Description: The author discusses how small firms can compete successfully against big firms by cre¬ating a micro-niche business, because other firms—including big firms—cannot compete directly. In this way a small firm can compete against large firms with great success by stepping outside direct competi¬tion, in which it cannot hope to win. From ‘The Stepping Stone’ issue number 43.

Description: The reports you draft, presentations you make, emails you write, posts you put up and texts you send all contribute to your professional image, so make sure that everything you write (and do, wear, or say) sends a consistent, professional image.

Description: March 2020 issue of The Stepping Stone by Leadership & Development Section. practical information for actuaries, trends that impact section, section activities

Description: This article is about how times are changing and we must adapt and keep up as individuals, professionals, and companies

Description: In May, the Leadership and Development Section sponsored a webinar where 4 four senior actuarial leaders with different backgrounds, experiences, and geographic locations shared their journeys and unique perspectives. This article summarizes the key takeaways from the discussion of the paths they followed to leadership.

Description: This article covers the importance of letting teams lead you as a leader, that it's okay to admit you're not okay even at work, and that it's important to find informal ways for virtual teams to connect.

Description: Providing ways to master the art of soft skills and embracing agility to propel actuarial success in today's market.

Description: Book summary and review of "Conversational Intelligence: How Great Leaders Build Trust and Get Extraordinary Results" by Judith E. Glaser. Summarizes the three main levels of conversation, how conversations can move from trusting to distrusting, and how to achieve conversational intelligence and Level III conversations.

Description: Beyond technical skills, actuaries must be outstanding communicators and influences in order to maintain the critical roles they play within insurance organizations. Early career development is focused on building a strong technical and industry foundation. Once this foundation is in place, however, actuaries must quickly adapt to being submerged in a fast-paced, results-oriented business environment that requires the ability to communicate effectively and, more importantly, influence those around you. This article is intended to educate young actuarial professionals on key business influencing skills that will be beneficial in the near term as well as throughout their careers. The main focus is on influencing peers.

Description: An essay on how the lyrics of the Simon and Garfunkel hit song helps the author keep perspective and be a better leader by slowing down and taking the time to listen and lead.