Description: This article discusses the lessons the author learned from the book The Advantage by Patrick Lencioni on the value of organizational health.

Description: The Stepping Stone issue 60, November 2015

Description: Cassie He and Linda Liu, two actuarial students, invite Mark Freedman, the President-Elect of SOA to share with us his experience as an actuary, the challenges and opportunities facing actuaries and the outlook for the profession as SOA president.

Description: This article defines "elevator pitch" and why one is needed. A great elevator pitch is an indispensable competitive advantage that will accelerate your career progress. A poor one can leave you toiling in anonymity.

Description: The author shared her personal experience in how to find a mentor and work with the mentor to improve her communication and managerial skills.

Description: We can learn a lot about actuarial exams but they don't really teach us about the business world and how to operate in it.

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: This article discusses challenges that short-term predictions have on actuaries' reputations, both as individuals and as a profession, and discusses strategies to improve our professionalism and better manage this risk.

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: metadata for the entire issue