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: This is an interview with Michael Braunstein, one of the founding members of the Leadership & Development section.

Description: One of the many reasons several organizations fail to reach their potential is the presence of internal politics. In general, the question is not whether politics are present within organizations rather the right question is how much politics exist? From The Stepping Stone, April 2005, Issue No. 18.

Description: This article stresses the importance of effective networking in shaping your future career opportunities.

Description: The author presents a simple tool that can help managers be effective at developing people called the competency checklist.

Description: The author suggests that if you invest in your professional image appearance, behavior and attitude you will advance your personal brand and undoubtedly succeed in your career.

Description: The fundamental steps to breaking out of a professional ‘slump’ are covered in this article.

Description: This article provides some effective ways to reward employees excellence.

Description: An introduction to a new benefit for members of the Management and Professional Development section - getAbstract, a service that summarizes important business-related books. Includes how to access this benefit as well as what it is and why actuaries would be interested.

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.