Description: The article covers the definition of a strength, how to recognize strengths and block weaknesses, how to perform a strengths self-assessment, and ways to effectively describe our strengths to others.

Description: The insurance industry is in a constant state of transformation. As organizations adapt to the effects of COVID-19, undergo modernization efforts and implement new technologies, soft or “human” skills are becoming key differentiators for success. Skills such as communication, empathy, storytelling, leadership, problem-solving and more are separating the good from the great actuaries. Those who possess these skillsets can better translate data and most efficiently leverage systems and teams. At the same time, by taking a human approach to modernization efforts, leaders will be able to best engage and motivate their workforces, while building teams that will excel in the future of work.

Description: As mentioned in the Chairperson’s Corner, this is the first of a three-part series focused on the “Do Nothing” leadership approach presented by Professor J. Keith Murnighan, the Harold H. Hines Jr. Distinguished Professor of Risk Management at the Kellogg School of Management, Northwestern University. Murnighan is the author of the book Do Nothing! and promotes a synonymous leadership approach.

Description: The article discusses common themes with personal branding: be authentic, consistently manage your brand, manage your social media reputation.

Description: Chairperson's Corner - introduces the issue and the SOA's initiative on diversity, as well as introduces Murnighan's diverse approach to leadership. Do Nothing! is the first of a three part series focused on J. Keith Murnighan's book "Do Nothing!" and discusses balancing working vs. leading, how to succeed as leader by counterbalancing challenges, and to best manage a team.

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: Chairperson's corner discussing the recent name to the L&D (formerly MPD), the winners of the Leadership Inspiration contest, and how to commit and aspire to your 2016 resolutions.

Description: A transcript of questions and responses from the 2016 Nashville Life and Annuity Symposium Actuaries in the C-Suite session.