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We all know that feeling. You wake up on a Monday morning, drag yourself out of bed, and trudge off to a job that feels soul-sucking. You can't help but wonder, is this really all there is? Life can't just be about going through the motions day after day, right? Wrong. It turns out there is a lot you can do to make even the most mundane job feel more meaningful. Whether it's taking on new responsibilities, connecting with your co-workers, or simply finding ways to give back, there are endless possibilities for adding purpose to your 9-to-5. Ready to jumpstart your career and start making a difference? Keep reading to learn how you can make any job more meaningful. Define what meaningful work means to you To me, meaningful work means satisfying the desire to make a positive impact with every task I do. It also involves being an active member of a larger team or community, working towards a common purpose, and appreciating the collective effort that is needed to get tasks done. I like knowing that the fruits of my labor will benefit others in some way - either in terms of developing innovative ideas, finding solutions to problems, or making people's lives better. This is why it is important for me to define what meaningful work means; it gives me an opportunity to self-reflect and ask 'am I truly doing something worthwhile?' This often motivates me to keep pushing further, challenge myself and stay focused on meeting shared goals. Find ways to connect your personal values to your job duties Having a job that you feel connected to can be immensely rewarding; however, it can take time, exploration, and dedication to make any job more meaningful. It all starts with getting in touch with your personal values and understanding how they can be integrated into your job duties. Asking yourself questions such as “What do I believe in?”, “What is important to me?”, or “What are my goals?” help form a strong foundation for how you view yourself and what you bring to the workplace. From there, you can create meaningful connections between your values and job tasks by exploring ways to put them into action whenever possible. Doing so allows you to truly invest yourself in the work you do and give purpose to every task. Create goals for yourself that go beyond simply meeting deadlines or making money Adding an element of purpose and meaning to every job is a worthwhile goal. As you grow in your current role, consider how you can use the skills learned at work to contribute to something bigger. By taking initiative and setting larger-scale goals, it's possible to see even the most mundane tasks as part of a meaningful endeavor. Setting these bigger objectives may require creating new partnerships or collaborating with people outside your team, but the rewards for doing so are plentiful. Not only will you be more engaged in your job, but you will also find yourself making a greater impact and having a more rewarding experience along the way. Seek out opportunities to learn and grow in your career The key to any job becoming more meaningful is to make sure that you can find opportunities to learn and grow. Being open to the idea of learning new things and growing your skillset can give you a sense of satisfaction not just in completing tasks correctly but also in mastering new abilities. Instead of letting yourself stagnate, actively seek out things that will expand upon what you already know and enhance your knowledge base. Research courses or seminars related to your job, take initiative in suggesting changes or improvements to current processes, ask questions when something isn’t clear, and never back away from a challenge; these are just some ways that you could enrich your work experience and become valuable in the long run. Productivity can be boosted when everyone takes personal responsibility in their career development; with this outlook, nothing is ever stagnant and your job will remain an always exciting one. Build positive relationships with your co-workers and clients Relationships with your colleagues and clients are essential to making any job more meaningful. While gaining knowledge or improving the bottom line is important, developing quality relationships can truly make a difference. To build positive connections, take the time to register your co-workers' needs and interests and establish that you have heard them. Show interest in them and their jobs, as well as what they believe in, especially if it’s different from your own. With clients, demonstrate your understanding of their personal objectives and offer assistance whenever possible – this helps build trust and cooperation between both parties. When we make an effort towards building positive relationships with our colleagues and clients, we all benefit from a more efficient workflow and fulfilling job experience. Make a difference in your community through volunteer work or other charitable endeavors Making a difference in our communities doesn't have to be complicated; it can start with something as simple as volunteering your time. There are countless organizations across the country that rely on community members helping out, whether it's by organizing an event for kids, teaching adults about basic finances, or assisting a local food bank. Not only is this rewarding for those being helped, but it also allows you to make an impact with whatever series of skills and resources you may have at hand. Whether you choose to join an existing organization or form one of your own, there are plenty of ways to make a difference in your community through volunteer work or other charitable endeavors. If you’re not feeling particularly fulfilled in your current position, there are things you can do to change that. Define what meaningful work means to you and find ways to connect your personal values to your job duties. Create goals for yourself that go beyond simply meeting deadlines or making money. Seek out opportunities to learn and grow in your career. Build positive relationships with your co-workers and clients. And finally, make a difference in your community through volunteer work or other charitable endeavors. With a little effort, you can turn any job into a meaningful one.

No one is perfect, and that includes leaders. In fact, some of the most successful leaders are those who are open about their flaws and shortcomings. Why? Because being honest about your flaws shows that you're human, and it allows people to see that you're capable of making mistakes and learning from them. It also sets an excellent example for others to follow. In the end, leaders who try to hide their imperfections only make themselves look bad. So if you're not comfortable with sharing your flaws with others, remember that it's okay to be imperfect. Embrace your humanity and use your mistakes as opportunities to grow and learn. Your team will respect you all the more for it. Being open about your flaws makes you more relatable to others and shows that you're human Acknowledging that everyone has flaws is the first step towards making us more relatable to each other. Openly sharing your flaws lets you connect with those around you on a much deeper level, displaying vulnerability and allowing your true self to shine through. When we do this brave thing and reveal aspects of ourselves that don’t paint us as perfect, it sets an example for others that it’s okay to be imperfect and even make mistakes - we’re all human. Doing this will not only let us build stronger relationships with everyone else, but also help us become more self-aware in order to better ourselves without creating unrealistic expectations or silencing our inner truth. Leaders who are open about their flaws are more likely to be respected by their followers Leaders who are willing to be candid about their own shortcomings demonstrate a sense of humility and humanity that often leads to a greater level of trust and respect from the people they manage. By showcasing vulnerability, leaders can improve communication amongst the team. When team members feel more comfortable expressing themselves, it enables collaborative discussions that can ultimately lead to better resolutions. This type of openness creates an environment in which team members feel heard and respected, leading to increased levels of morale and productive performance. Leaders who are open about their flaws make strong bonds with their followers by allowing them to feel included and appreciated as contributors to the organization's mission. Being open about your flaws allows you to learn from your mistakes and grow as a leader Owning up to mistakes is an essential part of becoming a leader. Allowing yourself to be open about your flaws and shortcomings allows for radical transparency and the opportunity for growth, both personally and professionally. By candidly discussing your errors and missteps, you'll gain insights from others on how to make necessary changes within yourself. Embracing these weaknesses rather than trying to hide them will help build trust with those around you, strengthening relationships, credibility, and confidence. Learning from mistakes is all part of the process of growing as a leader; being honest with yourself and those around you is the foundation for doing so more effectively. Hiding your flaws can make you seem untrustworthy and inauthentic Everyone has flaws, yet many of us have a tendency to hide them from others. We may think that if we put up a polished façade, no one will notice any shortcomings or imperfections. But this can be surprisingly counterproductive; trying too hard to conceal our flaws can make us appear untrustworthy and inauthentic. People tend to appreciate authenticity, so it's better to admit our weaknesses than pretend they don't exist. Even though it requires some courage, by being honest and upfront about who we are, we communicate to the world that we are genuinely confident in ourselves and worthy of their trust. Being open about your flaws demonstrates courage and vulnerability, two qualities that are essential for effective leadership Showing vulnerability is a sign of strength, not weakness, and nothing demonstrates courage as boldly as acknowledging our flaws. Leaders who can share their mistakes openly and honestly – and accept feedback with grace – often go on to achieve great success. People naturally react positively to someone willing to be vulnerable, open, and honest about their weaknesses; it conveys an aura of trustworthiness and encourages others to be vulnerable in return. Being open about our flaws instills courage and allows us an opportunity for growth that we wouldn't otherwise have. Successful leaders recognize their weaknesses while embracing the strengths of others - making them the kind of effective leaders we can all learn from! Being open about your flaws is crucial to being an effective leader. It shows that you're human and relatable, which will encourage others to follow you. Furthermore, it allows you to learn from your mistakes and grow as a leader. Hiding your flaws, on the other hand, can make you seem untrustworthy and inauthentic. If you want to be an effective leader, start by being open about your flaws.

Your cold email campaign is only as good as your recipients' ability to see it. In order to land in their inbox, and not the spam folder, there are a few things you can do. Use these tips to make sure your next cold email has a fighting chance. Research your target audience and make sure you're emailing the right people Keeping your target audience in mind is key to effective email campaigns. In order to make the most out of an email campaign, it’s important to do research into the kinds of people who are likely to become customers. You need to tailor your emails specifically for them. Take into account their age, gender, interests, and needs, as well as whether they already have a relationship with your business or are entirely new prospects. When you know more about the people you’re trying to reach, it makes it easier to create emails that will capture their interest and drive conversions. Keep your email short and to the point - no one wants to read a novel The email has become the written communication of choice for much of the world in the digital age, but it can also be easily misused. To ensure that entire novels aren't clogging up inboxes across the globe, it's important to be direct and keep your emails concisely-structured. Put simply: no one wants to read a novel when checking their email! Crafting shorter emails does take more effort initially- additional research may have to be done or certain topics may need to be split into multiple messages - but it will help everyone involved in the long run by making sure that only necessary information is put forward in an engaging way. Include a personalized message that shows you know who you're talking to Writing a personalized message is an important part of connecting with someone you're talking to; it adds a dose of sincere interest and friendliness. Showing someone that you know them – even if it's just in brief detail – can go a long way toward building rapport and making them feel welcome. Asking thought-provoking questions, being quick to offer compliments, and providing support in tough times are all ideal ways to make sure your personalized message stands out for the right reasons. It takes effort to show someone that you know who they are, but it is worth the effort when it comes to brightening up their day. Use a catchy subject line that will make them want to open your email An effective way to get someone to open an email is with a catchy subject line. Something that immediately piques the curiosity of the reader and captures their attention is ideal. However, it's important to ensure the subject line accurately reflects the message in the body of the email. Avoid click-bait style promises, as this could hurt your reputation and cause recipients to lose trust. Instead, be creative and intriguing when writing an email's subject line for maximum results. Make sure your email looks professional, with no typos or grammar mistakes In today's professional world, the need for an organized and mistake-free email cannot be overstated. Failing to double and triple-check your emails before sending them can have severe consequences in your career. Even if you're communicating with a colleague or informal contact, you should remember that typos and grammatical errors directly reflect on your credibility. For example, if you're submitting a job application, any mistakes in your message are likely to damage your chances of success. Therefore, it pays to give each message the attention it deserves - save yourself time and the potential embarrassment by making sure that every email looks sharp and professional, with no typos or grammar slip-ups! Include a call to action so they know what you want them to do next If you're looking to take your project to the next level, take action now. Start by researching the options that suit your needs and find a solution that meets your goals and expectations. With a bit of time, effort, and dedication you can have a successful outcome with your project. Now is the time to step up and make it count! Reach out to those who could help you succeed and make the most of this opportunity. You won’t regret taking action now while the momentum is still there—you just might be surprised at how much progress you can make! By following these simple neuroscience tips, you can create emails that are more likely to resonate with your target audience and get the results you're looking for. Whether you're trying to increase open rates, click-through rates, or sales, taking the time to understand how people's brains work can make a big difference in your success.

Tesla (TSLA) investors were in for a treat yesterday, as the stock gained over 11% on news that the company is finally starting to ramp up production of its highly anticipated Model 3. This comes as good news to shareholders who have been patiently waiting for Tesla to live up to its lofty growth expectations. Here are three reasons why Tesla's stock price is on the rise again. Tesla's strong quarterly results - the company reported better-than-expected revenue and profit for the fourth quarter of 2022 Tesla's fourth-quarter results were nothing short of remarkable, with revenue and profit far exceeding expectations. Not only did the company report better-than-expected numbers, but it also saw considerable growth in all segments, including electric vehicles, energy storage, and solar roof products. Tesla's financial performance in 2022 was particularly impressive, with revenue rising 51% to $81.5 billion and Q4 income of over $3.69B surpassing analyst expectations by 6%. This marks a stunning year for the electric car giant that has been leading market innovation since its inception. Such impressive findings have further solidified Tesla's position as one of the most successful technology companies in the world and cemented its capacity for continued innovation. It is clear that CEO Elon Musk's vision for Tesla has been realized, with the much-anticipated Model Y making its way to production earlier this year and solidifying Tesla’s role as a leader in the industry. Tesla's expanding product lineup - the company is now selling not only cars but also solar panels, batteries, and home chargers Tesla has shaken up the automotive industry, and now they are expanding its offerings beyond just cars. Tesla offers a range of products, including solar panels to power your home, cutting-edge batteries for storing energy and facilitating clean transportation, as well as home chargers for convenient charging. With these new items, Tesla is revolutionizing the way people power their homes in an environmentally friendly manner and making electric vehicles more widely accessible. They have opened up a world of innovation and efficiency that is changing our relationship with energy usage. Tesla's growing international presence - the company is now selling cars in China and Europe as well as the United States Although Tesla has had strong domestic sales since their first car was released in 2011, the company is making a name for itself around the world. In 2020 alone, Tesla sold cars in Europe, China, and the United States, continuing to expand its worldwide appeal. As environmentalism and technological advances become global pursuits of industry, Tesla is proving to be at the forefront of both with their always-innovating approach to clean energy technology. From car safety features to whole home energy solutions, Tesla continues to make strides on an international scale as they slowly revolutionize the auto manufacturing industry. The increasing number of electric vehicle buyers - more and more people are interested in buying an electric car as gas prices continue to rise With increasing worries about the environment, rising gas prices, and new technology offering ever-improving electric vehicles, it is no surprise that there has been a steady rise in the number of electric vehicle buyers. Innovations in electric car technology such as improved range, innovative charging options, and more luxury models have made owning an electric vehicle a much more feasible option for many people these days. In addition, with more and more governments offering generous incentives to encourage the adoption of electric vehicles, people have become even more interested in potentially taking advantage of these opportunities. As such, it is likely that we will only continue to see this trend toward electric cars flourishing in the coming years. The positive reviews for Tesla's new Model 3 - reviewers have praised the car for its performance, range, and value Tesla's new Model 3 has been met with widespread praise from reviewers, who have lauded the car for its high-performance standards and a range that allows drivers to go farther without having to worry about a dead battery. Additionally, many have noted the impressive value-for-money ratio the Model 3 offers, making it a great choice for those looking to get an electric car but not wanting to break the bank. Tesla's reputation as one of the top manufacturers in this space certainly helps make their newest offering that much more attractive - they have lived up to their high expectations yet again. Tesla's strong quarterly results, expanding product lineup, and growing international presence are all indicative of the company's continued success. The increasing number of electric vehicle buyers is also a positive sign for Tesla, as more and more people are interested in buying an electric car. The positive reviews for Tesla's new Model 3 further underscore the company's successes. With its strong performance, range, and value, the Model 3 is sure to appeal to even more customers in the months and years to come.

The COVID-19 pandemic has created unprecedented challenges for leaders around the world. With businesses shutting down and economies in freefall, many leaders need help to figure out how to navigate this new landscape. In times of crisis, it is more important than ever for leaders to provide direction and stability for their organizations. But what does that mean in practice? How can leaders effectively lead through uncertainty? Define what leadership means to you and your team Leadership is, above all else, a way of creating a common vision among your team. No singular definition works best for everyone, but it generally involves instilling enthusiasm in collaboration towards achieving success. To us, it's about creating an environment where team members feel included and valued in the process, one that fosters creativity and shapes how decisions are made. Our leadership philosophy puts communication and trust at its core values: Listening to each other's ideas Lending support Developing solutions to issues together Working as a unit towards a mutual goal In our experience, this approach has proven conducive to more effective results than individual effort alone. Establish clear communication channels with your team Having clear communication channels with team members is vital for any team's success. Every team member must understand how and when to communicate to follow through on their tasks and projects efficiently. For example, establishing a go-to platform for daily check-ins, group discussions, and clarifying project instructions can encourage better communication habits among your team. Furthermore, ensuring that everyone within the team understands what task each person is assigned to and how it contributes to the overall goal of the project helps keep everyone focused on the common objectives of the team. Having these clear communication channels in place will ensure the successful completion of projects while building strong relationships among your team members. Be transparent about the current situation and what you know With the uncertainty of circumstances, it is essential, to be honest and transparent about the current situation. With constantly changing news, oftentimes it can be challenging to know what is accurate and what isn't. That's why it is important for everyone to only share information that they know is true, nothing speculation or false leads. Doing this will help others better understand the current reality, a much better outcome than just guessing and hoping for the best. Making sure to identify what you know for certain mitigates any miscommunication that could arise if left in the dark about a certain situation. Encourage open dialogue and feedback from your team Providing a forum for open dialogue and feedback within the team is essential for optimizing performance. A well-run organization needs to have channels in place for people to express their opinions, suggestions and ideas so that everyone's contributions are heard and valued. By facilitating an atmosphere of communication, you can head off potential problems and gather innovative solutions that lead to better cooperation between team members. As such, creating a space where people feel safe to express themselves openly is key to any successful business endeavor. Help your team members feel supported during this time Working remotely can be tough for some of your team members as it's not the same as being in an office setting and working together. Fortunately, there are many simple ways to ensure everyone on the team feels supported. Make sure to keep lines of communication open with frequent check-ins and updates; this will ensure members are in the loop on their work and how it is going. Additionally, create an avenue for non-work related communication; create virtual water cooler days or just reach out over email. Lastly, provide individualized training to acclimate each member to their current role, establish a clear position for each person and encourage asking questions freely, so they feel safe while adjusting. Taking these steps will make a difference in helping your team members stay productive and motivated during this difficult time. Keep your team focused on the task at hand It is understandable that there will be distractions within the workplace, especially with an ever-increasing digital environment and in a team setting. However, remaining focused on the task at hand is important as it can help increase productivity and reach objectives. Effective goal setting helps create achievable deadlines throughout the project timeline and encourages focus from individual team members. There also needs to be clarity of message from leaders, as any conflicts or misunderstandings may shift attention away from what should be done. Opportunities for open dialogue among members can also be beneficial in allowing individuals to understand each other's workloads, avoiding frustrations building up and ensuring collective interest remains on track with the goals set. Communication is key in keeping everyone motivated and results-oriented, ensuring success for the team and organization. These are unprecedented times that we are living and working in. The COVID-19 pandemic has forced us to change how we live, work, and interact with others. As a leader, defining what leadership means to you and your team during this time is essential. Establish clear communication channels with your team, so everyone is on the same page. Be transparent about the current situation and what you know. Encourage open dialogue and feedback from your team so that they feel supported during this time. Keep your team focused on the task at hand so that they can be successful despite these challenges.

If you're like most people, you probably struggle with procrastination occasionally. Whether it's putting off a project at work or avoiding a task you don't want to do, we've all been there. While procrastination can be frustrating, the good news is that there are strategies you can use to overcome it. In this post, we'll share some of the best ways to get unstuck and achieve your goals. So if you're ready to kick procrastination to the curb, read on! Understand why you procrastinate - are you afraid of failure or of success? Procrastination is a phenomenon that affects us all in one way or another. Everyone experiences its grip at some point, though not many of us stop to ask ourselves - why? If you take the initiative to dig deep and understand why you procrastinate, you may uncover interesting revelations about yourself. Are you unconsciously afraid of failure, so procrastination becomes an excuse for potential disappointment? Or are you scared of success, resisting change and the unknown that could be ahead by self-sabotaging with procrastination? In uncovering the underlying reason for your procrastination, you can finally conquer it and go after your goals with clarity and drive. Break down your goals into small, manageable steps that you can complete easily Setting goals can be exhilarating, but having a plan for achieving them is equally important. Breaking down each goal into smaller, more manageable steps can make the task less intimidating, making it easier to get started and creating momentum as you achieve small successes along the way. Whether you are looking to learn a new skill or start a business, breaking your goals down into bite-sized pieces will help you create defined tasks that have an achievable outcome and set the path for success in all of your future endeavors. Set a deadline for yourself, and find someone who will hold you accountable To ensure that I stay on track with any projects or goals I set, I always put a deadline and find someone who can hold me accountable. Having an accountability partner allows me to not just focus on what the end result should be but also keep track of my progress along the way. An accountability partner can also provide insight and guidance if I feel stuck in a certain area and cannot progress. Knowing that someone else is holding me accountable helps to motivate me and drives me to meet every goal I have set for myself. Make a plan of action, and stick to it! Sticking to a plan of action is key when it comes to achieving success. This plan should involve setting clear, reasonable goals and constructing a step-by-step path towards them. Developing this plan takes time and thought, so by having foresight during the development stage and committing to following through with it once established; long-term success is within reach. A major part of staying on track is being organized and prepared - taking whatever measures necessary to ensure details and deadlines are successfully met, such as having supportive family or friends to help keep expectations realistic. Creating a plan of action and staying fully committed to following through results in the best possible outcome for any goal set in mind. Get rid of distractions - turn off your phone, close social media tabs, etc. Working without distractions can seem daunting, but the rewards are worth it. Focusing on one task for a predetermined time can be extremely beneficial. It eliminates unnecessary stress and anxiety from constantly checking your phone or social media pages. Turning off your phone ensures you won't be disrupted by notifications or messages and encourages a productive focus on the task. Closing those pesky social media tabs means that instead of scrolling through endless feeds, you can spend that energy working towards completing whatever is in front of you. Don't let distractions take away your valuable time - try setting aside a few distraction-free blocks each day and see what amazing things you can accomplish! Give yourself a reward for completing each task on your to-do list Rewarding yourself for completing tasks on your to-do list is a great way to stay motivated and increase productivity. It doesn't need to be something extravagant each time; even something small like taking a quick break or treating yourself to your favorite snack can boost your energy. Everyone works better when they are invested in their work, so giving yourself something to look forward to with each task makes it easier to stay focused and get the job done. It's also important to remember why the reward exists in the first place - completing small tasks on our list increases our momentum and keeps us on track towards reaching our bigger goals! If you want to learn how to stop procrastinating and finally get things done, follow the tips in this post. First, understand why you're putting off your goals - are you afraid of failing or succeeding? Once you know the root cause of your procrastination, you can take steps to overcome it. Break down your goals into small, manageable pieces, set a deadline for yourself, and find someone who will hold you accountable. Make a plan of action and stick to it! Get rid of distractions by turning off your phone and closing social media tabs. Finally, give yourself a reward for completing each task on your list. By following these simple steps, you'll be well on your way to becoming more productive and achieving success in whatever goal you're pursuing.

Exclusive Interview of Asli Erem of Marmara Hotel Group. Edited by Powered Magazine Image: Asli Erem, Global CFO of the Marmara Group Asli Erem is the Group CFO and Executive Committee Member at The Marmara Group and a Visiting Professor of Project Finance and Organizational Behavior. We reached out for an interview. Read more to find out how you can succeed as a woman in a finance role. Tell us about yourself and your business As a seasoned professional and scholar, my interests are in strategy, the future, and social effects. My educational background includes a Bachelor of Science, Master of Science, and Ph.D. in Organizational Behavior. I have acquired a variety of talents, including communication, leadership, negotiation, crisis management, and multitasking. I began working as a financial analyst in 1995 and moved back to Turkey in 1998. I was hired as Vice President of Strategic Planning at Koçbank and Deputy General Manager at Gama Power Systems. At The Marmara Group, I am a member of the executive committee and the group's CFO. I also teach organizational behavior and project finance as a visiting professor. I have over 25 years of experience developing global corporations and have participated in initiatives across the world, understanding the laws, customs, and business practices of many nations. Image: Handout My major interests and concerns are social causes, such as reducing poverty, empowering women, gender equality, and other social issues. I have taken on important responsibilities as a mentor, leader, and activist, such as visiting lecturer and mentor at universities and colleges. I belong to the 30 Percent Club, consisting of 1,000 CEOs and board presidents from 20 nations. I take part in international initiatives to increase the proportion of women serving on boards of directors and executive positions inside corporations. I also serve on the Forbes Council. I'm also happy to be the mother of my twin girls. How have you handled success and failure over the course of your career? The most important details in this text are the strategies used by the C Level executives in charge of strategy and finance to manage success and failure. These strategies include celebrating successes with the team, recognizing individual and team contributions, and motivating and inspiring them to continue striving for excellence. C-level executives should take responsibility for failures and work with their team to identify what went wrong and how to improve in the future. Failure is a natural part of business and should be viewed as an opportunity to grow. A strong C-level executive should be able to bounce back from setbacks and stay resilient in the face of adversity. They should maintain a positive attitude and focus on finding solutions to problems. They should remain humble and work hard to achieve their goals. Executives should seek advice and support from mentors, peers, and other trusted advisors and be open to feedback and learning from others' experiences. Being adaptable and able to pivot quickly is essential for businesses to stay competitive. Executives should foster a culture of continuous improvement to drive growth and success. What strategies do you use to stay competitive in a changing market? To stay competitive in a changing market, businesses should stay current with industry trends and innovations. They should monitor market developments and be ready to adjust their strategies as needed. Embracing new technologies, such as AI, automation, and big data analytics, is necessary to gain a competitive edge. Develop a strong brand identity to differentiate a business from its competitors and attract customers. Companies should invest in it to reflect their values, mission, and unique selling proposition. Companies that foster a culture of innovation and creativity are more likely to stay competitive. They should encourage employees to share ideas, experiment with new approaches, and take calculated risks. Providing excellent customer service can help build strong customer relationships and loyalty. Companies should prioritize customer satisfaction and invest in training and development for employees who interact with customers. Strategic partnerships can help businesses expand their reach, access new markets, and leverage complementary strengths. Companies should consider partnerships with other businesses, universities, research institutions, and government agencies. Companies should prioritize sustainability to gain a competitive edge and attract socially conscious customers. They should also reduce their environmental impact and operate socially responsibly. What motivations drive you to keep pushing forward in the face of adversity? There are several motivations that can drive me to keep pushing forward in the face of adversity: Vision and purpose can serve as a driving force during challenging times. Resilience is a natural part of business and can help a leader persevere through difficult times. Accountability motivates me to take action and find solutions to challenges. I am motivated to support and guide my team and protect the company's culture and values. I view adversity as an opportunity to learn and develop new skills that will help me lead my company through future challenges. What advice would you give someone starting in their chosen field? Financial and strategic management is essential for anyone starting out in the field. Having a strong foundation in financial and strategic management principles is important, such as understanding financial statements, accounting practices, and strategic planning. To drive results, financial and strategic managers should focus on developing strategies and initiatives that align with the company's goals and objectives. They should be prepared to measure and report on the results of their initiatives and adjust their approach as necessary to achieve desired outcomes. They should also be open to new ideas, technologies, and approaches and be prepared to pivot their strategy as needed. Image: Handout Finally, they should build strong relationships with key stakeholders, including investors, customers, and employees, to understand their needs and perspectives and work collaboratively to achieve common goals. How have technological advances affected the way you conduct business/operate your venture? Technology has revolutionized communication within organizations and between businesses, making it possible to communicate with colleagues and partners across the globe in real time. Automation and digitalization have made it possible to streamline many business processes, reducing the time and resources required to complete tasks. CRM systems and other tools have made it easier for companies to connect with customers and provide a more personalized experience. Big data analytics tools have enabled companies to gain insights into their operations and customer behavior, allowing them to make more informed business decisions. E-commerce platforms and digital marketing tools have enabled businesses to sell their products and services to customers in other countries, creating new opportunities for growth and expansion. Technology has had a transformative impact on the way companies conduct business, making it more efficient, connected, and data-driven. In what ways has customer feedback/response influenced how you prioritize goals/objectives for your business/venture? Customer feedback and response have a significant impact on business priorities and objectives. By listening to customer complaints and suggestions, we can identify areas for improvement and shift our priorities. For example, if customers are complaining about the speed of the service, we may shift our focus to improving the speed of operations. Customer feedback inspires us to develop new products and services to better meet their needs. We also listen to customer complaints and suggestions to make changes to our policies, processes, or procedures to make it easier for customers to do business with us. Customer feedback helps us stay ahead of the competition by identifying areas where we can differentiate ourselves and improve our offerings. Customer feedback is essential for businesses to improve their performance, increase customer satisfaction, and stay ahead of the competition. Businesses can build strong relationships and achieve their goals by listening to customers and responding to their needs and concerns. What trends do you see emerging in your industry that is likely to shape its future growth and development? AI and machine learning are expected to improve automation, personalization, and decision-making in many sectors, impacting ethical considerations. As the use of AI increases, there will be a need for ethical guidelines and regulations to ensure it is used in a fair and responsible manner. NLP is a rapidly growing field within AI that focuses on teaching machines to understand and process human language. It will play a significant role in analyzing and making sense of the increasing amount of data generated by humans. Quantum Computing has the potential to revolutionize AI and related industries by enabling more powerful and efficient processing of complex data, leading to significant progress in machine learning, optimization, and cryptography. Cybersecurity is becoming increasingly important as AI becomes more widespread, with the need for stronger security protocols to prevent data breaches and other security threats. AI and related industries are likely to continue to evolve, leading to new trends and challenges. AI is becoming more widespread and accessible, and its adoption is likely to accelerate in the coming years. Many businesses are already using AI for tasks such as customer service, data analysis, and automation, but there is increasing concern about its impact on society and ethical considerations. Issues such as bias, transparency, and accountability are likely to become key considerations in developing and deploying AI systems. Conversational AI, which allows for more natural and intuitive interaction with machines, is becoming increasingly important. With the rise of the Internet of Things (IoT) and other connected devices, there is increasing demand for AI systems that can operate at the edge. Deep learning, a subset of machine learning that involves training artificial neural networks, has been a key driver of AI breakthroughs in recent years. Continued advances in this area, including the development of more efficient and effective training methods, are likely to further accelerate the growth of the industry. Technological advancements, ethical considerations, and consumer and business demands will shape AI and natural language processing. What have been the most rewarding and difficult aspects of your chosen career/business path? The financial/strategic planning career/business path can be rewarding in many ways, but it also comes with its challenges. Here are some of the most rewarding and difficult aspects of this career path: Most rewarding aspects: Opportunity for High Earnings: Financial careers offer competitive salaries and bonuses, making them a great choice for many people. Intellectual Stimulation: Finance can be a rewarding career path for those who enjoy intellectual stimulation and problem-solving. It is constantly evolving, and there is always something new to learn. Impact: Individuals in finance significantly impact businesses, economies, and society. Investment bankers facilitate mergers and acquisitions, while financial analysts help companies make strategic decisions. Influence and Impact: C-level executives have the power to shape the company's culture, strategy, and performance, leaving a lasting legacy and making a difference in the lives of employees and stakeholders. Competitive Compensation: C-level executives receive competitive compensation packages, including salaries, bonuses, stock options, and other benefits. Most difficult aspects: Long Hours: Roles in finance require long hours and dedication, which can be difficult for those who value work-life balance. High Pressure: Finance is a high-pressure environment with tight deadlines and intense competition, making it stressful for those who don't handle it well. Ethical Considerations: Finance is a heavily regulated industry, and individuals must act with integrity and adhere to ethical standards. This can be challenging when there is pressure to meet targets. A financial career/business path can be rewarding and challenging, offering high earnings, intellectual stimulation, and impact, but also requiring long hours, high pressure, and strict ethical considerations. C-level executive positions in the corporate world are among the most challenging and high-pressure roles in business. Are there any skills or areas of expertise that you think are essential for success in your field? Based on my knowledge, some of the essential skills and areas of expertise for success in the C-level executive finance field include: Financial Analysis: The ability to analyze financial data and create financial models is crucial for any C-level executive in the finance field. They should be able to identify trends, opportunities, and potential risks. Strategic Planning: C-level executives must have a clear vision for the future of the company and develop strategic plans that align with that vision. They should also be able to communicate this vision and plans effectively to stakeholders. Risk Management: C-level executives should have a deep understanding of risk management and be able to develop and implement strategies to mitigate potential risks. Leadership: Strong leadership skills are essential for C-level executives. They must be able to inspire and motivate their teams, make tough decisions, and lead by example. Communication: Effective communication is critical for any C-level executive, especially in finance. They should be able to communicate financial information and strategies to stakeholders, including investors, board members, and employees. Technical Expertise: C-level executives should deeply understand financial systems and technology. They should stay up-to-date on the latest technologies and trends to ensure the company remains competitive. Business Acumen: C-level executives should have a broad understanding of the business as a whole, including operations, marketing, and sales, in addition to finance. They should be able to make informed decisions that benefit the company as a whole. How has working remotely or online impacted your business/venture over the past year? The COVID-19 pandemic has forced many businesses to adapt to working remotely or online over the past year. This sudden shift has had a significant impact on businesses in several ways, including: Changes in Communication: Communication is a critical aspect of any business, and moving to remote work has changed how teams communicate. Businesses have had to adapt to virtual communication tools, such as video conferencing software, to ensure that employees can continue collaborating and communicating effectively. Increased Flexibility: Remote work has increased the flexibility of employees, allowing them to work from anywhere with an internet connection. This has also enabled businesses to hire employees from anywhere in the world, expanding their talent pool. Reduced Overhead Costs: With remote work, businesses can save on overhead costs such as office space, utilities, and other expenses associated with maintaining a physical workspace. Challenges with Work-Life Balance: Remote work has also created challenges for some employees, including maintaining a healthy work-life balance, managing distractions at home, and finding ways to stay motivated. Cybersecurity Risks: The shift to remote work has also increased cybersecurity risks for businesses, with employees working on potentially less secure networks and accessing company data from personal devices. Image: Handout Overall, working remotely or online has significantly impacted businesses over the past year, and it will likely continue to shape how businesses operate in the future. What tips would you like to offer to others in a similar position but looking to take their careers or businesses further? C-level executives should have a clear vision for the company's future and develop strategies that align with it. They should be able to communicate this vision to stakeholders and inspire their teams to work toward it. Strong relationships with stakeholders, including employees, customers, investors, and partners, are essential for a C-level executive's success. They should invest time and effort into building and maintaining these relationships. C-level executives should stay up-to-date with the latest trends, technologies, and best practices to stay ahead of the competition. They should also encourage innovation and creativity by providing opportunities for employees to share ideas, experiment, and take calculated risks. C-level executives should invest in recruiting and retaining top talent and provide opportunities for professional development and career growth. They should also be able to effectively communicate their vision, strategies, and decisions to stakeholders, such as employees, board members, and investors. C-level executives should be willing to embrace change and take risks to drive innovation and growth. They should also stay up-to-date with the latest trends, regulations, and technologies in their field to make informed decisions and stay ahead of the competition. A strong team is essential for success, and investing in their skills and knowledge is essential for success. They should be able to develop and implement financial strategies that align with the company's goals. The most important details are that financial professionals should embrace technology to improve financial processes and decision-making, stay up-to-date on the latest financial software, automation tools, and AI technologies, and network with other professionals to gain insights into industry best practices, emerging trends, and potential challenges. Additionally, they should attend industry conferences, join professional organizations, and participate in online forums to connect with peers and learn from their experiences. Is there anything else you would like to share with our readers that we haven’t already discussed? The importance of diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) in the workplace has become increasingly clear. C-level executives should prioritize DEI efforts such as recruiting and retaining diverse talent, providing equal opportunities for career growth, and fostering an inclusive culture that values and respects all employees. C-level executives should stay up-to-date on the latest technologies and consider how they can leverage them to drive innovation, efficiency, and growth. Technological advances, such as automation, artificial intelligence, and the Internet of Things, are transforming how we work and do business. Sustainability is becoming increasingly important for businesses due to climate change and other environmental concerns. C-level executives should consider how their businesses can operate in a sustainable and responsible way, taking steps to reduce their carbon footprint, conserve resources, and contribute to a more sustainable future. Read more from Asli Erem

Tell us about yourself and your business. I am Silvia Mariani, the founder and CEO of Making Business Happen, a consulting firm with locations all over the world that supports the international expansion of small Italian firms. My goal in starting Making Business Happen was to assist Italian businesses in going global by assisting them as they developed their brand recognition in other regions. I came to see that Italy has a lot more potential than what is portrayed in the media on a global scale and that there are many craftsmen and very driven small business owners that need to be known around the globe. The majority of the Italian goods we see overseas are made by powerful corporations that control whole markets. Italy is so much more than that, and the majority of Italian goods now available on the market are extremely How have you handled success and failure over the course of your career? I am quite appreciative of the challenges and setbacks. They are, in my opinion, the finest instructors, and a blessing is almost always in store. Rather than asking yourself, "Why is this happening to me?" I used to ask myself, "What is this teaching me?," and I think this is the mindset a business owner needs to have in order to successfully navigate challenges. When you adopt a "half full" perspective, frustrations turn into inspiration and barriers into challenges. What strategies do you use to stay competitive in a changing market? In my opinion, tailoring your offer to the demands of your target market is the greatest way to remain competitive in such a fast-paced industry. Having a service or product that is closely related to demand is crucial. In fact, we provide our clients with customised solutions in an effort to meet their particular needs. The firm itself must also differentiate itself. As digital temporary export managers, we frequently enter areas with different business practises, other languages, and distinct cultural hurdles. A diverse staff is essential for being able to connect globally. What motivations drive you to keep pushing forward in the face of adversity? Working in such a volatile and uncertain climate is always incredibly challenging, but my strong confidence in my abilities and those of my colleagues keeps me going. In difficult circumstances, it's crucial to stick to the firm's goal and assess the environment to determine what is harming the organisation. Businesses seldom maintain the original organisational setup. Most of the time, they change, and difficult situations are the ideal opportunity to continue changing and developing. In reality, the knowledge that there is always something to learn from difficult circumstances and that we need to pick up the cues that will help construct a better and more resilient firm is what drives me to keep turning up. What advice would you give to someone just starting out in their chosen field? There is usually a sense of both exhilaration and terror at first. The amount of advance planning is what sets apart a great start from a decent one. The first step is to have a brilliant company concept, but preparation is essential and will probably make the difference between success and failure. Thus, before the big launch, take your time to study the dynamics of the entrepreneurial sector. To build a solid basis for the firm, a clear vision must be established. How have technological advances affected the way you conduct business or operate your venture? As we manage digital exports, technological advancements have benefited us since they have made it possible for us to forge relationships and collaborations throughout the globe. We appreciate all technical developments that make connections easier because relationships are the foundation of a large portion of our business. In what ways has customer feedback or response influenced how you prioritise goals or objectives for your business or venture? Without clients, a company, like any other, cannot exist. In fact, it is crucial to constantly be open and attentive to feedback since it reveals areas that want development. Customer reviews have also served as a source of inspiration for me, driving me to constantly strive for perfection and see potential for improvement. But I must be glad to state that practically all of our clients have expressed pleasure at the conclusion of the projects, and some have chosen to work with us again to begin a new relationship after a few years. What trends do you see emerging in your industry that are likely to shape its future growth and development? As there is typically little demand for new items in today's highly globalised society, exporting is a very difficult endeavour. Identifying the proper trends and following them by suggesting the ideal product at the ideal moment is actually a part of our work. The health trend is the most potent, still-present trend after COVID. This trend affects a wide range of industries, including fashion, food, and drinks. Taking advantage of this trend is Italy, which is renowned for its healthy lifestyle. As export managers, we are striving to promote and exhibit the appropriate items that are well suited for this situation. Are there any skills or areas of expertise that you think are essential for success in your field? The capacity to network is the most important talent needed for export managers to succeed. In order to effectively introduce our clients' products, social and connection skills are crucial, and a professional export manager cannot overlook these. Because markets are so unstable and constantly changing, effective problem solving is a crucial skill that will be required frequently. How has working remotely or online impacted your business or venture over the past year? Working remotely was challenging at first because we often worked as a team, just like in any firm. As we adjusted, we saw the incredible advantages of it, and we still have a team member that works remotely since it enables us to be in other locations and grow our network outside of the office more quickly and effectively. What tips would you like to offer to others who are in a similar position to you but looking to take their careers or businesses further? My recommendation is to carefully consider new investments that will provide various outcomes. A company that wishes to expand need additional inputs in order to generate larger outputs. These investments shouldn't simply be for financial reasons; in fact, I think that the finest investment is in the human element because people are the foundation of any company. The crucial component that will take the company to the next level is having a diversified and young workforce that is able to give various answers and ideas.

Tell us about yourself and your business. I have over two decades of experience in the education sector, specialising in strategy development, international liaison, student recruitment, and career counselling. I was awarded the 'Entrepreneur of the Year Award' for three consecutive years. I have worked as an entrepreneur in India and as the Director of International Liaison at the University of Toronto. I was instrumental in initiating partnership agreements between the University of Toronto and public schools, creating unique programmes for international students coming to Canada, and creating articulation agreements with community colleges across Canada. This experience has given me a unique perspective. The speaker was part of former Canadian Prime Minister Stephen Harper's delegation to India in November 2012. They have been working closely with FICCI for the past 5 years and were the keynote speakers at the 8th FICCI Higher Education Summit in November 2012. The Summit brought together stakeholders, including policymakers, educators, and industry representatives, for deliberations and knowledge sharing. Futures Abroad is a boutique career and university counselling business that has offices in Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Saudi Arabia, New Delhi, Mumbai, and Chennai. It has helped over 20,000 students attend their dream university with scholarships. The founder of ‘The Next New’ is a student club that helps students gain experience as interns, pursue research, and develop an understanding of the career they are planning to pursue. She completed a certification from Yale University in Psychology and Cognitive Science in 2000 to understand student psychology, how the teenage brain works, and attention theories. Her main aim is to help students understand their aptitude and choose the right university, and to work with universities on promoting programmes and helping them find the right fit. She is a certified member of ICEF, the Canadian Business Council, and the Dubai Business Women’s Council. What were your biggest challenges when starting your business? The biggest challenge in starting Futures Abroad was stepping foot in a competitive market. I knew my business and was confident in my skills and knowledge, but I wanted to get my strategy right to be able to launch a successful brand and beat competitors who had been well established in the region for several years. How have you handled success and failure over the course of your career? I have handled success and failure in my career. The failures did not bring me down. They have helped me learn, innovate, and pick myself up with better learning to run for more. It set the stage for me to reach my goals. What strategies do you use to stay competitive in a changing market? My experience working at one of the top universities in Canada has been my biggest asset and has helped me shape my career. I have always believed that education is the business of learning. I invest in keeping my learning up to date by visiting universities regularly, attending conferences, and innovating my business. What motivations drive you to keep pushing forward in the face of adversity? I believe that the human mind is powerful, and you can choose how you want to train your brain. I maintain a healthy work life balance and encourage my staff to do the same. I invest in training for my staff on a regular basis, which helps them stay positive and motivated along with me. What advice would you give to someone just starting out in their chosen field? I would advise them to venture outside their comfort zone. One must network and treat every person as a door that may lead to a new opportunity. Never stop learning. One of the most important things to advance in your career or in any circumstance, for that matter, is knowledge. How have technological advances affected the way you conduct business or operate your venture? Technological advances have had a positive impact on my business. It has helped me connect with students and parents across the globe with great ease, and I have been able to impact students’ lives thanks to technology. In what ways has customer feedback or response influenced how you prioritise goals or objectives for your business or venture? Customer feedback is very important to me. It has helped me change my company's policies and how we work with students. I am constantly changing my company policies based on my clients feedback. What trends do you see emerging in your industry that are likely to shape its future growth and development? I see education in high schools and universities changing based on the advancement of technology and how Gen Z is expecting to learn. I see more value-based, focused learning taking shape in the next ten years. What have been the most rewarding and difficult aspects of your chosen career or business path? The most rewarding has been to see the enthusiasm in students to strive for the best and focus on their goals more so than ever since COVID. It’s great to see how COVID shaped their thinking, keeping them in sync with their careers and industry focused. Are there any skills or areas of expertise that you think are essential for success in your field? Real time experience of working with universities and understanding the admissions and scholarship processes is key to my business. This business involves working with students and advising them about their careers. How has working remotely or online impacted your business or venture over the past year? It has impacted my business in a positive way, and I have been able to reach students virtually, which I wasn’t able to do earlier. What tips would you like to offer to others who are in a similar position to you but looking to take their careers or businesses further? My advice would be to stay positive and keep working towards your goals.