Days after graduation, Emily Bradys career took an unexpected turn. Does anyone know what SEO is? she remembers a colleague asking. She didnt at the time. But as a content developer, she was naturally curious. So she learned. That was more than 10 years ago when the criterion for boosting SEO performance was a website that worked and had the right keywords in the content. Since then, Emily has helped countless law firms rise to the top of search engine results.

Shes Omnizants new director of SEO and an expert in the field of law firm SEO.

Emily credits the constantly changing nature of what resonates with search engines for piquing and keeping her interest in the hard work of getting websites to rank well. Plus, the SEO communityespecially publications such as Search Engine Roundtable and Search Engine Journal keeps her informed. Shes also an active member of the Women in Tech SEO community because its the best way to stay on top of all the digital marketing news, strategies, and continuous algorithm changes, she says.

I could spend another decade doing digital marketing and not scratch the surface of everything there is to know, she says.

The bulk of her career has been spent optimizing legal websitesspecificallyfor organic search. Emily has also gained experience in SEO at other marketing agencies and businesses that rely on local SEO and innovative tactics to grow. At Omnizant, she leads our largest team of SEO professionals, who are responsible for increasing the number of visitors to our clients websites with a variety of techniques and by analyzing performance data and adapting quickly.

While shes focused on delivering results for our clients, Emily is generous in sharing the intricacies of SEO in 2023 with clients and colleagues. Here are some of my favorite excerpts from an interview with Emily, edited for length. She offers tips on how to stand out on Google and her two cents on artificial intelligence, or AI.

A. Oh gosh, its evolved so much! When I started doing SEO in 2012 content had a totally different meaning, and high-quality content meant something entirely different as well. The types of blogs that ranked back then were much less focused on being helpful and more focused on including the right keywords.

Today, Google is much better at understanding what content should rank by relevancenot just through keyword stuffing. So the way we approach SEO (and content specifically) is very different because now we get to focus fully on the needs of the people who will be reading the content and less on including the right words so Google knows its relevant. In short, content quality has improved by leaps and bounds and thats a good thing for law firms and their clients.

A. One thing thats peculiar about SEO for legal websites is the local aspect. Google views searches for lawyers as local searches. Thats why you see a map show up when you search for personal injury attorney even if you dont include the city youre located in. Google just assumes you want a local attorney.

That said, not every area of law is local in the same way a plumbing business or dog walker is local. Class action lawsuits, for example. This creates a unique challenge for SEOs (and law firms) when it comes to optimizing their websites because Google has a strong preference to rank them locally, even if the firm serves a much larger geographic area.

Legal websites are unique in other ways too, such as the fact that the general topics discussed on them are very impactful to the financial and general well-being of clients. (Google calls these types of websites Your Money, Your Life content.) Because of this, having factual and helpful information on the website is super importantbecause lawyers are helping people when they need it the most, and the outcome of their cases will have a big impact on their money and their lives.

A. I think were already seeing the next big thing in SEO, which is AI. At the most basic level, AI makes it possible for anyone to create content about a given topic, whether they have the expertise to do it well or not. This means were going to face (and we are already) a lot of content that is repetitive and just doesnt have enough unique value to be useful to people.

So, in a way, standing out has become easier than ever because Google is not only better at understanding what pages are most relevant but SEOs and content marketers who arent willing to put in the time to do it right will have a hard time ranking, and those who are creating longform, robust content pages will come out on top.

Thats one thing to take into consideration with the advent of AI. The other consideration is this: How do we actually use it effectively? AI has the ability to help us create high-quality content faster, as well as the ability to automate other SEO tasks.

Thats why its so important to start figuring out how we use AI well now, so we dont get left behind in the next five years. At the most basic level, AI should be something were exploring now and at least using as a tool to scale content creationwith writers at the helm who can edit and improve the content so it has the unique value and demonstrated expertise search engines are looking for.

A. This is a tough question! I think it depends. In the legal space specifically, organic rankings tend to be very competitive. To my observation, law firms are one business type that adopted SEO early on and were willing to invest in organic search marketing from the beginning. Because of these, there are lots of businesses that have very strong organic rankings, which means its difficult to displace them. The search engine results pages (SERPs) are often saturated with strong websites so SEOs have to be very strategic about how they get their clients ranking for important terms. You cant do it half-baked and expect to win in an industry as competitive as the legal industry.

That said, this also means there are marketing firms that have been doing SEO for law firms for a very long time, so working with the right team is the first step to getting traction on Google.

A. This is related to my earlier answer regarding Googles objective to surface the best possible search results, and the SEOs role in demonstrating that a given law firm is, in fact, the best result. Theres another piece to that equation, which is whether or not the firm actually is the best result. What I mean by that is, firstly, does the firm have the background to serve its client base as well or better than competitors? If not, it doesnt mean SEO isnt worth it, but it does mean that continuing to gain reviews and testimonials and case results is important.

The most successful SEO and marketing campaigns include a certain amount of involvement from the business itself. SEO never works in a vacuum. Creating a meaningful footprint in the local communitywhether it be through charity drives, scholarship sponsorships, getting interviewed, or generally being newsworthy and involvedcan influence your online success as well.

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An Interview with Emily Brady on Law Firm SEO Success - JD Supra

WASHINGTON, D.C. An Oklahoma student was one of five poets from across the nation to be honored by first lady Jill Biden at the White House Monday during the Class of 2023 National Student Poets ceremony.

Chosen from thousands of award-winning poets, Kallan McKinney, a Norman High School student, was selected to represent the Southwest region for a year as a National Student Poet the highest honor for youth poets in the country.

"In a world that asks us to sprint from moment to moment, to meeting to meeting, poetry reminds us to slow down, take a breath and appreciate the celestial beauty that surrounds us," said Biden, a professor of English and writing at Northern Virginia Community College, during her opening remarks.

"Thank you for reminding us to stand and stare," Biden told the poets. "You've added so much beauty and texture to our world with your words. And we need your talents and gifts now more than ever."

The National Student Poets Program partners with The Institute of Museum and Library Services and the nonprofit Alliance for Young Artists & Writers, which presents the Scholastic Art and Writing Awards, the longest-running scholarship and recognition program for U.S. young artists and writers.

Created in 2011, the program aims to inspire young people to achieve excellence in their creative endeavors and to promote the role of writing and the arts in academic and personal success, according to Scholastic.

The National Student Poets were selected from students in grades 10 and 11 who collectively submitted more than 24,000 works in the 2023 Scholastic Art and Writing Awards and received top honors in poetry. Forty semi-finalists were then chosen as the most gifted young poets in their regions based on their originality, technical skills and personal voice, according to a press release for the event.

After submitting additional poetry and performance videos to jurors, the five National Student Poets were then selected: Jacqueline Flores (Southeast) from Florida, Miles Hardingwood (Northeast) from New York, Shangri-La Hou (Midwest) from Missouri, Gabriella Miranda (West) from Utah and McKinney (Southwest) from Oklahoma.

"(Poetry) means so much to me," McKinney told Gaylord News after the ceremony. "Sometimes I have trouble saying what I mean, and poetry is a way to have conversations. For everything to mean what I want it to mean and to share with other people, and to listen to people. And I think that's so important. And I want everyone to feel like that."

During the ceremony, McKinney was introduced by their best friend, Fishie Madden, along with classmates and teachers from Norman High School, before approaching the podium to recite their poem, "The Shell Gas Station Sign."

"The shell gas station sign floats in floodwater," McKinney began, the first lady listening intently along with the rest of the audience. "...Haven't you noticed? The hour we give up in the spring returns as autumn."

McKinney said the 11 line poem is a nod to the subtle ways in which climate change affects our everyday lives, and how these changes represent something much larger.

"Everywhere it feels like there's something that's hurting the environment, and it's been going on for so long. And then all of those things worsen climate change," McKinney explained.

"I hear the oil rigs from my house in Oklahoma, and I just think about it all the time," they said.

Throughout the year, the National Student Poets will act as youth poetry ambassadors, spreading poetry to their communities through individual service projects, April Poetry Month readings and workshops, and a variety of other opportunities, such as national poetry conferences, galas and festivals, according to the Scholastic Art and Writing Awards website.

Additionally, each poet will create a community service project that expands the reach of the program by engaging audiences in their region around the issues that are significant to them.

McKinney said they feel proud to represent the Southwest, and that they hope their poems will help others to feel seen and understood.

"I want people to feel seen," McKinney said. "That's my main goal. I just want them to feel like someone else gets it."

Gaylord News is a reporting project of the University of Oklahoma Gaylord College of Journalism and Mass Communication. For more stories by Gaylord News go to GaylordNews.net.

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November 17, 2023

Scandals can be detrimental to an organization's success and its public perception. Particularly, in recent years, misconduct tied to racial and sexual harassment has made headlines. Internally, ethical issues can be harmful to employee morale and retention.

The workplace is constantly evolving, and society is becoming more cognizant of ethical issues. As younger generations enter the workforce, they desire to bring their whole selves to workblurring the lines of their professional and personal lives. While this does not excuse unethical or unlawful behavior, it may require employers to examine their own ethical obligations to employees.

Ethical questions are often very difficult. Obvious ethical violations involve discrimination or harassment. The law requires companies to be equal employment opportunity employers. However, compliance with the law requires more than a written policy as employers need to be proactive in their efforts to ensure that they are fostering a workplace environment for all individuals. While there are obvious instances of discrimination or harassment, improper conduct also can be very subtle. For instance, such conduct can include inappropriate jokes that were not intended to be offensive. Acceptance of subtle conduct like this can be evidence of a pervasive toxic workplace culture. Allowing this unethical behavior can lead to expensive legal and public ramifications.

Another common ethical conundrum is preferential treatment towards some individuals. Supervisors often take on roles such as an advocate, counselor, or even friend to their subordinates. These conflicting roles and competing loyalties should not color or compromise an employer's professional judgment or integrity. Preferential treatment can expose a company to legal and financial liability. Such differing treatment may not be born out of discrimination or other misconduct, but it may result in disparate treatment of older or disabled employees or employees of a protected gender, race, national origin, or religion. For example, employers should resist the urge to require some employees to verify an absence or extended leave while not imposing the same requirements on otherseven if an employer has a valid reason for questioning an employee's sincerity. In certain circumstances, this can give rise to a claim of discrimination when long term or favored employees are not required to do likewise.

Social media can also create ethical (and legal) issues. Social media is changing rapidly and entering all facets of public life, as it can be an effective tool to connect with other individuals on a personal and professional level. Even with all of its benefits, employee use of social media can create a plethora of issues, making it very difficult to manage. Some issues, such as personal use of social media during working hours, can be easier to navigate. However, other issues, such as posts disparaging (or even defaming) others or disclosure of some non-public information, can be more challenging. It is important for employers to create clear boundaries that address these potential issues while complying with state and federal law.

Not all ethical lapses generate unsavory headlines, but that does not mean they should be tolerated. One of the best ways to confront these issues before they arise is through company policiesgenerally located in employee handbooks. Creation of these policies can be a daunting task, but it is imperative that such policies are in place.

As we approach the new year, it may be time for employers to review their current policies. The calendar year 2023 was filled with employment law developments that impacted employment policies and their implementation. Even if your company updated its policies in 2022, it may be time to refresh those policies. Employers also should consider policies that they do not currently have in place. For instance, some employers have yet to address social media guidance in their policies. Failure to provide employees with clear guidance on social media can be detrimental to a company if issues arise without an already established approach to resolving those issues.

Implementing new or updated policies should be considered as employers enter the new year. Policies play a crucial role in the effective operation of every company, but it can be difficult to ensure that the are compliant with various state and federal laws. Our team of experienced attorneys can provide guidance in every step of the process from creation to implementation to ensure your company is prepared for the new year.

-- 2023 Ward and Smith, P.A. For further information regarding the issues described above, please contact Avery J. Locklear.

This article is not intended to give, and should not be relied upon for, legal advice in any particular circumstance or fact situation. No action should be taken in reliance upon the information contained in this article without obtaining the advice of an attorney.

We are your established legal network with offices in Asheville, Greenville, New Bern, Raleigh, and Wilmington, NC.

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New Delhi: During a recent small family get-together to honour his wife's birthday, Vikrant Massey closed another chapter on what was clearly the year of his life. The event highlighted not only his personal happiness but also the incredible success of his most recent endeavour, '12th Fail'.

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Vikrant Massey has made daring casting decisions time and time again during his illustrious career, leaving a lasting impression on viewers. He is currently experiencing the pinnacle of his career and personal success.

A major turning point in Vikrant's career, '12th Fail' confirmed his ability to work with unusual characters and struck a chord with viewers. The actor's upcoming months look to be an exciting journey, made possible by this success.

Envious of what lies ahead, Vikrant is preparing for a romantic love story with the gifted Rashi Khanna. He will also be directing for the first time in Niranjan Iyengar's project, which will adapt the captivating stories of well-known author Ruskin Bond. A thriller that Vikrant is looking forward to, "Sector 36," promises to be exciting, mysterious, and have a compelling story that will add to his repertoire.

Beyond the glitz and glamour of his professional life, Vikrant is embarking on a new chapter in his personal journey. The recent announcement of impending fatherhood, coupled with the celebration of his wife's birthday, adds a layer of excitement and joy to the actor's life.

Vikrant Massey's ability to balance professional success with personal fulfilment is a testament to his dedication and strength of character. He has emerged as a role model for many, demonstrating that it is possible to achieve great things while also cherishing the most precious moments in life.

As Vikrant navigates this exciting phase, fans can eagerly anticipate more outstanding performances and heartwarming moments from this gifted actor. In both his personal and professional spheres, Vikrant has indeed made 2023 a blockbuster year to remember.

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Rain is making a highly anticipated return to the U.S. after nearly 15 years and he's thrilled about it.

Before there were K-popheavy hitters like BTS and memberJung Kook taking over the TODAY plazaBlackpink,Twice,Le Sserafimand Seventeen, among others, Rain was the K-pop sensation paving the way for the South Korean genre.

Rain, whose real name is Jung Ji-hoon, has been making music since he was 16 years old, in addition to starring in hit K-dramas and movies like Along With the Gods and The Last 49 Days. Now, the 41-year-old is celebrating his decades-long career by sharing his music with U.S. fans throughout his Still Raining tour.

Im so excited, Rain says in English via Zoom, before speaking in Korean with a translator. I missed my fans in the U.S. ... Im just really happy to be able to perform again. K-pop has become a global genre.

Born in Seosan, South Korea, Rains given name is Jung Ji-hoon. The artist began his career in 1998 as part of the boy band Fanclub. When the group didnt gain commercial success, he embarked on his solo career.

The name Rain, he said, was given to him by his producer J. Y. Park, founder of JYP Entertainment.

It had two kinds of meanings, because in Korean it means precipitation like water and rain, he explains. But it also has the meaning of something was sad. It has the meaning of sadness.

And he told me that the way I danced kind of looked sad, so it had a double meaning, he continues. But then later I just used it as a proper noun so that people can remember me whenever it rains and think of me, be reminded of me, when it rains.

Rains breakthrough happened with his third studio album, Its Raining. Released in 2004, the album and title track made him an international success even getting recognition in the U.S.

By 2006, he was featured on Times 100 Most Influential list and made another appearance on the list in 2011.

K-pop wasnt at the stature that it appears to be in current times, but one could say that Rain was the Korean act to know.Billboardeven called him a pioneer of the Hallyu wave, the name used to describe increases in international interest in Korean pop culture. His mandatory military service in 2011 was also covered by themagazine, decades before interest inBTS members own service.

Beyond his music and dance moves, his role in the 2004 Asian drama Full House made him a TV star and cemented his title as a triple threat. Then there was his crossover, with appearances in Hollywood films like Speed Racer, Ninja Assassin and The Prince, starring Bruce Willis and John Cusack.

Amid Rains blossoming career and gaining superstardom, he also fell in love. The artist maintains a relatively private personal life, rarely sharing photos of his wife, actor Kim Tae-hee, or their 6-year-old and 4-year-old daughters.

Rain and Tae-hee began dating in 2013. During an episode of his web variety show Season B Season in 2020, he shared how it took one year for his wife to fall for him.

I asked her out first, and it took a long time to get her to say yes, he said, according toSoompi. It took one year.

Rain and Tae-hee would go on to get married on Jan. 19, 2017, holding a small wedding at a Catholic church, perSoompi. They welcomed their first child, a daughter, in October of that year.

The couple are also parents to a second daughter, whom they welcomed in September 2019. They have yet to share their daughters names.

While they keep their children out of the public eye, Rain and Tae Hee have worked together on various projects. The couple have been in commercials together forLa Cloudand massage chair brandBodyfriend, showing off their love for one another.

In just a matter of weeks, Rain will be bringing his Still Raining tour to the U.S. This will be his first tour since 2016, and his first shows for U.S. fans in 15 years.

I am preparing really hard for this upcoming concert and my music will be a mix of retro and trending music, he says, So (fans) will be able to enjoy it a lot. And one other unique point is that Ill be singing other artists songs for the first time.

The shows will run for over two hours and have a lot of exciting footage, many songs and dances, Rain said. Among those include songs by Bruno Mars and K-pop group NewJeans.

The concerts are described as a blend of heart-pounding beats, entrancing melodies, and dazzling visuals, that will make longtime fans nostalgic, while also an entertaining introduction to new fans.

I just want to remember the memories that I shared with my fans in the past, he continues. I want to do music again. I want to just have fun and enjoy this stage with my fans.

K-pop has become so huge globally now, Rain said. Its really hard to work with all the dancer teams as well. They, themselves, have become celebrities.

With social media platforms connecting people around the world, Rain believes his early hits couldve gone viral.

I have a song called Rainism and if Rainism had been released today, then I think it would have gone a lot more viral on TikTok, Reels, on Instagram, he said. People would be able to sing along, dance along.

Fans will have plenty of opportunities to create dance challenges on social media. Rain teases that he has a new album that hes working on and hopes to release it in March.

Its very easy to listen to songs and afro-beat kind of music, he said Ill be shaking my bottom a lot.

Reminiscing about his breakout role in Full House, he jokes that hes too old for romantic comedies despite telling him that he is most certainly not.

The 2004 rom-com series followed an aspiring scriptwriter whose friends trick her into thinking she won a vacation and secretly sell her home, called Full House. While on her trip, she meets a famous actor, played by Rain, and they become friendly.

However, when she returns home, she discovers that she is now homeless and that he has bought her home. A romance ensues.

These days, he says, If I were to act again, I want to be involved in action or thrillers, or very emotional characters. I want to be acting out those deep characters.

It appears he will be mixing both romance and suspense in his upcoming drama, Red Swan, where he will portraya bodyguard to a rich family. Im looking forward to that, he said.

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[author: Noel Diem]

As the face of HR changes, so too do the methodologies used. HR technology has paved the way for streamlined operations, seamless collaboration, and data-driven decision-making. From recruitment and onboarding to performance management and employee engagement, this powerful solution empowers organizations to optimize their workforce like never before.

But does all of this change truly benefit employees, HR leaders, and organizations? Lets take a look.

Over the years, HR technology has undergone a remarkable transformation alongside the importance of the department. Today, organizations rely on sophisticated software systems to streamline their HR processes and enhance overall efficiency while keeping the heart of HR the same.

In the early stages, HR technology mainly focused on automating administrative tasks such as payroll processing and employee record management. However, as businesses recognized the potential for greater optimization, more advanced solutions were developed.

One notable evolution is the rise of employee self-service portals. These online platforms empower employees to independently manage their personal information and professional development.This shift towards self-service not only reduces administrative burden but also enhances employee engagement by providing instant access to critical resources.

With the emergence of mobile applications explicitly tailored for HR functions such as recruitment apps or performance tracking tools accessing vital information has become even more accessible through smartphones or tablets.

As we continue into an increasingly digital age with rapid technological advancements including data analytics capabilities like predictive analytics its safe to say that this evolution will persist. The future holds exciting possibilities for leveraging AI-powered chatbots for candidate sourcing or utilizing virtual reality simulations for immersive training experiences. It also holds hope for Human Resources compliance, a growing area of risk and concern for organizations.

HR technology has revolutionized how businesses manage their workforce, bringing numerous benefits to the workplace. One of the key advantages is increased efficiency and productivity. With automated processes for tasks such as recruitment, onboarding, and performance management, HR professionals can save time and focus on more strategic initiatives.

Alongside this shift is an improvement in data accuracy and analysis. HR technology enables organizations to collect and analyze vast amounts of employee data, providing valuable insights for decision-making. From identifying skill gaps to tracking employee engagement levels, this data-driven approach helps companies make informed choices about talent management.

Additionally, HR technology enhances compliance with labor laws and regulations. By automating processes related to payroll calculations or leave management, companies can ensure accurate record-keeping while minimizing errors that could lead to legal issues.

Implementing HR technology can revolutionize the way organizations manage their workforce, but it has its challenges. One of the main hurdles companies face when adopting HR technology is resistance to change. Employees may be hesitant to embrace new systems and processes, causing a reluctance to fully engage with the technology.

Another challenge is ensuring that the chosen HR technology aligns with the organizations needs and goals. With numerous options available in the market, selecting the right solution can be overwhelming and time-consuming. It requires careful evaluation of various factors such as scalability, integration capabilities, and user-friendliness.

Integration with existing systems poses yet another challenge. Many organizations have legacy systems in place that need to seamlessly integrate with new HR technology platforms. This can require significant effort from IT departments to ensure smooth data migration and synchronization between systems.

Data security is also a concern when implementing HR technology. Organizations must ensure that sensitive employee information remains protected from unauthorized access or breaches. This means investing in robust cybersecurity measures and staying up-to-date on compliance regulations.

While there are challenges involved in adopting HR technology, they can all be overcome through proper planning, communication, training, and support from management teams.

The world of HR technology is constantly evolving, with new trends and advancements emerging each year. As organizations strive to stay ahead in the competitive market, its essential to keep an eye on the future of HR technology. Here are some exciting trends and predictions that we can expect to see in this field.

Artificial Intelligence (AI) will play a bigger role in HR processes. From automating repetitive tasks to analyzing employee data for better decision-making, AI will revolutionize HR operations.

Virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR) will be used for immersive training experiences. Imagine employees being able to practice their skills in a virtual environment or attending virtual meetings from anywhere in the world.

Data analytics will become even more crucial in driving strategic decisions within organizations. With advanced analytics tools, HR professionals can gain valuable insights into workforce patterns, engagement levels, and talent acquisition strategies.

Mobile-friendly applications will continue dominating the HR tech landscape as employees increasingly rely on smartphones for work-related activities such as accessing payroll information or requesting time off.

Employee well-being technologies will take center stage as organizations recognize the importance of promoting physical and mental wellness among their workforce.

Blockchain technology may find its way into HR systems, ensuring secure storage and verification of sensitive employee data like certifications or performance records.

Personalization will be key when it comes to delivering tailored experiences for candidates during recruitment processes or providing customized learning opportunities for employees professional development.

Gen Z-focused tools and platforms specifically designed to cater to younger generations entering the workforce are likely to emerge as companies adapt their practices accordingly.

As these trends unfold, its clear that technological innovations have immense potential when it comes to transforming traditional human resource management practices.

HR technology has revolutionized the way organizations manage their human resources. With advanced software and tools, companies can streamline their HR processes, improve efficiency, and drive organizational success.

One key benefit of HR technology is its ability to automate time-consuming tasks such as payroll processing and employee onboarding. By automating these processes, HR professionals can focus on more strategic activities that contribute to the overall success of the organization.

Another advantage of HR technology is its ability to provide real-time data and analytics. This allows managers to make informed decisions about talent acquisition, performance management, and employee engagement. By having access to accurate data, organizations can identify trends and patterns that help them optimize their workforce.

HR technology has the ability to change the way HR departments function within an organization, but it has to be done in a way that makes sense and that is often not up to the HR leaders, unfortunately, but other decision-makers within the company. Collaborating with the people using these products will yield greater results in terms of implementation, ROI, and understanding.

The evolution of HR technology has been remarkable, with advancements in artificial intelligence, predictive analytics, and cloud-based platforms revolutionizing the HR industry. These innovations have enabled businesses to automate processes, gain valuable insights into their workforce, and make data-driven decisions.

All of the benefits of adopting HR technology are evident across various aspects of the workplace. Improved efficiency in recruitment and onboarding allows organizations to attract top talent quickly and seamlessly integrate them into the company culture. Performance management systems help managers provide regular feedback and coaching, leading to increased productivity and employee satisfaction.

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Timing is everything. For early risers and late-nighters alike, listening to your internal clock may be the key to success. From the classroom to the courtroom and beyond, people perform best on challenging tasks at a time of day that aligns with their circadian rhythm.

Circadian rhythms are powerful internal timekeepers that drive a persons physiological and intellectual functioning throughout the day. Peaks in these circadian rhythms vary across individuals. Some people, known as larks or morning chronotypes, peak early and feel at their best in the morning. Others, known as owls or evening chronotypes, peak later in the day and perform best in the late afternoon or evening. Some people show neither morning nor evening preferences and are considered neutral chronotypes.

As a researcher seeking ways to improve cognitive function, Ive explored whether your chronotype affects your mental performance. Understanding the kinds of mental processes that vary or remain stable over the course of a day may help people schedule their tasks in a way that optimises performance.

Chronotype can be measured with a simple questionnaire that assesses things like your perceived alertness, preferred rising and retiring times and performance throughout the day. Even without a questionnaire, most people have a sense of whether they are a lark or an owl or fall somewhere in between. Do you wake up early, without an alarm, feeling sharp? Are you mentally drained and ready for pjs by nine? If so, you are likely a morning type. Do you sleep late and wake feeling sluggish and foggy? Are you more energised late at night? If so, you are likely an evening type.

People perform best on many challenging mental tasks from paying attention and learning to solving problems and making complex decisions when these actions are synchronised with their personal circadian peaks. This is known as the synchrony effect. Whether you are an air traffic controller scanning the radar, a CFO reviewing an earnings report or a high school student learning chemistry, synchrony can affect how well you perform.

Much of the evidence for synchrony effects comes from lab studies that test both larks and owls early in the morning and late in the day. People with strong chronotypes are more vigilant and better able to sustain attention at their peak relative to off-peak times. Their memories are sharper, with better list recall and more success in remembering to-do tasks like taking medication.

People are also less prone to mind wandering and less distracted at their optimal time. For example, a study I conducted gave participants three weakly related cue words (such as ship, outer and crawl). They were tasked to find another word that linked all three (such as space). When my team and I presented misleading words alongside the cue words (such as ocean for ship, inner for outer and baby for crawl), those who were tested at synchronous times were better at ignoring the misleading words and finding the target solution than those who werent.

Synchrony also affects high-level cognitive functions like persuasion, reasoning and decision-making. Studies on consumers have found that people are more discerning, skeptical and analytical at their peak times. They invest more time and effort in assigned tasks and are more likely to search for important information. Consequently, people make better investment decisions, are less prone to bias and are more likely to detect scams.

At off-peak times it takes people longer to solve problems, and they tend to be less careful and more reliant on mental shortcuts, leaving them vulnerable to flashy marketing schemes. Even ethical behavior can be compromised at non-optimal times, as people are more likely to cheat at their off-peak times.

The basic mental abilities that are affected by synchrony including attention, memory and analytical thinking are all skills that contribute to academic success. This connection is especially significant for teens, who tend to be night owls but typically start school early.

One study randomly assigned over 700 adolescents to exam times in the early morning, late morning or afternoon. Owls had lower scores relative to larks in both morning sessions, but this disadvantage disappeared for owls taking the exam in the afternoon. Early start times may put student owls a step behind larks.

Time of day may also be a consideration when conducting assessments for cognitive disorders like attention-deficit disorder or Alzheimers disease. Scheduling time may be particularly significant for older adults, who tend to be larks and often show larger synchrony effects than young adults. Performance is better at peak times on several key neuropsychological measures used to assess these conditions. Failing to consider synchrony may affect the accuracy of diagnoses and subsequently have consequences for clinical trial eligibility and data on treatment effectiveness.

Of course, synchrony doesnt affect performance on all tasks or for all people. Simple, easy tasks like recognising familiar faces or places, dialing a close friends phone number or making a favorite recipe are unlikely to change over the day. Furthermore, young adults who are neither larks nor owls show less variability in performance over the day.

For those who are true early birds or night owls, tackling the toughest mental tasks at times that align with their personal circadian peaks could improve their outcomes. When small improvements in performance offer an essential edge, synchrony may be one secret to success.

Cindi May is Professor of Psychology, College of Charleston.

This article was first published on The Conversation.

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By derekStreat

An AI competition at the Department of Veterans Affairs offers a great example of how Biden's order can be inclusive and ignite a market

It's a global sprint to codify regulatory guardrails for Artificial Intelligence (AI). Bias, security, job displacement and economic control are just some of the risks that come with transformational leaps in technology. And yet, what possibilities in AI-driven healthcare, in particular, risk never reaching their potential if over-burdensome regulation stifles their growth?

President Biden's executive order on "safe, secure and trustworthy" AI is a laudable framework, establishing sensible guidelines to protect American interests. The order is also a necessary step to make AI a central pathway to improve healthcare in our country. And the hurdles we face are steep.

For instance, suicide ranks as the second-leading cause of death among veterans, a stark reminder of the urgency for greater mental health access to our heroes in uniform. The average American waits 26 days to see a doctor. And we have a workforce crisis, as doctors and nurses cut back hours or drop out of the profession altogether.

Read: OpenAI CEO Sam Altman steps down as board loses confidence in his leadership

As we look over the horizon, AI is poised to unravel the complexity that hinders health systems from delivering exceptional care to every American. But before we reach a steady state of AI -- the advanced capabilities and societal harmony we all picture -- the right technologies must prevail.

With more than 14,000 AI companies in the U.S., we don't yet know the technology nor the applications that will ultimately win out. And therein lies the rub -- weighing the risks of AI, while not stifling ingenuity.

Overreaching measures and broad regulatory oversight put companies at risk. While Amazon(AMZN), Microsoft(MSFT) and Google parent Alphabet(GOOGL) have legal armies and billions in the bank, it's the emerging growth companies and the ideas sparked in dim-lit garages that will suffer.

Biden and future administrations must heed the adage to regulate with a feather and not a hammer to level the playing field, while safeguarding national interests.

The CEO of Suki AI warns that "it's imperative to have industry representation in these committees and task forces that are representative of the vibrant startup AI ecosystem, not just those who can afford lobbying power."

He's right and goes on to argue that detailed guidance on usage, infrastructure and data are necessary to address bias, leakage and to mitigate risks. And with universal standards, we create an impartial arena to prevent corporations from political capture and market control.

Administrative work consumes one-sixth of a doctor's working hours and contributes to burnout and a dwindling workforce that can't keep up with America's aging population.

We're now inventing what AI will become, and the government must preserve the pioneering spirit that undergirds American exceptionalism.

In fact, the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) offers a great example of how Biden's order can be both inclusive and ignite a market. On the heels of the executive order, the VA launched a $1million AI tech competition to reduce workforce burnout in healthcare. Calling upon apps, ideas, algorithms and the entire AI-value chain, the competition unifies the industry to solve for a common good.

Clearly, the competition comes at the right time. Today, the VA delivers more care and benefits to more veterans than ever before. Unfortunately, administrative work consumes one-sixth of a doctor's working hours and contributes to burnout and a dwindling workforce that can't keep up with America's aging population. Paperwork isn't why doctors and nurses pursued medicine.

The tech sprint also outlines a welcome and narrow scope.

Participants are asked to focus on two main areas: the development of ambient dictation solutions to transcribe patient visits, and AI-ingestion systems that can harmonize massive datasets, from care records to complex medical documents. In essence, how can AI tear up the paperwork to let doctors get back to caring for people?

The implications of data fidelity and aggregation are non-trivial. In healthcare -- an industry beset by data isolation -- the analytics of care is more important than ever. Generative AI will crowdsource and create life-saving data linkages that pull from patient records, population disparities, and propensity models to better diagnose, treat and cure.

AI will break archaic models and refocus healthcare back to the consumer.

Collaboration multiplies success, and Biden's order calls upon our nation's largest healthcare systems in the first 90 days to help shape regulatory action.

Three top officials, including Secretary of Health and Human Services (HHS) Xavier Becerra, VA Secretary Denis McDonough, and Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin, have been directed to create an HHS AI Task Force. Twelve months later, the task force will outline a plan that informs the responsible "deployment and use of AI and AI-enabled technologies in the health and human services sector."

Opinion: How Microsoft's new chip for AI could disrupt big tech -- especially Nvidia, AMD and Intel

The challenges healthcare faces are daunting. But the arrival of AI will break archaic models and refocus healthcare back to the consumer, who demands greater access to care.

We're all amazed by ChatGPT. But what's to come will transform our lives and reshape how we manage our personal wellness. While the White House is right to promote the ethical use of AI, we must also protect the pace of innovation to ensure every American has access to the best care to prevent and cure illness.

We don't yet know the name of the moonshot technology, but we can't alter its trajectory either.

Derek Streat is CEO of DexCare, a healthcare software company that helps patients find their best-fit care options.

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11-17-23 1819ET

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Successful branding is one of the keys to attracting customers and consistently growing a business. Most marketers would say that their brand strategy is at the core of their marketing strategy.

But are they referring to their corporate branding strategy or personal branding efforts? How will these answers affect the company's overall strategy? Here are the answers.

Traditionally, the term branding is associated with large companies like Coca-Cola, Apple and Marlboro. These companies are arguably some of the United States' most recognizable corporate brands. Their brand represents the identity of the company.

In the words of the Chartered Institute of Marketing, a brand is much more than a logo. It is "the set of physical attributes of a product or service, together with the beliefs and expectations surrounding it." Put simply, successful corporate branding evokes an idea in the audience's mind that reaches beyond the corporate identity and includes the values and propositions the company stands for.

A personal brand might incorporate the same elements but it stretches to include the person, their skills, their qualifications and the beliefs and expectations their audiences attach to them.

Related: Six Reasons Branding Is More Important Than Ever Before

Just a few decades ago, very few CEOs of leading brands were widely known to the public. There are only a handful of notable exceptions like Apple founder Steve Jobs, whose personal brand has been inextricably linked to the Apple brand.

The advent of social media and digital marketing has changed the playing field for corporate and personal branding. Traditional company leaders who used to live in relative obscurity have become far more visible to a wider audience. Unintentionally, they developed a personal brand by default, which needed to be carefully managed.

On the other hand, charismatic business founders have deliberately used their personal brands and platform to advance their companies' fortunes. Some specifically established themselves as thought leaders in their field, building their brand as part of the organization's marketing strategy.

Right now, there is a growing group of business owners who are their own brands. Life coaches, celebrity chefs and others are using their brand to support their corporate brand. Essentially, their personal brand is their business. Social media influencers, for example, use their brand to support corporate brands.

Connecting personal and corporate branding can work to the advantage of both sides, creating synergies that help both corporations and individuals expand their audience. Because of this, it does not necessarily make a difference whether the personal or corporate brand came first.

Corporations benefit by becoming more relatable with the help of a human face or faces to represent them. Rather than being seen as an institution, those businesses are recognized for their humanity, breaking down barriers between businesses and consumers. In the long term, the business can use personal connections to build trust and sales.

Related: 7 Stupid Branding Mistakes Your Small Business is Making

Balancing corporate and personal branding is not always straightforward. Just decades ago, corporations did not need to consider their employees' brands or how employees interacted with their own brands.

Since the advent of digital marketing and especially social media marketing, the branding landscape has changed. Anyone with a social media profile is consciously or unconsciously curating their own personal brand. As part of their social media activity, employees will most likely also interact with their employer's brand.

This overlap has caused countless companies to re-evaluate their approach to branding. Should they encourage employees to talk about the company publicly? What happens when unhappy employees use their platform to vent their frustrations?

In light of these concerns, it may seem like a good idea to ban employees from interacting with the company's social media, but that approach is unrealistic. Instead, most companies today choose to encourage employees to share content and expand the business's reach. They are taking advantage of the increased credibility consumers attach to information that is shared by an individual rather than a corporation.

Other companies even leverage the power of personal brands through high-profile talent hires.

Leveraging corporate and personal branding means cooperating to find a strategy that benefits both parties.

As an employer, it is generally not realistic to forbid the use of social media at work or during working hours. However, it makes sense to create easy-to-follow social media guidelines. Companies are asking employees to be honest about their employment, focus on positive topics without slagging competitors and generally use their best judgment with social media.

Encouraging employees to engage with the company's brand whilst building their own personal brand is mutually beneficial. The employee's personal brand can benefit from positive associations with the company. As the employee's recognition as a thought leader grows, the company gains credibility through association.

Personal and corporate brands are becoming ever more interlinked. In most cases, they are connected by default. Forward-thinking brands do best by embracing the connection and fostering positive and open communications between brands and employees. After all, each employee is also a brand ambassador.

Related: Branding Is More Than an Accessory: It's the Foundation of Any Business

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How to Understand Corporate Branding vs. Personal Branding for Success