Ruth Altman reports:

"Resumes are a must-have when it comes to the advancement of your career -- even if you’re a diplomat of the United States. There are many kinds of U.S. diplomats, including ambassadors, economists, administrative assistants and translators. Format and action-oriented detail are each important factors to consider when developing your political resume. When it comes to phrasing, clean, tight language conveys the ideal professional tone. Although it is important to stay within professional lines, resumes remain more of a marketing tool than a job application, so you can still maintain stylistic creativity...Start by headlining your resume with your name followed by a title. For example, 'Jenny Smith' should be followed by the title 'Diplomatic Administrator,' centered underneath. Font size should be no larger than 18 point for your name or title and no less than 11 point for the body of the document. Next, cover your political work experience, including any internships or volunteer positions, and follow it with your education. Add bullet points to create visual interest and increase your resume’s readability. End your resume with skills and professional associations or activities related to your position as a diplomat. Be sure to proofread your final document for spelling and grammar...For diplomats with less than 10 years of experience, keep the resume to one page. Additional pages are acceptable when career experience exceeds 10 years. Most employers prefer a chronological resume -- that is, a resume that lists job experience from most recent to past. On the other hand, a functional resume that highlights your skill set is acceptable when applying to jobs that require any expertise learned in a former position. An objective is considered outdated; omit it from your resume entirely. Also, adding a few elements of style to your resume can effectively set it apart. For example, navy blue accents are an acceptable way to add pizazz to your resume while staying within professional lines. When finalizing the look of your resume, check your page margins to be sure they aren’t any less than a half inch in case a recruiter prints your document...Highlight your skills prominently and avoid burying acquired expertise in the body of a large paragraph. Instead, create a section for your skill set and include tangible assets, such as LexisNexis expertise and knowledge of other political tools such as Catalist, Blue State Digital and Aristotle. Listing tangible skills also provides an opportunity to use keywords, increasing the chances that your resume gets noticed. Avoid listing any soft skills such as 'strong team leader' in your skills section. Use soft skills to build the body of a paragraph in your job experience instead...For the most effective resume, highlight your successes. Avoid listing tasks and focus instead on articulating how tasks have led to achievements."

Suzie Wilson reports:

"Starting a new business and relocating your home at the same time is an ambitious endeavor. Combining these two massive transitions can be overwhelming, but with careful planning and strategic execution, it can be achieved smoothly. This guide, shared below by Mister Line Editor, offers a comprehensive roadmap to help you manage both your business launch and your move, ensuring success in both arenas.

Determine How Much Space You Need

Evaluating your living and workspace needs is essential to ensure a smooth transition. This way, you’ll know just how much space you should purchase. Consider the space required for office equipment, storage, and meeting clients. Understanding these needs will help you avoid unnecessary clutter and create an efficient working environment.

Home Selection Criteria

When searching for a new home, it's vital to identify key features such as a dedicated office space, proximity to suppliers or clients, and an environment conducive to work. These factors will greatly influence your productivity and satisfaction with your new location. While searching for a new home, take crucial steps like determining your budget, getting loan pre-approval, collaborating with a real estate agent, and utilizing online resources for property hunting. These actions will make the process smoother and less stressful.

Financial Planning

Setting a clear and realistic budget for your new home is vital, taking into account both business-related costs and personal expenses. By comprehending the financial aspects of moving and establishing a home office, you can navigate the expenses involved more effectively. This understanding enables you to make decisions that suit your financial situation, ensuring that your choices align with your monetary capabilities.

Organized Relocation

Organization plays a vital role in achieving a successful move. Establishing a moving timeline, getting rid of unnecessary items, and efficiently labeling boxes will create an orderly process. If required, hiring professional movers and clearly communicating your plans with them can further streamline the relocation, making the entire transition smooth and stress-free.

Launching Your Business

Solid Business Plan with Simple Marketing Strategy

Crafting a comprehensive business plan is vital for success. Outline your goals, target market, financial projections, and growth strategies. This plan will serve as your roadmap, guiding you through the launch and growth of your business. A clear and focused marketing approach is essential to attracting customers. Highlight your unique value proposition, understand your target audience, and choose the right marketing channels to communicate your message.

Invest in Technology

Choosing the right tools and software is essential for streamlining your [business'] operations, communication, and engagement with customers. By investing in technology that fits your specific needs, you can significantly reduce time spent on routine tasks. This strategic investment not only makes your processes more efficient but also improves the overall functionality and responsiveness of your business.

Time Management Techniques

Juggling the responsibilities of business operations and relocating demands adept time management. Adopt strategies like prioritizing tasks, creating a strict schedule, and setting firm deadlines. This approach ensures you effectively address both your business obligations and moving needs.

Remember to consider EIN Application

Applying for an Employer Identification Number (EIN) is a crucial step in establishing your [business'] legal identity. This unique number serves a dual purpose: [I]t's necessary for handling your [business'] tax obligations, and it also acts as a formal recognition of your business by the government. By obtaining an EIN, you demonstrate compliance with legal requirements, ensuring that your business is regarded as legitimate and lawful.

Launching a business and moving simultaneously is a complex but achievable task. By meticulously planning, understanding your needs, and implementing strategic practices, you can ensure a smooth transition. Following this succinct guide will assist you in seamlessly launching your business and relocating your living space, providing you with a solid foundation to build upon. The alignment of your home and business life will foster growth, efficiency, and satisfaction, turning a potentially stressful situation into a rewarding new chapter in your life."

Diane Dilov-Schultheis reports:

"Whether you’re a sole proprietor running your company from a home office or a small business owner renting office space, a flourishing business needs well-organized office management. Office management includes maintaining all needed office supplies that are vital for your business’ day-to-day operations. You certainly don’t want to run out of paper when printing an important document, but you also don’t want to waste valuable money keeping unneeded office supplies around. Track these items with an office supply list...Walk around your company and note the various office supplies on hand. Start in one location, such as your office[,] and then check all other areas including supply closets, break areas and bathrooms...Write down how many of each item you have. Note whether any additional types of office supplies are needed as you’re taking the inventory...Open a word processing or spreadsheet program, such as Microsoft Word or Excel. Use an available inventory list template or create one from scratch...Create a category list separating the supplies into groups. Use category titles, such as paper products, printer supplies, filing supplies, cleaning supplies, mailing items, writing instruments, break room items, desktop items and miscellaneous...Fill in the details for each category using the information you wrote down during your office walkthrough. Name, save and print the completed supply list...Keep this list at your desk for easy access. Continuously make note of how often you use the various supplies and how long it takes to replace the item, such as whether you can buy the item locally the same day or whether you have to order the item a week ahead of time...Order or purchase your office supplies as required to maintain your essential inventory. Review and update the office supply list every six months or so."

Kristin Swain reports:

"A letter concerning an accident at work provides written documentation of the incident. This type of documentation may be necessary for your Human Resources file, management review of the accident or your union representative, if applicable. Being able to write a letter about the accident allows you to give an accurate, detailed description of the events without influence from outside sources, such as other coworkers or management...Any letter that you write needs to be composed and submitted as soon as possible after the accident occurs. This allows you to address the issue in a timely manner while also recounting [the] event while the details are fresh in your mind and can be easily remembered accurately. A copy of the letter should be submitted to all applicable people including members of management, HR, your supervisor and your union. Make sure to sign all copies and keep a copy for yourself. You can also submit the letter via email, using your email address and the time stamp in lieu of your signature...Correctly documenting the accident is extremely important to any investigation into the incident or worker's compensation claims that are opened as a result of the incident. When you begin to structure your letter, create a short introduction that tells who you are and how you relate to the incident. Also give the date and time that the accident occurred. Use the body of the letter to recount the events leading up to the accident in as much detail as possible, starting at the beginning. Only include relevant information, such as the location of the accident, what caused [it and] if there was any company property involved, such as machinery or office equipment...Make note of anyone who was in the immediate vicinity when the accident occurred. Document their full names, locations, what department they work with and what they were doing at the time. Write down anyone who was also involved in the accident and what their role in the events was. By doing this, management can contact any witnesses to the incident if they need a statement, or to ask questions, as a part of the investigation into the accident...Note any injuries that you personally sustained as a result of the accident. You can name others that you believe were injured, but leave it up to them to report the nature of their injuries to management, unless you are writing the letter as a witness...List any remedies that you are considering for help with damages, such as an intention to file for worker's compensation or if you are considering a lawsuit to cover the cost of resulting medical bills. Do not admit fault. Simply state the events of the incident as they occurred from your point of view. If necessary the company may launch an investigation to determine fault."

Kim Borwick reports:

"Teaching kids about money when they’re young lays the foundation for responsible money management later in life. Children whose parents emphasize the importance of financial literacy and encourage them to spend and save thoughtfully develop a healthy perspective on money. It’s never too early to begin teaching your kids about money. But doing so is not as straightforward as you might assume. Some parents don’t feel confident enough in their own knowledge of financial matters to be comfortable teaching their kids about money. Others believe it’s inappropriate to burden young children with conversations about money or think, mistakenly, that children are too young to understand financial concepts...Children as young as 3 years old understand basic economic concepts, and by age 7, kids have developed permanent financial habits. This is a good time to start explaining that material goods cost money. Give them a piggy bank, or better yet, help them establish spending and sharing jars, which will allow them to see what happens to their balance depending on the decisions they make. Talk to your preschooler or kindergartener about sharing with others. Show them how to set financial goals and how to meet those goals. And remember, parents have the greatest influence over children’s money habits, and at this age, your kids are looking to you to set an example and guide them...At this age [6 to 14], you can let your child help with the grocery shopping, walking them through your decisions to shop at certain stores, seek coupons and sales, and select certain brands according to pricing and your budget. You should also begin discussing big-ticket items with them. Koblinger included an example of how a friend of hers used car shopping as an opportunity to teach his 10-year-old 'smart ways to save, how to see through clever marketing, how to negotiate prices, and how to avoid the pitfalls of loans.' You can even teach children this age about compound interest, using real data as opposed to trying to explain the concept in the abstract...By the time your child reaches high school, he or she should be capable of understanding more sophisticated money management concepts and have a level of financial literacy that includes knowledge of earning, saving, spending and sharing at the very least. Credit card companies target college students, so you’ll also want your child to be aware of the dangers of maxing out credit cards, how interest works, credit limits and the importance of building credit responsibly. Talk to your teen about the value of money. This includes emphasizing the difference between wants and needs and making sure they know your values when it comes to money. These conversations won’t be easy, especially when they see their friends wearing designer clothes and whipping out their parents’ credit cards when they go out. Just remember, you’re not alone. Every parent who cares about their child’s financial well-being and wants to instill positive values must say no to their kids at some point. And, just as your parents told you long ago, it’s for their own good...There’s a fine line between preparing children to be financially responsible and tarnishing their relationship to money. Miata Edoga, president of financial education company Abundance Bound, told Parentology, 'We don’t want our kids to be afraid of spending, be afraid of managing credit. We want them to feel confident in their ability to negotiate successful financial lives, to come at money from a place of power, rather than fear.' The information age ushered in new media teaching platforms and introduced the world to the 'digital native.' New educational apps for kids are launched regularly. These technological tools use interactivity and gamification to make financial concepts fun for children and teens. In addition to educating kids about core personal finance topics, these apps simulate the digital-era experience of using credit and debit cards, mobile payment methods, digital wallets, online banking and one-click shopping...While it can be a bit intimidating to teach kids about money, the rewards for both you and your child will far outweigh any frustrations the lessons may cause. And, fortunately, now more than ever, parents have a host of resources at their disposal, from apps and simulations to good old-fashioned discussions and real-life scenarios. The most important thing is to convey the need for smart money management and allow your kids the chance to practice these skills in their daily lives."

Mary Dowd reports:

"Internship openings, including application directions, are typically posted online to attract qualified students from around the count[r]y. Generally, you will be asked to mail or upload a letter of intent that explains your interest in the internship position. In addition to a letter of intent, you will likely need to provide a resume and letters of recommendation...Follow the standard business format to write your letter of intent. A professional image is important. The top of the page should include your name and contact information. You may center the text to make it stand out or type it flush left. Consider adding your email. Skip two lines and note the date of your letter...A letter of intent focuses on what you intend to learn and how it will help you achieve your long-term career goals. Start by expressing enthusiasm for the internship position. Mention your relevant academic achievements, pertinent coursework and reasons why you are eager to apply...Write two or three paragraphs diving into the details of what makes you uniquely qualified for the internship. Describe any related jobs, leadership roles, volunteer work, skills and research projects. Don’t worry if you don’t have a lot of directly related experience – that is what internships are for. The letter of intent is your chance to shine a light on your drive, passion, enthusiasm and limitless potential just waiting to be tapped. Briefly discuss how the internship will help you succeed in your field of study...Recap your reason for seeking the internship. Express appreciation for the opportunity to have your materials reviewed. Mention the best times of reaching you, preferably during normal business hours...Ask a friend with an eye for detail to proofread your letter. Fix any errors, sign the letter and submit."

Mary Dowd reports:

"Losing a coworker can be especially painful when you knew each other well and felt like family. Paying tribute to a deceased coworker shows respect and acknowledges the sadness that may permeate the workplace. Taking time to celebrate the life of the coworker offers an opportunity to share memories and recall stories of how the coworker made a difference in the lives of others. Tributes can be small or large depending on the circumstances and the wishes of those closest to the coworker who passed away. Some companies extend an invitation to family members of the deceased if they live in the area. Mutual support during the grieving process can facilitate a sense of closure and acceptance of the loss...Management should take the lead in promptly informing employees of the death of a coworker. In some cases, employees may have already heard about it on the news if the coworker died in an automobile accident or plane crash, for example. Other times, the death may have followed chronic illness and hospitalization. Regardless of the circumstances, an announcement should be made to all those connected to the coworker, including vendors and other individuals outside the organization who had a close working relationship with the deceased. The announcement should be brief and include information on services, if available...The timing of the tribute is very important to discuss. First, consider the circumstances under which the coworker died. If the death was unexpected such as a heart attack or fatal accident, employees may need time to get past the initial shock of hearing the news. Employees may have difficulty focusing and doing their job if a beloved coworker died violently. Many companies offer referrals to employee assistance or on[-]site counselors and offer information on the grieving process. Stanford University stresses the importance of dispelling rumors, clarifying facts and talking about feelings following a traumatic loss. Secondly, discuss whether to hold a tribute soon after funeral services or at a later date. For example, you may wish to hold a tribute after the holidays if the death occurs in December. Or you can wait until the weather outside is amenable to a large, outdoor service...A farewell tribute to a colleague who passed away can take many forms. A tribute can be a few words spoken at a memorial, written acknowledgment of the loss in a newsletter, a company luncheon or memorial gathering, a gift to the family, planting of a tree or all of the above. Written tributes should be very personal and written by someone who had close ties to the coworker who died. One of the biggest faux pas is when a tribute could describe almost anyone in the company who worked hard and did their job. Discuss possible ideas for a tribute consistent with any protocols the company may have in place. For example, some companies send a bouquet of flowers to the funeral home or make a donation to a charitable cause like the American Cancer Society in the name of the deceased. If the coworker was well[-]known and active in the community, a scholarship might be created to honor the coworker’s interest in expanding opportunities for underprivileged youth, for example...The deceased worker’s supervisor or a close friend from work may be asked by the family to give a eulogy tribute at a memorial service. Include specific examples of how the coworker helped others and contributed to the success of the organization...Sample Posts suggests mentioning the specific roles the coworker played at the company and briefly describing important accomplishments. However, the tribute should avoid sounding like a recitation of a resume. Focus more on the personal qualities that helped your coworker achieve success...Memorial tributes are an excellent way of commemorating the life of a deceased coworker. A tribute can also be uplifting and offer reassurance that the deceased coworker's contributions and legacy will live on, according to AARP. A farewell tribute to a colleague who passed away is best organized by friends of the deceased. The program might include live or recorded musical selections, slide show, eulogy, candle lighting, readings and an open mic for anyone wishing to say a few words about their departed colleague. A reception with food and beverages often follows...If your deceased worker was part of your small, close-knit group, consider taking a trip in their honor...University Health Services (UHS) at UC Berkeley suggests finding ways of honoring the deceased coworker that benefit others...When deciding how to pay tribute to a deceased coworker, consider the precedent that is being set. Having guidelines in place for memorial tributes can be helpful to ensure that all employees who pass away are appropriately acknowledged, not just those who are high up in the organization. Also consider the wishes of the family when planning services. Some families may appreciate a big company-hosted memorial service, while others would prefer to grieve privately with their immediate family and close friends."

Josh Fredman reports:

"Speech writing in politics is a difficult art, and it's not for everyone. A good speech has to optimistically appeal to all the right constituencies, avoid unintended controversy, yet be provocative and eloquent enough to make the news, all while catering to a middle school reading level. Since the job is also very competitive, it isn't enough simply to be good at it. You also need to make friends and work your way in...Zippia reports that these days, a bachelor's degree is all but mandatory to get into the world of speech writing. Having a degree suggests that you're serious, disciplined and capable of following through on a commitment. The type of degree doesn't really matter, though some politicians and their staffs prefer a related degree, like political science or English. Don't quit college while you're there, either. Your speech-writing job will eventually end, but the degree will stay with you for a lifetime...Political speech writing is a niche industry. According to Indeed, in order to make it as a speech writer, you have to get politically involved. This means doing a whole lot of volunteering at first. Register with your local political party chapter and help out. Join political campaigns and volunteer with them[,] too. Assist with elections. Get involved in the later stages of elections, such as caucuses and conventions. Overall, aim to attach yourself to a specific politician in hopes of eventually getting a paid staff job...A complement to volunteering at political activities is to join a political nonprofit or activist organization that works on issues you care about. These groups have frequent contact with the politicians who represent them as well as with ideologically friendly politicians, which can provide a means for you to work with those politicians' staffs. Many people eventually parlay that personal familiarity into a paid political job...Politicians are much likelier to hire a writer with an extensive body of political writing publicly available to scrutinize, such as on a blog or website. Long before you try to get a political speech-writing job, hone your writing and work on building an audience. If you can show that your writing resonates with people, that makes you much likelier to eventually get a speech-writing job."