Word of Wisdom

So I'll offer a few words of wisdom to next semester's students in Angela Rogers' Business Writing class. At first things may seem a little overwhelming,writing the blog every Sunday, completing the daily assignments, learning the daily lessons and looking to the future at the multiple presentations and portfolio creations, but the key is to plan your work schedule for the current weeks assignments. Here are my suggestions:

• Print out the PowerPoint slides and taking quality notes
  
• Write the weekly blogs, they are a small 10 points that add up to a lot in the end.
• Take good notes during the 5 Minute Review for the grammar quiz
• Attend class-I know this might sound crazy but it's really interesting and you learn a lot about business writing

You will create a resume, a cover letter, conduct a mock interview, learn the difference between direct and indirect organizational styles and when to apply each and how to conduct quality presentation. If you are taking this class, you're in luck!

Unethical Practices in the Workplace

There are many unethical practices that occur in large, big-name corporations every year. Some are bigger than others and easily identifiable. For example, Martha Stewart sold her shares of stock before disclosing the information to all shareholders the day before the stock plummeted. In 2004, Dick Grasso, former CEO of the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE), resigned due to unethical practices and replaced by "Mr. Fix-It," John Thain. Recently, former CEO of Merrill Lynch, Stanley O'Neal resigned after unethical procedures and risky investment. At the end of that year (2007) Merrill Lynch posted a recored high $8 billion loss. And who did they call on to fix the problem? You guessed it-John Thain. After stabilizing the NYSE, John Thain was hired by Merrill Lynch as CEO. Other unethical practices, such as pocketing money and sexual and race discrimination happen everyday and may never be reported by employers. Many of these incidents go unreported because employers feel uneasy about reporting it to upper-level management or a anonymous, formal reporting procedure is not offered. Although it is morally correct to report these issues, employees may feel that their confidential reports may end up in the wrong hands and this could lead to an uncomfortable work environment. The best solution is to create an anonymous, formal reporting procedure to address unethical issues in the workplace. By doing this, upper-level management will pay closer attention to possible unethical claims.

Modern Doesn't Always Mean Better

Writing on the Web can prove to be much different than writing on paper. There are many reasons that cause this difference. They include: format, tone, speech and font. While writing on paper has a standard format: sender's address, recipient's address, date, salutation, body, closing and signature, the Web offers a more open-ended structure when it comes to format. Often the sender's address never appears in an email. A second reason is tone. Usually a formal tone is taken when writing on paper, while a more casual tone usually appears on the Web. When writing emails to colleagues, many people fail to capitalize their letters. A third reason is speech. By speech I mean Web lingo, like that which appears in all the Cingular commercials. One in particular has a grandmother stating, "Idk my bff Rose," which translates to I don't know my best friend Rose. It almost as if we have created a Neo-English language. I know we are trying to "go green" but does everything have to become hybrid? Something of this nature would never appear in a letter or memo. Finally, you need to be careful of the type of font used in a Web document. The best fonts to use on the Web are Arial and Verdana because they are more readable on a Web page. So, if you are transferring a Word document that is typed in Times New Roman to the Web be sure to change the font style.

Use Some Logic Snyder

I am from Bethesda, MD and have been a long-time fan of the Washington Redskins, who have a historic past in Washington, D. C., dating back to 1937. I can’t understand the reasoning behind cheering for the Baltimore Ravens, who only came into existence in 1996. Raven fans didn’t just suddenly decide they liked football. However, most of them likely gave up on the dismal Redskins franchise and its inexperienced owner Dan Snyder. When Snyder came to the throne as owner of the Redskins in 1997, he brought his business attitude and idiotic ideal of instant gratification. Dan Snyder has hired and fired five coaches in 11 years as owner of the Redskins and overall has a losing record. In that time frame, the Redskins have made it to the playoffs three times and have only advanced past the first round once, just to lose the second round game. Compare this to the Pittsburgh Steelers, who have had two coaches in the last 16 years. The most recent retiree, Bill Cowher, was with the team from 1992-2007 and their record speaks for itself. The Steelers have made it to the playoffs 11 times, making it to the Super Bowl twice and winning it once. Snyder has signed some of the biggest names including, Deion Sanders, Bruce Smith and Laveranues Coles to haughty, one-year contracts, only to have them not work out. He has used the same strategy with coaches. He has hired Marty Schottenheimer, Steve Spurrier, Joe Gibbs and most recently, Jim Zorn to some of the highest-paid coaching salaries in the National Football League (NFL). Snyder’s inexperience as an owner and his dim-witted strategy have shown as he embarks on another year of free-agent spending and coaching that will most likely produce small results.
Snyder has invested so much time and money into the organization that he does not want to accept his failure as team owner. At this point Snyder will go to any means necessary to buy a championship. This includes obtaining the best coaching staff and players money can buy, even if the contract is only for one year.
Obviously Snyder’s goal is to win the Super Bowl, but he is building his team incorrectly. His lack of experience and poor front-office management skills are showing to be a greater weakness than he might have thought. First, Snyder needs to keep his nose out of the coaches day-to-day operations and coaching style. Second, he needs to hire a coach and stick with him for at least five years. How can you expect a coach to implement his coaching style and plays if his only with the organization for a year. Give me a break. I can’t think of one coach who has taken a team to the Super Bowl in his first year, let alone won the whole thing. Third, Snyder needs to sign these high-paying players to longer contracts. It takes time to learn a playbook that most likely contains over 300 plays. The Redskins current offensive coordinator, Al Saunders, has a playbook that contains over 1,000 plays. It’s not something you learn by the seat of your pants. It takes time learn that many plays, many which come with audibles. Snyder is comparable to Eddie Sutton, former Head Coach of Oklahoma State. In 2002, Coach Sutton went out and recruited a few junior college players to play their Junior and Senior years at Oklahoma State. They had two successful years, making it to the Final Four in 2004, but never winning the championship. From that point on, they have not returned to the NCAA tournament. Whereas, Oliver Purnell, Head Coach of Clemson, has quickly built a successful, sustainable team, that used to be the doormat of the ACC, but will most likely return to the NCAA tournament for years to come. If Snyder had used the “Purnell” philosophy he too might experience a little more success. If you look at the successful teams in the NFL, the Pittsburgh Steelers, New England Patriots and Indianapolis Colts, they have the same coaching staff and players year after year. I’m not an owner or personnel expert, but I think Snyder is the one that needs to be fired.

My Favorite Presentation

I enjoyed the presentations by Jessica, "Clemson's Master Plan." I think it was extremely interesting to obtain an insight into Clemson plan over the next 50 years. Jessica presented the information very well through visual aid and architectural outlines. Its hard to imagine downtown Clemson looking any different than it does right now. I could never see an Old Navy or Target along the same street as Judge Keller's, which has been there since our grandparents were teenagers. I feel by adding these commercial stores the historic "feel" would be taken away. I enjoy the small shops that are dedicated to selling Clemson apparel and merchandise and the famous strip of bars such as Tiger Town Village and TD's. Planting an enormous commercial building would overpower the quaint downtown area that's busy with shoppers during the day and rowdy with students at night. Many relatives and friends that I know whom have come to Clemson always tell me how the campus is so beautiful and well-maintained. I am very interested in the development of Clemson and its future plans. I really love the rural, tightly-knit, small college town atmosphere the city of Clemson provides and hope that it will not change.

Mock Interview Reflection

Throughout my interview, I felt comfortable and relaxed. While job searching I think it will be best if I can interview as much as possible, even if I have no intentions of taking the job, in order to gain experience, self-confidence, and comfort with the process. I also think it is a good way to become acquainted with many of the questions interviewers will ask a prospective employee. The questions that I was asked during my mock interview were extremely realistic and made me think on my toes, but before I responded I listened to the questions, collected my thoughts, and gave intelligent answers. I have been told repeatedly that a well-written paper can be tarnished by a lousy presentation and a lousy paper can be resurrected by a strong presentation. I believe the same applies in an interview. You may have the necessary credentials, but if you are unable to communicate well and portray low self-confidence you most likely will be rejected. So, the optimal solution is to have the necessary credentials and present yourself well during the interview. I believe the mock interview conducted in English 304 is an extremely influential process of learning how to interview properly. Because of this experience I have a better overall understanding of what is to be expected during an interview, how to write a application letter, and how to compose an action-oriented resume.

A Place I'd Like to Live

Iceland is a beautiful country that has rolling green plains and fresh, crisp air. Frequently, babies and young children are left outside the home to breathe in the clean, fresh air. Not only does it have a refreshing environment but it ranks as the fifth most productive country in the world based on GDP at Purchasing Power Parity (PPP). That's pretty impressive considering that Iceland's population is only a little over 300,000 people, which is smaller than the city of Charleston, SC. Iceland has undergone one of the fastest economic transformations in the world in recent years. From 2000-2004 it had the best performing Western stock market. Much of Iceland's economical success depends on the fishing industry and how well it performs year to year. The fishing industry provides nearly 40% of the export earnings and employs 8% of the workforce. In addition to its successful productivity, it has a literacy rating in the 99th percentile. It also boasts an extremely even wealth distribution, where the no individuals rank in the top or bottom 5% of yearly income. Lastly, it is an extremely safe place to live. Crime practically is non-existent. Iceland's only downfall may be its temperature but with all of its other positives throwing on a jacket really doesn't seem that bad.

Cover Letter

I believe a cover letter for your resume is important. While the resume describes your work experience, a cover letter is able to relate the benefits and capabilities that you will offer the organization in order for it to achieve greater success. This shows that you have taken the time to research the company. If two people are being considered for the job, a well-written cover letter may elevate one candidate over the other. Also, writing a cover specifically addressed to someone within the organization shows that you have taken the time to identify your target. Understanding the companies goals enable you to write a more personalized, detail-oriented cover letter about the organization. Sending out a mass cover letter most likely only contains information about you and cannot be tailored directly to a specific organization. Adding a hand-written postscript is also a nice touch. It will easily stand out against the other printed material. A testimonial might also be a nice touch to reinforce the quality of your work. This would reinforce the positive statements written by you in your cover letter.
I think all resumes should be accompanied by a cover letter. Even if they are never read, they show the employer that you have taken the time to research and evaluate the company.

Job Interview

I chose the article "Four Dont's When Dealing With Recruiters" and "Minor Matters That Make Your Interview." The first article is informative about dealing with the recruiter in an appropriate manner. Being friendly is a must when dealing with a prospective employer. Most people know to act courteous and respectful to the interviewer. Asking for coaching looks unprofessional and unprepared. If you are asking your recruiter how to create your cover letter then they are sure to cross you off their list. Asking for insider information and special treatment is also inappropriate. If they offer this information just take note but do not be nosy. If you impress them then they are sure to take note of your interview.
The second article I read pertains to minor matters before the interview process. These tips may seem like insignificant details but these details may get you the job. Selecting an appropriate business attire is necessary to look professional and respectful. Fresh breath is also an important detail because no one wants to smell bad breath and is a turnoff. Being punctual is extremely important. If you arrive late for an interview you can all but kiss that potential job away. Lastly, your behavior both before, during, and after the interview are all important because you never know who is watching you. It is important that you conduct yourself in an appropriate manner inside as well as outside work because if you are responsible for your conduct and represent the organization. If you act inappropriately then you may tarnish the organizations reputation.

The Power of Persuasion

Former presidential candidate, Ralph Nader, uses rhetoric while describing current president, George W. Bush's mentality on starting World War III, in his article The Bombs Away Mentality. In the article, Nader mocks Bush for stating Iran will start World War III if they are not prevented from developing nuclear weapons or having "the knowledge necessary to make a nuclear weapon." Nader states that only the U.S. or Russia has the funding and the man power to start such a war and weapons of mass destruction would take 3 to 5 years before completion. In addition, the Pentagon is worried about the already drained military fighting in Iraq, a successful military strategy, and the consequences of Bush's bombs away mentality. Although Bush needs the backing of Congress before declaring war on any country, he seems to have it from both the Republican and Democratic parties. In the article, the New York Times concluded: "it was bad enough having a one-party government when the Republicans controlled the White House and both houses of Congress. But the Democrats took over and still the one-party system continues." Nader contributes this to two issues, fear and greed. The Democrats have repeatedly caved on critical constitutional regulations and policies and recently, Treasury Secretary, Henry Paulson Jr., persuaded a Democrat to decrease the corporate income tax rate from by 10%, from 35% to 25%, during a decade of increasing record profits. Nader sites these examples to show Americans the corruption and abuse of authority that is taking place in the U.S. government.

Website:
http://www.counterpunch.org/nader10232007.html

10 Years From Now...

Wow, 10 years, that feels like an eternity but if it moves at the same speed as college it will be here tomorrow. So, this is where I want to be in 10 years.
Like most people, I have always wanted to be financially successful and the underlying theme to being financially successful is money, money, money. The value of a dollar has always intrigued me. From the time I was little I have been budgeting, saving, or trying to make money. My parents, teachers, and peers have always told me to do something that I love. Well, for me it’s investing. I find investing in stocks, bonds, and/or mutual funds fascinating. They mesmerize me the way little children look at presents on Christmas day or we guys watch college football Saturday afternoon through Saturday night. Some of the wealthiest people in the world are positioned at the top because they were able to make great, sound investments. For example, the second wealthiest man in the world, Warren Buffet, CEO of Berkshire-Hathaway, was able to become so filthy rich because he made smart investments. Many experts have compared him to the Michael Jordan of the investment world. So, through research, a few late nights at the office, and a little intuition I see myself being a top investment banker at Capital One, whose headquarters are in Northern Virginia. However, I am also interested in real estate. Although the market is suffering right now, it should certainly regain its luster within the next 10 years. I can only imagine what it might be like to help first time homeowners purchase their house. If I defer to this option, I would like to be president and broker of a small real estate agency. I have been working at a real estate agency for the past three years and plan on obtaining my license this summer.
As for my personal life, I would like to be married to my girlfriend, Whitney, whom I have been dating for one year. She is an amazing person both inside and out and I consider myself extremely lucky to have her in my life. I would like to have a few children and purchase a plantation style home with lots of land somewhere in Northern Virginia, which is close to the majority of my family who reside in Maryland. Before having children, I would like to travel to a few foreign countries. The top three on my list are: Iceland, Portugal, and Greece.
Most of all, I want to be a good family man. I want to be involved in the day to day joys…and occasional sorrows… my children will face and instill good values and morals in them the same way my parents have done for me. I want to provide for them and know that they can count on me.

We Are A Digital World

The digital world is tricky in the advantages and disadvantages it contains. This current day and age is a digital world. The digital world keeps us up to speed with our fast-paced, ever-changing lifestyles. We can exchange emails with co-workers within our own city, country or the world. Communication that used to take days, now takes seconds. There is a chain reaction in the work force: speed can only increase efficiency, which increases production and results in decreased costs and increased profits. Information, past and present, is able to be stored and easily accessed on the Web. The Web provides us with real-time updates and current news articles that offer picture, video and audio. Stockbrokers are able to view current trading values, newscasters can report live from Iraq, common citizens can say hi to relatives overseas through video cam or YouTube and you can pull up information on how to make a margarita on Google in about 0.2 seconds. The Web offers endless possibilities.
However, the Web could be Us/Ing us. By communicating over the Web, people lose out on the face-to-face conversation and social interactions. The Web links millions of strangers together everyday, which could result in some dangerous activity. New, extravagant, make-believe identities are exchanged amongst people that correspond through online chat rooms, dating services and even college campuses. How do you know who I say I am without meeting me in person? Identities are not only changed but also stolen. A great hacker could obtain extremely personal or confidental information that is not for public viewing. As a result their is a lack of privacy. Even though the Web is convenient for email, writing suffers. The exchange of informal emails produces a lack of properly written, informative proposals to superiors.
Overall, I would say the Web is a quick and convenient way to communicate and conduct business. Nothing is perfect and all great things or people have flaws. The Web's advantages greatly exceed its disadvantages. So, if you are careful enough to minimize these flaws then the Web provides an abundant wealth of knowledge that is waiting for you to access or Google.

Introduction

As you may already know, my real name is Thomas, but I go by Tommy. I am Thomas L.M. II, my dad is Thomas L.M. I.
I am originally from Bethesda, Maryland, which is about 15 minutes outside of Washington, D.C. I went to DeMatha Catholic High School where I played football, basketball, baseball, and golf. After graduation, I attended George Mason University in Fairfax, Virginia where I played football for one year before transferring to Clemson University.
I have two younger sisters, Michelle and Monica and I consider my family to be the most important part of my life. I enjoy spending time with my immediate family as well as my extended family, most of whom live nearby in Maryland.
I plan to get my real estate license in the near future and pursue a career as an agent, eventually opening my own agency. I am also interested in investment banking and enjoy tracking the stock market, mutual funds, and the like.
Before I die, I would like to visit at least 10 foreign countries, go skydiving, live in Iceland, and own a Bentley, or 4.