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	<title>Highest Five &#187; Work &amp; Money</title>
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	<description>Men's Magazine</description>
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		<title>6 Habits Bosses Love</title>
		<link>http://www.highestfive.com/money/6-habits-bosses-love/</link>
		<comments>http://www.highestfive.com/money/6-habits-bosses-love/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Mon, 31 May 2010 14:30:11 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Mary Montserrat-Howlett</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Work & Money]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.highestfive.com/?p=2375</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Being on your boss’ good side can have a very positive impact on your career and in making your overall work experience enjoyable and interesting. But to earn the respect and recognition you want from “The Man”, you need to possess good work habits, which come from having a good work ethic. Here are six [...]<p>a</p>
]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p style="text-align: left;">Being on your boss’ good side can have a very positive impact on your career and in making your overall work experience enjoyable and interesting. But to earn the respect and recognition you want from “The Man”, you need to possess good work habits, which come from having a good work ethic. Here are six effective work habits that will not only make your boss love you, but also help you become a more disciplined and efficient employee.<br />
<span id="more-2375"></span></p>
<p><a href="http://www.highestfive.com/wp-content/uploads/happy-boss-man.jpg"></a></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.highestfive.com/wp-content/uploads/happy-boss-man.jpg"><img class="size-full wp-image-2381 aligncenter" title="happy boss man" src="http://www.highestfive.com/wp-content/uploads/happy-boss-man.jpg" alt="" width="318" height="481" /></a></p>
<h3>1) Getting to work 15 minutes before the start time</h3>
<p>Being punctual is certainly important in a work setting, but making the effort to come in a little earlier will reflect even more positively on you. In most cases, the boss will be the first one in the office but if you make it a point to come in earlier too, you’re more likely to build an amicable rapport with him/her. You&#8217;ll also look like you enjoy your job, plus, getting to the office just 15 minutes before you’re supposed to, allows you to start your day without feeling rushed, and gives you extra time for planning out the day’s events.</p>
<h3>2) Having a clean and organized workspace</h3>
<p>Your environment greatly influences your productivity. If your desk is full of papers and junk there’s no doubt that you will misplace documents, which will take three times as long to find when you need them. (If you&#8217;re lucky enough to find them.) When your boss comes around asking you for a report, you don’t want to find yourself shuffling through papers, napkins and old food wrappers.  Be as prepared for an emergency response as <a href="http://www.directalert.ca/">medical alert systems</a> are for people with a medical condition, and give yourself some time at the beginning and end of your week to organize your desk, clearing it of any unnecessary papers except those relating to the work at hand. The quicker you can access what you and the boss need, the more reliable he/she will consider you.</p>
<h3>3) Having efficient work patterns</h3>
<p>Having a calendar or agenda to refer to, which includes all the tasks you need to get done (weekly, monthly) in order of importance (Major, Medium, Low) will help maximize your productivity and is sure to get your name on the boss’ A list. Having good organizational skills helps you keep track of what’s going on and minimizes the risk of falling behind on your work. Bosses love efficiency and employees that are able to effectively manage their time and make the most out of the hours they spend at the office.</p>
<h3>4) Meeting your deadlines</h3>
<p>When time comes for <a href="http://www.halogensoftware.com/products/halogen-eappraisal/employee-evaluation-forms/">performance evaluations</a>, you want to make sure all your deadlines have been met. Bosses don’t want to be chasing after their employees. They want results executed in the most efficient manner. Organization is the key to success, so the better organized you are the more capable you are of meeting your deadlines.</p>
<h3>5) Staying current</h3>
<p>Most bosses (aside those with major ego issues) will appreciate an employee who is up-to-date with the latest news and trends, especially pertaining to your particular industry. Do a little research and sign up for e-mail alerts, newsletters and RSS feeds pertinent to your industry. When you learn new things that you believe could be of interest to the company, mention it to your boss. Bosses appreciate when you take initiative and show a genuine interest in your work.</p>
<h3>6) Being positive and approachable</h3>
<p>Having a positive energy and outlook at work makes the overall environment much more pleasant for you and everyone around you. Studies continuously show that the happier employees are, the more productive they are as well. If you are someone your boss and your co-workers feel comfortable approaching you are sure to have a positive influence on how everyone works as a team. Being approachable also means being open to new projects and tasks. The more versatility you show, the more valued you will be as an employee.</p>
<p>a</p>
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		<title>I Hate My Job. Tips On How To Push Out The Hate And Bring In The Love</title>
		<link>http://www.highestfive.com/money/i-hate-my-job-tips-on-how-to-push-out-the-hate-and-bring-in-the-love/</link>
		<comments>http://www.highestfive.com/money/i-hate-my-job-tips-on-how-to-push-out-the-hate-and-bring-in-the-love/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Thu, 27 May 2010 14:30:02 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Mary Montserrat-Howlett</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Work & Money]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.highestfive.com/?p=2173</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Hating your job. Probably one of the most discouraging, incapacitating feelings to endure on a daily basis. It weighs heavy on our morale, makes it difficult to fall asleep at night, get out of bed in the morning, and even more challenging not to pick up the home phone and call in sick.  Forget [...]<p>a</p>
]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Hating your job. Probably one of the most discouraging, incapacitating feelings to endure on a daily basis. It weighs heavy on our morale, makes it difficult to fall asleep at night, get out of bed in the morning, and even more challenging not to pick up the <a href="http://www.distributel.ca/en/home-phone-service.htm">home phone</a> and call in sick.  Forget even trying to stay motivated during your workday.</p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><span id="more-2173"></span><a href="http://www.highestfive.com/wp-content/uploads/i_hate_my_job.jpg"></a><a href="http://www.highestfive.com/wp-content/uploads/hate-my-boss1.jpg"><img class="size-full wp-image-2177  aligncenter" title="hate-my-boss1" src="http://www.highestfive.com/wp-content/uploads/hate-my-boss1.jpg" alt="" width="473" height="250" /></a></p>
<p>I, like many people, can attest to having once hated my job. Ask almost anyone who has worked in the service industry and they’ll give you the exact details as to why. Working long, strenuous hours, enduring tough working conditions, constant abuse from employers and customers; though I was good at what I did, it brought me very little satisfaction. It may have paid my way through school, but financial stability nearly cost me my sanity.</p>
<p>Even after I completed my degree, I found myself facing another troubling dilemma. I wasn’t interested in the field I had invested four years studying causing me a great deal of panic and stress. I feared I would never find a profession I was passionate about. So I did what many people in my position do. I continued to work the job I hated. (Misery becomes comfortable once you’re used to it.)</p>
<p>I continued to do this until one day, I cracked. And, once I cracked, I quit. Yes, I am a bit impulsive but no I’m not suggesting that everyone who claims to hate their job quit (yet). But, in my case I knew that unless I scared myself into finding something else, something I was good at and proud to be good at, I was going to continue compromising my potential for happiness. I wanted a job that was meaningful to me and I was going to do all the endless soul searching necessary to find it.</p>
<p>Now that you have patiently endured the first half of my story, I will try and get straight to the point with some insights and tips I learned along the way about how to go from hating your job to loving it, whether you decide to quit and find new opportunities or put a positive spin on the one you have.</p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><a href="../wp-content/uploads/i_hate_my_job.jpg"><img title="i_hate_my_job" src="../wp-content/uploads/i_hate_my_job.jpg" alt="" width="400" height="400" /></a></p>
<h3>Change Your Lifestyle</h3>
<p>Being aware and improving things like nutrition, frequency of exercise and sleep regularity can help your overall well-being. It may seem obvious, but taking care of yourself physically will transcend into other realms of your life helping you to take on even the biggest obstacles and make them manageable.</p>
<h3>Assess What You Like and Dislike About Your Job</h3>
<p>If you are in a situation similar to what mine was, it is very  possible that you hate your job because the work does not suit you. In  some cases, you may actually like the work, but it is the people you  work with that are the problem. If you’ve been unhappy for as long as  you’ve been working in that field, despite management or company  changes, than it is more than possible that you are not well matched to  your job and you need to determine what it is you would be happier  doing.</p>
<h3>Determine What Your Dream Job Would Be</h3>
<p>It’s never too late to follow your dreams and I promise this is more  than just some fluffy Disney adage. When I was trying to uncover my  hidden passion, I began by looking back at my childhood. What did I do  as a child in my spare time? I played sports. I played music. I read. I  also used to write mystery stories and make my own comic books.  Eureka! Finally, I was on to something…  I could see what options were available in the field of writing. After a little thought and  consideration I decided I would take a certificate program and see what  the world of journalism had to offer. In less than a year, I found myself writing for a web agency, finally feeling my work becoming synonymous with my passion.</p>
<h3>Consider Side Projects</h3>
<p>You don&#8217;t necessarily need to love your job and it is very possible  and reasonable that security is more important for you because of  factors such as providing for a family. The beauty with starting your own side project  is that you can make it about something you love. Is there a hobby you  have always been passionate about? The Internet offers a tremendous  amount of possibilities, so something as simple as blogging about your  hobby or passion could actually become an extra source of income and bring you a true sense of  fulfillment.</p>
<h3>Communicate with your Employer</h3>
<p>If you are feeling unhappy with your job, talk to someone in HR or even try talking to your employer directly. The more honest you are, the more it reflects your willingness and maturity to try and make things better. Is it  your job you hate or what you are doing with it? There should always be some room for change, a middle ground, and if there isn&#8217;t that&#8217;s your sign to move on.</p>
<h3>Try a New Department or Position</h3>
<p>Sometimes moving to a different department, striving for a promotion or even working with a different team of people might make all the difference. Sometimes a new environment, can have a positive effect on our outlook. Also, try staying on top of new trends so that you’re the person with the good ideas around the workplace.  Knowledge is power and having it could boost your leadership role in the  company and lead to a promotion later on.</p>
<h3 style="text-align: left;">Feel Grateful For Having a Job But Secure Enough To Leave it</h3>
<p style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.highestfive.com/wp-content/uploads/THE-WORST-JOB.gif"><img class="size-full wp-image-2176  aligncenter" title="THE WORST JOB" src="http://www.highestfive.com/wp-content/uploads/THE-WORST-JOB.gif" alt="" width="431" height="384" /></a></p>
<p style="text-align: left;">It&#8217;s important for us to appreciate what we have, especially when we consider how many people out there would give almost anything for a job and financial stability. Feeling grateful for something doesn&#8217;t mean settling for it though. If you do decide to leave, feeling grateful for the opportunity you had allows you to resign with dignity and a genuine appreciation that will be reflected if ever you need a referral later on.</p>
<p>Working life  certainly has its ups  and downs, but if you’ve noticed there are  significantly more lows than  highs it’s time to make some changes. No life is perfect, and by the same token, no job is either. The best thing is to be clear about what path you&#8217;re choosing, why and what you may have to  give up to get there.</p>
<p>a</p>
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		<title>Highest Paying Jobs in North America</title>
		<link>http://www.highestfive.com/money/highest-paying-jobs-in-north-america/</link>
		<comments>http://www.highestfive.com/money/highest-paying-jobs-in-north-america/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Mon, 24 May 2010 14:30:30 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Mary Montserrat-Howlett</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Work & Money]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.highestfive.com/?p=2234</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Ever wonder who’s earning the big bucks aside from celebrities and sports superstars? I’ve compiled a list of some of the highest paying jobs in North America in fields such as science, medicine, marketing, finance and technology in order to give you a tree stand view (I figure you&#8217;ll see more detail standing from a [...]<p>a</p>
]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Ever wonder who’s earning the big bucks aside from celebrities and sports superstars? I’ve compiled a list of some of the highest paying jobs in North America in fields such as science, medicine, marketing, finance and technology in order to give you a <a href="http://www.sportsmansguide.com/net/browse/tree-stands.aspx?c=120">tree stand</a> view (I figure you&#8217;ll see more detail standing from a tree rather than way up high like a bird) of the salary ranges in various professions.<br />
<span id="more-2234"></span></p>
<h3 style="text-align: center;">10. Astronomer<br />
<a href="http://www.highestfive.com/wp-content/uploads/ASTRONOMER.jpg"></a></h3>
<p style="text-align: center;"><img class="aligncenter size-medium wp-image-2260" title="ASTRONOMER" src="http://www.highestfive.com/wp-content/uploads/ASTRONOMER-300x174.jpg" alt="" width="549" height="317" /></p>
<p><strong>Annual Wage: $94,000 +</strong><br />
<strong>Role:</strong> Astronomers study celestial bodies such as planets, stars  and galaxies. The International Astronomical Union comprises almost  9,259 members from  89 different countries who are involved in  astronomical research at the  PhD level and beyond.<br />
<strong>Training:</strong> Professional astronomers typically have a PhD in physics or astronomy and are employed by research institutions or universities. Additional experience and training at the postdoctoral level is usually required in order to hold permanent positions in universities and government  laboratories.<br />
<strong><br />
</strong></p>
<p><em>Source: AOL</em></p>
<h3 style="text-align: center;">9. Natural Sciences Manager<br />
<a href="http://www.highestfive.com/wp-content/uploads/NATURAL-SCIENCES-MANAGER.jpg"></a></h3>
<p style="text-align: center;"><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-2270" title="NATURAL SCIENCES MANAGER" src="http://www.highestfive.com/wp-content/uploads/NATURAL-SCIENCES-MANAGER.jpg" alt="" width="525" height="347" /></p>
<p><strong>Annual Wage: $97,000 +</strong><br />
<strong>Role:</strong> Natural sciences managers oversee the work of physical scientists such as chemists, biologists, agricultural  scientists and medical scientists. They also plan, coordinate and  direct research, improve  manufacturing and industrial processes as well as develop new products and  advance scientific research.<br />
<strong>Training:</strong> Most natural sciences managers have a Ph.D. or master&#8217;s degree in their field and usually begin their career as chemists, biologists, geologists or mathematicians. The training time is approximately six years.<br />
<strong><br />
</strong></p>
<p><em>Source: Impact Lab</em></p>
<h3 style="text-align: center;">8. Marketing Manager<br />
<a href="http://www.highestfive.com/wp-content/uploads/marketing-manager.jpg"></a></h3>
<p style="text-align: center;"><img class="aligncenter size-medium wp-image-2261" title="marketing-manager" src="http://www.highestfive.com/wp-content/uploads/marketing-manager-225x300.jpg" alt="" width="322" height="430" /></p>
<p><strong>Annual Wage: $100,000 +<br />
</strong><strong>Role:</strong> Marketing managers are typically responsible for  influencing the marketing techniques and management of a firm’s  resources and activities. The role of a marketing manager can vary  significantly based on a business&#8217; size, corporate culture, and industry  context.<br />
<strong> Training:</strong> The minimum educational requirement for a marketing manager is a B.A. or B.S. in marketing, business management or a particular company&#8217;s field, such as engineering. Many employers require an MBA as well. Training time can be anywhere from four to six years.<br />
<strong><br />
</strong></p>
<p><em>Source: Impact Lab</em></p>
<h3 style="text-align: center;">7. Air Traffic Controller<br />
<a href="http://www.highestfive.com/wp-content/uploads/air-traffic-controllers.jpg"></a></h3>
<p style="text-align: center;"><img class="aligncenter size-medium wp-image-2262" title="air-traffic-controllers" src="http://www.highestfive.com/wp-content/uploads/air-traffic-controllers-300x199.jpg" alt="" width="510" height="338" /></p>
<p style="text-align: left;"><strong>Annual Wage: $ 100, 000+<br />
</strong><strong>Role:</strong> Air traffic controllers operate the air traffic control  systems to expedite and maintain a safe and orderly flow of air traffic.  Essentially, they prevent planes from crashing into each other. Because  controllers have an incredibly large responsibility while on duty, the  ATC profession is regarded around the world as one of the most difficult  jobs today.<br />
<strong>Training:</strong> There are three main pathways to become an air traffic controller with the FAA (Federal Aviation Administration). <strong>1) </strong>Prior experience through either the FAA or the Department of Defense as a civilian or veteran. <strong>2) </strong>Three years of progressively responsible full-time work experience, college completion or a combination of both. <strong>3)</strong> Successful completion of an aviation-related program of study through the FAA’s Air Traffic-Collegiate Training Initiative (AT-CTI) program. Studies have shown that air traffic controllers generally have a degree of situational awareness that is much higher than the average population. They also have excellent hearing and speaking skills and are trained to undergo rigid physical and psychological testing.<br />
<strong><br />
</strong></p>
<p><em>Source: Impact Lab</em></p>
<h3 style="text-align: center;">6. Insurance Broker<br />
<a href="http://www.highestfive.com/wp-content/uploads/dummy-broker.gif"></a></h3>
<p style="text-align: center;"><img class="aligncenter size-medium wp-image-2263" title="dummy-broker" src="http://www.highestfive.com/wp-content/uploads/dummy-broker-300x251.gif" alt="" width="436" height="364" /></p>
<p><strong>Annual Wage: $114,000 +</strong><br />
<strong>Role:</strong> Brokers play a significant role in helping companies and  individuals find property and casualty (liability); life and health  insurance. Brokers provide services beyond insurance sales, such as  assisting with employee enrollment and helping to resolve benefits  issues. Those who work in high-liability industries as oil,  construction and pharmaceuticals can earn commissions of 10 to 15  percent of a contract’s total.<br />
<strong>Training:</strong> To become an insurance broker you must first successfully complete the licensing exam. While it is not mandatory to have a university degree or college diploma to pursue this career, business courses offered by many post-secondary institutions do include insurance administration programs in their business diplomas.<br />
<strong><br />
</strong></p>
<p><em>Source: CNN Money</em></p>
<h3 style="text-align: center;">5. Chief Information Officer (CIO)<br />
<a href="http://www.highestfive.com/wp-content/uploads/CIO.jpg"></a></h3>
<p style="text-align: center;"><img class="aligncenter size-medium wp-image-2264" title="CIO" src="http://www.highestfive.com/wp-content/uploads/CIO-199x300.jpg" alt="" width="303" height="456" /></p>
<p><strong>Annual Wage: $126,000 +</strong><br />
<strong>Role:</strong> CIOs are the highest paid IT professionals and are responsible for the  information technology and computer systems that support an enterprise.  A CIO is usually involved with analyzing and reworking existing  business processes and reshaping the enterprise&#8217;s physical  infrastructure and network access.<br />
<strong>Training:</strong> People in this position often have a background in information technology and at least a bachelor&#8217;s degree, if not an MBA or other advanced degrees. This can include formal training in technology, consulting, business operations and accounting.<br />
<strong><br />
</strong></p>
<p><em>Source:  CIO Insight</em></p>
<h3 style="text-align: center;">4. Chief Executive Officer (CEO)<br />
<a href="http://www.highestfive.com/wp-content/uploads/CEO.jpg"></a></h3>
<p style="text-align: center;"><img class="aligncenter size-medium wp-image-2265" title="CEO" src="http://www.highestfive.com/wp-content/uploads/CEO-300x199.jpg" alt="" width="444" height="294" /></p>
<p><strong>Annual Wage: $140,000 +<br />
</strong><strong>Role:</strong> A CEO is the highest ranking official within a company (and  often the highest paid), and they’re responsible for the strategic  direction and day-to-day operational performance of the company. The CEO  usually answers to the board of directors, elected by the  shareholders.<br />
<strong>Training:</strong> It is encouraged to obtain an MBA for this position however there are many CEO’s that have gotten to where they are because of their brilliant vision and drive. (Ahem… Steve Jobs)<br />
<strong><br />
</strong></p>
<p><em>Source: Forbes</em></p>
<h3 style="text-align: center;">3. Psychiatrist<br />
<a href="http://www.highestfive.com/wp-content/uploads/Psychiatrist.jpg"></a></h3>
<p style="text-align: center;"><img class="aligncenter size-medium wp-image-2266" title="Psychiatrist" src="http://www.highestfive.com/wp-content/uploads/Psychiatrist-300x257.jpg" alt="" width="453" height="388" /></p>
<p><strong>Annual Wage: $177,000 +</strong><br />
<strong>Role:</strong> Psychiatrists are certified in treating mental disorders.   All psychiatrists are trained in diagnostic evaluation and in  psychotherapy. Psychiatrists are one of the few mental health  professionals who may prescribe psychiatric medication, conduct physical  examinations as well as order and interpret laboratory tests.<br />
<strong>Training:</strong> In the U.S. and Canada you must complete a Bachelor&#8217;s degree, then four years of medical school in order to earn your M.D. or D.O. Following this, you must practice as a psychiatric resident for another four years (five years in Canada). This extended period allows comprehensive training that includes diagnosis, psychopharmacology, medical care issues, and psychotherapies.<br />
<strong><br />
</strong></p>
<p><em>Source: CNN Money</em></p>
<h3 style="text-align: center;">2. Obstetrician/Gynecologist<br />
<a href="http://www.highestfive.com/wp-content/uploads/sarah_palin_gynecologist.jpg"></a></h3>
<p style="text-align: center;"><img class="aligncenter size-medium wp-image-2267" title="sarah_palin_gynecologist" src="http://www.highestfive.com/wp-content/uploads/sarah_palin_gynecologist-300x250.jpg" alt="" width="494" height="411" /></p>
<p><strong>Annual Wage: $222,000 +</strong><br />
<strong>Role:</strong> Obstetricians/gynecologists provide medical and surgical  care to women and have particular expertise in pregnancy, childbirth,  and disorders of the reproductive system. This includes preventative  care, prenatal care, detection of sexually transmitted diseases, Pap  test screening, and family planning.<br />
<strong>Training:</strong> After four years of medical school, you apply for residency in an OB/GYN program. These residency programs last another 4 years.<br />
<strong><br />
</strong></p>
<p><em>Source:  CNN Money</em></p>
<h3 style="text-align: center;">1. Anesthesiologist</h3>
<p style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.highestfive.com/wp-content/uploads/ANASTHESIOLOGIST.jpg"><img class="size-medium wp-image-2268  aligncenter" title="ANASTHESIOLOGIST" src="http://www.highestfive.com/wp-content/uploads/ANASTHESIOLOGIST-300x285.jpg" alt="" width="478" height="454" /></a></p>
<p><strong>Annual Wage:  $292,00 +</strong><br />
<strong>Role:</strong> Anesthesiologists specialize in the administering and  monitoring of anesthesia to patients before, during, and after their  operation.<br />
<strong>Training: </strong>Four undergraduate years at a university and then four years of medical school. After medical school, four years of residency are required leading up to board certification in anesthesiology.<br />
<strong><br />
</strong></p>
<p><em>Source: CNN Money</em></p>
<p>a</p>
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		<title>5 Recommended, Free Sites To Take Online Business Classes</title>
		<link>http://www.highestfive.com/money/5-recommended-free-sites-to-take-online-business-classes/</link>
		<comments>http://www.highestfive.com/money/5-recommended-free-sites-to-take-online-business-classes/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Tue, 05 Jan 2010 22:15:42 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>William MacDonald</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Work & Money]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.highestfive.com/?p=989</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Many of us don’t have the time to go back to school to complete a business degree, but with so many different online prospects, taking business courses online saves time and money and gives you the opportunity to learn at your own pace. Whether you’re looking to start your own business, improve your leadership skills, [...]<p>a</p>
]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Many of us don’t have the time to go back to school to complete a business degree, but with so many different online prospects, taking business courses online saves time and money and gives you the opportunity to learn at your own pace. Whether you’re looking to start your own business, improve your leadership skills, or expand your online marketing knowledge, here are some top site’s to help further your new business endeavors.</p>
<p><span id="more-989"></span></p>
<p><strong>1) Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT)</strong><br />
<img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-993" title="350px-mit_logosvg" src="http://www.highestfive.com/wp-content/uploads/350px-mit_logosvg.png" alt="350px-mit_logosvg" width="108" height="58" /><br />
You can find a wide range of free online business courses at <a href="http://mitsloan.mit.edu/">MIT’s Sloan School of Management</a>. Some of the classes offered include:</p>
<p><strong>• Financial and Managerial Accounting:</strong> This course aids business owners in understanding and presenting financial information to investors and for decision-making   processes within the management of your business.<br />
<strong>• Applied Economics for Managers:</strong> Learn about how economists model consumer choices and market coordination. While it mostly focuses on microeconomics, you’ll learn a little bit about global markets as well.<br />
<strong>• Taxes and Business Strategy: </strong>Plan for taxes and situate your business in the most advantageous spot within tax laws.</p>
<p><strong>2) The Small Business Training Network (SBTN)</strong><br />
<img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-994" title="sbalogo" src="http://www.highestfive.com/wp-content/uploads/sbalogo.jpg" alt="sbalogo" width="127" height="64" /></p>
<p><a href="http://www.sba.gov/services/training/about/index.html">SBTN</a> offers online courses, workshops, publications, information resources, learning tools and direct access to electronic counseling, and other forms of technical assistance. Many of the learning opportunities offered by the Network are developed by co-sponsors (academic institutions and corporations), some are developed by SBA&#8217;s resource partners and some are developed internally through agency contracts. All of the offerings are free, most are self-paced and the majority are considered &#8220;<strong>topical primers</strong>&#8220;.</p>
<p><strong>3) Free Management Library (SM)</strong><br />
<img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-995" title="freemanagementlib" src="http://www.highestfive.com/wp-content/uploads/freemanagementlib.jpg" alt="freemanagementlib" width="121" height="63" /></p>
<p>There are approximately 650 topics in the Library, spanning 5,000 links. Topics include the most important practices to <strong>start, develop, operate, evaluate and resolve problems in for-profit and nonprofit organizations.</strong> Each topic has additionally recommended books and related Library topics. <a href="http://www.managementhelp.org/np_progs/org_dev.htm#anchor660058">FML</a> gives you step-by-step guidelines, from how to employ <a href="http://www.calendarspots.com/">calendar software</a> for time management, to tools and techniques necessary for the most important activities in any for-profit or nonprofit organization.</p>
<p><strong>4) My Own Business</strong><br />
<img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-996" title="mobi_logo" src="http://www.highestfive.com/wp-content/uploads/mobi_logo.jpg" alt="mobi_logo" width="201" height="36" /></p>
<p><a href="http://myownbusiness.org/">MOB</a> offers courses on how to start your own business. (Certificate options are also available on the site.) The 16 courses are presented by various successful business owners, explaining why most businesses fail and how to avoid common mistakes. Some of the topics include <strong><em>evaluating business potential</em>, <em>communication tools</em>, <em>accounting and cash flow</em> and <em>how to finance your business</em></strong>.</p>
<p><strong>5) The Kutztown University of Pennsylvania</strong><br />
<img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-999" title="kutztown-university" src="http://www.highestfive.com/wp-content/uploads/kutztown-university.jpg" alt="kutztown-university" width="133" height="68" /></p>
<p>The Kutztown University of Pennsylvania&#8217;s <a href="”?phpMyAdmin=aqLzbfh6Ob21W-4Gb4kPrOgHaqa">Small Business Development Center</a> offers more than 80 free business courses online. Many of the courses feature high-end graphics, interactive case studies and audio streams. Some courses offered include:</p>
<p><strong>•    Accounting<br />
•    Business Management<br />
•    Business Planning<br />
•    Finance<br />
•    International Business<br />
•    Marketing<br />
•    Small Business Management<br />
</strong></p>
<p>a</p>
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		<title>Financial Investment for Beginners</title>
		<link>http://www.highestfive.com/money/financial-investment-for-beginners/</link>
		<comments>http://www.highestfive.com/money/financial-investment-for-beginners/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Wed, 30 Sep 2009 18:15:36 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Adam</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Work & Money]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.highestfive.com/?p=1022</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Everyone is obsessed with the substance that makes the world “go ‘round”.  We spend our lives trying to earn money and we need to manage our finances properly in order to plan for our futures.  Financial investment may seem scary, but if you take a little time to study your options a comfortable [...]<p>a</p>
]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Everyone is obsessed with the substance that makes the world “go ‘round”.  We spend our lives trying to earn money and we need to manage our finances properly in order to plan for our futures.  Financial investment may seem scary, but if you take a little time to study your options a comfortable retirement could be waiting for you.<span id="more-1022"></span></p>
<p>Once you make the decision to invest you must understand that there is no such thing as a ‘sure thing’.  It is best to form an outline of your goals and how much money you are willing to invest.  Then start researching the various options that are available to you. There are professional financial advisers who offer their services for a fee or you could even look into <a href="http://www.jovaco.com/jovaco-project-suite/">job cost accounting software</a> if you are thinking of becoming a full time investor and want to keep track of your expenses and total costs.</p>
<p>It is definitely recommended to research different financial advisers to make sure that you choose the best one for your requirements.  Either way, some research and time will be needed before a firm investment plan can be executed.</p>
<p><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-1023" src="http://www.highestfive.com/wp-content/uploads/finances.gif" alt="finances" width="290" height="361" /></p>
<p>Even though there are no set rules in investing there are safer and riskier forms of investing.  Long term investments are assets that are purchased with a plan to hold on to them for over a year.  This will not make you rich quick but it is a solid form of investment.  Little tricks along the way can certainly help put some extra cash in your pocket.  If you have a website for example you can install <a href="http://www.acquisio.com/product-pay-per-click-software.php">pay per click software</a> and suddenly the traffic you get will start to pay off without you even having to lift a finger.  Developing a residual income is one of the most sold forms of investment.</p>
<p>Real estate is a popular type of long term investment.  A <a href="http://www.styleathome.com/">home</a> is more than likely the most expensive purchase that you will ever make.  This is a great investment because everyone needs a place to live, so why not buy property which will end up making you money down the line?  Of course it is always wise to look around and consult professionals to ensure you make the best decision.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.investopedia.com/university/bonds/bonds1.asp">Bonds</a> are another long term investment.  Everyone needs money, even large companies; and bonds are a way for companies to raise capital.  Bonds pay out interest on a fixed schedule, so you will make money off of this loan; and your investment will be returned to you on the date specified.  One great feature is that in case of bankruptcy a bond holder will get paid before a shareholder.  There is less risk than with stocks but you will not make as much money.</p>
<p>A <a href="http://www.cra-arc.gc.ca/tx/ndvdls/tpcs/rrsp-reer/rrsps-eng.html">retirement savings plan</a> is always a wise investment to make for the future.  By putting away money each year in preparation for your ‘golden years’ you will not only be creating a comfortable retirement; in some cases you will also be saving on your taxes.  Certain plans can be used as a deductible to lessen the blow of your income taxes.  Imagine what you could do with the money saved on your taxes.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.economywatch.com/mutual-funds/definition/">Mutual funds</a> are a good option for those who would like to make an investment but are not eager to spend too much time researching or managing their investments.  With mutual funds there are fund managers who work for the investment management company; will take care of this work for you.  These managers will analyze the bond and stock market in order to build a solid spread for you.  With mutual funds the investor also gets the opportunity to choose plans based on their degree of risk.  For example a low risk plan (such as an equity fund) would invest more in T-Bills; while a high risk plan would look towards the stock market.</p>
<p><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-1024" src="http://www.highestfive.com/wp-content/uploads/dowjonesstockmarket.gif" alt="dowjonesstockmarket" width="285" height="235" /></p>
<p><a href="http://www.moneyextra.com/uk/investing-tips-for-beginners-basic-tips/">Stocks</a> are something that you have more than likely heard of if you are thinking about making an investment.  Some stocks are considered lower risk and can be used as a form of long term investment.  However, it is the higher risk stocks in the emerging markets that make wise investors the ‘big bucks’.  To make money in stocks you need to know a little about the market before jumping in.  Start by checking the stock value, if the price is low find out the reason why and if it looks like it might go up.  Find out the company’s return on net worth to see if it is growing steadily.</p>
<p>Remember that it is not wise to “put all of your eggs in one basket”.  Try to spread out your investment in order to cover yourself; do not solely purchase high risk stocks, try to mix in some lower risk ones for security.  Overall you must understand that the market is constantly fluctuating; do not panic at slight dips or get too excited about all rises.  Try to read the market as best you can to determine when the best times to buy and sell are; or seek out some <a title="stock tips" href="http://www.stocktipr.com/">stock tips</a> and/or professional help.</p>
<p>It is always smart to save some of your earnings and plan for your future and the future of your family.  Making educated investments is a great way to do this.</p>
<p>a</p>
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		<title>TOO SOON! People Who&#8217;ve Attempted to Profit from 9/11</title>
		<link>http://www.highestfive.com/money/too-soon-people-whove-attempted-to-profit-from-911/</link>
		<comments>http://www.highestfive.com/money/too-soon-people-whove-attempted-to-profit-from-911/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Mon, 14 Sep 2009 14:08:25 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Dan Bingham</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Work & Money]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.highestfive.com/?p=884</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[When a national disaster occurs, how soon is too soon before one starts hearing the &#8220;cha ching&#8221; of the cash register in their heads? Of course if you get sucked into the conspiracy theories surrounding the two planes crashing into the World Trade Center, you could argue that the real money makers after 9/11 were [...]<p>a</p>
]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>When a national disaster occurs, how soon is too soon before one starts hearing the &#8220;cha ching&#8221; of the cash register in their heads?<span id="more-884"></span> Of course if you get sucked into the conspiracy theories surrounding the two planes crashing into the World Trade Center, you could argue that the real money makers after 9/11 were the banks who profited from America going to war with Iraq, who heard the &#8220;cha chings&#8221; years before the planes even left the ground, and who probably organized the whole thing to begin with.  But if you do in fact believe that the attack was from Taliban terrorists, is it ever okay to profit from the tragedy?  The following are people who have certainly tried and in some cases succeed.  Were their motives noble?  Highly doubt it. Was it too soon for them to make a buck off what happened on 9/11?  With an entire nation unified under the slogan &#8220;Never forget,&#8221; it certainly felt that way.</p>
<p><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-894" title="twin-towers" src="http://www.highestfive.com/wp-content/uploads/twin-towers.jpeg" alt="twin-towers" width="396" height="298" /></p>
<h3>Movies</h3>
<p>Less than five years after the towers fell director Oliver Stone began shooting <em>World Trade Center</em>, a disaster film based on the true rescue story of police officers  John McLoughlin and William J. Jimeno.  Despite the fact that the Rotten Tomato’s overall consensus was that “As a visually stunning tribute to lives lost in tragedy, <em>World Trade Center</em> succeeds unequivocally, and it is more politically muted than many of Stone&#8217;s other works,” when the film’s first trailers came out there was definitely an overall feeling of  “too soon!”  The film has made $162,000,000 worldwide.  That same year the <em>Commemorative 9/11 Box Set</em> was released.   Three DVDs featured documentaries on &#8220;ordinary people who became heroes on 9/11.&#8221;  Thanks to the word &#8220;documentary,&#8221; this project doesn&#8217;t share the reek of profiteering with some Hollywood productions.</p>
<p><strong>Time between tragedy and profit</strong>: 5 years</p>
<h3>Commemorative $20 Coin Certificate</h3>
<p><a href="http://www.highestfive.com/money/too-soon-people-whove-attempted-to-profit-from-911/"><em>Click here to view the embedded video.</em></a></p>
<p>First of all, wtf is a “coin certificate?”  Nearly every line from this ad could be followed with “You’ve got to be joking!”  Aside from the high levels of ridiculosity surrounding the entire project, I particularly love how they use the fact that the silver coin/bill is bigger than a regular $20…as a selling point!</p>
<p>“Can I use it as currency?”</p>
<p>“Only if you’re in Liberia. But look, it’s bigger.”</p>
<p>An especially nice touch is how “the frosted twin towers stand out against a mirror-like background, much as they did in the gleaning sunlight of that fateful morning.”  Fantastic!  Now every time you look at your silver coin/bill on display, you won’t be able to stop your imagination from crashing two planes into those “frosty towers.”</p>
<p>Oh, and let’s not forget how proud they are of their historical mathematical achievement, adding the numbers 9 and 11 on the back to make 20….GET IT?  Pure genius.  The hi-fives in the office that day must have been aplenty.</p>
<p>Now before you get crazy and put on of these bad boys in every room of your life, the limit per caller is 5.</p>
<p><strong>Time between tragedy and profit (assuming even 1 was sold)</strong> = 7 years</p>
<h3>Fake Silver Coins</h3>
<p><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-885" title="freedom-fraud" src="http://www.highestfive.com/wp-content/uploads/freedom-fraud.jpg" alt="freedom-fraud" width="440" height="274" /></p>
<p>A private company in Port Chester, N.Y. called the National Collector’s Mint fraudulently marketed and sold “silver” coins in commemoration of 9/11.  They called their product the “Freedom Tower Silver Dollar,” and they ran many ads on television and otherwise offering customers a government approved one dollar pure silver coin, made from silver collected at ground zero.  New York Attorney General Eliot Spitzer shut the operation down and filed a lawsuit against National Collector’s Mint, arguing that:</p>
<p>A) The coins are not worth one dollar<br />
B) They are not government approved<br />
C) They are not pure silver but silver plated (Spitzer used the word “infinitesimal” when comparing the amount of silver in the Freedom Fraud to a coin of pure silver.)<br />
D) They are not made from anything found at ground zero</p>
<p>So not only did this company profit from 9/11, but they did so by lying on a massive scale and ripping people off.  Someone should fly a plane into their face.  So keep this mind if someone tries to sell you<a href="http://www.myjewelrybox.com/"> jewelry</a> claiming that it&#8217;s from silver found at ground zero, they&#8217;re probably full of bull ****.</p>
<p><strong>Time between tragedy and profit</strong>:  3 years</p>
<h3>The Twin Towers Commemorative Mailbox</h3>
<p>So you want to honor your fallen countrymen? What better way than to erect a smaller version of the twin towers on the edge of your lawn? Make every day your own September 11th in which every letter stuffed into your mailbox is the stationary equivalent of 747s flying into your own personal World Trade Center! And be sure to salut Ivan Marijan Sarich, the <a href="http://www.google.com/patents?id=d-MSAAAAEBAJ&amp;printsec=abstract&amp;zoom=4&amp;source=gbs_overview_r&amp;cad=0#v=onepage&amp;q=&amp;f=false">brilliant mind behind your daily tragedy</a>.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.highestfive.com/wp-content/uploads/twin-tower-mailbox.jpg"><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-906" title="twin-tower-mailbox" src="http://www.highestfive.com/wp-content/uploads/twin-tower-mailbox.jpg" alt="twin-tower-mailbox" width="284" height="489" /></a></p>
<p><strong>Time between tragedy and profit</strong>:  1 year</p>
<h3>From the Ashes</h3>
<p>Imagine going to pay your respects to lost loved ones at ground zero, only to be greeted by street vendors trying to sell you photos of the towers as they crumbled.  Hawkers and street vendors have literally surrounded the site, illegally selling all kinds of 9/11 memorabilia to tourists who pass by.  City officials have attempted to crack down on hawkers at ground zero, with NYC police handing out fines, forcing them to relocate, and even making arrests, but this doesn’t seem to stop vendors from trying to profit from the disaster.  Scavengers went to ground zero and scrounged anything they could find in the rubble…like more rubble and pieces of metal. They would then take it and either sell it on the street or on eBay.</p>
<h3>Commemorative Cribbage Bored&#8230;I mean Board</h3>
<p><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-889" title="commemorative-cribbage" src="http://www.highestfive.com/wp-content/uploads/commemorative-cribbage.jpg" alt="commemorative-cribbage" width="512" height="260" /></p>
<p>If you take the “2” from 121, chop off the tail and complete the upper swoop, you’ve got yourself a 9.  And if you leap-frog the 9 to the left, then push the two 1s together….well would you look at that!  The coincidences are mind boggling.  This holy plank of commemorative wood goes for $115, and apparently Bin Laden himself mentioned it in one of his videos in 2007, but I have absolutely zero proof of this.</p>
<p><strong>Time between tragedy and profit</strong>: 5 years</p>
<h3>The American Flag</h3>
<p>No one profited more from the terrorist attacks on the twin towers like the American flag industry (again, assuming you ignore the evidence suggesting it was an inside job, in which case the banks are the big winners).  Not only were the flags themselves flying off shelves at lightning speeds, but anyone producing mugs, t-shirts, bumper stickers, tattoos, posters, or any other type of flat surfaces where the ole red white and blue could be printed on saw their business numbers go through the roof.  No one sums up this phenomenon better than David Cross.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.highestfive.com/money/too-soon-people-whove-attempted-to-profit-from-911/"><em>Click here to view the embedded video.</em></a></p>
<p><strong>Time between tragedy and profit</strong>: Zero</p>
<h3>Charities</h3>
<p>Millions of Americans opened their hearts and wallets to the victims of 9/11.  Everyday people and celebrities alike donated an estimated total of $1.2 billion to various charities and organizations to provide relief for families of the fallen.  If you were to divide that money directly amongst the 6000 victims, each family should have received $167,000.  Of course everyone understands that it takes money to raise money, overhead and salaries need to be paid, but when all was said and done and the families received less than $3000 a piece, the nation became outraged.  Once again Eliot Spitzer stepped to the plate, along with media critics like FOXNews’s Bill O’Reilly, to call out organizations such as the American Red Cross and United Way, forcing them to explain to the American people: Where’s the f**k’n money?  Under the heat, the president and CEO of the Red Cross resigned, and the organization refused to participate in a program designed by Spitzer to facilitate the distribution of funds raised for 9/11 victims.  Very not cool.  We should sick Stewie Griffin on them.</p>
<p><strong>Time between tragedy and profit</strong>: Days</p>
<p><a href="http://www.highestfive.com/money/too-soon-people-whove-attempted-to-profit-from-911/"><em>Click here to view the embedded video.</em></a></p>
<p>a</p>
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		<title>Ways to Improve Your Employee Management Skills</title>
		<link>http://www.highestfive.com/money/ways-to-improve-your-employee-management-skills/</link>
		<comments>http://www.highestfive.com/money/ways-to-improve-your-employee-management-skills/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Fri, 15 May 2009 14:30:15 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Mary Montserrat-Howlett</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Work & Money]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.highestfive.com/?p=299</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Supervisors and managers are becoming increasingly aware of the strong correlation between productivity and employee morale. Studies continue to show that employees achieve their highest performance levels when morale is up, the problem is, few of those in managerial positions have adequate experience or training in leadership and interpersonal skills, which are essential to successful [...]<p>a</p>
]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Supervisors and managers are becoming increasingly aware of the strong correlation between productivity and employee morale. Studies continue to show that employees achieve their highest performance levels when morale is up, the problem is, few of those in managerial positions have adequate experience or training in leadership and interpersonal skills, which are essential to successful employee management. <span id="more-299"></span></p>
<p>The best managers are those who are passionate about what they do and inspire their employees. Good management is the foundation to a successful business, without it the whole structure falls apart.  <img src="http://www.highestfive.com/wp-content/uploads/mgmtskills.jpg" alt="" align="right" /></p>
<h3>The Qualities Of A Good Manager</h3>
<p>Being a good manager is having the ability to build and manage a strong work team that is efficient, productive and shows high levels of job satisfaction. Just like an <a href="http://www.sherweb.com/hosted-microsoft-crm">online CRM</a> helps you  manage and support your customer relationships, you need to be able to support the internal relationships with your employees too.</p>
<p> A manager’s job is no easy task, and it certainly helps when long term projects are being managed with the help of <a href="http://www.jovaco.com/jovaco-solfab-suite/">ETO software</a>. It also means having to be an effective intermediary between supervisors and employees, communicating messages to and from the two parties in a clear and concise manner. It means having to be in ten different places at one time, all the while ensuring that the ship sails smoothly. It also means leading by example, coaching your employees on how to perform as well as transferring your skills onto them so they can be self-sufficient.</p>
<p>A good manager must be able to create and maintain a structured work environment that promotes and enables open communication, the influx of new ideas; where responsibilities and goals are clear, achievable and assigned to the best person for the job.</p>
<p>Being an effective manager isn’t necessarily about being liked. Not to say that your employees should hate you, but what a good manager should really be striving for is gaining their employees’ respect. That means knowing how to hire carefully, as well as being able to fire when need be.</p>
<h3>Improving Your Employee Management Skills</h3>
<p><strong>Improve your social skills </strong></p>
<p>To be a good manager, you need to be a good communicator and like interacting with people. Offer your employees positive feedback when they do something well and constructive advice when work is not up to par. Be attentive and listen to what your employees have to say. Also, never take for granted how much a smile can brighten up an atmosphere. Being approachable and friendly with your employees can go a long way and will help to promote a cheerful work environment.</p>
<p><strong>Set clear goals</strong></p>
<p>Make sure your employees know what is expected and from whom it is expected. You, your boss, another employee&#8230; The more information you give your employee regarding the task at hand the better equipped they will be to execute it.</p>
<p><strong>Know how to delegate</strong></p>
<p>It is incredibly frustrating when a manager is unclear or indecisive. Take the time to ensure that the decisions you take have been carefully considered and that they are assigned to the right person for the job.</p>
<p><strong>Keep micromanaging at a minimum</strong></p>
<p>Frequent check-ins with your employees are important but if you are continuously breathing down your employees’ necks you will create a tense and stressful atmosphere that will significantly thwart productivity. The more trust you put in to your employees, the more ardently they will work to keep it.</p>
<p>a</p>
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		<title>Don&#8217;t Call Me Baby: Avoiding Sexual Harassment At The Office</title>
		<link>http://www.highestfive.com/money/dont-call-me-baby-avoiding-sexual-harassment-at-the-office/</link>
		<comments>http://www.highestfive.com/money/dont-call-me-baby-avoiding-sexual-harassment-at-the-office/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Wed, 01 Apr 2009 18:32:41 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Mary Montserrat-Howlett</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Work & Money]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.highestfive.com/?p=10</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[She steps into the office… tight skirt hugging every curve, the top buttons of her fitted blouse undone. As you begin to undress her with your eyes you realize, it’s Monday morning and all you can think about is … that report you need to have done by Wednesday… (Right)  Okay, so we all have [...]<p>a</p>
]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>She steps into the office… tight skirt hugging every curve, the top buttons of her fitted blouse undone. As you begin to undress her with your eyes you realize, it’s Monday morning and all you can think about is … that report you need to have done by Wednesday… (Right)  Okay, so we all have our moments of weakness<span id="more-10"></span>, but we also have to know where to draw the line in terms of appropriate behavior in the workplace. Sometimes that line seems a little blurry. Someone’s friendliness may come off as flirty, but when a sexual harassment suit is in the cards, there isn’t any room for confusion. It is a serious offense and can easily ruin your life and career for good.<br />
<img src="http://www.highestfive.com/wp-content/uploads/officebabe.jpg" align="right"></p>
<h3>What is sexual harassment?</h3>
<p>Sexual harassment constitutes any verbal or active behavior that is of a sexual nature and interferes with the functioning of a workplace. It is unwanted and uninvited sexual attention involving gestures, remarks or actions, which make a person, regardless of sex, gender or sexual orientation, feel intimidated, uncomfortable, embarrassed or unsafe.</p>
<p>Sexual harassment includes:</p>
<ul>
<li>Touching someone inappropriately- That means no hugging, bum-touching, shoulder or back rubbing, hand-grabbing, or any other physical gesture deemed inappropriate that make a person feel uncomfortable.</li>
<li>Making offensive jokes or remarks- Using expressions like: “That’s so gay” is offensive and inappropriate language to use in any setting. And keep in mind that what seems like a harmless joke to you isn’t to everyone else. For instance: Why do Japanese Sumo wrestlers shave their legs? So you can tell them apart from feminists.  It is degrading and humiliating.</li>
<li>Making sexual requests or suggestions- Offering someone a promotion, or stating that you will allow them to keep their job on the condition they provide you sexual favors, even if you are saying it as a joke, is highly inappropriate and just plain wrong. Cat calls and whistles are also clause for a sexual harassment suit.</li>
<li>Staring at or making unwelcome comments about a person’s body- Shouting “Nice legs/ass”; leering or inappropriate staring that make a person feel like an object are altogether disrespectful and can have a very harmful impact on a person’s self-esteem, and is grounds to file a sexual harassment suit.</li>
<li>Displaying sexually offensive pictures- E-mailing a co-worker(s) a picture that is of a sexual nature can seriously offend someone. It is forcing them to witness something without their consent.</li>
<li>Being verbally abusive because of gender- Using the word “girl” or “woman” as a put-down is again offensive and detrimental to a person’s self-esteem. Making remarks like “you run like a girl” is also completely sexist.</li>
</ul>
<p>A sexual harassment charge is a serious matter with critical consequences. It can infiltrate all realms of your life and future. Consider that not everyone has the same kind of humor as you, so be respectful of your general environment. Inappropriate behavior can create a hostile workplace and can interfere with an individual’s overall work performance.</p>
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