Strengthen Your Friendships With Good Listening Skills

Strengthen Your Friendships With Good Listening Skills Stress Management Relationship Stress Print Strengthen Friendships With Good Listening Skills By Elizabeth Scott, MS twitter Elizabeth Scott, MS, is a wellness coach specializing in stress management and quality of life, and the author of 8 Keys to Stress Management. Learn about our editorial policy Elizabeth Scott, MS Updated on December 01, 2019 Thomas Barwick / Iconica / Getty Images More in Stress Management Relationship Stress Effects on Health Management Techniques Situational Stress Job Stress Household Stress Good listening skills are vital to healthy relationships. Whether youre strengthening a relationship, resolving a conflict, or offering support to a facing a crisis, good listening skills can be a lifeline to peace. Learn how to be a truly supportive listener, and you may find yourself surrounded by others who are able to do the same. Here are some important steps to developing good listening skills: Heres How Listen, Listen, Listen. Ask your friend what’s wrong, and really listen to the answer. Let them vent their fears, frustrations, and other important feelings, maintaining eye contact and showing that you’re interested in what they have to say. Resist the urge to give unsolicited advice, and just let them get it out.Reframe What You Hear. Summarize and repeat back your understanding of what they’re saying so they know you’re hearing them, and focus on the emotions they might be feeling. For example, if your friend is talking about family problems, you might find yourself saying, “It looks like things are getting pretty hostile. You sound like you’re feeling hurt.”Ask About Feelings. Ask them to expand on what they’re feeling and why. Asking about their feelings provides a good emotional release and might be more helpful than just focusing on the facts of their situation.Keep the Focus on Them. Rather than delving into a related story of your own, keep the focus on them until they feel better. You can reference something that happened to you if you bring the focus back to them quickly. They will appreciate the focused attention, and this will help them feel genuinely cared for and understood.Help Brainstorm. Rather than giving advice at the beginning, which cuts off further exploration of feelings and other communication, wait until they’ve gotten their feelings out, and then help them brainstorm solutions. If you help them come up with ideas and look at the pros and cons of each, they’re likely to come up with a solution they feel good about. Or they might feel better after just being able to talk and feel heard. Tips Stay Present. Sometimes people feign listening, but they’re really just waiting for their friend to stop talking so they can say whatever they’ve been mentally rehearsing while they’ve been pretending to listen. People can usually sense this, and it doesn’t feel good. Also, they tend to miss what’s being said because they’re not focused.Don’t Give Advice.  Ive mentioned this a few times already, but its important  because unsolicited advice can actually create stress.  It’s common to want to immediately give advice and ‘fix’ your friend’s problem. Unless its specifically requested, don’t. While you’re trying to help, what would work for you might not work for your friend; also, advice can feel condescending. Unless they ask directly for advice, your friend probably just wants to feel heard and understood, and then find his or her own solutions.Trust the Process. It might feel a little scary to listen to feelings before diving into solutions, and hearing you r friend talk about upset feelings might even make you feel helpless. But usually offering a supportive ear and sitting with your friend in an uncomfortable place is the most helpful thing you can do, and once the feelings are cleared out, the solutions can start coming.Let Things Even out Over Time. With all this focus on your friend’s problems, it might be difficult not to focus equal time on your own. Relax in the knowledge that, when you need a friend, your friend will likely be a better listener for you. If you’re consistently doing all the giving, you can re-evaluate the dynamics of the relationship. But being a good listener can make you a stronger, more caring person and bring a more supportive angle to your relationships.

The Acknowledgement Of Group Conformity - 1699 Words

The acknowledgment of group conformity dates back at least to the 17th century all the way to the present, including psychologists who conducted series of social psychology experiments such as the Yale University psychologist Stanley Milgram, Solomon Asch, Phillip Zimbardo, James A. F. Stoner and many more. It is important to have an understanding of group dynamics and how they can hinder the ability and willingness of a group to think critically of itself, to look outside itself for help, and to act in ways that might compromise the equilibrium or status-quo. Solomon Ash, Phillip Zimbardo, James stoner and Stanley Milgram studies show how shows how group identification and pressure can override realistic assessment of different courses of thought and action; leading to conformity. The Asch experiment was conformity test conducted by Solomon Asch that showed how individuals were affected by a majority and the effect of such influences on beliefs and opinions. Thus experiment predict that in a group situation, on average, about one third, at least 32% of the individuals will conform completely, 40% will conform part of the time, and 25% of a group will act totally independently from the rest of the group. Thanks to this study sociologists can evaluate the likelihood for individuals to conform. Often, Conformity occur through the need to fit into society and to do so individuals try to agree with what the majority say. For example, if the majority of students from an advancedShow MoreRelatedConformity and Individuality Essay933 Words   |  4 PagesConformity Speech I strongly believe that individuality should be valued over conformity. Today I will tell you how precious and rare individuality is, and why we should value it over conformity. As human beings, our lives are circled around a thin line that separates conformity and individuality. There are countless times when we are confused about whether our choice was made by others, or yourself. Deep inside, we all want to be liked; we all want to be loved, we all crave the warm feelings ofRead MoreThe Lack Of Authenticity : The Cost Of Conformity1497 Words   |  6 PagesThe Lack of Authenticity: The Cost of Conformity In the Merriam Webster Dictionary, conformity is defined as â€Å"behavior that is the same as the behavior of most other people in a society, group, etc.† People have been conforming to fit in with the group, to not be seen as the odd one out. Following road signs is a method in which people conform. It is for the safety of others and ourselves. In almost all cases, people will conform to what they believe or what they stand is right. However, there canRead MoreSatire in 1984 and V for Vendetta1722 Words   |  7 Pagesfear among the people. They then come in as the heroes, blaming it on religious groups. This ultimately gives them a title of ‘protector,’ and assures the public they are in good hands. Obliviously, the public accepts this, creating an enemy with religious groups and further unifying the government to its people. This ridicules the government’s authority of essentially attacking its own people for reasons of conformity and maintaining assu rance of power. It signifies their deceitfulness, and willingnessRead MoreBirth Order and Susceptibility to Social Influence Essay1555 Words   |  7 Pagessometimes look for the approval of their parents by acting as a â€Å"stand-in† parent toward their younger siblings (Sulloway, 1999). They have a tendency to be parent-identified, conscientious, and respectful of authority (Sulloway, 1999). Lastly, the group is shown to be more neurotic than the later born individual, in the sense of being temperamental and anxious about their status, or how others portray them (Sulloway, 1999). Schachter discovered the first-born individual was more anxious in stressRead MoreNikee. Apple. Covergirl. Weight Watchers. Why Do All These1133 Words   |  5 Pagesindustry’s image of â€Å"normalcy† often alters one’s self image. Although many see the benefits of consumer marketing, the industry’s depiction of idealized perfection reveals that manipulating people t hrough advertisements causes dilemmas regarding forced conformity and sense of self worth. The notion that the public heavily relies on advertising to shape self esteem will be proven through a reflection on this industry and its effects on women and teenagers, an analysis of an ad from the 1950s, and ultimatelyRead MoreA Critical Comparison Of Marxist Theory And Merton’S Strain1530 Words   |  7 Pagesschool, who participate in astonishing large amounts of truancy, a countless acts of drinking and driving, minor stealing and vandalism, and a lot of cheating in school all while maintaining the perfect image. On the other hand, the ‘Roughnecks’ were a group of six lower-class boys who engage in studious amounts of fighting (typically between themselves or alongside other lower-class boys) and shoplifting, who are frequently detained, and whose appearance in the public is horrendous. In Chambliss s viewRead MoreChildhood Development : Richard Linklater s Boyhood1 157 Words   |  5 Pagesthe vast stages of their lives in diverse and unique ways. While some cultures emphasise the importance of childhood development, others represent adolescence as a time of momentous change and maturity. On the other hand, some societies give no acknowledgement to adolescence at all. This is the study of the life course. From a sociological standpoint, the life course is a method of analysing how social customs change with age and development. The study of the life course is a relatively young one; firstRead MoreZimbardo s Stanford Prison Experiment1784 Words   |  8 PagesMilgrams experiment of obedience, in which the researcher tries to explain and demonstrate how easily human beings can be persuaded into unusual behaviour by higher figures in authority, or by the opinions of the group of people around them. For the experiment the participants were put in groups, eight subjects were seated around a table, with carefully picked out seating plans to prevent any suspicion. Only one subject was a genuine participant, the rest being confederates (assistants of the experiment)Read MoreCompetency, Training, And Awareness1149 Words   |  5 Pagesnotice, and so forth. b) Communicating general EMS data to representatives, contractual workers, suppliers, clients and the group when proper. c) Utilizing fitting assets to react to correspondence demand, i.e. Lawful, Public Relations, Human Resources. d) A correspondence framework for giving data to every single relevant worker for the accompanying: ISO 14001 Acknowledgement Emergency Response Plan Environmental problems Communication might be led by means of the best suitable depending on theRead MorePmw Essay1246 Words   |  5 Pagesare facilitators in developing a manuscript but the named author, typically the corresponding author, is responsible for the content and always has the final approval. The corresponding author is often the first or the last author, chosen within the group to be responsible for all contact and correspondence with the peer-reviewed journal. The corresponding author has been defined by the ICMJE as â€Å"the one individual who takes primary responsibility for communication with the journal during the manuscript

Forms of Cyberbullying - Free Essay Example

Sample details Pages: 3 Words: 818 Downloads: 10 Date added: 2019/02/15 Category Society Essay Level High school Topics: Bullying Essay Cyber Bullying Essay Did you like this example? The typical cell phone today has a variety of convenient options for people to access on-the-go, including internet access. According to uswitch.com, â€Å"Motorola, on April 3rd, 1973, were the first company to mass produce the first handheld mobile phone (uswitch.com).† Over the years, it has become more of a habit to send messages to another person’s phone or through social media, to communicate with them instead of calling directly using their phone number. Many people would argue that sending a quick message is easier and quicker than to call someone on the phone. Don’t waste time! Our writers will create an original "Forms of Cyberbullying" essay for you Create order I can see their point of view in this instance, but beings that I am a mother of 3 children, I also think about the risks that kids run into being able to access the World Wide Web so easily. The Dictionary reads, â€Å"Cyberbullying is the use of electronic communication to bully a person, typically by sending messages of an intimidating or threatening nature (Dictionary).† Understanding the risks of Cyberbullying is just as important as understanding how to handle it if you become a victim or if you know of someone being a victim of this horrible crime. There are different forms of cyberbullying which includes sending messages to a person’s cell phone, posting entries on Twitter for anyone to see, sending private messages through Facebook, etc. Some victims are bullied by people that aren’t a part of their lives and others will sadly be bullied by ones they do know. It seems as if targeting people on their personal Facebook and Twitter pages are the easiest and most chosen choice by the bullies, in my own opinion. It appears, bullies believe saying cruel and hurtful words to people behind a computer is doing no harm. The reality of it, it’s against the law and at times, it can be even more traumatizing then if the victim was physically assaulted. In the state of Oregon, â€Å"telephonic harassment is a Class B misdemeanor. This offense could accrue a fine of up to $2,500, up to six months in jail, or both. If the bully charged has been involved in distributing sexual or nude images of someone underage, these cr imes are classified as Class A misdemeanors. The consequences include a fine of up to $6,250, up to a year in jail, or both. (Romano Law).† This level of punishment seems so minuscule to me, considering these victims lives may have been destroyed by all the embarrassment they endured by their cyberbully. Adults and children who are cyberbullied become highly depressed due to their tormenting treatment. They develop the feeling of severe emotional pain, sadness and disgusted with themselves that they feel they have no other way out, so they take their own lives. Children as young as 6 years old are committing suicide due to being cyberbullied. I am not sure if these children are quite understanding the consequences of hanging themselves. I believe, they have it in their mind that living is too painful for them to continue any longer and search for the means to stop the pain they are feeling every day. In the times that I have heard of another child taking their lives, I always wonder what went wrong to where they never got the help that they needed. Is it possible that maybe the child didn’t tell anyone, therefore, there wasn’t anyone to help them before they got to the point of not wanting to live? Did the people in their lives take the proper actions to help these victims and protect them from their abusers? Parents and school teachers need to be aware of the signs in our children today, such as: body language, sudden change in behavior, and listen to how others are talking to each other. People need to make it aware that cyberbullying is NOT acceptable for anyone, at any place or time. We as society need to understand the severity of the damage it is causing for the victims and their families. There is no excuse for it. Cyberbullies need to be accounted for their actions before we lose anymore of our precious angels from such mean and horrible treatment. When the World Wide Web went live to the world in August of 1991 (Bryant), it has created a virtual world that I believe, people weren’t quite certain how it would impact peoples lives in the negative ways. The internet has provided a way for the bullies to hide behind their computers to belittle, intimidate, and harass others in the world. We must come together to protect one another, especially our children. Protect the victims and punish the bullies. Works Cited Bryant, Martin. 20 years ago today, the World Wide Web opened to the public. 6 August 2011. 8 December 2018. . Dictionary. n.d. 2018 December 2018. . Romano Law, P.C. n.d. 8 December 2018. . statista. August 2018. 8 December 2018. . uswitch.com. History of mobile phones and the first mobile phone. 6 April 2018. 8 December 2018. .

Heard Curious Facts About The Amount Of Time Free Essays

Most of us have often heard curious facts about the amount of time we devote to certain activities. For example, one can be amazed by the realization that we spend more than one third of our life in sleep. But not less importantly, when speaking about our conscious part of life we have to admit that more than a half of it is occupied by work. We will write a custom essay sample on Heard Curious Facts About The Amount Of Time or any similar topic only for you Order Now And while the state of sleep is usually pleasant for us, if one dislikes his or her job it is a great problem, as spending half of our life for an unpleasant activity looks like a very pessimistic perspective. Moreover, some researchers even suggest that it is the very nature of human beings that makes us dislike work as such, and that we carry our professional and personal chores only out of the bare necessity to survive rather than because we enjoy it. However, I believe that this view is somewhat simplistic, and that it is possible for a person to really enjoy his or her job, and with the help of the personal association with what one is doing to turn the necessary work into a perfectly meaningful activity. Let me try to define what I mean by this, and how I define the notion of meaningful work. First of all, it seems safe to suppose that without the internal motivation based on our system of psychological rewards human beings in any time during the history would hardly commence any kind of activity that would lead beyond the satisfaction of the most basis needs, such as the need for food and shelter that even animals can fully satisfy with their level of intelligence. Thus, there is something in the human psychology that seems to drive us to the achievement of something excessive in relation to the minimal possible goal. In the context of our discussion, this psychological factor means that there is something in the process of work of almost any kind that can incite the person carrying it to strive for its completion for the sake of the completion. And on my personal example I can testify that the visible end result of the work can trigger mechanisms of psychological reward, which for some people, including me, can in the future serve as powerful additional motivators (Bryner 2007). On ground of this, as one of the definitions of meaningful work may serve the establishment of the link between a person`s understanding that work can actually offer psychological rewards that are safe in contrast to those offered for instance by alcohol or drug abuse, and the chosen strategy of behaviour in which that person aims to include work in her or his life as a necessary and worthwhile activity that satisfies something more than the mere need for money. That the above mentioned approach to the definition of meaningful work is indeed a possible life strategy is testified by the example of what is known as workaholism, a psychological dependency on one`s professional activity as on the only or the most significant source of self-satisfaction. This phenomenon demonstrates that the psychological rewards produced by work can be so strong that they may essentially overtake a person with the force similar to a drug seeking behavior (Killinger 2004, pp.3-17). While this may be quite problematic for an individual, it can help us strengthen our definition of meaningful work in such a way as to in addition to the already mentioned understanding of psychological rewards associated with work to include in it the clause that meaningful work is also characterized by person`s ability to imagine life without it and still retain the sense of one`s being. In this light, a truly meaningful work may be defined as an inherently voluntary activity based on the assumption that one`s occupation is neither based on the unavoidable compulsion, nor is the only meaning of life, but rather represents the possibility for a harmonious personal development and offers benefits for one`s emotional and even spiritual life. With all this said, I think we can conclude that the idea that the human unwillingness to work is our inherent quality is true only in a limited context, while from the general point of view work we are involved in influences almost every aspect of our life, and therefore is an integral part of our being. Sources Bryner, Jeanna. â€Å"Subliminal Rewards Trigger Harder Work, Research Shows†. LiveScience.com, 2007. Visited April 16, 2007 at http://www.livescience.com/ Killinger, Barbara. Workaholics: the Respectable Addicts. Key Porter Books Ltd, 2004. How to cite Heard Curious Facts About The Amount Of Time, Essay examples

HR Challenges in Multinational Environment

Question: Write about the HR Challenges in Multinational Environment. Answer: In the modern bussines environment, technological improvement, trade liberalization and others have encouraged organization to expand internationally in terms of products and services offering to the society. This means the companies have established borders operations and therefore HR needs to deal with challenges of operating in culturally diverse and geographically diverse environment (Cappelli Keller, 2014). Unlike in the previous decades, international corporations are faced with myriads of opportunity and challenge when dealing with global workforces with divergence, education, and gender and multicultural. Challenges Faced HR Compliance with International Laws According to Vance and Paik (2015), when organizations expand their operations and enter into the global marketplace, there are laws and regulations on how to hire culturally diverse workforce. According to Cappelli and Keller (2014) there are countries where the management must hire from culturally diverse and geographic backgrounds, comply with new labor laws, and take into considerations tax liabilities. For instance, a company setting business in Europe, Africa and Asia must comply with laws requiring it to pay value added tax. In the U.S., hiring non-naturalized might require them to have work visas, and report economic issues to the federal government. To overcome the challenges, HRs planning need to understand legal nuances in all the regions in operations and ensure workers treatment is in legal. Cultural Diversity Cultural Diversity is a salient issue in the context of international business environment for HR. It is a challenge to have understanding of the environment and ensuring cultural diversity (Barak, 2016). As such, working with workers from different geographical locations from varying culture requires many forms of communication and understanding the underlying social practices that HR is not familiar. For instance, when the management hires workers from Britain they might have different ideas on how to use technology, manage operations, and other activities based on their experiences in their region. Being able to accept different cultural environment and work styles is the hallmark of cultural diversity (Cascio Boudreau, 2016). Benefits and Compensation Employee remunerations and compensation form the backbone HR strategy in the organization. In the context of the international environment, these issues are essential, and HR should focus on balancing of employees. According to Cascio and Boudreau (2016), the reason for this is because it helps provide the workers with work initiatives aimed at improving both professional and personal lives. Barak, (2016) explains that these issues are part of international HR strategy because these multinational organizations need to consider benefits such as flexible working timelines, extended holidays, paternity leave, and on-site childcare. Therefore, HR must conduct the initiatives and programs in the context of policy framework and agreement of the region and country and socially accepted practices. Training and Development Related to the idea of remuneration in global HR includes professional and training development initiatives and programs. The issues of training initiatives by HR entails some activities such as meetings and in-house seminars that are designed to provide employees with job-related knowledge and relevant skills essential in doing the business globally (Sparrow, Brewster Chung 2016). For example, non-English speaking countries would have challenges, the management must initiate English lessons, and classes to help them communicate with others and this require time and resource to achieve it. Professional development also includes extra training provided by HR to its workforces such as taking them for networking conferences, seminars, and skill-based programs. These activities are essential for employees to sharpen the skills in the international marketing and business. Evaluations Mechanism International HR management is faced with challenges of designing means to evaluate the skills across the cultural divergent workforce (Cappelli Keller, 2014). For example, HR faces challenges of implementing a customizable method of evaluation based on competency, cultural diversity, and level of skill. Further, there is a need for HR to understand the styles of managing and integrating the multicultural workplace environment to avoid the instances of hostile cultural and social aspects that might lead to cost overruns and slowdown in the launching of products and offering the services (Sparrow, Brewster Chung 2016). Therefore, HR should have a detailed understanding of the international environments, and the socially accepted business conducts. In such a scenario, the solution is establishing protocols that are customizable for all the regions and communicate them to all the workers. Conclusion In conclusion, HR faces many problems when operating in the international environment. These include educating local level managers, taking advantage of the culturally diverse environment, remuneration, compliance with the law, training, and development. The HR need to employ strategies to mitigate possible friction in the organization. Therefore to contain these challenges, there is need to develop practices with the objective of achieving collaboration in the culturally diverse environment and communicating the policies and values in countries with many ethnic groups to bring success. Bibliography Barak, M.E.M., 2016.Managing diversity: Toward a globally inclusive workplace. Sage Publications. Cappelli, P. and Keller, J.R., 2014. Talent management: Conceptual approaches and practical challenges.Annu. Rev. Organ. Psychol. Organ. Behav.,1(1), pp.305-331. Cascio, W.F. and Boudreau, J.W., 2016. The search for global competence: From international HR to talent management.Journal of World Business,51(1), pp.103-114. Espinoza, C. and Ukleja, M., 2016.Managing the Millennials: Discover the core competencies for managing today's workforce. John Wiley Sons. Sparrow, P., Brewster, C. and Chung, C., 2016.Globalizing human resource management. Routledge. Vance, C.M. and Paik, Y., 2015.Managing a global workforce. Routledge.

Kentucky Fried Chicken

Introduction Background information Kentucky Fried Chicken (KFC) is a fast food firm which was established in 1952 by Cornel Harland Sanders. The firm has its headquarters in Kentucky. Over the years it has been in operation, KFC has been very successful. One of the factors contributing to its success is its effectiveness in implementing expansion strategies.Advertising We will write a custom report sample on Kentucky Fried Chicken specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More For example, apart from conducting domestic investments, it has also ventured into the international market through incorporation of internationalization strategy. In addition, the firm has integrated the concept of franchising. As a result, KFC has established a chain of 16,200 outlets in 100 countries in which it operates (Hoovers Incorporation para. 1). Of these franchises, 5,100 are located in the United States. This has enhanced its ability to achieve its profit max imization objective. Its success is also associated with the management team’s effectiveness in implementing good organizational values which directs all the firm’s operations. For example, the management team respects and rewards all the contributions by its employees. In its operation, KFC ensures that it offers its customers high quality products. This is evident in its philosophy statement which is represented in its CHAMPS program. CHAMP is an acronym for the values held by the firm which include Cleanliness, Hospitality, Accuracy, and Maintenance of facilities, Product quality and Speed in service delivery. The program has enabled the management team to integrate the concept of customer focus amongst the employees. Aim This report illustrates an internal analysis of KFC by considering the business and corporate level strategies. KFC’s SWOT Analysis The table below illustrates the firm’s strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats. Strengths The firm has developed strong brand equity as a result of offering quality products and services to the consumer. The firm has attained economies of scale in its operation. Expansion in the foreign market has enhanced cash flow hence its financial stability. Establishment of a strong and efficient interactive marketing has enabled the firm to develop customer loyalty. Its product diversification strategy has enabled the firm to be ranked as a convenient firm. Weaknesses The firm has not installed point of scale scanning system. KFC’s research and development team is not well instituted. The management team does not have employee relationship building program. KFC only focuses at high income earners Opportunities -Change in age demographics as a result of increase in individuals aged between 18-34 years. This presents a potential increment in its market. -General economic growth resulting into a rise in consumers’ disposable income. -By incorporating customer fo cus, there is a high probability of the firm increasing its customer base. -The firm can diversify its operation by targeting emerging markets such as in Asian countries. -The firm can improve its public image by updating its restaurants. Threats -Increased competition from large firms such as McDonalds and also new entrants. S The firm also faces a threat from supermarkets which are increasingly dealing with fast food products. – The fast food industry is characterized by a high rate of employee turnover. -Fluctuation in exchange rate as a result of changes in business environment may affect remission of profit by the firm’s subsidiary firms located in the international market. -Changes in consumer tastes and preferences may affect demand for the firm’s products. This is due to the fact that consumers are increasingly becoming health conscious. – Core competence Hitt, Ireland and Hoskisson (81) define core competence as the ability of a firm to attain a high competitive advantage compared to its rivals. Since its establishment, KFC has laid more emphasis on provision of diverse fried chicken products. This has enabled the firm to effectively position itself in the market.Advertising Looking for report on business economics? Let's see if we can help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn More Some of the factors which have contributed towards the firm’s efficiency include its competence in delivering unique experience, offering the right chicken and ease of access of its products in the market. The resultant effect is that KFC has been widely recognized as the ‘chicken expert’. KFC Corporate Level strategy In its operation, KFC has incorporated different concentration strategies. Kazmi (150) further defines concentration strategy to include how a firm specializes in certain products or services. Kazim further asserts that firms which are successful in different industries are those that ha ve incorporated the concept of specialization. Concentration strategies mainly involve investing in a certain product line. KFC has integrated different concentration strategies. These include market penetration, market development and product development. Product development strategy This strategy involves a firm innovating new products and marketing them in the same market with the other products (Kazim 150). By introducing new products, a firm is able to attract more customers. In line with this, KFC intends to reintroduce the Rotisserie chicken. As a result, the firm will attract new customers. Market development This is where a firm introduces and sells its products to a new market. This means that the firm expands its geographical coverage. Alternatively, market development may also involve a firm offering the same products to a new market but at a different price (Slack Parent 112). KFC has integrated this strategy by introducing its present products to new markets. In addit ion, the firm also develops its market by targeting new categories of customers. Business strategy Franchising According to Burgess (119), franchising has been widely accepted as one of the most effective ways through which small and medium enterprises can grow. In addition, franchising model can be used to restructure a firm’s operations so as to be successful. According to Floyd (para. 3), increased incorporation of franchising in the fast food industry has arisen from the increment in competition. Over the years, KFC’s growth has resulted from incorporation of the concept of franchising. Through franchising, KFC has been able to penetrate into the international market.Advertising We will write a custom report sample on Kentucky Fried Chicken specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More According to Wit and Meyer (916), KFC was amongst the first fast food firms to venture into the international market during 1950s through fra nchising. n 2007, the firm refocused its internationalization strategy through franchising by considering markets in China, South Africa, South Korea, Malaysia, Great Britain, Mexico, Phillipines, Indonesia and Japan ( Witt Meyer 916). Through franchising, the firm has been able to expand its operations rapidly in small countries which only have a capacity of supporting few restaurants. Product differentiation According to Ireland, Hoskisson and Hitt (99), focused differentiation strategy can enable a firm to attain a high competitive advantage. Focused differentiation entails a firm’s effort to produce products and services which its target customers consider being unique (Ireland, Hoskisson Hitt 99). Additionally, it is vital for a firm to incorporate all the primary and support activities in its value chain so as to be effective in its differentiation strategy. According to Smith (61); the fast food industry is characterized by a high degree of rivalry. This arises from the large number of players in the industry. The large number of competitors has made switching cost to be low. As a result, firms in this industry are required to be very efficient in developing their competitive advantage. One of the core sources of competitive advantage for these firms is their ability to provide unique and quality service. This is due to the fact that customers associate their satisfaction with the value and the experience attained (Vequist et al 34). In an effort to cope with industry rivalry, the large firms such as KFC, Hardees and McDonalds try to differentiate their products so as to attain a high competitive edge. Over the years it has been in operation, KFC has managed to develop a competitive advantage with in offering its food products. Its products are unique which makes it difficult for competitors to imitate. The firm primarily deals with chicken pieces, sandwiches, salads and wraps (Crest 1). However, its core focus is fried chicken. The firm offers a wide range of chicken products. In order to be successful in the international market, the firm customizes its products to the local market. As a result, KFC is able to meet the local customers’ tastes and preferences. However, the eleven herbs and spices which make its products unique remain universal. Its effectiveness in maintenance of unique and diverse fast food products has contributed towards the firm developing customer loyalty.Advertising Looking for report on business economics? Let's see if we can help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn More To be effective, KFC has incorporated the ‘Food, Fun and Festivity’ concept. This enables the firm to offer diverse food products with chicken being the main meal. KFC’s value chain analysis According to Sekhar (115), value chain entails a number of activities undertaken by a firm in an effort to ensure that it delivers high quality products and services. This means that the probability of the firm attaining its profit objective is increased. In an effort to achieve this, KFC has integrated a comprehensive value chain which is composed of both primary and support activities as discussed below. Inbound activities The firm procures high quality materials from local firms. The procurement process is relatively simple. To ensure efficiency in its operation, KFC has incorporated an effective inventory control mechanism in all its outlets around the world. This has been achieved through implementation of an efficient information communication technology. Examples of te chnologies integrated in its inventory system include the VPN and ADSL. Through these technologies, it has been possible for the firm to manage raw material usage. In addition, inventory control ensures timely replenishment of the stock (FRSVISION para. 1-3). Operations These entail activities which are aimed at transforming inputs into final goods and services (Sekhar 116). To ensure that its products and services contribute to a high level of customer satisfaction, KFC has instituted a research and development department. The objective of RD is to enable the firm meet the customers’ requirement by understanding the existing market demand. Additionally, the firm collaborates with its suppliers in an effort to offer high quality products and services to its customers by ensuring that suppliers supply high quality raw materials. Outbound logistics These include activities aimed at ensuring efficient distribution of the finished products (Sehkar 116). KFC’s management te am has appreciated the role of Information Communication Technology (ICT) in enhancing product distribution. As a result, the firm implemented the concept of e-commerce in 2007 (The Franchise Mall para. 1). This has enabled customers to undertake online ordering. To ensure that customers achieve a high value, the management team has also integrated a free delivery service. Marketing and sales These entail the various tasks aimed at satisfying the customer and also generating sales. To achieve this, the firm has incorporated continuous product improvement. KFC has been effective in marketing and sales as a result of diversifying its menu. In order to generate sales, the firm promotes its products through various mediums such as the internet. For example, the marketing of KFC Popcorn Chicken was rolled out through MSN across the United States. Since its target for this new product was the at-work audience, the campaign was rolled out during lunch hours (Plummer 23). The firm’s marketing and sales activities are also enhanced through issuing free samples such as during an individual’s birthday party. Services These are the after-sale services offered to the customer after closing a sale (Sehkar 117). To ensure delivery of high value, the firm has instituted interactive communication with the customers. After consuming its products, the consumers can be able to raise their opinion regarding the service offered. This enables the firm to make adjustments to its products based on the information received. Support services The success of KFC also arises from its experienced human capital. The firm has a human resource base of 445,000 employees. The firm has a quality assurance department which ensures procurement of high quality raw materials. This has played a significant role in ensuring food safety (KFC para. 1). To enhance its procurement process, the firm has sought the services of experts. Financial Analysis Profitability ratios Return on assets (R OA) This ratio is used to evaluate a firm’s ability in utilizing its assets to gain profits. This is achieved by comparing the firm’s profits with the assets used to generate the profit. If a firm has a relatively high ROA, it means that there is effective and efficient utilization of assets. In addition, ROA depicts a firm stability. During the 2010 financial year, KFC had a ROA of 3.97% (Bloomberg Business 1). This illustrates a relatively low ROA which means that the firm is not utilizing its assets to the maximum. Return on Equity This ratio is a measure of the shareholders equity in comparison to a firms’ net income. The ratio illustrates how effective a firm has been in reinvesting its earning so as to generate more earnings. KFC had a ROE of 11.29% during its 2010 financial year. This illustrates that the firm has been effective in reinvesting its earnings (Bloomberg Business 1). Return on capital (ROCA) ROCA shows how a firm has utilized its borrowed cap ital either equity or debt capital to generate profit. KFC had a ROCA of 7.68%. This illustrates that KFC has been effective in utilizing its capital (Bloomberg Business 1). Asset Turnover Ratios Total Asset Turnover Bloomberg Business defines this ratio as a measure of a firm’s efficiency in generating sales using its assets. During its 2010 financial year, KFC had a TOA of 1.1 times. This means that the assets were used to generate sales 1.1 times (Bloomberg Business 1). Accounts Receivables Turnover The ratio shows the average duration taken by a firm’s clients to pay their invoices. A firm with a low account turnover indicates that its clients are very efficient in settling their bills which means that the firm becomes financially stable. KFC had an account receivable turnover of 2.9 times which is relatively low indicating a high financial stability (Bloomberg Business 1). Fixed Assets Turn over The ratio compares a firm’s sales to its fixed asset. As a res ult, one is able to determine how a firm is utilizing its fixed assets. Alternatively, it may indicate that a firm has a lot of money tied in its fixed assets. A fixed asset turnover ratio of 4.9 times indicates KFC’s efficiency in utilizing its fixed assets (Bloomberg Business 1). Conclusion From the analysis, it is evident that KFC’s success has resulted from a number of sources. The firm’s internal analysis indicates that the firm has developed a number of strengths. For example, KFC has incorporated the concept of customer focus which has enhanced its commitment towards ensuring that the customers attain a high level of satisfaction. This is illustrated by the firm’s emphasis on value addition. In addition, KFC deals with a wide range of fast food products which has enabled it to address the differences in consumer tastes and preferences. The firm has also developed a core competence with regard to fried chickens. Its unique quality of fried chicken p roducts has enabled the firm to develop a high competitive advantage. In addition, the firm has a strong management team which is very effective in decision making and implementation. As a result, the firm has been effective in implementing business and corporate level strategies. Some of the business level strategy which the firm has integrated relate to product differentiation and franchising. These strategies have enhanced the firm’s competitiveness considering the fact that the industry is characterized by a high degree of rivalry. For example, the secret recipe has enabled the firm to be effective in differentiating its products hence attaining a strong market position. On the other hand; franchising has enabled KFC to expand its operations both in the domestic and the foreign market. Implementation of corporate level strategies which include product and market development has enhanced the firm’s ability to expand its market share. Both the business and corporate level strategies has contributed towards the firm’s financial stability as illustrated by the above financial ratios. Recommendations Considering the high degree of industry rivalry, it is paramount for the firm’s management team to consider the following. Diversifying its products and service offering so as to attract a large number of customers. One of the ways through which this can be achieved is by conducting a consumer market research prior to venturing into a new market. This way it will be possible for the firm to understand the customers’ product and service requirements. The firm should consider other expansion strategies such as entering into merger with potential partners. However, it is vital for the management to undertake a cultural analysis prior to entering the merger to prevent failure. Works Cited Bloomberg Business. KFC Limited. 4 Jan. 2011. 2 April 2011. Web. Burgess, Samuel. Managing information technology in small businesses: challengesà ‚  and solutions. Hershey, PA: Idea Group Publishing, 2002. Print. Crest. There is fast food, then there is KFC. 3. June 2008. 2 April 2011. Web. Floyd, Callum. The great fast food challenge. 4 August 2006. 2 April 2011 Print. FRSVISION. The success stories. 3 May 2001. 2 April 2011. Web. Hitt, Michael, Ireland, Duane and Hoskisson, Robert. Strategic management:  competitiveness and globalization; concepts and cases. Mason, OH: South-Western, 2009. Print. Hoovers Incorporation. KFC Coporation. 2 Dec. 2010. 2 April 2011. Web. Kazmi, Azhar. Strategic management and business policy. New Delhi: Tata McGraw Hill Education, 2008. Print. Plummer, Joseph. The online advertising playbook: proven strategies and tested tactics  from the advertising research foundation. Hoboken, NJ: Wiley, 2007. Print. Sekhar, Satya. Business policy and strategic management. London: IK international Publisher. Slack, Trevor and Parent, Milena. Understanding sport organizations: the application of  organiz ation theory. Champaign, IL: Human Kinetic, 2006. Print. Smith, Andrew. The oxford companion to American food and drink. London: Oxford University Press, 2007. Print. The Franchise Mall. KFC to test online ordering. 20 June 2007. 2 April 2011. Web. Vequist, David, Jackson, Stacy, Teachout, Mark, VanderVeen, Steve and Eames, Bob.  Capstone and Experiential Class Workbook. Dubuque, IA: Kendall Hunt, 2009. Print. Witt, Bob and Meyer, Ron. Strategy process, content, context; an international  perspective. Andover, Hampshire: Cengage Learning, 2010.Print. This report on Kentucky Fried Chicken was written and submitted by user Joaquin Black to help you with your own studies. You are free to use it for research and reference purposes in order to write your own paper; however, you must cite it accordingly. You can donate your paper here.

How Brown v. Board of Education Changed Public Education for the Better

How Brown v. Board of Education Changed Public Education for the Better One of the most historical court cases, especially in terms of education, was Brown v. Board of Education of Topeka, 347 U.S. 483 (1954). This case took on segregation within school systems or the separation of white and black students within public schools. Up until this case, many states had laws establishing separate schools for white students and another for black students. This landmark case made those laws unconstitutional. The decision was handed down on May 17, 1954. It overturned the Plessy v. Ferguson decision of 1896, which had allowed states legalize segregation within schools. The chief justice in the case was Justice Earl Warren. His court’s decision was a unanimous 9-0 decision that said, â€Å"separate educational facilities are inherently unequal. The ruling essentially led the way for the civil rights movement and essentially integration across the United States. Fast Facts: Brown v. Board of Education Case Argued: December 9–11, 1952; December 7–9, 1953Decision Issued:  May 17, 1954Petitioners:  Oliver Brown, Mrs. Richard Lawton, Mrs. Sadie Emmanuel, et alRespondent:  Board of Education of Topeka, Shawnee County, Kansas, et alKey Questions: Does the segregation of public education based solely on race violate the Equal Protection Clause of the Fourteenth Amendment?Unanimous Decision: Justices Warren, Black, Reed, Frankfurter, Douglas, Jackson, Burton, Clark, and MintonRuling: Separate but equal educational facilities, segregated on the basis of race, are inherently unequal and in violation of the Equal Protection Clause of the Fourteenth Amendment. History A class action suit was filed against the Board of Education of the city of Topeka, Kansas in the United States District Court for the District of Kansas in 1951. The plaintiffs consisted of 13 parents of 20 children who attended the Topeka School District. They filed the suit hoping that the school district would change its policy of racial segregation. Each of the plaintiffs was recruited by the Topeka NAACP, led by McKinley Burnett, Charles Scott, and Lucinda Scott. Oliver L. Brown was the named plaintiff in the case. He was an African American welder, father, and assistant pastor at a local church. His team chose to use his name as part of a legal tactic to have a man’s name on the front of the suit. He was also a strategic choice because he, unlike some of the other parents, was not a single parent and, the thinking went, would appeal more strongly to a jury.   In the fall of 1951, 21 parents attempted to enroll their children in the closest school to their homes, but each was denied enrollment and told that they must enroll in the segregated school. This prompted the class action suit to be filed. At the district level, the court ruled in favor of the Topeka Board of Education saying that both schools were equal in regards to transportation, buildings, curriculum, and highly qualified teachers. The case then went on to the Supreme Court and was combined with four other similar suits from across the country. Significance Brown v. Board  entitled students to receive a quality education regardless of their racial status. It also allowed for African American teachers to teach in any public school they chose, a privilege that was not granted before the Supreme Court ruling in 1954. The ruling set the foundation for the civil rights movement and gave African American’s hope that â€Å"separate, but equal† on all fronts would be changed. Unfortunately, however, desegregation was not that easy and is a project that has not been finished, even today.