Description: Think of all the documentation you as an actuary are expected to write: emails, status reports, business plans, white papers, case studies, user guides, pricing and methodology manuals, policies, procedures, regulatory submissions, and more. But while you’ve been formally taught many skills to qualify as an actuary, how to write well is probably not one of them. Fortunately, writing well is not some esoteric skill only available to those with a gift for it. Sure, a little talent helps—but knowing and applying some tricks from professional writers will greatly enhance your ability to communicate even the most complex ideas clearly and simply.

Description: The editor discusses editorial board changes, welcomes new section council members, and mentions highlighted articles in this issue.

Description: This newsletter suggests that the building and maintaining relationships the is key to success in both personal and business relationships, particularly in the employee benefits consulting business. In addressing the need for actuaries to build these skills a series of workshops is planned and presented.

Description: In “Gearing up for Designing Your Future,” published in the May 2017 issue of Actuary of the Future, the author cited four heroes as his personal inspiration. This article is the successor, showing the glory of these heroes and how they can inspire us actuaries today, as we strive to live our best lives. Identifying your own Noble Purpose as an actuary and in your life makes creating a five-year plan for personal growth meaningful and motivating. What will you gain from reading biographies of famous people and the classics? To aspire, to approach eloquence, to emulate the poetry of how they put their ideas across to mobilize their publics, to elevate our own characters by their examples, to be fully equipped to make moral and ethical judgments, to master the primary tool, verbal communication.

Description: More and more insurers are relying upon their human resources teams to help them make the transition from domestic to transnational concerns. Here, a leading international HR expert discusses how to do just that.

Description: An update on recent and upcoming activities of the International Section Council as it continues to find ways to serve its members and other interested parties who are either working overseas or have a strong international interest.

Description: 2016 SOA Life & Annuity Symposium panel session that focuses on how actuaries get prepared and bridge the gap before moving into corporate executive roles.

Description: Notes on the IAA meeting that took place in D.C. in May

Description: This article explores the challenges of financial reporting in the 21st century particularly on the international scene.