Futures
Recruiter Says Future Work Hinges on Soft Skills, Not Tech
2024-12-06
Terry Petzold, with 25 years of recruiting experience and currently a managing partner at Fox Search Group, has a unique perspective on how to stand out in the job market. He emphasizes that in-demand technical skills are not always stable. Take the case of artificial intelligence; just two-and-a-half years ago, there was a focus on hiring coders, but with the emergence of ChatGPT, the landscape changed rapidly. Petzold believes that while having up-to-date digital skills is important across industries and career levels, companies are now more interested in hiring people with a different set of skills.

The Importance of Soft Skills in the Workplace

Emotional intelligence, or EQ, is a crucial soft skill that allows individuals to manage their own feelings and those of others. This skill enables better relationship-building and leadership in the workplace. Job candidates with great technical skills can truly succeed when they also demonstrate high EQ. Specialization in an area like data, security, infrastructure, or enterprise solutions is valuable, but those with strong EQ and soft skills, along with business skills, are the future IT leaders.

Handling and Delivering Constructive Feedback

Being able to handle and deliver constructive feedback is an essential soft skill. It helps in providing valuable input to colleagues and improving team performance. When individuals have this skill, they can communicate their thoughts and concerns in a way that is respectful and helpful. For example, instead of simply pointing out mistakes, they can offer suggestions on how to improve. This leads to a more positive work environment and helps in resolving issues effectively.

Managing Conflict

In a workplace, conflicts are inevitable. However, those with high EQ know how to manage conflicts in a constructive manner. They can listen to both sides of the story, understand the underlying issues, and find solutions that satisfy all parties. By doing so, they prevent conflicts from escalating and maintain a harmonious work environment. For instance, a leader with high EQ might mediate a dispute between two team members by facilitating open communication and helping them find common ground.

Having Critical Conversations with Urgency

Being able to have critical conversations with urgency is another important soft skill. It requires the ability to address important issues promptly and effectively. When faced with a critical situation, individuals with high EQ can approach the conversation with empathy and clarity. They can clearly state the problem and its impact, while also listening to the other person's perspective. This helps in making timely decisions and taking appropriate actions.

Working Cross-Functionally by Persuading Peers and Other Leaders

Working cross-functionally is essential in today's interconnected workplaces. Those with high EQ can persuade their peers and other leaders to collaborate and work towards common goals. They understand the needs and perspectives of different teams and can use their communication skills to bring everyone together. For example, a project manager with high EQ might convince different departments to work together by highlighting the benefits of collaboration and addressing any concerns they may have.

Effectively Presenting Ideas to Leaders Above Them

Presenting ideas to leaders above one's level requires more than just technical knowledge. It requires the ability to communicate effectively and persuade others. Individuals with high EQ can present their ideas in a clear and compelling manner, taking into account the audience's needs and concerns. They can use visual aids and storytelling techniques to make their ideas more engaging and memorable. This helps in getting their ideas approved and implemented.Good employers can further develop their workers' soft skills by offering mentorship programs and facilitating networking. This allows employees to see good models of leadership and high EQ in action and learn from them. By focusing on soft skills, companies can build a more resilient and successful workforce.If you're looking to make extra money outside of your day job, sign up for CNBC's online course "How to Earn Passive Income Online" to learn about common passive income streams, tips to get started, and real-life success stories. Plus, sign up for CNBC Make It's newsletter to get tips and tricks for success at work, with money, and in life.
UNCCD COP16 in Riyadh: Inclusive Governance for Rangelands & Pastoralists
2024-12-06
The United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification's sixteenth session of the Conference of the Parties (COP16) is set to unfold in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, from 2 to 13 December 2024. This significant event holds the key to recognizing shared lands, rights, knowledge, and institutions in a world that is constantly evolving. By delving into the reality and potential of inclusive governance for rangelands and pastoralists, it aims to shed light on the importance of considering mobility as an integral part of pastoralism and its crucial role in the adoption of equitable and adaptive governance systems.

Uniting for Inclusive Governance in the Desertification Battle

Analyzing the Significance of COP16

The 2024 COP16 in Riyadh is more than just a conference; it is a platform for global collaboration. It brings together experts, policymakers, and stakeholders from around the world to address the pressing issue of desertification. The event serves as a reminder of the interconnectedness of our planet and the need for collective action. By focusing on inclusive governance for rangelands and pastoralists, it offers a unique opportunity to explore innovative solutions and strategies that can lead to sustainable development in these vulnerable regions. 2: The significance of COP16 extends beyond the conference itself. It has the potential to inspire change at local, national, and international levels. Through the sharing of knowledge and best practices, it can help build capacity and empower communities to take ownership of their natural resources. This, in turn, can lead to the implementation of more effective policies and practices that promote the conservation and sustainable use of rangelands and pastoral systems.

Highlighting Mobility as a Key Element

Mobility plays a vital role in pastoralism, and COP16 recognizes its significance. Pastoralists have long relied on the ability to move their herds in search of better grazing lands and water sources. This mobility is not only essential for their livelihoods but also for the health and sustainability of rangeland ecosystems. By considering mobility as a substantial element of pastoralism, COP16 aims to ensure that governance systems are designed to accommodate and support this traditional way of life. 2: Incorporating mobility into governance systems requires a comprehensive understanding of the needs and challenges faced by pastoralists. It involves developing policies that promote the free movement of people and livestock while also addressing issues such as land tenure, water rights, and conflict resolution. By doing so, COP16 can help create an enabling environment for pastoralism to thrive and contribute to the overall goal of combating desertification.

The Role of Inclusive Governance

Inclusive governance is at the heart of COP16. It recognizes that the success of any governance system depends on the active participation and ownership of all stakeholders. By involving pastoralists, local communities, and other relevant actors in the decision-making process, COP16 aims to ensure that policies and practices are tailored to their specific needs and contexts. 2: Inclusive governance also promotes the sharing of knowledge and resources among different stakeholders. It encourages the exchange of ideas and experiences, leading to the development of more innovative and sustainable solutions. Through collaborative efforts, COP16 can help build stronger partnerships and networks that can drive positive change in the fight against desertification.
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The Value of Dollar, Euro, and MLC in Cuba's Informal Market Today
2024-12-08
On this particular Sunday in Cuba, the currency landscape presents a fascinating picture. The US dollar (USD), a widely recognized currency, is currently trading at 328 Cuban pesos (CUP). This rate showcases the intense demand and limited availability of foreign currency on the island. Meanwhile, the euro (EUR) has emerged as a strong contender, surpassing the dollar with a rate of 340 CUP in the parallel market. It has firmly established itself as the most valuable currency in this context. Another significant currency is the Freely Convertible Currency (MLC), which is used in state stores. It has seen an increase in value by five pesos compared to the previous day and is now traded at 270 CUP. These figures vividly illustrate the economic uncertainties and the difficulties faced in accessing foreign currencies, which play a crucial role in numerous transactions across the country. The continuous devaluation of the Cuban peso and the fluctuations in these rates add to the uncertainty experienced by the population that depends on this market to fulfill their basic needs. Let's delve deeper into the details of these currency exchanges.

Unraveling the Complexities of Cuban Currency Exchange

US Dollar in Cuba's Informal Market

The United States dollar holds a significant position in Cuba's informal currency market. With a trading rate of 328 CUP, it reflects the high demand and scarcity of foreign currency. This rate impacts various aspects of the Cuban economy, from daily transactions to larger business dealings. It shows how the dollar's value is closely tied to the local economic conditions and the demand for foreign currency.

For instance, when individuals need to make purchases or engage in international trade, the value of the dollar becomes a crucial factor. The 328 CUP rate indicates the relative worth of the dollar in the Cuban context and how it influences the purchasing power of the local population. It also highlights the challenges faced in maintaining a stable currency exchange rate and the efforts made to manage the flow of foreign currency.

Euro in the Cuban Parallel Market

The euro has emerged as a dominant force in Cuba's parallel market, trading at 340 CUP. This rate surpasses that of the US dollar and solidifies the euro's position as the highest-valued currency in this informal setting. The euro's popularity can be attributed to several factors, including its global recognition and stability.

In the Cuban parallel market, the euro plays a vital role in facilitating international trade and financial transactions. Its high value gives it an edge over other currencies and makes it a preferred choice for many businesses and individuals. The 340 CUP rate also reflects the economic dynamics of Cuba and the importance of having a diverse range of currencies available for trade. It shows how the euro has become an integral part of the country's economic landscape and how it influences various aspects of daily life.

Freely Convertible Currency (MLC) in State Stores

The Freely Convertible Currency (MLC) is a unique currency used in state stores in Cuba. With a current value of 270 CUP, it has seen an increase of five pesos compared to the previous day. This currency plays a crucial role in the state-run economy and provides an alternative to the traditional Cuban peso.

In state stores, the MLC is used for specific transactions and offers a certain level of convenience and flexibility. Its value and usage are closely monitored and regulated by the government to ensure stability and fairness in the economic system. The increase in its value indicates the changing dynamics of the Cuban economy and the efforts made to manage the currency effectively. It also shows how different currencies coexist and interact within the Cuban market, each with its own significance and role.

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