Description: The author discusses ways to grow your list of business contacts through the use of email, particularly about the proper use of e-blasts. Some of the advantages of this method the author notes are flexibility with format, saving time since the same email goes to all contacts, and providing a way to systematize your communications with your business contacts.

Description: The editor’s summary of topics covered in the May 2011 issue of The Independent Consultant, the newsletter of the Entrepreneurial Actuaries Section.

Description: In this article, the author discusses the benefits of writing an article that is jointly authored by you and another person. The article discusses different situations where the result can be an article that meets your strategic objectives, and also helps another business professional move ahead.

Description: This is a link to an article that describes the Competency Framework Self-Assessment Tool that measures your skill level for each of eight competencies. By using the CF and the Self-Assessment Tool you can identify areas where improvement is needed so you can focus your professional development to help further your career.

Description: In addition to urging members to get involved and mentioning the upcoming section elections, the chairperson of the Entrepreneurial Actuaries Section discusses a proposal that would benefit both the big company and the Entrepreneurial Actuaries Section 'EAS' members: the author suggests that each large insurance company should designate an actuary as the chief entrepreneurial actuary responsible for acting as a portal for entrepreneurial ideas of an actuarial nature.

Description: In this article the authors ask: “what if you could be more focused, calmer and better able to perform? …what if the only thing you needed to do to perform better was to become aware of a few things, and that by doing these things, you could improve performance and help others achieve better results?” Referencing David Rock's latest book, “Your Brain at Work,” which shares key findings on the science of the brain and how the brain functions, the authors explain how we can be more focused and productive and help others do the same, and how to understand and correct what's happening when we head off-track.

Description: These 'Notes from the Editor' offer a run-down of topics covered in the August 2011 issue of The Independent Consultant, the newsletter of the Entrepreneurial Actuaries Section.

Description: In this article, the author discusses an estate planning strategy that is extremely effective in an environment of low interest rates and depressed asset values, and was made more attractive by the December 17, 2010 legislation that provides extensive estate tax relief, although only for two years: the Grantor Retained Annuity Trust or GRAT. The articles discusses how a GRAT works, strategy for setting one up, income tax considerations, certain drawbacks, and the need to act quickly, given congress is considering legislation that would impose restrictions.

Description: This article gives a listing of outside vendors and resources for supporting a small office. Resources include IT support, organizations, professional services, and internet resources.

Description: In this article, the author, an independent consulting actuary, discusses the process of becoming independent, providing advice on what you need to consider in making the transition from company employee to independent consultant.