The Role of Culture in Conflict Resolution

The Role of Culture in Conflict Resolution Instance OF DAGBON IN GHANA The between relativity and network of human undertaking has made clash something unavoidable as it has come to in the end be a piece of the typical daily schedule of human social association. Ethnic clashes and common wars keep on plagueing numerous African nations particularly over the most recent two decades. There are developing worries about the effects of these contentions on sub-territorial and provincial steadiness just as security, with unfavorable ramifications on financial development, condition and advancement. The effects of these contentions have been severest on the powerless gatherings, for example, the matured, ladies and youngsters turning around numerous improvement endeavors in struggle zones (John Kusimi; Julius Fobil; Raymond Atuguba; Isabella Erawoc; Franklin Oduro Abstract: Conflicts in Northern Ghana a Mirror of Answers to Sub-Regional Stability and Security Questions). Struggle has both an informal importance and a discouragingly not insignificant rundown of explicit definitions. The rundown incorporates four rather various utilizations if the term: (1) precursor conditions to some unmistakable battle (2) full of feeling states (pressure or antagonistic vibe) (3) psychological states (for instance the discernment that some other individual or element acts against ones intrigue and (4) conflictful conduct, verbal or non verbal running from inactive protection from dynamic animosity. As indicated by Wiktionary, strife is a contradiction of two things that can't be at the same time satisfied. In basic terms strife signifies a circumstance when at least two associations or people are in an inconsistency between them.. Strife is more broad than ordinarily saw. The contention is a logical inconsistency, a war, perhaps an opposition exist however the genuine clash condition is progressively most prominent approach to communicate brutality, and where this occur and savagery produce results, it create an ever increasing number of contentions. Culture (from the Latin cultura coming from colere, which means â€Å"to cultivate†) is a term that has various implications. For instance, in 1952, Alfred Kroeber and Clyde Kluckhohn incorporated a rundown of 164 meanings of â€Å"culture† in Culture: a Critical Review of Concepts and Definitions. In any case, the word â€Å"culture† is most normally utilized in three fundamental detects: Greatness of taste in the expressive arts and humanities, otherwise called high culture A coordinated example of human information, conviction, and conduct that relies on the limit with respect to representative idea and social learning The arrangement of shared perspectives, qualities, objectives, and practices that describes a foundation, association or gathering (Harper, Douglas (2001). Online Etymology Dictionary and Kroeber, A. L. also, C. Kluckhohn, (1952). Culture: A Critical Review of Concepts and Definitions) At the point when the idea previously rose in eighteenth-and nineteenth-century Europe, it suggested a procedure of development or improvement, as in farming or cultivation. In the nineteenth century, it came to allude first to the advancement or refinement of the individual, particularly through training, and afterward to the satisfaction of national goals or standards. In the mid-nineteenth century, a few researchers utilized the term â€Å"culture† to allude to a widespread human limit (C. Kluckhohn, (1952). Culture: A Critical Review of Concepts and Definitions) Albeit to a great extent disregarded just like a key component in the age of contentions, culture is a fundamental piece of contention and compromise (LeBaron, Michelle Conflict and Culture: Research in Five Communities in British Columbia, Canada). Culture, for the most part acting inside the boundaries of a toothless bulldog, it penetrate all circles of the ordinary day by day events and it does as such at all normal ways. It fills in as examining road which sends us messages that shape our observations, attributions, decisions, and thoughts of self and other. Societies are ground-breaking, they are frequently oblivious, affecting clash and endeavors to determine strife in vague manners. For the single individual, societies are a moving, powerful arrangement of beginning stages that situate us specifically way and away from different headings. Every one of us has a place with various societies that give us messages about what is typical, fitting, and anticipated. At the point when others don't live up to our desires, it is frequently a prompt that our social desires are extraordinary and thought or anticipated as un-regarded. We may confuse contrasts among others and us with proof of dishonesty or absence of sound judgment with respect to other people, not understanding that good judgment isn't social. What is normal to one gathering may appear to be abnormal, nonsensical, or wrong to another. In the partitioning circles of two gatherings, culture extends an enormous feeling of uniqueness; something most people would want to bite the dust for than to observe it debased by the restricting gathering. Regardless of whether a contention exists at all is a social inquiry, and by method of shared outline and interconnection among culture and struggle; societies are installed in pretty much every contention since clashes emerge in human connections. Societies influence the manners in which we name, edge, fault, and endeavor to tame clashes. In actuality, when any of the above is redirected by one social gathering vis-à -vis different, clashes are the rising results. The vast majority particularly in Africa and different pieces of the globe invest heavily in participating in exercises with a social sense than propelling the course of the general great. Clashes among adolescents and guardians are molded by generational culture, and clashes between companions or accomplices are affected by sex culture. In associations, clashes emerging from various disciplinary societies raise pressures between colleagues, making stressed or erroneous correspondence and focused on connections. Culture p enetrates strife regardless, some of the time pushing forward with force, different occasions unobtrusively winding along, barely declaring its essence until shocked individuals about discover it. Hence, this article looks to accommodate the job of culture in the Dagbon struggle in Northern Ghana and how these equivalent two associations of contentions are again interwoven for the motivations behind clash and compromise. The test is that, given societies significant job in clashes, it is given little idea and thought as it for the most part named in the oblivious hover of human conduct vis-à -vis clashes and a few methodologies social goals to the administration and goals of the contention aggravate this issue since they limit social job and impacts in the strained circumstance. We will consider the Dagbon strife in and attempt to fit it inside this edge of disregard. This is on the grounds that the Dagbon strife albeit to a great extent considered ethnic has an immense social measurement which goes to a great extent unattended to. Culture is consistently a factor in struggle, regardless of whether it assumes a focal job or impacts it quietly and delicately. Geologically and truly, Ghana lies between scopes 50 and 110N and longitudes 10 and 30E with a landmass of 23.9million hectares. Ghanas evaluated absolute populace is 19.5 million (GSS, 2002:1), involving an immense mosaic of a few ethnic gatherings communicating in more than hundred neighborhood dialects. Northern Ghana on which this paper centers is co-end with an immense grounds of land that traverses the White Volta, Black Volta and Oti River Basins. The territory is separated into three political/regulatory locales containing the Upper West (18,476km2) and the Upper East(8,842km2) districts flanking Burkina Faso in the outrageous northern constraints of Ghana and the Northern Region (70,384km2) toward the south of Upper East and Upper West. Populaces in these zones observer profound destitution levels and low education rates, with low school enrolment rate and deficient social insurance administrations. More than 90 percent of the populace here is occupied with resource agribusi ness and creature raising (GSS, (2002). Populace and Housing Census 2000: Summary of Final Results). In this manner, land proprietorship decides to an enormous degree, the idea of social and force relations among the ethnic gatherings occupying these three districts and has likewise been a significant wellspring of contentions among them. The three areas harbor unfathomable heterogeneous gatherings of individuals talking more than 30 nearby tongues. The concealed truth is that, a large portion of these heterogeneous gatherings have authentic associations going back to the sixteenth century. The sociocultural association of the majority of these people groups of the northern belt is patrilineal with a solid custom of brought together organization under the lordship of an incredible ruler, for example, the Mossi-Dagbani Kingdoms. In ongoing national political conversations, the Mossi-Dagbani bunches are alluded to as the ‘major clans in Northern Ghana. In any case, there are add itionally stateless or acephalous gatherings, for example, the Konkomba and the Tallensi. Along these lines strategically and officially, there are a great deal of chronicled and present day shared traits. This is the thing that causes and infact has the worst thing about stun with regards to the issue of contentions and the best apparatuses in managing or dealing with them. The past 25years have seen various dangerous ethnic clashes in Northern Ghana. The extremely hazardous ones are those of 1980 (Konkombas against Nanumbas) and the Guinea Fowl War of 1994 (between the Konkombas on one hand and Nanumbas, Dagombas and Gonjas then again) (Brukum J. N. K, The Pito, Mango and Guinea Fowl Wars: Episodes in the History of Northern Ghana, 1980-1999). In 1980/86 and 2000, Mamprusis and Kusasis did battle in Bawku. Dagombas additionally battled among themselves; these and more are the latest (and of which this exposition basic look) of these intra-Dagbon conflicts were those between the Andani and the Abudu Gates in Yendi, in 2002 (Brukum J. N. K, The Pito, Mango and Guinea Fowl Wars: Episodes in the History of Northern Ghana, 1980-1999). There has been a lot of comparative public viciousness amon

Writing Essays - Essay Topics That Students Should Find Interesting

Writing Essays - Essay Topics That Students Should Find InterestingThe first part of the essay is always a bit scary to a lot of college students. When it comes to college-essay topics, they usually can't come up with anything that they really believe in and the writing ends up being shoddily written.While college essay topics are important, they aren't quite as important as the writer who isn't very good at writing. Often, one who has to work in an environment that may not be at par with college environments and subjects might not be as comfortable with them.When it comes to expository essay topics, it's important that you find a subject that you're really passionate about. This is often a little difficult if you don't have a passion for it. However, having a topic that you're truly interested in will help it to come off as much better than an essay that isn't at all that your own, but rather one that's taken from something that you love.College essay topics should be chosen based o n the topic that you write about. If you write about a subject that you are really passionate about, it will come off as much better than one that's based around something that you're not so interested in.One of the biggest problems that a lot of college students have is actually with the topic. There's nothing wrong with trying to write a piece that comes across as well as possible. In order to do this, you should find something that you're passionate about and be passionate about it.This might be a particular subject or something like a sports team that you like. It doesn't matter what it is, just be as passionate about it as you possibly can.Another thing that you can do is to get the help of an expository essay topics that you find. There are many great sites that offer advice on what to write about.College essay topics are important, but it's not as important as finding a topic that you're really passionate about. This will help it to come off as well as possible and make sure that you provide your best work.

Electronic money challenges and solutions Essay

Electronic cash difficulties and arrangements - Essay Example As Bill Gate, the organizer of Microsoft puts it: E-installment or electronic installment is a method of making exchanges over the web or some other electronic framework. The exchange happens as secure information move from one end to the next. The best preferred position of an e-installment based exchange is the speed with which the exchange gets finished. Different advantages incorporate the straightforwardness with which the exchange can be finished; the clients don't need to be truly present to make these exchanges and actually, the two purchasers and venders can meet in the electronic market to make electronic exchanges utilizing electronic cash. There are different types of e-installment frameworks that are being used these days. These incorporate charge cards, platinum cards, online exchanges, wire moves, e-cash like Pay Pal, and different modes through which individuals make installments over the web. The majority of these frameworks depend on an ID and secret phrase framework to secure against unapproved use. With an expansion in the size of online applications and frameworks, there is a developing risk of security issues, vulnerabilities and presentation on the utilization of electronic transmission, and web based frameworks. This has been a worry for organizations, people, government and law requirement offices. Doing exchanges online methods making installments for the merchandise and enterprises that are bought; this prompts a requirement for building up a component to make these 'e-installments'. This further converts into creating and actualizing a security procedure to guarantee that these exchanges are done keeping the privacy, honesty and accessibility of the frameworks flawless. An e-exchange is as powerless to misrepresentation as some other exchange, if not more. The fraudsters are numerous in the electronic world, are scattered all round the globe, have update information and mastery about the frameworks and PCs, and are assaulting to access, and as a rule, to utilize the per sonality, assets and correspondence of an individual in unlawful, exploitative and undesired way. 2.1 Security Issues for E-Money and E-Payment Systems Security of electronic cash alludes to setting up the classification, respectability and accessibility of data when it is gone through the electronic framework. Some security necessities for an electronic cash move framework are laid out beneath (British Standards, 2006, p.3): Classification - guaranteeing that data is available just to those approved to approach it. Honesty - defending the precision and fulfillment of data and handling strategies Accessibility - guaranteeing that approved clients approach data and partners resources when required Realness - data ought to be accessible to sender and beneficiary, who must demonstrate their characters to one another Non-denial - confirmation/evidence that the transmitted message was without a doubt gotten (ECD, 2007). 3. Key Challenges and Recommendations for Electronic Payment Systems A portrayal of explicit dangers and difficulties of online exchanges is given beneath. 3.1 Privacy and

The Holy Of Marriage The Sacrament Of Matrimony

The purpose of this paper is to provide information through research of the sacrament that in my opinion is most meaningful, the sacrament of Matrimony. The paper will include the history of matrimony, why marriage is considered a sacrament, suggestions for future development as well as why this sacrament was chosen. Before we can begin to understand matrimony as a sacrament we must first understand its history and what the sacrament of marriage is meant to represent. Matrimony was not always considered a sacrament; in fact there was a time when marriage was considered a contract rather than a covenant in many cultures. Historically, in some contexts marriage was thought of as merely a social arrangement for continuing the family name, preserving family property and cementing diplomatic arrangements. Matrimony did not incorporate the friendship dimension of marriage. (Cooke Macy, 2005) Men and women were simply married for economic reasons where love was not important. â€Å"Jesus lived and preached in a world that saw marriage primarily as an economic contract. Jews considered marriage a commandment, but one intended to benefit the wider community by ensuring stability and economic prosperity.† (Manning, 2012) In the twelfth century however, marriage began to become recognized as a commitment between two people. (Cooke Macy, 2005, p. 66) Marriage today is the true commitment, a partnership between two people who love and respect each ot her. The partners grow in their faithShow MoreRelatedEssay on Christian Marriage1487 Words   |  6 PagesChristian Marriage Introduction and background. Christian Marriage, also called Matrimony is a sacrament in which a man and a woman publicly declare their love and fidelity in front of witnesses, a priest or minister and God. The It is seen by all Christian churches as both a physical and spiritual fulfillment. 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Baptism is one of the Sacraments of Christianity that is recognized. It affirms that guilt will be removed as well as the effects of Original Sin. Those baptized will be united with the Church, which symbolizes the body of Christ here on earth. In Hebrew or Greek forms, baptism means to immerseRead MoreChristianity And Its Impact On Society2278 Words   |  10 Pageswith three thousand of his soldiers in 481.( Ries,pg.12) In Ireland A.D. 500, the Chu rch flourished due to new popularity(Ries ..pg.12) Charlemange was crowned the first Holy Roman Empire by Pope Leo the third.(Ries,pg.14) Pope Gregory told the monks of England to burn all Idols.( Ries,pg.12)Many Kings who were german became Holy Roman Emperor ( Ries, pg.14) The Great Schism was when the church of christianity officially split, though the Eastern branches of the Church had long been divided on religious

Homelessness And Its Effects On Society - 2302 Words

â€Å"It’s time to declare a war on homelessness, which is evolving into a crisis,† proclaimed Mayor Kirk Caldwell in The Honolulu Star Advertiser. (Katel, 841-864) Homelessness has become a widely known issue in the United States. Many people today are living in the streets without a source of food, water, or a place to sleep at night. Some who are among the homeless include the elderly, children, and those who are mentally ill. This is a cause for concern for citizens who are living their daily lives. Some people express their fear of homeless persons, believing that they are just beggars for money and take up space on the streets. Although the description homeless people is not always true, homelessness does affect society and puts the future generation at risk of becoming homeless as well. People need to bring attention to the homeless problem across the United States so action can be taken and change will take place. Homelessness can be divided into two groups: people who are homeless, and those who are chronically homeless. According to The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), homelessness includes those who are â€Å"living in dwellings unfit for human habitation, in emergency shelters or temporary housing, and/or leaving such a place.† (Katel, 841-864) On the other hand, those who are considered â€Å"chronically homeless† are usually homeless for one or more years and have a disability or some kind of addiction. Today, homelessness is not a new issue America isShow MoreRelatedThe Effects of Homelessness on Society Essay588 Words   |  3 PagesHomelessness Ever noticed the people outside, asking you for money on the train or in the streets? Most have a funny smell, or are barely dressed when it is freezing outside? Those people are more than likely homeless. Being homeless is the state of a person living on the streets, if they have no home. 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Short Story - 1114 Words

Gray- The train left with my dear Gabriela on, a beautiful smile on her face. I watched as long as I could see the train in the distance. Once I could no longer see it I petted Zippys neck. Let us be on our way boy, it is time to go home, I said as I pulled on his reins. Back at the station I lead the trio back to the stables of the castle. We tied our horses to the stables; I gave Zippy the apples and carrots Gabriela would have wanted me to give him. The three came up to me, they put their fists to their chest, Thank you for this opportunity! They yelled in unison at me. No, thank you for helping me with this task, I said as I noticed depression seeping into my tone, You all did a good job. Dismissed! Chris was the†¦show more content†¦William I swear! I yelled after him to tired to run. I eventually made my way back to Zippy and finished brushing his mane. I made sure he had lots of water before making my way back to my room. I undressed and quickly put on dry clothes to shield myself from the cold. I fell asleep not much later. Many days passed and I never saw Gabriela again, it was like she completely disappeared. I have asked merchants and visitors from Skyrock if they have ever seen a servant girl exit the castle, all they have seen are older ladies. Maybe she is not allowed outside castle grounds. I wonder if she still remembers me, I cannot seem to forget her no matter how hard I try. Her warm smile, her caring unique blue eyes, her delicate hand that looked nothing like a servants hand which was surprising, her wavy brown hair that decorated her face; she really was beautiful. She looked more like a princess than a servant if you ask me. But you know, we do not all get to choose our lives. There was not one night that she did not appear in my long beautiful dreams of her. There was not a day I did not think about her either. Her gorgeous laugh that drove me crazy. 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Hospitality Management Customer service

Question: Discuss reasons for using customer Purpose of evaluating a customer service policy service policies . Discuss the purpose of evaluating a customer service policy, indicating how this can assist future staff training and development . Evaluate different communication methods and how these are effectively used . Analyze how customer perception is influenced by customer service provision. Assess sources of information on customer requirements and satisfaction levels. Carry out research on customer requirements and satisfaction levels for a selected business, suggesting potential improvements. Deliver customer service in a business and service environment. Review own performance in the delivery of customer service and make recommendations for improvement. Answer: Introduction In present competitive environment high quality of service is expected for effective customer relationship management. The service organization today is transforming their emphasis from traditional interchange of business activities to activities of rational exchange (Feuss, 1995). Therefore it is very crucial for service organizations to maintain a satisfying relationship with their clients. Service quality in hotel industry is very much dependent on the exchange of processes that happens between the service provider and their customers (Buttle, 1996). In hospitality industry, it is crucial to evaluate any service gap and focus on ensuring quality services to enhance customer satisfaction; it also important to meet customer expectation and perception regarding service delivery (Feuss, 1995). In this competitive environment, number of budgeted hotels is opening in UK market, one such renowned hotel chain is Travelodge. According to recent customer survey, the company is failing to meet customer satisfaction level and score as low as 50 and regarded within 5 most worst performing hotels in terms of customer satisfaction (Coldwell, 2013). However, with proper customer analysis, company can regain its market position. This is a customer analysis report prepared on London Hackney Hotel, one of the properties of Travelodge in north London (www.travelodge.co.uk, 2016). This report aims to evaluate three elements, importance of customer service policy and its role; second task focus on customer communication process, different methods and ways to convince customers and third is to evaluate customer expectations from the hotel and satisfaction level from the service through secondary and primary research. This paper will help managers of London Hackney Hotel in understanding gap between customer expectations of service and their service delivery, so that proper strategic actions can be taken to gain customer loyalty, satisfaction on the brand. Customer service policies Customer service can be defined as an overall process of all the activities carried by organization to satisfy customer expectation and satisfaction level. It includes services provided before service is delivered, during service encounter process and also after service is given to customer. Key element of customer service includes service quality, customer satisfaction and loyalty(Bowie Buttle, 2004). A strong and effective customer service can help in gaining competitive advantage. Customer service policy is a standard document prepared for establishing a standard for execution of customer service in fairly standard situation(Feuss, 1995). Use of customer service policy help in clarifying minimum standard of services for employees; it helps in understanding commitment, basic services, prohibition and communication within hotel property (Timm, 2008). Properly framed service policies are helpful for both customers as well as employees in understanding regulations and work accordingly. Gaining competitive advantage in the market: In this competitive market, competitors generally match the product/service offering at same price; strong customer service policy will help in beating market competition by excelling employees in service delivery system (Kassim, 2010). Stable working environment: in service industry continuous customer interaction take place, therefore employees must be clear about customer satisfaction level, it will help in ensuring team work, better employee and customer relationship and fast service delivery (Cronin, 2000). Increase cost efficiency: Properly made and implemented customer service policy help in increasing customer retention, which help in boosting organizational profit. Enhance brand value: increasing customer satisfaction and service helps in improving positive image of the hotel, it will also help in increasing positive word of mouth publicity. In terms of London Hackney Hotel, there is no specific document present as customer service policy, there is integrity statement which represents information on honesty and ethical presentation of all transaction; there are two other core policies which include privacy policy and terms and condition. These two documents include information regarding booking, cancellation, data security, payments, rights, disputes etc. However, there is need for more concrete policies on customer service that include hotel commitment towards its customers, training to employees, dealing with people with disabilities and feedback process; all these elements are completely missing from hotel policy document, which must be included for improvement. Purpose of evaluating a customer service policy It is very crucial to evaluate customer service policy in order to understand present rules that are being followed by employees to gain customer satisfaction, whether set policies are covering all required aspects or not; it will help in analyzing the service gap and modify policies to make them more attractive and customer centric (Brotherton, 2008). Customer service policies have several elements, while evaluation it is crucial to analyze whether structure of the policy is proper or not, it must be present in easy and understandable language, it must be accessible to all; it must include information on customer requirements, their expectations, service information, confidentiality of data and communication process (Oh Pizam, 2008). Training and development at Travelodge hotels Training is the process of providing and developing information and skills required by employees to operate within the organizational system. It helps in motivating employees and increasing overall productivity. It helps in developing staff skills, behavior; enhance team work and becoming competitive in the market (Noe, 2013). It will also help in developing professional and personal characteristics of staff. Customer service policy can be used as an effective document for staff training in the organization; it can help in delivering informations, which are as follow; Basic service standard; this document help employees in understanding minimum service standard set by management, it include commitment, trust worthiness, the way booking, cancellation and disputes to be managed, services for people with disabilities; basic methodology to deal with situation and customer interaction. Service quality: this document can be used to set customer expectations from service delivery, it helps in clarifying standardized processes within hotel, it also help in understanding code of conduct, privacy policies and terms and conditions for various service delivery; it also help in understanding staff competency requirement, flexibility and responsiveness to deal during service delivery (Robledo, 2001). Evaluation process: this document also include information on feedback process, which help in understanding the way responses can be collected and used for enhancing customer experience within hotel. As the above analysis on Travelodge hotel showed need for preparing a concrete customer service policy, it also helped in analyzing missing areas which must be included in the policy. Therefore, while proving training to future employees, management need to focus on factors like commitment, staff behavior, feedback process, need for people with disabilities; as this information will help employees in dealing with customers in better way. It will help employees in improving their service quality, understanding hospitality industry better and also get genuine feedback for industry improvement. Need for promoting a customer-focused culture It is crucial to develop a customer-focused culture as it help in understanding customer demand and fulfill their needs in best way. Organization culture have indirect impact on guest experience, as it helps in framing the social environment in which employees operate and interact with customers (Laroche, 2009). It is crucial to develop culture that focus on customer needs and enhance coordination among employees. Further, the key to customer-focused culture is to develop employee skills, encourage ownership, risk, feedback and implement advance technological functions. Three core elements that impact customer delight include employees, customer expectations and organizational environment (McLean-Conner, 2006). Communication method analysis Communication is the key strategy to know the customer better and offer them personalized treatment which helps in exceeding their satisfaction level. Employee interaction methodology also impact the way service is being perceived by customers. It is crucial to evaluate different communication methodologies, their advantages, disadvantages, impact on customer satisfaction and prepare a concrete guide for communication that can be easily used by employees for effective communication with customers. Different types of communication methods that can be used in hotels are discussed below; Verbal Verbal communication is regarding as oral conversation among people, it can be one to one interaction such as communication with customers, it can be with groups, and it can be over telephone also. In this methodology words are spoken to pass the intended message. Verbal message is very common in hospitality industry, when employees are in continuous interaction with customers (Robbins, et al., 2014). There are several element which must be considered during verbal communication, it include tone of voice must be low, staff need to interact in low and soft voice with customer and it induce positivity in communication process; other element include speed of communication and inflection; one should not use any sarcasm or defensive language during customer conversations. During group communication, voice needs to be louder but tone needs to be soft. This type of communication strategy is best suited in case of detail explanation requirement, for convincing someone, to understand problem, to complimenting someone. Written Business communication are generally accepted in written forms as they help in presenting clarity as well as used for future reference. Written communication within organization include memos, business proposals, letters, training manuals, office orders, emails, policies, rules and notices. Written communication can be hand written or printed; now days customers are also opting for written communication for bookings in hotels (Chaturvedi, 2004). Customer interaction written communication must be written in polite, formal manner, it must convey positive message to customer. As during written conversation customers cannot see any expression, it is very crucial that they interpret right meaning of written message. Now a days increasing use of internet led an increasing use of written interaction between customer and hotel staff. This interaction impact hotel image and also create customer perception regarding hotel. This method helps in keeping reference for future. Non-verbal Non-verbal communication can be defined as intentional or unintentional behavior of normative actions or expectations. The role of non-verbal communication methodology is inevitable during communication process, different factors such as gestures, postures, eye contact plays significant role in sending and receiving messages, which can be unsaid also. Staff expressions such as smile, physical appearance, dress code, hygiene, body movements, body orientation, eye contact, nodding, hand shaking, and smiling; proxemics and paralanguage have significant impact on service encounter. Transmission of emotions through nonverbal cues also impact customer perception regarding hotel (Kueh Bagul, 2013 ). While communicating with customers, it is crucial to ensure that employees words are matched with proper expression, because deviation between the two impact customer perception negatively. Impact of customer service on customer perception In general customer service provisions have strong impact on customer perception. If a customer is satisfied with customer services then it help in gaining customer loyalty, a company always want to increase repeat purchase and create a strong pool of loyal customers; it also help in increasing organizational profit and brand image (Mooij, 2010). Customer service provision impact the way customers see a brand, it shapes their image of hotel and further their choice also. Perception regarding Travelodge is not very positive in the market, it is being ranked three stars by customers in terms of value for money, and customer is dissatisfied from the breakfast offered. In the year 2014, company also invested for bedroom refurbishment of its hotel which helped in increasing customer satisfaction. Though Travelodge is a budget hotel but there are issues in their customer service provisions, they are failing to satisfy customers, there are minimum service standards being expected as budgeted hotels also these days. For example, customers have complaints regarding no shampoos in bathrooms of hotel, these are basic demands which impact customer perception adversely and create negative image (Davis, 2007). Therefore, there is need for improving customer service provisions for Travelodge to get its market image back. Investigate customer requirements and expectations Secondary research This chapter aims to understand customer requirements and expectations from the hotel; difference between customer expectation and actual service delivery leads to customer dissatisfaction. There are different type of sources that can be used by companies to assess customer requirements and expectations from the organization. Customer expectations are dynamic and they flow continuously at each service level. Understanding customer expectations and adding service performance accordingly helps in getting higher customer satisfaction. Customer survey This is the most widely used and successful method of understanding customer expectations as well as satisfaction from service delivery. Customer expectations are continuous evolving, therefore asking directly from customers help in knowing their expectations from service directly. Different tools for doing this include questionnaire survey, telephone or email surveys (Bernard, 2000). However, associating an incentive to survey help in collecting more feedback, for instance participate in the survey and get 5 percent off on next visit at Travelodge. Analyzing the loophole Another method for understanding customer expectation is to know failure areas, is the service delivery level is less than what is being offered. This can also be done by analyzing service delivery blueprint of hotel; it helps in identifying service delivery failure areas. This tool help in evaluating service from all 7 ps perspectives such as core service, employees, infrastructure, pricing, promotion, any area which is failing to meet customer expectation can be improved. Competitive analysis Another tool that can be used for understanding customer expectation is to evaluate competitors position vis--vis own company position; it will help in understanding why customers prefer competitors over them, what is being offered by their competitors, it will help in understanding the service delivery gap and make strategy accordingly. Sources for information Apart from this, different stakeholders can also be observed and interviewed for understanding customer expectations from the hotel; some of them are as follow; Customer: customer is the most appropriate person to understand their expectations from particular hotel, brand, it will help in analyzing what they want from the hotel and how their satisfaction levels can be enhanced Employees: Front office employees are mostly involved in direct communication with customers; they can contribute in understanding customer expectations through observations Customer records: different records such as complaints, grievances, customer comments at different websites, and reviews on the property helps in understanding service level expectations and loopholes Findings of secondary research After collecting data from various sources following information have been collected regarding customer requirements and satisfaction level at Travelodge London Hackney Hotel: In budgeted hotel, customer does not expect a very luxurious treatment but there are few basic service level expectations which include cleanliness, value, location, sleep quality, rooms and services. Apart from this, SERVQUAL is an appropriate tool for evaluating customer expectations on the basis of tangibility, reliability, responsiveness, assurance, and empathy (Gale, 1994). Analysis showed that customers are no more merely looking for low price element in budgeted hotels, rather they want to feel valued and an experience to remember; for example money back guarantee by primer inn in UK is a classic example of increasing customer expectation levels. However, there is a customer segment called new budget converts, are the one who were using luxurious hotels but later on moved to budgeted hotels due to economic crisis but there expectations level from budgeted hotels are also very high Customers do not want to pay for services they do not use such as a theatre desk, an extensive room service menu and a spa, therefore such price modification as per service usage are expected by customers. Primary research Different sources that can use for collecting primary data on customer satisfaction include questionnaire, interview, case study analysis, observations etc. (Kothari, 2009). Here primary research has been conducted on visitors and guest of Travelodge, who has visited any of Travelodge hotels in the past and share their experience accordingly. Process A small survey on ten randomly selected visitors was targeted through social media site, Facebook. A pre-defined questionnaire was sent to all guest and responses were collected and evaluated. Questionnaire Name Gender Strongly Agree (SA) Agree (A) Neutral (N) Disagree (D) Strongly Disagree (SD) 5 4 3 2 1 Expectation Statements 5 4 3 2 1 1. The food served must be fresh, hygienically prepared and tasty. 2. Rooms must be clean 3. Personal basic facilities like music, basic hygiene material such as soap, shampoo must be available for the guest 4. Safety and security issues of the guest must be taken into consideration 5. The staffs must be enthusiastic to solve customer queries and handle unexpected situations 6. Follow up services such as tracking the customer experience after service encounters are taken into consideration. 7. Customer must get value of their money Satisfaction Please tick statement while you think London Hackney Hotel is providing and meeting service expectations Statements 5 4 3 2 1 1. The food served by the London Hackney Hotel is hygienic, fresh and as per customer specification 2. Rooms are clean 3. Personal basic facilities like music, basic hygiene material such as soap, shampoo are well available for the guest 4. The personal information of the customers are considered confidential and is not misused by the London Hackney Hotel 5. The staffs of the London Hackney Hotel are enthusiastic to solve customer queries and handle unexpected situations 6. Follow up services such as tracking the customer experience after service encounters are taken into well consideration by the hotel 7. Customers get true value for their money Customer requirements Below is graphical representation of customer expectation from hotel services: Primary research helps in understanding that customers have high expectations in terms of value for money, as they are choosing a budgeted hotel for their stay because price holds significance in their choice. Further, second high expectation is in terms of facilities inside rooms, they seek access to basic facilities as they do not consider budgeted hotels to be cheap rather they must fulfill customer basic requirement. Third element is importance room, must be clean and of standard size and facilities. Fourth key expectation is from staff of the hotel, customer look for cooperative, enthusiastic staff that can help them in solving their problems. Fifth expectation is from food, followed by security and feedback. Satisfaction level Below is graphical representation of customer satisfaction from Travelodge hotel services: Further, if present satisfaction level from London Hackney Hotel is analyzed then customers are highly dissatisfied from accommodation which score an average score of 2.5; value for money is also not worth, customers believe that hotel fails to provide them adequate services for money they pay, they are also dissatisfied with quality of food. Element facilities scores only 1 as all customers are dissatisfied with facilities provided within rooms, staff and feedback is also not up to the mark. Analysis shows that London Hackney Hotel, a property of Travelodge fails to meet customer expectation of service level in all criteria. It is a serious matter that require strategic changes in service management of Travelodge hotels otherwise it might impact the company adversely in both financial and non-financial terms. Recommendation for service improvements There is need for revamping overall service strategy of Travelodge hotels, few of them is as follow; Preparing a concrete customer service policy to state clear standards of service delivery for customers (Coye, 2004). Providing adequate facilities, as budgeted hotels no more mean cheap hotels, rather customer expect standard services (Johns, 1993). Proper training must be provided to staff on customer management and interaction. Proper feedback system must be implemented to get customer reviews and grievance handling produce to resolve complaints in earliest possible time. Both internal and external feedback system must be implemented to review both operational and customer service performance (Rao, et al., 2008). Conclusion Above analysis helped in understanding importance of internal mechanisms, policies and communication on customer perception and expectation regarding hotel. Service industry is very fast, one poor service encounter spread hundred negative word of mouth comments and impact company image adversely. In this era of technological advancement, in no time customer can impact company image adversely through internet. It is crucial to keep all policies and standards at place, Travelodge needs to prepare a concrete customer service policy document that help employees in understanding their service standards and deliver work accordingly. Properly maintained policies help in training employees. Further, communication is the key element in service industry, therefore proper consideration must be ensured during verbal, written communication, nonverbal cues and expression should be considered properly. Major findings show low level of customer satisfaction regarding Travelodge, there is need for ma king strategies to improve customer experience and fulfill their expectation. Bibliography Bernard, R., 2000. Social research methods: qualitative and quantitative approaches . London: SAGE Publication Inc. Bowie, D., Buttle, F., 2004. Hospitality Marketing: An Introduction. Burlington, USA: Elsevier Butterworth Heinemann. Brotherton, B., 2008. the International Hospitality Industry: Structure, Charateristics and Issues. Burlington: Elsevier Butterworth Heinemann. Buttle, F., 1996. SERVQUAL review, critique, research agenda . European journal of marketing , 8-32. Chaturvedi., 2004. Business Communication: Concepts, Cases And Applications. New Delhi: Pearson Education India. Coldwell, W., 2013, October 30. The UK's best and worst hotel chains. Retrieved March 18, 2016, from theguardian.com: https://www.theguardian.com/travel/2013/oct/30/uk-chain-hotels-survey-best-and-worst Coye, W., 2004. Managing customer expectations in the service encounter. International Journal of Service Industry Management, vol.15, no.1, pp. 54 - 71. Cronin, J., 2000. Assessing the effects of quality, value, and customer satisfaction on consumer behavioral intentions in service environments. Journal of Retailing, vol. 76, No.2, pp.193-218. Davis, E., 2007, May 21. Value engineering. Retrieved March 18, 2016, from www.bbc.co.uk: https://www.bbc.co.uk/blogs/thereporters/evandavis/2007/05/value_engineering.html Feuss, W. J., 1995. Fundamentals of Customer Value Analysis. Gale, T. 1994 . Managing Customer Value: Creating Quality and Service That Customers Can See. New Zealand : Macmillan Publishers . Johns, N., 1993 . Quality management in hospitality industry. International journal of contemprory hospitality management , pp.1-15. Kassim, N., 2010 . The effect of perceived service quality dimensions on customer satisfaction, trust, and loyalty in e-commerce settings: A cross cultural analysis. Asia Pacific Journal of Marketing and Logistics, vol. 22, No. 3 , pp. 351 - 371. Kothari, C. R., 2009 . Research Methodology: Methods and Techniques. New Delhi: New Age International. Kueh, S., Bagul, D. A. , 2013 . The Effects of Nonverbal Communication of Hotel Employees upon Emotional Responses of Hotel Guests. International Journal of Research in Management Technology , 126-132. Laroche, M. 2009 . Impact of culture on marketing strategy: Introduction to the special issue. Journal of Business Research, 62 10 , 921923. McLean-Conner, P. 2006 . Customer Service: Utility Style : Proven Strategies for Improving Customer Service and Reducing Customer Care Costs. Oklahoma: PennWell Books. Mooij, d. 2010 . Consumer Behavior and Culture - Consequences of Global Marketing and Advertising. US: SAGE. Noe, R. A. 2013 . Employee training and development . New York: McGraw-Hill. Oh, H., Pizam, A. 2008 . Handbook of Hospitality Marketing Management. Butterworth-Heinemann. Permarupan, P. Y., Mamun, A. A., Saufi, R. A., Noor. 2013 . Critically Evaluating the Role of Branding, Services and Strategy on Customer Loyalty. International Business and Management, 30-40. Rao, T. V., Rao, R., Mahapatra, G., Chawla, N. 2008 . 360 Degree Feedback Performance Management System. New Delhi: Excel Books India. Robbins, S. P., Bergman, R., Stagg, I., Coulter, M. 2014 . Management. Sydney: Pearson Australia. Robledo, M. A. 2001 . Measuring and managing service quality: integrating customer expectations. Managing Service Quality, vol.11, no. 1 , pp. 22-31. Timm. 2008 . Customer Service: Career Success Through Customer Loyalty, 4/E. New Delhi: Pearson Education India. Widjaja, C. 2003 . Managing Service Quality in Hospitality Industry Through Managing the Moment of Truth: A Theoretical Approach. US: Petra Christian University. Winer, R. S. n.d. . A Framework forCustomer relationship Management. CAUFORNIA MANAGEMENT REVIEW, vol.43, No. 4 , pp. 85-95. www.travelodge.co.uk. 2016 . London Hackney Hotel. Retrieved March 18, 2016, from www.travelodge.co.uk: https://www.travelodge.co.uk/hotels/597/London-Hackney-hotel

How Do Psychologists Attempt To Explain The Origins Of Prejudice Essa

How Do Psychologists Attempt To Explain The Origins Of Prejudice? HOW DO PSYCHOLOGISTS ATTEMPT TO EXPLAIN THE ORIGINS OF PREJUDICE? DO THEY OFFER SOCIETY ANY HOPE THAT IT MAY BE REDUCED? BY JON SALECLEMENTS. Ethnocentrism is the tendency to assume that ones culture or way of life is superior to all others. Prejudice is a negative attitude toward an entire category of individuals. Discrimination is behaviour that excludes all members of a group from certain rights, opportunities or privileges. A range of international events have recently focused attention on the issue of prejudice; increasing ethno-nationalistic tensions in former Eastern block countries, racial conflict in the Middle East, Africa and intergroup conflict related to race debates in Europe, The U.S.A and Australia. Psychology is the only discipline, which over the past century has consistently and systematically investigated the issue of prejudice and race. Social psychology has a long tradition of empirical and theoretical research in this field and currently there are many social psychologists in Australia engaged in significant and timely research. This is no accident given the regions long and chequered history regarding race relations with the treatment of the Australian Aborigines has been likened to genocide. Currently there are a number of theoretical and conceptual psychological approaches, which both define and explain prejudice. Personality theories primarily locate race and prejudice within the intro-psychic domain of the individual. From this perspective, authoritarian-rearing practices, intolerance and intro psychic defence mechanisms are isolated as casual agents to a significant problem. There are several theories as to why people are prejudiced. The exploitation theory keeps a racial group in a subordinate social position. The scapegoating theory says that prejudice people believe that they are societys victims. In this sense, exploiters abuse others and scapegoats feel they are being abused. Dr. Vance Locke and Dr. Lucy Johnston at the University of Canterbury have recently published papers on the issues of social cognition and stereotyping . Personality approaches have been challenged by the dominance of social cognitive perspectives. These view prejudice as inevitable consequences of normal and functional cognitive processes such as categorisation and stereotyping. Our limited cognitive capacities, it is argued, make the simplification and generalisation of social information necessarily adaptive, so that a groups tendency to view outgroup members as all alike is not surprising. Cognitive mechanisms are thus viewed as the essential foundations to stereotyping and prejudice. Martha Augoustinos and Katherine J Reynolds of the Australian National University have said that since the 1920s, when prejudice emerged as a construct of significant interest to psychologists, there have been several distinct stages of theoretical and empirical development, i.e. white superiority and minority backwardness, human irrational and faulty cognitive processes, unconscious psychological defences, individual personality structures and expressions of group interests and intergroup relations . The psychodynamic approach which Freud spawned many psychodynamic theories of human personality. The main one lies in the view that early childhood experiences crucially affect an individuals later personality. This was taken by Adorno et al (1950) and more recent the non-pyschodynamic derivatives of authoritarianism. Adorno et al argues that the authoritarian personality has its origins in childhood. Where parents adopt an excessively harsh and disciplinarian regime in order to enforce on their children emotional dependence and obedience, children develop a love/hate relationship with their parents. This conflict between love and hate is stressful and there is a need to resolve it. The hatred is repressed through fear and guilt and finds its outlet through displacement on to those who are weaker, while the power and the authority of the parents is idealised and generalised to all authority figures. This theory rested upon Adorno et al original work. The most dominate theoretical and empirical approach to prejudice is social cognition (Fiske s tendency to stereotype out group members and to perceive them as homogeneous is an inevitable by-product of our cognitive hard-wiring. While cognitive models of prejudice are currently dominant, researchers are emphasising the role that

The Faber Book of Beasts Essays

The Faber Book of Beasts Essays The Faber Book of Beasts Essay The Faber Book of Beasts Essay Essay Topic: Poetry Analysing poetry is not an easy task; poetry is a complex and complicated subject. To begging with, we have to consider that these two writers worked in different time period. Thom Gunn worked through the 20th century while Thomas Flatman was a writer from the 17th century. The way they write is different, by analysing both poems we can see that Thom Gunn uses a free verses and little rhyming The Girls wake, stretch, and pad up to the door. / They rub my leg and purr (Muldoon, 1997, p. 5). On the other hand, the use of rhymes is clear in Flatmans poem, Only cats when they fall / From a house or a Wall (Muldoon, 1997, pp. 5-6), according to the evidence provided is possible to say that Thomas Flatman is using rhyming couplets, where it usually consists of two lines that rhyme and have the same meter. Gunn uses a freer usage of structure in his poem, but his lineation is essential to the flow of the verse. This is clear in the opening line of Apartment Cats, and pad up to the door (Muldoon, 1997, p. 5) it plays a monosyllabic mimicking of the cats paws. Gunns poem consist of longer lines with ten syllables and shorter lines with five syllables, where in Flatmans poem most of the lines are made of eleven syllables. Gunns poem Apartment Cats is composed with shorter lines comparing with Flatmans An Appeal to Cats in the Business of Love. Even comparing the titles of these two poems, we get to the conclusion that Flatmans title is more related to anthropomorphist, in the way he uses the words Cats in the Business of Love, it made me wonder at first, if he was really writing about cats? But after I read his poem, where he mentioned the old Lady Grimalkin, and the way she came alive in his poem with the line Puss! Puss! Last no long, but turn to Cat-whore! (Muldoon, 1997, pp. 5-6). I can therefore, confirm that he was writing about cats. In both poems the cats have been subtly personified, where in my own opinion we can say that Thom Gunns poem Apartment Cats is an anthropomorphist poem, in this case he describe the cats with a human attitude She abruptly rises, knowing well / How to stalk off in wise indifference (Muldoon, 1997, p. ), in these lines he contrasted the liberty by humans, and the freedom of choice. In Thomas Flatman poem An Appeal to Cats in the Business of Love, he gives us the sense that he is comparing cats with humans, in a sexual way. Both poets sexualize the cats, we can see in Gunns poem which is highly charged with sexual imagery, when he mentioned their eyes get wild, their bodies tense'(Muldoon, 1997, p. ) giving us the sense that two people, in this case the Girls from his opening line are sexual attracted to each other. As we know Gunn wrote apartment Cats in the 1970s, where his verses were associated with drugs, homosexuality and sex. In Flatmans poem is clearer the way he sexualizes the cats Man ride many miles, Cats tread many tiles (Muldoon, 1997,pp. 5-6), it suggests that cats have sex only for the pleasure of having sex, therefor we can see the clearly comparison with human beings.

Development of Mongolia in Mining Sector Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1750 words

Development of Mongolia in Mining Sector - Essay Example pag.). This paper is intended to review the impact the booming mining industry makes on the overall economic performance of Mongolia, as well as the major opportunities and challenges faced by the sector, which inter alia would determine its future. The paper is organized in three main sections, the first of which provides accounts of the overall size, type and peculiar characteristics of Mongolian economy; the second provides a brief overview of the Mongolian mining sector; while the third section attempt an insight into the broadening horizons of Mongolia’s mining industry. Introduction to Mongolian Economy Following the dissolution of the USSR, Mongolia’s economy experienced both deep recession due to natural disasters and political inaction, and more or less noticeable growth, because of the economic reform, which included free-market orientation and extensive privatization of the dominant state sector (CIA, n. pag.). However, the massive livestock losses caused by severe winters and draughts, compounded by falling prices for the primary sector exports and widespread opposition to the privatization process, resulted in fairly anemic GDP (Gross Domestic Product) growth; between 2004 and 2008, the GDP growth was nearly 9 percent on average, mainly due to new gold production, as well as to high copper prices (CIA, n. pag.). As of 2008, the Mongolian economy suffered both a soaring inflation rate – actually the highest inflation rate in over a decade, reaching almost 30 percent – and an external shock caused by the global financial crisis, with a sharp drop in commodity prices, hence greatly slashed government revenues (CIA, n. pag.). A 236 million-dollar stand-by agreement was reached with the International Monetary Fund in 2009, which assisted the country to emerge from the crisis (CIA, n. pag.). Because of the harsh weather during the winter in 2009 – 2010, a massive loss of livestock occurred once again – this time over 20 % of the total number – doubling the meat prices and consequently shrinking the GDP by 1.9 percent. In 2010, the economy growth was 6.4 percent, while in 2011 – 17.3 percent; these results were mainly obtained by commodity exports in the neighboring countries, on which the Mongolian economy heavily relies (CIA, n. pag.). For example, Mongolia purchases 95 percent of the imported petroleum products and substantial portion of its electricity imports from Russia, while China receives over 90 percent of Mongolia’s total exports (CIA, n. pag.). Besides agriculture, which comprises production of wheat, barley, vegetables and forage crops, as well as horses-, sheep-, goats-, cattle-, and camels-breeding, the Mongolian economy’s main industries include construction, production of construction materials, mining (coal, copper, molybdenum, tin, gold, uranium, etc.), production of food and beverages, as well as processing of animal products; according to data of 2010, electricity production amounts to 4.313 billion kWh, whereas electricity imports are 262.9 million kWh (CIA, n. pag.). As of the same period, the overall industrial production growth rate is estimated at 37.3 % (CIA, n. pag.). According to 2011 data, Mongolia’s GDP is estimated at 13.28 billion dollars. Agriculture contributes 12.9 % of the total GDP, the

Classical Realism and Neo- Realism Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Classical Realism and Neo- Realism - Essay Example Realism is basically a dimension to look at the relations between different states being insecure and constantly gaining power. In other words, it could be said that under the study of realism, states remain in state of war to exercise their power to get more privilege than other states of the world. As studied by Hans Morgenthau, all states seek power that makes them to remain in a state craft. It is the strength of realism in explaining the war that it defines the phenomenon of politics in a sole larger aspect of international system. Realism posits that it is mainly because there is no supreme authority above the states that would allow rules and policies for them to follow to restrain international relations with other states. It is because of the insecurity among states that leads to war. Realism falls short in explaining the causes of war in terms of international system being categorized in different polarity. This weakness has been addressed in theories which were coined late r. On the other hand, neo-realism refers to the causes of war being as the result of polarity of international system. This states that international systems being categorized in bipolar and multi-polar systems have different degree of probability for being at war. Under this position, multi-polar international system which is basically formed with the inclusion of more than two countries is safer and less likely to result in a war. This is merely because the bipolar international system including two states.

Communication Styles Essay Example for Free

Communication Styles Essay What is Communication and Communication Styles? Communication according to Webster Dictionary is defined as a process by which information is exchanged between individuals through a common system of symbols, signs, or behavior (Merriem-Webster). Communication can be verbal and in this day in age text and email. Communication styles are the behaviors in communication that are observed by others. This paper will discuss communication, the four types of communication styles, why communication styles matter and how to improve on them. Four Types of Communication Styles The four types of communication styles include passive, passive aggressive, assertive and assertive. Below you will find the definitions of each: * The Passive Style: Communication is done in an apologetic, timid manner that leads to being disregarded by others. * The Passive Aggressive Style: This style is similar to the passive style in that they hide their real thoughts in feelings but in turn will express these thoughts and feeling indirectly through often negative actions. (e.g. talking behind backs, causing conflicts indirectly, â€Å"getting even† in an indirect manner) (Dr. D. A. Williams and Dr. M. Carey). * The Aggressive Style: This style is characterized by an individual being argumentive, threatening, fighting, and having a tendency to interrupt during conversing. Individuals who communicate in this style have no problems with standing up for themselves and communication just how they feel. * The Assertive Style: This style is the healthiest and most balanced communication style. This style is characterized expression of feelings, self-pride, and self-regard, while at the same time being considerate of others (Dr. D. A. Williams and Dr. M. Carey). Communication styles that can lead to problems are: the aggressive style, the passive style, and the passive-aggressive style (Dr. D. A. Williams and Dr. M. Carey). The disadvantages to the passive communication style you are unable to express your true thought and emotions in the fear of rejection, being misunderstood. These types of communicators often go throughout life feeling out of control, depressed, anxious and little self esteem because they are unable to effectively able to communicate their needs. These types of communicators are often taken advantage of by others because they come off so timid. Those who have an aggressive communication have a tendency to alienate others because of their aggressive style of communication. The aggressive communicator uses belittlement, humiliation, and overall overbearing demeanor to control a conversation and get their message across. Passive aggressive communicators also alienate others. They are often left feeling resentful and powerless because they do not communicate their feelings and allow them to bottle up resulting in anger, stress. Often time’s passive communicators cause conflict with those in their lives because they tend to communicate negative feelings sublimely through their actions. Individual who use an assertive style is far more well adjusted because they have the ability to effectively communicate their thoughts and feelings while considering the feelings of others. Why Do Communications Styles Matter? Having the ability to communicate effectively is very important. The style or way in which we communicate effects the relationships we have throughout life and how others view you. In order to succeed in a career one must be able to communicate effectively. More than ever before, the ability to communicate well determines an employees ability to thrive in todays workplace (Kapusta, M. Ph. D). These people are always in demand (A prime example of this is the recent debate between Mitt Romney and President Obama. During the first debate Romney often interrupted the moderator and the President; he seemed to be communicating in an aggressive style. Those in the media reported that he was not looked upon well by some because of it. Improving Communication Skills In order to improve on your communication styles one must identify your communication style, identify problematic situations, and given you have some areas that could be improved, practice changing your communication skills style (Dr. D. A. Williams and Dr. M. Carey). Many are just not aware of or never even thought about what their communication style is. If you realize that you communicate in a more aggressive style just simply try and be more aware of your tone, body language, and listening skills. If one is educated on this subject and understands the components of all four of the communication styles as with anything else, practice makes perfect. Conclusion As previously stated your communication style can either enhance or negatively affect many aspects of your life. Being able to communicate effectively will avoid conflict and misunderstanding with those around you. Beyond just being aware of your personal communication style and practicing to improve there are several other ways in which you can improve in this area. There are classes available in public speaking and communication and interpersonal skills. So be self aware and ask for feedback from others, your relationships and even your career depends on it. References Dr. D. A. Williams and Dr. M. Carey. Getting the Most Out of Your Interactions with Others.: Use effective communication. Retrieved from http://www.med.umich.edu/painresearch/patients/Communication.pdf Kapusta, M. Ph. D. Why Communication Matters. Retrieve from http://www.studentaffairs.pitt.edu/sites/default/files/PDFsandForms/OCC/WhyCommunicationMatters.pdf Merriem-Webster Dictionary. Communication Definition. Retrieved from http://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/common \

The Exploration of Hernando de Soto Essay example -- American America

The Exploration of Hernando de Soto In 1539 Hernando de Soto and five hundred adventurers began on a journey of exploration that would take 4 years and would travel through 10 states in the southeast United States. His goal was to discover a source of wealth, preferably gold, and around his mines establish a settlement. During his travels through La Florida he encountered numerous groups of native peoples, making friends of some and enemies of others. His expedition was not the first in La Florida; however, it was the most extensive. In its aftermath, thousands of Indians would die by disease that the Spaniards brought from the Old World. De Soto would initially be remembered as a great explorer but, would be later viewed as a destroyer of native culture. However, in truth de Soto was neither a hero or a villain but rather an adventurer. De Soto was born somewhere around the year 1500 in Jerez de los Caballeros in Extremadura in what is now Spain (Milanich & Hudson 26). Contemporaries of de Soto would include Cortez, Balboa, and Francisco Pizzaro with whom he would share a great adventure. De Soto's ancestors had been part of the reconquista and as aristocrats many had been knighted for their part in driving the Moors from the Iberian Peninsula (Milanich & Hudson 26). Hernando would have played no part in the expulsion of the Moors; however, family legacy would have played no small part in developing his frame of reference. It is thought that by the time do Soto was fourteen he was on his way to the new world. In 1514 de Soto sailed with the new governor of modern day Panama. Six years later he was a captain who because of his part in military action against the Indians of Panama had earned the right to own Indian Sl... ...e seen as an adventurer or an entrepreneur trying to make good on his investment. Works Cited: Milanich, Jerald T. and Charles Hudson. Hernando de Soto and the Indians of Florida. Gainesville: U. of Florida P, 1993. Milanich, Jerald T. and Susan Milbrath., ed. First Encounters: Spanish Exploration in the Caribbean and the United States1492-1570. Gainesville: U of Florida P, 1989. Shipp, Bernard. The History of Hernando de Soto and Florida. Philadelphia: Lindsay, 1881. Varner, John G. and Jeanette Varner., trans., ed. The Florida of the Inca. Austin: U of Texas P, 1951. Verano, John W. and Douglas H. Ubelaker., ed. Disease and Demography in the Americas. Washington: Smithsonian Institution Press, 1992. Viola, Herman J. and Carolyn Martolis., ed. Seeds of Change: Five Hundred Years Since Columbus. Washington: Smithsonian Institution Press, 1991.

Value Management

Q. 1 Using your emerging knowledge of Value Management (VM), critically appraise the report and make suggestions as to how the VM study might have been run differently / more effectively. A Value Management report is the basis to a well-constructed project in the sense that all parties involved or potentially affected will be content with the final outcome. It is vital to understand and elaborate on the key aspects that determine a value management study in order to gain an agreeable conclusion. Often these guidelines are met, yet comparatively and with no due culpability, some guidelines are overseen. The causes of these significant errors are often mistakes and rarely intentional however they greatly skew the findings and lead to inevitable issues raised in the future. The Value Management Workshop Report, dated 26 November 2009, is focused on the Road and Traffic Authority’ (RTA) Mount Victoria to Lithgow Project. It incorporates many of the procedures and strategies that are set out in a report titled Total Asset Management, September 2004, which has been developed by New South Wales Government Treasury’s Office. This particular documents basis is value management guideline. In order to construct an argument as to how the Mount Victoria to Lithgow Project workshop could have been run differently and more effectively I will juxtapose these two documents. There are two main criteria that will be focused on; the stages of a Value Management and when such stages should be initiated and pre workshop planning and what it should comprise of. For a major project/program, several Value Management studies may be needed, for example at the service planning stage, the concept development stage, at the construction stage, at the operation and maintenance stage and, ultimately, at disposal’. (Value Management guideline, 2004) There is no question that the 6 major stages of a project listed above require a Value Management Plan. In this particular instance the concept development stage is the main focus of the RTA report. Concept development should include the scope of the project, what the project a ims to achieve and the general reasoning behind such a development. The general concept of this proposed project can be described as ‘light’ meaning that the reason for undertaking a public infrastructure project, estimated in excess of $275 million excluding the three phases included in the Mount Victoria section, is a little unclear. It is stated that ‘The highway upgrade work that has already been completed [on The Great Western Highway] has led to improved travel times for motorists and a safer road environment for all motorists, pedestrians and cyclists’. RTA: Mount Victoria to Lithgow Project, 26 November 2009) The New South Wales Governments plan to upgrade state roads, is therefore a green light to develop and upgrade new roads as the RTA deems fit. There is no thought or mention of rejuvenating existing infrastructure, which would be presumably economically healthier and time efficient. Although such a consideration may have become immediately redundant once ousted, there should have been ample opportunity for consi deration by all members of the workshop, which in fact there wasn’t. It is effective to conduct pre workshops programmes in a smaller group to develop issues that can be readily raised in the major Value Management workshop. Identifying issues early rather than over the two days of the workshop will give organisers and sub sequentially the members of the workshop the ability to address and answer problems with relevant facts, current data and more importantly directly. This would be a substitute of ‘ball park’ figures and broad/ assumed answers that would have been put forward if pre workshop programmes were not conducted.

Heroes in Literature