10% of Americans have had their phone out during an interview

10% of Americans have had their phone out during an interview10% of Americans have had their phone out during an interviewWhile research has found that even if yur phone hasnt been powered on, its close proximity to you is a distraction, data from KDM Engineering shows that 10% of Americans say theyve had their phone out in a job interview.Still, 20% of employees say they look at their phone a minimum of once every 20 minutes at work.Clearly, our attachment to our smartphones runs deep - while 60% of people think they make contact with their phone a maximum of 100 times daily, the data shows that a typical user taps, touches or swipes their phone 2,617 times per day.Two thousand Americans - working full-time, part-time, plus some who were unemployed, retired, and disabled and not working because of it - weighed in.How people use their phones at workThe data shows that while 70% of respondents think its inappropriate to have a smartphone out while a meeting is going on, 53% still a dmit to doing this. Plus, although 80% think its inappropriate to look at their phone while a meeting is happening, 50% admit to doing this. Seventy-seven percent even say that they bring their device with them into the arbeitszimmer bathroom.A staggering 92% of those polled think that smartphone addiction is real.Heres a full breakdown of how often people check their phones in the workplaceEvery hour 25%Every 20 minutes 20%Every 2-3 hours 19%Every half hour 14%About twice a day 10%Every 3-5 hours 10%Never put it down 2%Heres how people use their phones outside of workHeres how many respondents have interacted with phones in specific ways outside the officeRely on their phones GPS almost all the time 62%While using public transportation 57%Have texted while driving 54%Have used phone in a theater 49%While three-quarters of respondents say that theyre hesitant or embarrassed to take a selfie in public, 51% think that its appropriate to be on their phones when people are walking behin d them.But while 79% dont think its appropriate to be on them when going from one street to another, 49% say they still fall into this trap.Still, while 40% say theyve looked over a strangers shoulder to read their text or screen, 30% say theyve had their phone out during a first date.Surprisingly, almost half of those surveyed - 49% - say that theyve snapped a picture of a stranger in a public setting without the person finding out.Collin Czarnecki, a Content Strategist at Digital Third Coast who assisted with the data analysis for KDM, told Ladders about the research.People are inextricably linked to their phones. We wanted to find out if there are hard and fast rules or etiquette when it comes to smartphone use in public, private, and at work. This research taught us a lot of interesting trends about what people think is and isnt acceptable, he said. One interesting trend demonstrates how comfortable people feel using their smartphones at the office. We found that while the vas t majority of Americans feel its inappropriate to have or use their smartphone during a meeting, more than half still do it. And the majority of workers check their phone at least one an hour while at the office.Heres how people tackle their phone notificationsHeres how people address notifications in order of urgency1) Text2) Phone Call3) Email4) Messenger5) Facetime6) Facebook7) WhatsApp8) Snapchat9) Instagram10) Dating AppWhat kinds of notifications usually steal your attention first?

Why Work Experience Makes You a Good Candidate

Why Work Experience Makes You a Good CandidateWhy Work Experience Makes You a Good CandidateKathleen Downs, a vice president at Robert Half Finance Accounting, gets a lot of questions from job candidates, and one of them has to do with work experience. Heres a QA to answer that and other questions.Q Im looking for a new job in finance and accounting after years of working in the industry. Should I worry about appearing overqualified? A An employer may be reluctant to hire you if youre so obviously overqualified that you may not stay long, or you wont be happy, or you may demand more money than the position pays. You may have to address those concerns to convince the interviewer that youre genuinely interested in the position and would make a good fit.But dont forget that with your work experience, you may have the expertise to provide mentoring relationships that can strengthen your company. You can serve as a sounding board and voice of reason for other employees in the organizatio n who may be struggling to find their footing in the finance world. You can share your insight and knowledge with colleagues who are less experienced and help them anticipate issues in the future - and that is something employers would appreciate.Q What else can I do to stand out to employers?A As a finance professional with experience, you have a track record that can help pave the way to your next position, especially if your work history is strong. If youve been at an organization for many years, you may be known for your sense of loyalty, which is a trait employers value.But even with your work experience, as a job seeker youll need to jump through a few hoops by taking some essential stepsFollow updated resume-writing tips, using keywords to minimize the chances of your resume getting filtered out and also data to support the results you achieved in past positions.Create a social media profile, and join the conversation. You can use the various channels, from LinkedIn to Twitt er, to connect professionally and personally, gain perspectives from other finance leaders, and even become a more strategic leader.When youre asked to answer common interview questions, highlight specific examples of your past successes, and use them to showcase your strengths.But dont stay there. Move ahead to market yourself for the position in which youre applying. Practice your personal branding statement, which will help you stand out from the crowd.Q What other advice do you have for experienced job seekers?A Its likely you have valuable industry experience as well as in-demand hard and soft skills. That means once youve learned the organizations software and procedures, your employer can rely on you to get the job done - and get it done right. It also doesnt hurt to showcase that you are on top of trends impacting your industry and can relate to the rest of the staff.Throughout your job search, though, its important to make sure you dont let your extensive knowledge unravel your chances of landing a position. Employers prize employees who are flexible and willing to adapt to an organizations ways of tackling finance procedures and operations. They will also be more open to candidates who support their initiatives.If you can demonstrate that you are open-minded, pleasant to work with and adaptable - and that youre a fit with the requirements of the finance job description - you can increase your chances of landing the job youre after, one that may have the potential to become an even-higher-level position.SEARCH FOR JOBS Kathleen Downs Kathleen Downs, a vice president with Robert Half Finance Accounting, started with the company in 2000. Before that, she was CEO of a recreation/retail/education organization in Bonn, Germany. Kathleen is acti vely involved with a number of professional organizations within the finance and accounting field and sits on several not-for-profit boards.

10 Resume Tips You Havent Heard Before

10 Resume Tips You Havent Heard Before10 Resume Tips You Havent Heard Before Having a well-crafted resume can be the key to getting your foot in the door at the company of your dreams. But figuring out how to make your resume fully representative of your experience and also stand out is easier said than done. After all, hiring managers and recruiters generally only spend about 7 seconds reading your resume before deciding whether to move forward or not. Most people know the basics of how to put together a decent work history, but here are some tips you probably havent heard before that can help your resume stand up to the 7-second test. If youre applying to positions in the city or town you already live in, then go ahead and include your address. In this case, it lets the hiring manager know youre already in the area and could theoretically departure working right away. But if youre targeting jobs in another area and youd need to move in order to start working , its probably a good idea to leave your current address off of your resume. Why? Recruiters are sometimes less excited to interview candidates from another city or state, since they often require relocation fees.It may be poor form to drop names in everyday life, but you absolutely should do it on your resume. If youve worked with well-known clients or companies, go ahead and include them by name. Something like Closed deals with Google, Toyota and Bank of America will get recruiters attention in no time flat.You might not think to look to your annual review for resume material, but checking out the positive feedback youve received in years past can help you identify your most noteworthy accomplishments and best work attributes - two things that should definitely be highlighted on your resume. Including specific feedback youve received and goals youve met can help you avoid needing to use fluff to fill out your work experience.Many companies and recruiters use keyword-scanning software as a tool to narrow the job applicant pool. For this reason, its important to include keywords from the job description in your resume - but dont go overboard. Recruiters can spot keyword stuffing a mile away. There are two types of email addresses you shouldnt use on your resume or when applying to a job via email your current work email address, or an overly personal or inappropriate email address, like loverguy22gmail.com . Stick with something professional based on your name in order to make the best possible impression.Theres no need to list skills that most people in the job market have ( Think Microsoft Office, email, Mac and PC proficient), which can make it look like youre just trying to fill up space on the page. Keep your skills section short, and only include impactful skills that are relevant to the job youre applying to. Including links to social media accounts on a resume is becoming mora and more common. But its important to distinguish between profess ional accounts- like a LinkedIn profile or Instagram account you manage for work- and non-professional ones, like your personal Twitter or Facebook account. While it might be tempting to include a personal account in order to show recruiters who you are, youre better off only listing accounts that are professionally-focused. Save your winning personality for an in-person interview .Not all hobbies deserve a place on your resume, but some do. Hobbies that highlight positive personality qualities or skills that could benefit you on the job are worth including. For example, running marathons (shows discipline and determination) and blogging about something related to your field (shows creativity and genuine interest in your work) are hobbies that will cast you in the best possible light and might pique a recruiters interest.Hardworking, self-motivated, self-sufficient, proactive and detail-oriented are all words youll find on most peoples resumes. But most job seekers are motivated an d hardworking, so ansicht traits dont really set you apart from the rest of the applicant pool. Instead, focus on the specific skills and accomplishments that make you different from everyone else applying to the position. Keeping a log of your work accomplishments and positive feedback as they come up can make putting together or updating your resume significantly easier. Include as many details as possible so you dont have to spend time tracking them down later.

Everything You Need to Know About CPA Jobs

Everything You Need to Know About CPA JobsEverything You Need to Know About CPA JobsWe write a lot about CPA jobs, CPA salaries, CPA skills, CPA specializations and the CPA exam herbeie, but in honor of the centennial of the Uniform CPA Examination, weve put together a roundup of all things certified public accountant for those of you interested in a range of topics related to CPA jobs. From startup ventures to nonprofits to multinational corporations, organizations depend on the skills of people who undergo strict licensing and educational requirements to earn their CPAs. As the business environment grows in complexity, so does the demand for these trusted advisers and their trusted credentials.Todays CPAs make strategic business decisions and and have more career options than ever before.In this article, we describe the steps to becoming a CPA, from taking the tests to choosing a specialty to moving into management, with links to posts about the CPA that appear on this blog. Consid er this your definitive guide to discover everything you need to know about CPA jobs, and as time goes on, well keep adding to it. First steps to becoming a CPAMost accountants earn a college degree, but for those who plan to pursue CPA jobs, at least a bachelors degree is required, typically in accounting, finance or business. But it doesnt have to stop there. Many CPAs earn a masters in business administration or pursue an accelerated five-year accounting program.Every state is different, but fruchtwein require 150 semester hours of instruction, which is 30 hours beyond a typical four-year bachelors degree. Some states also stipulate advanced coursework in subjects such as financial reporting, taxes, auditing and other non-accounting business areas. Regulations vary by state, so be sure to check the requirements for your jurisdiction.Before you jump on the career path to CPA jobs, read these blog postsPrivate vs. Public Choose Your Accounting Career Path - The demand is great for both types of accounting, with salaries on the rise. But as youll read in this post, there are differences, from the daily routine to job titles to salaries.CPA or CMA? Which Finance Certifications Are Right for You? - Its leid a matter of which certification is better, but which one is better for you. Discover the differences in requirements, exams, perks and salaries in this side-by-side CPA or CMA summary.3 Es to Excellence on the Career Path to CPA - Before you add those three letters to your name, learn about the three Es that will guide you to a career as a CPA Education, Exam, Experience. T he rigors of the CPA examAside from education, most states require CPA candidates to work for 1,800 hours under the supervision of a licensed CPA, which they can do before, during or after the exam process. CPA candidates also typically enroll in test preparation courses to get ready for the four parts of the Uniform CPA Examination Audit and Attestation Financial Accounting and Reporting Regulation and Business Environment and Concepts. Changes in the now-16-hour exam that launches in April 2017 will reflect a shift from memorization to an emphasis on critical thinking and analysis, in an effort to better reflect the demands faced by todays new CPAs.The CPA exam is offered during the first two months of every quarter, over the course of several days. Candidates take the sections in any order they choose, but once they have reisepassed one part, they must successfully complete the other three within 18 months.The cost of the test plus application fees typically runs around $1,000 bu t varies from state to state.Many state boards of accountancy require that CPAs maintain and improve their skills through continuing professional education (CPE) courses. The American Institute of CPAs (AICPA), which develops and scores the CPA exam, requires an annual renewal fee and every-three-year recertification. CPA jobs and specializationsWhat do CPAs do? On the most basic level, they keep and inspect financial accounts for companies, governmental entities and clients. The CPA license isnt required for corporate or private accountants, but it is for public accountants, who work for companies that provide accounting services to others.The work of a public accountant covers a range positions, and many professionals choose specializations, such as these CPA jobsFinancial analysis - ?The job of a financial analyst is to support business growth by analyzing financial data, preparing reports to illustrate technical information, interpreting data affecting investment programs and helping management make informed decisions.Internal auditing - ?Internal auditors evaluate and contribute to their companys operations by examining risk management issues, financial data and operations, and control processes.Information technology auditing - Combining the IT and accounting disciplines, IT auditors examine the technological infrastructure of companies, testing systems to ensure security, accuracy and compliance with regulations.Tax accounting - ?Duties of a tax accountant range from maintaining tax records and completing tax returns to guiding companies in tax strategies, compliance, and tax laws and regulations.Managerial accounting - Accounting managers prepare budgets and financial documents, evaluate and refine accounting procedures, and consult with management teams t o help them make good business decisions Belicia Cespedes Real stories about the CPAWant some real examples from real people about their CPA jobs and journeys? We have a few to share from our blog.Belicia Cespedes Tells Her Story How I Became the Youngest CPA at 17 - Belicia writes about how she started high school at 10 and college at 13, and was rewarded with trips to the Cheesecake Factory every time she sat for a section of the CPA exam. She tells an inspiring story.How to Become a CPA in 9 Months Live Under a Rock Like I Did - Charlene Rhinehart shares her heartfelt and advice-filled story of how she used her grit and tenacity (and brains) to study for the CPA exam and pass the tests within nine months.5 Ways to Fail at the CPA Exam (Like I Did) - Ethan, a senior ass ociate in the audit and assurance department of a regional public accounting firm, offers his candid warning about how NOT to approach the CPA exam, the way he did. Hes inspiring, too, in a different sort of way from Belicia and Charlene.The Top 7 CPA Skills - and How to Get Them - A study asked 450 staff-level finance and accounting professionals what they would like to add to their compilation of CPA skills in the next year, and this post discusses their top seven responses. CPA salary information Of course, wed be leaving out a big part of the CPA jobs story if we didnt tell you about salaries. Not only is the CPA an in-demand credential, but it can put you a the higher end of the compensation table.Update The 2019 Robert Half Salary Guide for Accounting and Finance Professionals is out , along with starting salary ranges for more than 190 positions, regional variances that can help you adjust salaries to your local market, and new data on benefits, incentives and perks.Based on actual placements in our office, the starting salary for a senior manager/director in audit/assurance services is $131,250 at the midpoint, and $134,000 for a senior manager/director in tax services. Bonuses and benefits are not included in those numbers. Job outlook for CPAsTheres more good news with regard to CPA jobs. The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects that employment of accountants and auditors will grow 11 percent from 2014 to 2020. So far, a short supply of skilled talent has lowered unemployment rates for accounting and finance roles below the overall national rate.As a result, CPA hiring has taken on a greater sense of urgency, with public accounting firms recruiting at all levels. Much of the activity is focused on adding professionals in audit and tax roles, but firms are also looking for expertise in risk, compliance, and mergers and acquisitions.As CPAs get experience under their belts - in public accounting, financial services and corporate accounting - many naturally want to take on more responsibilities and move up the career ladders. Find out more about those options by reading 8 Ways CPAs Can Make Their Way to Management Positions.Of course, once you pass the CPA exam, you have to keep up your professional education. Check out the training options in CPE Requirements Offer Learning Opportunities for CPAs.Wow. Becoming a licensed CPA is an important milestone, opening a world of career possibilities. Enjoy the journeySEARCH FOR CPA JOBSHere are two more articles about certifications for todays jobsAccounting Certifications Employers Really Want to SeeFinancial Certifications That Deliver the Best ROIIf youve made it this far, dont stop learning about the latest in accounting and finance careers Subscribe to the Robert Half Finance Accounting Blog

Things You Wont Like About Resume Builder Template and Things You Will

Things You Wont Like About Resume Builder Template and Things You Will The cover letter is most likely the very first thing that the HR personnel sees. Length just like with any other resume, an executive resume should be concise. If you are searching for work in the reputed organization with the post of Billing Clerk, you should have a well formatted resume that may help you to clearly show your qualities that subsequently can help you to find a really good designation in a reputable organization. If you want to learn more about the way to compose the remainder of the resume, not only the summary paragraph, then youll need to learn how write a resume, an official Business Resumes article.The reader will most likely not get that far and you may discuss your very belastung position during your interview. When you compose a resume choose an easy format. You always need to use the OF-612 format to compose a resume and create the title always catchy and appealing. Selecting the r ight resume format can be quite a confusing practice. Like all excellent writing there are some fundamental rules. To learn to compose a resume objective isnt at all that difficult. Dont make your objective lengthy its only a brief overview of what you desire. Now you know the role of writing the resume summary paragraph its important to realize the proper grammar, formatting and sentence flow thats typically utilised in professionally written resumes. Resume Builder Template Options Employers want executives who save the organization money, and theyre ready to pay a high salary for the correct individual. You also ought to tailor your resume for different businesses. Create your basic resume which youll be able to edit whenever you require. If your principal keywords arent in your resume, its very probable that your resume wont be reviewed, although you could be very well qualified. Whatever achievements you list, they should be explained in quantifiable terms. While no 2 resumes will look the exact same, there are specific similarities in all excellent resumes. Yes, its a fact that if youre hired with a company, it may very well address your problems. You may wish to include what makes you wish to work with their company also, as an example, saying they are a cutting edge company etc.. By learning what a company does and is searching for, you can stay away from sending resumes for positions that youre not qualified to do. When you have identified the most suitable company, its time to prepare the resume in accordance with their need. When you exhale dont hear anything. The objective, just enjoy the remainder of your resume, is about you. So if your response is yes, I can go either way, then I would suggest developing two distinct resumes. Though nothing can replace a comprehensive background check on prospective employees, there are methods to spot resume information that might not be completely accurate. The employer is likely to do a quick scan (10-15 seconds) to decide if its well worth reading further. Before writing the resume remember that, your job objective should concentrate on what you are able to supply to the company rather than that which you desire from the business. To begin with, you can examine the job posting that the business creating to determine just what is required for the position. So, your work is to attempt to find the personenname of the individual who will be making the hiring decision or at least the name of the individual initially screening the resumes (they arent always the exact same person). In case the employer is searching for somebody who can multitask and handle many projects at the same time, then you need to find a means to highlight that skill if you possess it. So it has to be an accurate snapshot of exactly why youre the correct person for the job youre applying for. For acquiring the work opportunity, its important that you compose the resume that will display your abili ties and traits marvelously. Step 4 Choose the most relevant abilities youve got for the job youre applying for.

New Step by Step Roadmap for Resume Services

New Step by Step Roadmap for Resume Services Resume Services Explained LinkedIn changes the protocol from time to time, and your profile has to be updated accordingly. When youve reviewed a few websites that pique your interest, you will want to narrow it down to someone whos a very good fit. Know the purpose of your resume Some individuals write a resume as though the function of the document was supposed to land work. Use a skills-based resume if your prior job experience doesnt necessarily fit with the job youre applying for. You are able to depend on us because weve helped hundreds of different folks get the jobs theyve always dreamt of. Land the job that you want now. Unfortunately, that enjoyable job will forever later on. There are many sorts of resumes. As resumes are usually restricted to a single page theres insufficient room to concentrate on all your abilities. Most resumes incorporate the subsequent sections, even though the order depends upon the resume fo rmat you opt for. Skills-based resumes may also enable you to combine related work and other experience during the skills-based headings. While a resume objective tells the reader what you would like to do and why you wish to do it, a summary delivers a fast recap of your career. For instance, you may require a resume summary or a resume objective, but you ought not incorporate both. Theres a specific procedure of how essays ought to be written. Many trustworthy writing tafelgeschirrs are eager to provide essay help. Getting the Best Resume Services Recruiters have to scan a good deal of resumes over a brief period of time to detect the ideal candidate theyll hire. Resume Planet is a seasoned service which knows what employers search for in CVs. Employers use resumes throughout the hiring procedure to find out more about applicants and whether they could be a superior fit. Many employers utilize search engines to discover candidates with resumes containing certain key ter ms. The Advantages of Resume Services Our on-line nursing resume writing service is one of the very best in the business. Capstone Resume Services listens to your wants and matches your resume and brand to the sort of position youre seeking. The Resume Writing industry gives a vital, valuable support. Resume writing services can be ordered 24 hours per day, 7 days every week. Whether you are searching for your very first job or attempting to earn a career change, the practice starts with your resume. The procedure is easy and straightforward. The procedure for ordering our services has been made simple by the usage of simple measures that are simple to follow along with. What You Can Do About Resume Services Starting in the Next 7 Minutes The qualified experts have written the very best papers in many diverse locations. Resume writing is the main step in presenting your abilities and receiving the job that you desire. With a tiny bit of practice, youll be writing effect ive resumes that is going to be getting you the interviews you will need for the job which youve always desired. You can also lack enough knowledge on the subject, or you arent good in the usage of English language for writing essays. Top Choices of Resume Services With an increasing number of writing companies online, trying to find the best resume services providers may become a pain in the neck. Online there are several sites from where you are able to compare the very best expert custom resume or resume writing services. Its important to employ a service which offers you a fine price for top quality. Most services offer package deals which include more than 1 service.

Powertrains Drive Future Engine Design

Powertrains Drive Future Engine Design Powertrains Drive Future Engine Design Powertrains Drive the Future of Engine DesignPersonal transportationmotorcycles, cars, trucks, and busesis going through an unprecedented transformation. At no other point in the long history of the internal combustion engine (ICE) has the industry experienced such unrelenting pressure to change. Whether driven by legislation around safety, emissions, fuel consumption, or congestion, or by customer expectations for better performance, features, and quality, demands on engine planers have never been greater.As a result, engine designers are heading back to the drawing board to re-evaluate engine design and what engines need to accomplish to satisfy current market trends. The industry is now experiencing a renaissance in powertrain design, providing solutions for battery electric vehicles, plug-in electric hybrids, and dedicated hybrids, as well as continued improvements in the ICE.Promising ResearchOne of th e most interesting trends is the use of homogenous-charge compression ignition (HCCI), which delivers diesel-like efficiencies in a gasoline engine. This and other improvements in combustion system design enable better fuel consumption, improved performance, cleaner engine-out emissions, and reduced need for expensive, bulky catalytic technology.University of Wisconsin-Madison student hybrid vehicle gets ready for U.S. Department of Energys Advanced Vehicle Competition. Image Engr.wisc.eduIn parallel with this work, much research pertaining to biofuels as alternatives to conventional gasoline and diesel is being carried out, says Brian Price, an adjunct professor with the Department of Engineering at the University of Wisconsin-Madison. Big strides are being made in improving combustion efficiency and making biofuels from non-food crops, such as grasses and algae.Another trend that is gaining momentum is the design of dedicated, down-sized engines for hybrid powertrains.Hybrid power trains can have a variety of degrees of hybridization, says Price. This is basically the balance between how much vehicle performance comes from a battery versus a conventional engine source. Depending on the type of powertrain configuration and power control strategy selected, the powertrain may operate on battery only, engine only, or a combination of battery and engine. The ideal configuration for each customer depends on that persons individual driving needs.Optimizing EnginesPrice is leading several research projects that model hybrid battery/engine sizing scenarios for major manufacturers, including car, bus, and truck companies. He believes that hybrids will be the main new powertrain configurations for the next 30-40 years.For the first time, engine size is being reduced as the industry re-evaluates what is needed in an engine, says Price. This is made possible by variable systems, such as cylinder de-activation, variable valve timing, stop/start technology, and greater use of pressure-charging (turbochargers and superchargers).In the future, one size will not fit all when it comes to powertrain configurations. Customers will need to think mora carefully about the type of driving they do and select an appropriately configured product, to realize the full benefits of optimized engines.The continued refinement of technologies has also made engines more mechanically and electronically complex, which adds cost.Powertrains of the future will involve more sensors for increasingly sophisticated control systems, variable devices, power-enhancing technologies such as turbocharging, and inevitably some form of battery, says Price. The business-case assessment of viable product configurations, involving the use of new business models for plug-in charging, maintenance contracts, and end-of-life disposal, will need to be thought through very carefully and considered as a complete system.Future DemandWith more sophisticated powertrains in the future, and increasing requirements regarding long-term emissions compliance and end-of-life disposal (already legislated in Europe and Japan), manufacturers will need to think carefully about support services for maintenance, rescue services, financing, etc. Because most forms of powertrains in the future will have some degree of electrification, well-developed networks of chargers will be critical for supporting battery electric vehicles.I have a Ph.D. student who is just completing his thesis in this area, says Price. He has developed mathematical models that map out an idealized network of electric charge-points, which provide maximum coverage with minimal investment in infrastructure.Even with the rise of electrification in powertrain configurations and electronic controls, there will still be vital roles for mechanical engineers in optimizing engines for high reliability, high efficiency, and low cost of operation.As a mechanical engineer who has been doing engine and gearbox design for over 30 year s, Ive never know a more exciting time to be a mechanical engineer in this industry, says Price, who indicates that mechanical engineers must be more prepared to think about creative solutions and utilize the latest in material and manufacturing advances.Engineers who want some guidance in this direction should consider programs like UW-Madisons Master of Engineering in Engine Systems program, a distance program for working professional engineers.Coursework like this will truly prepare engines architects for the future, says Price. They will be able to rethink their own approach to the design and development of engines and expand their specialist skills to cover a broader sortiment of aspects in developing the next generation of powertrain solutions.Mark Crawford is an independent writer.Big strides are being made in improving combustion efficiency and making biofuels from non-food crops, such as grasses and algae.Brian Price, adjunct professor, Department of Engineering, University of Wisconsin-Madison

What does it feel like to be fired from Google

What does it feel like to be fired from GoogleWhat does it feel like to be fired from GoogleI feel qualified to answer this question because I was fired from Google this April, after five years working there.I experienced a burnout about a year before that my productivity dropped x5 times approximately (that is from five commits per week to one commit on average, on the saatkorn project in the same environment). So I needed to change something, and I changed teams transferring to semantic search (RefX team).That was a mistake search is the biggest and most complex product at Google, and semantic search (the thing that gives you a direct answer to the query instead of links) is one of the brainiest teams around. With burnout my performance leid only failed to recover - it went further downhill.At that point my relationship with the manager and director started to deteriorate too they got a new guy on the team but couldnt get much done from me. My managers first instinct was to enfor ce some discipline make me sit in front of the computer essentially, monitor when I come and go, which naturally made things even worse.In private discussions I was asked why dont I leave by myself, to which I answered that Im happy with my Google salary. If Google is not happy with my performance - feel free to fire me, but Im not going to jump myself.Performance Improvement PlanIn March I was put on PIP (Performance Improvement Plan). Its a formal agreement that I should produce certain output in two months. After a week it was quite obvious to me that I wont make it. Again I had a talk with HR and director, and was actually threatened to be fired with Gross Misconduct (without benefits and waiting period). Apparently my manager and director decided that I was somehow gaming the system and just milk the company while not making any effort to do my job.In the end they didnt wait for PIP to run through and gave me a termination notice in another week. I returned my Google hardware and badge, and my manager walked me out of the building - all in 10 minutes or so. My Google employee account was revoked at the same time. We went to a nearby cafe with him, and he even paid for a drink though ??As was stated by my contract I had a one-month notice period. So I was formally employed and received salary for another month, although I didnt and couldnt work during it. Google also produced a stellar reference letter for future employers, without mentioning any of this.When burnout hitsOverall it felt unpleasant, as is natural in burnout. I think the nasty attitude from manager and director was unnecessary it sucks when superiors dont trust you, treating me as a liar without saying it explicitly. The team didnt know anything about the process though, and was generally great and supportive - probably the smartest people I ever worked with.I have fully recovered since then - changing the teams didnt help, but changing the company did.This column first appeared atQuora.

Doing this 1-minute change could literally save your life

Doing this 1-minute change could literally save your lifeDoing this 1-minute change could literally save your lifeDaylight saving timeofficially ended and while your phones and computers automatically fell back one hour later, you still have to check your ovens,microwaves, and most importantly, your smoke detectors - at least according to safety experts.The two times a year we change our clocks also serve as a valuable reminder to change the batteries in ourfire alarms. Only 57% of Americans have followed best practice and done so in the past six months, according to a survey of more 1,000 people conducted byServiceMaster Restore.When you go around your house this week, youll want to replace the batteries in each detector, advises disaster restoration expert Peter Duncanson. zugabe Doing it now will also prevent the purposefully annoying chirping reminder later on.Lift, twist, or remove the cover. (In some cases, the whole alarm will come off from a base.)Replace the battery with a brand-new one. Most machines use9-volt batteries.Close and snap the detector back into place.Press the test button to make sure its working. You should hear a beep or chirp sound.Also keep an eye out for the date of manufacture stamped on the device.Smoke detectors lose their efficacy after 10 years and require replacingjust like carbon monoxide alarms. Upgrade to thenewer lithium battery smoke detectorsand you wont have to worry about replacing the batteries at all for up to a decade.To keep your home as safe as possible, use interconnected smoke alarms so that when one sounds, they all sound. At a minimum, make sure you have smoke alarms installed inside each bedroom, outside each sleeping area, and on every level of the home (including the basement), theNational Fire Protection Associationrecommends.Monitoring your houses safety measures is now more important than ever.The average time to escape a home fire hasgone from 17 minutes to just three minutes or lessin the past few deca des due to the increased use of synthetics in furniture and home construction, according to safety organization UL.And withThanksgivingonly three weeks away, dont forget to inspect your fire extinguisher for any signs of corrosion, missing pull-pins, and/or changes in the pressure gauge. Its always a good idea to have a working one on hand - especially when your brother-in-law attempts to deep-fry theturkey.This article firstappeared on ShondaLand.