Reading a piece of information gives you a better chance of remembering it than if you were to absorb it via audio or video. However, this study compares reading something on paper to reading it on a screen, and the hard copy wins. Full Story: The Conversation (5/3)
Unlock yourself from creative imprisonment We can be our own worst enemies when it comes to thinking, creativity and self-confidence, even as we blame outside conditions for the "mental locks" we've placed on ourselves, writes Larry Robertson, citing Roger von Oech. The way forward is through deliberate, patient exploration "with the simple intention of introducing new ideas, images, ways and concepts we know little about," Robertson writes, sharing Sarah Lewis' concept of mental grazing. Full Story: SmartBrief/Leadership (4/30)
Tips for writing thank-you notes during the hiring process Being able to write a professional thank-you note is an important skill to have, especially after interviewing for a job. This article explains the value of doing so and offers tips on timing and what to include in the message. Full Story: U.S. News & World Report (4/30)
The ability to connect with leaders in your desired career niche and check out posts for hints at the corporate culture make LinkedIn and other social media sites useful job-search tools, writes Sarah Dillon. Job-seekers and those who want to build their credentials can comment on topics in via social media channels to draw more attention, Dillon advises. Full Story: Ladders (5/3)
The Landscape
US employers are stealing wages from low-paid workers Around 8,500 employers were cited in 2019 by the U.S. Department of Labor for stealing $287 million in wages from workers, and an analysis by the Center for Public Integrity shows that companies employing security guards, restaurant servers, gas station clerks and childcare workers are most likely to be caught cheating employees. Circle-K, G4S Wackenhut and Halliburton have collectively kept $22 million from workers since 2005, with just 25% of repeat offenders fined in that period. Full Story: ABC News (5/4),The Associated Press (5/4)
Your Next Challenge
Cold office spaces contributed to weight gain This article could not be more timely. SmartBrief's office in Washington, D.C., is reopening this week and regardless of the time of year, it is notorious for being absolutely frigid. In addition to adding a fleece jacket, the chilly temp is also helping add on pounds. Full Story: Fast Company (tiered subscription model) (5/3)
Thirty-two pet-friendly Hilton locations in Ireland and the UK will offer a four-option menu for canine guests, including beef brisket and nonalcoholic wine. Veterinary nutrition experts helped develop the menu. Full Story: CNN (5/1)
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