping in to solve problems no one else can seem to handle. Ask them what they enjoy about their work and what they actually do on a daily basis (Anderson, Clifton, and Schreiner, 2006).

Feedback from Interviews.

My supervisor’s feedback is greatly valued and according to her, I need to build the responsibility trait in others by trusting them to accomplish their tasks and becoming a mentor. When the responsibility and ownership is shared, failures and successes are owned by the collective whole, Because I have had the tendency to take responsibility for another’s lack of performance, people feel that they don’t need to do quality work. In regards to my belief system, I need to recognize and give credence to the beliefs of others that may not align with my values. This does not mean change my value system, but appreciate and understand that their point of view comes from their internal values and core beliefs. For example, while our main demographic may not be right all the time, their perspective is coming from a source of beliefs they are taught. I need to listen to their perspective, since listening is what will be of value to them. In regards to being restorative, there is a disconnect on trying to be proactive and prevent issues before they happen. The ultimate goal for me as a program director is to figure out how to (a) deal with issues before they become issues, and (b) empower others to resolve issues. I could use this strength to train others to learn how to resolve issues. This can be accomplished by walking people through their jobs or tasks and help them achieve their job specific goals in accordance with timelines. Be more hands on in helping others prioritize and follow up. I need to inspire others to think this way as well. In addition, I could put forth more of an active role in developing the outcome of the future. Right now, I take direction extremely well. I need to push myself and come up with ways to shape the future and provide input on how I think it should be (Appendix C).

Conclusion

My past and current professional experiences coupled by my current professional and personal relationships will allow me to be successful with my decision to become an operator of an English language school/International Education center in the Asian region (Appendix D).

Based on my signature strengths which has a direct correlation to my personality and psyche, it is important that I follow the suggestions that were drawn out by the research in the areas of personal, academic, and professional strategies. The gap analysis needs to be refined more to determine if I have the ability to strengthen those skills that research suggest that I need or can find those skills in a partner. Lastly, the two areas that are essential for success are becoming a franchisee and to have a trusted go-between due to the costs and Asian customs.

References

Anderson, E., Clifton, D., and Schreiner, L. (2006). Strengths Quest: Discover and Develop Your Strengths in Academics, Career, and Beyond.

Benjamin, B. and O’Reilly, C. (2011). Becoming a Leader: Early Career Challenges Faced by MBA Graduates. Academy of Management Learning & Education, Vol. 10, No. 3, 452-472.

Cathy, S.T. (2002). Eat Mor Chikin: Inspire More People. The Loyalty Effect, 2002. 96-117.

Collins, J. (2003). Start a “Best New Year’s Resolution?” USA Today, December 12, 2003.

Davis-Ali, S. (2009). Success and Sanity: It replaces work/life balance. Personal Excellence, July 2009, 8.

Ely, R.J.; Frei, F.X.; and Morriss, A. (2011). Stop Holding Yourself Back: Five ways people unwittingly sabotage their rise to leadership. Harvard Business Review, January-February 2011, Vol. 87 Issue 4, p160-163.

Harrison, P.M. (2006). Diversity Training: A Sound Investment. Greenville Magazine, September 2006, 24-26.

Japanese-Language Proficiency Test, (2010). http://www.jlpt.jp/e/about/index.html

Pozen, R.C. (2011). Extreme Productivity: A veteran executive outlines the principles for getting a lot done. Harvard Business Review, May 2011, Vol. 89 Issue 5, p127-131.

Roberts, D. and Roberts, E., 1999. Live & Work in Japan. Starting a Business, 1999. 200-220. Stewart, J. J. (2009). Home Offices, the New Math’’. Business Week. http://www.resourcecenter.businessweek.com/page.asp?prmID=207&prmPID=5245

University of Cambridge, (2012). CELTA (Certificate in Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages) http://www.cambridgeesol.org/exams/celta/index.html

http://daniel-j-stone.blogspot.com

(C) 2009-14