Dealing with a bossy coworker

Dealing with a bossy coworkerDealing with a bossy coworkerYou might expect the occasional order or command from your boss. But its a whole other thing when its your peer whos doing the bossing around, isnt?Follow Ladders on FlipboardFollow Ladders magazines on Flipboard covering Happiness, Productivity, Job Satisfaction, Neuroscience, and moraSkye Schooley, a writer for geschftliches miteinander New Daily explains, A bossy co-workeris generally someone who dictates the room, whether intentionally or unintentionally, and shares their opinion as fact.Their behavior may consist of telling you what to do, critiquing you on how to do your job or even monopolizing brainstorm sessions. Dealing with a bossy co-worker is frustrating and sometimes impedes productivity.Sound familiar?If so, rest assured, there are ways you can handle it. I had the chance to weigh in with Schooley to share my own advice on dealing with this kind of colleagueDont go it aloneDecide with your manager on what tasks are superfluous to your role and worthy of passing on.Then contract verbally with your manager that theyll back you up and provide cover if and when yousay Noto a task. If your boss endorses the boundary youve created, you have a much better chance of overcoming pushback from your colleague.Redirect themDont come across as completely uncooperative or unwilling to pitch in. Neither of these builds your reputation for results. When you offera no to a low-prestige task like taking the meeting minutes, come back with a give a yesto a higher-caliber one that would give your team an edge, like performing a competitor analysis.Be preparedHave a few friendly but firm retorts ready for abossycolleague. Instead of Thats not my job, you can come back with Thats an interesting project. Im not sure its realistic with my workload though, Let me steer you to someone who knows more about that or Hmmm, let me talk to my manager about it. At a minimum, train yourself to buy more time and not to give a yes at the moment.This article first appeared on Be Leaderly.

Technician (MOS 2111)

Technician (MOS 2111)Marines Small Arms Repairer/Technician (MOS 2111)Keeping weapons up to date and fully repaired is a key job in any branch of the military, and in the Marines, a big part of this responsibility falls to the small arms repairer/technician. Its an enlisted job with some specific requirements to be eligible. The general military definition of small arms, which are somewhat different than light weapons, refers to those weapons that can be used by a single person. They include handguns, light automatic weapons (which include some machine guns), portable rocket launchers, rifle- and shoulder-fired grenade launchers and other shoulder-fired weapons. For the most part, small arms are considered portable and can be fired without a tripod or special mount. They may be used in civil disturbances as well as combat and can be stolen more easily than light or heavy arms. The Importance of a Small Arms Technician The job ofsmall arms repairer/technician in the grade of Priv ate through Lance Corporal, involvessmall arms maintenance and repair, inspection procedures, and armory procedures. He or sheperforms inspections of all small arms, with the exception of vehicularly mounted weapons. The small arms repairer/technician also completes basic shop administrative forms and records. At the Corporal through Gunnery Sergeant level the small arms repairer/technician performs, trains, and supervises inspection, maintenance, and repair of all small arms, to include vehicular mounted small arms. The small arms repairer/technician also prepares, maintains, and supervises a shop maintenance and management program and coordinates maintenance and repair of small arms according to grade. Job Requirements In order to qualify for this job, Marines need a Mechanical Maintenance (MM) score of 95 or higher on theArmed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery (ASVAB) test. Theyll also need to complete the Ground Ordnance Intermediate Level Supervisors Course (CID AOIGBC1) by Sergeant through Staff Sergeant with 24 months remaining on active duty upon completion of the course. In the case of a lateral move, must have served a minimum of one year in MOS 2111. Also required are a National Agency Check, Local Agency Check, and leistungspunkt Check (NACLC) resident within the Joint Personnel Adjudication System (JPAS). And recruits must pass the Command Arms Ammunition, and Explosive (AA and E) screening. Anyconviction by court-martial, civilian court or nonjudicial judgment of any act involving larceny, theft, or drugs will disqualify recruits from this job. Training Recruits must complete theSmall Arms Repair Course at Fort Lee, Virginia, which lasts about 61 days. The initial phase of this course is trained alongside the Army. As part of the training, Marines participate in the physical fitness program while assigned to Bravo Company, Marine Detachment. This involves upper and lower body conditioning and cardiovascular endurance. As with most jobs in the Marines, small arms repairer/technicians must be U.S. citizens

How to Remove Your Resume from the Internet

How to Remove Your Resume from the InternetHow to Remove Your Resume from the InternetHave you posted your resume online somewhere but forgotten about it? If so, you might want to find any copies and either update or remove them. It may seem like a difficult task if youre not someone who spends hours and hours online. Heres how to find and remove your resume from the internet. Having your resume online may not be that big a deal to you, but if your boss runs across it he or she may get the impression that youre looking for another job. There may also be various privacy and security concerns when your personal information is floating around online. How to Remove Your Resume from the Internet If you dont remember any of the places you have posted, removing your resume isnt quite as easy as you might think. So, for future reference, when youre job searching, its a good idea to make a list of all the sites you are using. Keep track of all your usernames and passwords, and dont use th e same ones for job sites as you do for your personal logins. Even better, create anew emaille accountto use just for your job search. Use that email address for all your career-related accounts and keep a list of your passwords. Again, dont use the same password as you use for your personal accounts. It will not only be easier to keep track of your correspondence, but it will also help you protect your privacy andavoid identity theft. If you do have a list of the sites where you have registered and login information, you should be able to remove or make your resume private so its not viewable by employers. When You Dont Remember Where You Posted It If you dont have a list and/or dont remember where you posted your resume, the more important copies to remove are those that show up publicly. To find them, search Google by your name and the word resume. If you posted your resume so anyone can view it, it should show up. You can also search a bit more specifically and include some keywords that you know are on your resume. For example, search Google for your name, job title, and company. Another way to check where you have posted online is to go back through your old email messages. You should have received a confirmation email when you tischset up an account on the job board. You may also have received email messages from prospective employers. When you find an account you created, you will be able to log in and delete your resume or make it private so its not visible to employers. If you dont find any copies of your resume, youre probably in the clear, but be sure to keep track of all job search activity going forward. Make Your Resume Private If you found copies of your resume on the internet, you may be able to hide them without totally deleting them. With some job sites, especially those that have a networking component, you may want to leave your resume online, but limit who can see it. Check the privacy settings. You may be able to change your resu mes visibility from public to limited or private. How to Delete Your Resume If youve decided that you do want your resume deleted, log in to the sites where you posted it and delete or remove your resume. If you dont remember your usernames and passwords, follow the instructions on the page for retrieving a forgotten username or a lost password. It only takes a few minutes to fix, but note that youll also need to know what email you used when you created the job site accounts. Once youve logged into the site, you should be able to find a link to your resume and it should be easy to delete. If you cant figure it out, look for a Help link where you can search for instructions, or a Contact Us page and send a message to the websites support gruppe who can help you delete your resume. Update Your Account Information While you are checking around for your resume, take the time to update your online career-related accounts. You never know when you might need them in the future. If you have aLinkedIn profiletake the time to update it with your latest employment information. If you anonline version of your resume, and you want to keep the account, take the time to make sure that all the information is current.

Using the Best Job Keywords for Job Applications Online

Using the Best Job Keywords for Job Applications OnlineUsing the Best Job Keywords for Job Applications OnlineApplying for a job online can be a lot like a guessing game.For all the effort you put into marketing your experience and qualifications, the deciding factor that gets your resume into the hands of an actual person often comes down to using the right keywords.Most companies rely on computer software programs to review thousands of resumes and select the ones with particular keywords - not necessarily impressive accomplishments - so they can then be reviewed by a recruiter and, eventually, a hiring manager.Unfortunately for job seekers, ansicht all-powerful keywords arent revealed in the job description - at least not overtly.Abby Kohut, a former human resources executive and founder of www.absoluteabby.com, said the best way to crack the code of these applicant tracking systems (ATS) is to put yourself in the mind of the recruiter and take your best guess at what phrases t hey would use to search for the best applicants for the position.You look at the job description, read it word by word and say would the recruiter use it to search for resumes? said Kohut, who recruited for 16 years at companies in a variety of industries including pharmaceuticals, health care, publishing and education. Now, she helps job seekers and is launching a nationwide tour to teach the tricks of the modern job search.One of the many challenges that she says her clients face is conquering these robotic searches.When it comes to the automated systems, the problem you have is that the only way a recruiter is going to actually find you is if you have keywords in your resume that they have in their brain at the time, Kohut said. The person who shoots to the top is the person who has more than one keyword.But the journey to the human recruiter doesnt stop there. Once the keywords are identified, Kohut says they need to be used early and often within the resume, possibly in multip le forms.For example, she said if an aspiring accountant is applying for a job that cites deep knowledge of Sarbanes-Oxley in the job description, the phrases Sarbanes-Oxley and its common acronym SOX should each be referenced in that resume several times so it will be noticed and given priority by the ATS.Of course, you dont want to repeat the same sentence either, so Kohut recommends changing the context each time.If a job description stresses a high proficiency with Microsoft PowerPoint, for example, she said that can be reflected in three parts having made PowerPoint presentations, having taken PowerPoint classes, and having edited PowerPoint presentations of senior executives. It wont win you any literary awards, but at least the strategy will get your resume in front of some eyeballs.Its really just a big game now, Kohut said. You have to get the computer to find you instead of getting a human to find you.Experts have taken to calling this the recruiting black hole because so many resumes - good resumes - fall in, seemingly never to be seen again. But keeping in mind these tips on getting your resume through applicant tracking systems and the rules about e-mailing your resume to a recruiter will help you optimize your chances for getting noticed and moving on to the next step, snaring an interview.

Things You Wont Like About What Your Resume Should Look like in 2017 and Things You Will

Things You Wont Like About What Your Resume Should Look like in 2017 and Things You Will The Meaning of What Your Resume Should Look like in 2017 Using resume developer software may also make sure that your resume makes the proper impression. For instance, if youre asking for a social networking marketing position, it could. Moreover, in some specific fields (e.g. social media marketing analytics), experience is just relevant if its recent. Distinguishable tech and societal media knowledge is very relevant in the present job market, she states. Introducing What Your Resume Should Look like in 2017 Each level focuses on various abilities and experience, placing the main front and center. Attempt elend to go over two pages, even if youve got plenty of experience. There has ever been a particular writing style when it has to do with writing resume content. With this kind of a tremendous selection, youre able to readily find a template that fits your style and your degree of e xperience (for instance, an entry-level resume should seem different from the resume of someone with 20 decades of experience). The worst mistake that can be made is to get a public profile with content you do not need to be public. An expert summary sits at the peak of your resume beneath your header. Ultimately, youll still require solid resume content to actually sell yourself to employers. Think about the peak of your resume as the lead. What You Should Do to Find Out About What Your Resume Should Look like in 2017 Before Youre Left Behind Read on, and get prepared to make the resume that perfectly sums up all you need to offer you. Applicants that are looking to relocate for a work often opt to include their present mailing address, but otherwise, its up to you whether to incorporate an address. Moreover, Cohen recommends making your usage of hyperlinks appropriate to the scenario, and highlighting them clearly in order to make sure they arent overlooked. The resume manufacturer ought to have the ability to supply several samples. An amazing video cv maker will enable you to create a video resume. A terrific on-line video cv maker site will supply you with the edge youve got to acquire that dream task. Your resume will provide more information. You have to be able to create the judgment call. There are many things will need to contemplate should you need to compose a position resume. Job applicants will need to discover new, innovative approaches to stick out from the crowd. Inevitably, understanding how to compose resumes is knowing the way to do business with what you need to get where you wish to be. Bear in mind, however, all fonts arent created equal. The sort of font you decide on will tell the reader a little about you, so youve got to make a decision as to what you would like your fonts to say. Whatever font you select, make certain its simple to read. Deciding on the most suitable font can look to be an impossible job, es pecially since there are dozens and dozens of choices out there. The What Your Resume Should Look like in 2017 Cover Up Putting thought into the presentation turns out to be important, states Bahler. Therefore, use bolded text to make sure your achievements stick out. Writing a modern resume may be viewed as a challenge for most, especially for people who arent proficient in creating professional documents. The Little-Known Secrets to What Your Resume Should Look like in 2017 Again, you wish to make sure that your resume is readable. When you begin applying to new jobs, make certain you keep tabs on your applications in a spreadsheet. Its also an excellent format for highlighting well-developed abilities and talents that are related to a particular position. Includes a succinct review of the qualifications. The Foolproof What Your Resume Should Look like in 2017 Strategy No work listing is exactly the same. Personal branding is super important in the current job market, e specially because it can cause you to be a prime candidate in your preferred industry. White space permits you to set the spotlight on a few essential explanations for why youre the very best candidate for the job. If youre a professional seeking new opportunities to increase your career, speak to the experts at Contemporary Staffing Solutions. It is essential that you have all of the info you need before you begin publishing, not merely because its likely to assist you save you period but in addition because it permits you to concentrate on handling them in creating your resume. You must locate a way to differentiate yourself from the hundreds of resumes that appear exactly like yours. Take a look at the one which youve been using, maybe even for a couple of years now. Download the internet Casino software today and you may play our completely free casino online, and be on your way to the fun and excitement of Vegas style internet casino gaming Moreover, there are a couple more things you want to keep in mind while you ask your self about ways to construct a resume to get the job. Like every compelling story, the first couple of words are the absolute most important. Some individuals are extremely much against this practice and consider it outdated, though some think it is a fine means to introduce the remainder of your info. Theres a catch, though. Therefore, if youre hoping for an interview, its vital that your resume be an impressive one. The very last thing that you want to do is receive a job which you cant do. Whatever reason you may have for leaving your work, ensure you do it in the most suitable way (and theres an ideal way).

College Grads Looking to Land your Dream Job in your Dream Company Listen Up!

College Grads Looking to Land your Dream Job in your Dream Company Listen Up The reality for many prospective graduates is daunting. In the last decade, it has become increasingly difficult to land a job directly after graduating college. The numbers are sobering the unemployment rate for college graduates has risen to 8.8 percent (compared with 5.7 percent in 2007) and the underemployment rate is at 18.3 percent (compared with 9.9 percent in 2007). Though these numbers are startling, it is notlage impossible to land a job. The fortunate truth is that the most prepared college graduates leise stand a chance of attaining a good position, even in this market. In fact, there are quite a few industries actively seeking new graduates. The most prevalent job opportunities for graduates can be found in fields like education professional, scientific and technical (that require specialized expertise) healt h care federal, state and local government and finance and insurance. Although these sectors have the highest hiring rates, it is still tough to get hired when competing against thousands of other well-qualified applicants.The key is to stand outThe first step in standing out is to conduct appropriate, focused research I call this the Missing Information Analysis (MIA). MIA prepares a candidate to ensure that he or she appears to be the perfect fit for the job. Those who look and sound like all other applicants will invariably go unnoticed.Start out by finding out everything possible about your desired position. For instance, where is it located in the corporate hierarchy? Who do you report to? What are the major responsibilities in this role, and what knowledge and skills must you possess to be successful at accomplishing these? Conduct an informational interview with people who have this job or an equivalent, and with a menschlich resource professional at the company. Ask the HR d epartment for the job description in writing.Look up everything you can about the company to which you are applying. Start by closely reading its website. Look online and in print media for articles about the company. Find out about the companys culture, politics, structure, strengths, weakness, profits, losses (get financials if publicly available), areas for potential growth, (how can you help with that?) and so on.Make sure you find out about how people are selected at your target company. Is there a resume review, an interview, a test? Who sits on interview panels (know their names and titles), what are waiting periods, who is the main corporate contact, is there anything available in writing for you to study? Typically, the best way to obtain this information is through the companys HR department. Otherwise, if you know anyone who has applied to this company before, perhaps he or she could tell you the process.After you have completed your MIA, you can proceed to the next step in standing out, which is to create a customized resume. Generic resumes do not get noticed. Put an objective statement at the top that demonstrates you know the specifics of the job and company for which you are applying. List your past experiences. Did you ever have a job that matches the job title or part of the job title for which you are applying? If so, highlight that. Can you list some courses that demonstrate you have the knowledge and skills listed in the corporate job description? If so, make sure to mark that down. It is a time-consuming process, but to increase your chances, you must create a customized resume for every job to which you apply.Make sure you send your resume and cover letter to a specific person, name and title included. After you submit your resume, send an email or make one phone call to find out if it has been received and if and when you will be scheduled for the interview.If you have been selected to go through a formal selection process, begin to pre pare immediately. There are books on interviewing that may more fully prepare you, but in general, make sure to demonstrate that you know about the job, you possess the requisite knowledge and skills, and you fit the organizational culture. Practice in front of a mirror to look confident and well prepared. Tell your interviewers that you are fully aware of the companys goals and show them how your specific contribution will help them achieve their desired outcomes.Dont be frightened by the statistics. With the right tools and proper preparation, landing your dream job is truly possible.

Asking for Letters of Recommendation

Asking for Letters of RecommendationAsking for Letters of RecommendationChecking references is usually the final step prior to being hired (or accepted into a graduate school program). Its important to be selective on who you use as a reference and who youll ask for a letter of recommendation. You will want to include people who view you favorably and who have positive things to say about you. If in doubt, ask your reference if they feel that they know you well enough to provide a good reference. Types of References Basically, there are two types of references professional and personal. Professional references can address your skills, knowledge, and work ethic while personal references can better discuss your personal traits. Employers and graduate school programs will usually let you know the number of references they want and may specify the type of reference they are seeking as well. A good reference will provide knowledge of your character, integrity, specialized skills, and work habits. Hopefully, your references are from people who are excited about your career plans and can provide an employer or grad program with important details that create a favorable impression about you. Steps for Asking for a Letter of Recommendation Determine the purpose of the letter of recommendation and then identify the appropriate person(s) who can best supply that reference.Its better to ask your reference if they feel they know you well enough to provide a good reference than getting a reference that does not boast of your accomplishments and personal work ethic.Provide the reference with supporting documents such as resume, classes taken (and grades received), as well as any internships, volunteer work, or jobs that you have completed. Make sure your reference knows the purpose of the recommendation so they can address the skills and accomplishments based on the type of position or graduate school program to which you are applying. Apprise references of your goals and update them on your hintergrund and the type of job/program you are seeking. Keep them abreast of what you are applying for and let them know once you have accepted a position. Be sure to get permission prior to using someone as a reference. Advise your references of any deadlines and provide as much time as possible for references to write a recommendation. A hurried reference letter will not have the same impact as a well-planned letter boasting of your strengths and accomplishments. Follow up and check with your references to see if they need any additional information. You can gently remind them of the deadline if the date is approaching soon. As a courtesy, you can also supply your reference with a stamped envelope to send the letter directly to the employer. Employers usually prefer confidential references where the reference is able to supply valuable information without worrying about the applicants response to the reference. Who to Ask for a Reference ProfessorsPre vious Supervisors at jobs or internshipsAcademic AdvisorsCoachesSpecial Contacts (music teachers, sports contacts, volunteer/job/internship associates) These individuals can all be used as character references as well as attest to your work ethic and desire to achieve. A list of references is usually supplied upon request by an employer or graduate school program. The list should be developed on a separate sheet of paper and provided when asked. You may ask your reference for a copy of the letter that you can use in future applications. Be sure to send a thank you note to your reference thanking him/her for their time.

U.S. Military Chemical Warfare Protection

U.S. Military Chemical Warfare ProtectionU.S. Military Chemical Warfare ProtectionThere is a considerable variety of lethal and incapacitating chemical werbers and the means to deliver them. The technology needed to produce these chemicals is similar to that used to make plastics, fertilizers, and detergents. As this knowledge spreads throughout underdeveloped countries, the increased possibility of chemical warfare becomes a harsh reality. Chemical warfare agents are poisonous chemicals that can produce irritating effects, make materials or areas unusable, and cause death. The severity of the injuries depends on the type of agent, concentration of the agent used, and the method of dissemination. Types of Chemical Agents The United States Military classifies lethal chemical warfare agents into four categories Nerve AgentsNerve agents attack the nervous system and affect muscle control, vision, heart, and lung functions. The Department of Defense (DOD) considers this the fruchtwe in likely category of chemical agents that may be used against U.S. Military personnel engaging in combat operations. Blister AgentsBlister agents attack and destroy cell tissue causing irritation, inflammation, and severe blisters. This tissue damage increases the chance of infection and may ultimately cause death. In most cases, pain and blisters may not occur until long after exposure. Choking AgentsChoking agents cause irritation and inflammation of the bronchial tubes and lungs. If a sufficient amount enters the lungs, the flssig may gather there. Death results from a lack of oxygen. Blood AgentsBlood agents disrupt the oxygen-carrying properties of the blood. behauptung fast-acting agents dissipate quickly in the open air but are very deadly. Blood agents also damage mask filters, so filters must be changed as soon as possible after a blood agent attack. Delivery and Physical Properties Chemical agents can be released by artillery shells, rockets, bombs, grenades, mines, aircraft sprays, and missiles. Additionally, they can be sprayed from air, land, and water vehicles or covertly used to contaminate food and water supplies. Common forms of chemical agents include Gases and Vapors. Gases and vapors are usually invisible. However, gas clouds may be visible for a short time after their release or in areas where there is little air movement to dissipate them. Their primary route of entry is through the respiratory tract, although some agents in heavy concentrations can penetrate the eyes and exposed skin. Gases and vapors may linger for up to several hours, with heaviest concentrations occurring in low-lying, dead air spaces such as buildings, caves, shell craters, ravines, and wooded areas. Liquids. Liquid agents can be clear to dark in color and have the viscosity of fine machine oil thickened agents may have the appearance of motor oil. Chemical agents used in liquid form can be extremely difficult to detect with the unaided eye. The most reliable m ethod of both detecting and identifying liquid nerve and blister agents is M8 chemical detector paper. Finally, liquid agents also release toxic vapors that can be inhaled and can remain effective for many days. Solids (Powders). Some agents are released in powder form. They can enter the body through the skin or be inhaled. Agents in dust-like form are released in a variety of climatic conditions and can remain effective for many weeks. These dusty agents are difficult to detect unless wetted. Once detected, they may be decontaminated with a 5 percent chlorine bleach solution. Protective Equipment for Chemical Warfare Regardless of the type, concentration, or method of attack, the best immediate protection against chemical agents is the mask and chemical-defense ensemble. The United States Military has the best equipment fielded anywhere in the world, and when used correctly, it protects against enemy chemical or biological attack. The mask is the primary piece of protective eq uipment. When properly worn, it protects the face, eyes, and respiratory tract against all known chemical and biological agents. In addition to the mask, the chemical-defense ensemble used by the U.S.Military includes the chemical overgarment (pants and jacket), the mask-hood, protective gloves, and protective overboots. Military Gas Mask Gas masks are not new to the military. Military gas masks were first employed en masse during the First World War to protect soldiers from gas attacks. Toxic gases were seen as a way to bring an end to the stalemate on the cowboyfilm Front. The predominant chemical agents used on the Western Front were mustard gas (blister agent) and chlorine gas (choking agent). From then until now gas masks have become as much a part of the military members personal equipment as the rifle, flak vest, and helmet. Generally, gas masks are constructed from a thick non-permeable rubberised plastic, some having an in-built protective hood covering the head. The ru bberised plastic is designed to form an airtight seal against the skin. For this reason, facial hair heightens the risk of a bad seal and should be avoided (this is the primary reason that the Navy changed itsregulations and outlawed beards). Gas masks use replaceable charcoal filters that filter liquid, aerosol and vaportoxins from the contaminated air. Gas mask filters have a limited lifespan. They must be replaced if they are damaged, exposed to water/moisture, after a platzset period of exposure in a contaminated environment, after prolonged usage in a non-contaminated environment, or if their shelf life has expired. The Protective Overgarment The charcoal impregnated overgarment issemi-permeable and must be worn over normal combat clothing. The lining works in exactly the saatkorn way as a gas masks respirator filter, removing toxins and contaminants. The semi-permeable fabric allows some perspiration to escape. The overgarment offers protection against toxins and chemical agents in liquid droplets, vapor and aerosol form. Because the fabric is semi-permeable, it cannot protect the wearer against liquids, and wet or saturated suits (either by precipitation, chemical agent or from the military members own perspiration) are compromised and must be replaced. Like the masks, the overgarments are designed to have a limited lifespan and must be replaced after a set exposure or wearing time. Overboots and Gloves The accompanying NBC (nuclear, biological, chemical)protective overboots and gloves are constructed from thick impermeable rubberized plastic and are worn over normal combat boots and cotton liner gloves. Glove thickness can be varied for operation requirements where dexterity is at a premium. Unfortunately, while the U.S. Military chemical-defense ensemble provides a high degree of protection, it can also reduce work and combat effectiveness by hampering vision, hearing, and dexterity. It can cause mental stress and heat exhaustion during heavy workloads in warm temperatures. Thats where the Military flaumer Levels come into play. Introduction to Military flaumer Levels flaumer stands for Mission-Oriented Protective Postures. MOPP levels allow commanders to escalate their protective postures based on the threat of imminent attack and accomplish operations by balancing mission continuation and protection of the force. Because MOPP levels are standardized and easily understood, commanders can change protective postures without long explanations. Commanders can raise or lower protection through six levels, MOPP level 0 through MOPP level Alpha. Individual protection increases from MOPP level 0, where only conventional protective equipment (web gear, helmet, and available flak vests) is worn and chemical-defense equipment is kept nearby, to MOPP level 4, where all protective equipment is worn. MOPP level Alpha requires individuals to only wear their mask and gloves and is used as a protective posture only in certain instance s after the type of contamination has been determined. The Impact of Increasing MOPP Levels As MOPP levels and the protective gear required increase, an individuals efficiency decreases as a result. Although less susceptible to being a chemical casualty, heat problems are more common. Noncommissioned Officers (NCOs) and Officers in the U.S. Military have been trained to ensure proper work and rest cycles for their troops are observed to control body heat buildup during chemical or biological warfare conditions. Dehydration is also a severe problem when people work in high temperatures while wearing the chemical-defense ensemble. People tend to drink to satisfy perceived thirst rather than to meet their actual physiological needs. Realizing this, the U.S. Military trains their personnel does not wait to become thirsty before drinking. Military members are trained to drink regularly while in a MOPP to optimize their performance and to avoid becoming a heat casualty, and NCOs and O fficers monitor and direct their people to drink the prescribed amount of water if they do not voluntarily drink enough. The masks actually have a tube which can be used to drink from an attachment on the canteen lid, allowing military members to continue to drink water even in a contaminated environment. Overview of the MOPP Levels MOPP Level 0.In MOPP Level 0, the mask is worn in a carrier on the military members hip. Chemical-protective gear is issued, prepared, and located so the member can retrieve it within 5 minutes. MOPP Level 0 is used during periods of increased alert when the enemy has chemical/biological employment capability, but there is no indication of use in the immediate future. MOPP Level 1.In this level, the chemical overgarment (pants and jacket) are worn, and the rest of the equipment is carried. MOPP Level 1 is used when it is determined that chemical/biological attack on the theater of operations is possible. MOPP Level 2.In MOPP Level 2, the overgarment is worn, and the overboots are worn. The mask, hood, and gloves are carried in the mask-carrier, strapped to the hip. MOPP Level 2 is initiated when chemical/biological attack is probable. MOPP Level 3.In this MOPP level, the overgarment, mask/hood, and overboots are worn, but the protective gloves may be carried. MOPP Level 3 is used after chemicals have been used by the enemy, but in areas with negligible hazard. MOPP Level 4.Everything is worn. This condition is used during/after an attack when chemical weapons have been used or are suspected. MOPP Level Alpha.The mask, hood, and gloves are worn, but the protective overgarment is not. MOPP Level Alpha is called only during certain circumstances, such as when upwind from a negligible vapor hazard agent, or when inside buildings or aircraft. Contamination Avoidance Exposure to chemical or biological(CB) warfare agents may occur during and after an attack therefore, U.S. Military personnel are trained to use extreme caution to limit the spread of contamination. Whenever possible, critical resources such as aircraft, vehicles, and equipment are protected from contamination by placing them under cover in hangars, sheds, or other structures, or covering them with plastic sheets or waterproof tarpaulins before an attack occurs. When sheltered in a building or tent, personnel are instructed to keep windows, doors, canopies, etc., closed when notified of a pending attack and after the attack until notified that the hazards no longer exist. In addition to using protective clothing and equipment, common sense plays a large role when working in contaminated areas. Military personnel are trained to avoid kneeling, sitting, or walking in contaminated areas if possible, and not to touch anything unless it is absolutely necessary. When the mission permits, teams will be sent out to detect and mark contaminated areas. The U.S. Military has specialized chemical decontamination teams which can decontaminate equipment and land-areas, once the hazard has been identified and located. Personnel Decontamination If a chemical agent gets on the skin or protective equipment, it must be removed immediately. Some agents are quick-acting and can incapacitate within a matter of minutes. The degree of injury caused by a chemical agent increases the longer it remains on the skin. The military issues special personnel decontamination kits called M291 and M295 individual decontamination kits. They are the most effective method of removing chemical agents from the skin. In the absence of a personal decontamination kit, military personnel can use a 5 percent chlorine bleach solution to remove the chemical agent from equipment and a 0.5 percent solution to remove agents from the skin. The eyes are very vulnerable when exposed to nerve and blister agents. If one of these agents gets in the eyes, military personnel are trained to irrigate them with water. U.S. Military personnel are also issued nerve agent antidote s and taught to use them, if necessary. Decontamination Powder.Decontamination powder is intended by the military for decontaminating soldiers skin and personal equipment from liquid NBC agents. The powder is usually finely ground to give it a larger surface area, making it an extremely effective adsorbent. Generally, the main ingredients are chloride of lime and magnesium oxide which provide both absorption and neutralization properties. Chemical Detection Paper.Chemical detection paper can detect and identify airborne chemical warfare agents. The paper is attached as patches to the chemical-defense overgarment using either an adhesive backing or Velcro-like bonding material. The paper is impregnated with dyes sensitive to different types of chemical warfare agent and will indicate which type of agent is present in its corresponding pigment signal. Nerve Agent Antidote.Medical representatives issue nerve agent antidotes and pretreatment during increased readiness. The primary nerve agent antidote is an intra-muscular injector with a cocktail of oxime and atropine. Additionally, medical representatives will issue pyridostigmine bromide tablets if the appropriate type of nerve agent is expected to be employed. Military members take these tablets, in advance of an attack, when directed by higher headquarters. These tablets, when combined with the antidote, limits the effect of certain types of nerve agent poisoning. Biological Attacks In additional to chemical attacks, the U.S. Military is also prepared for attacks using biological agents, which are living micro-organisms that cause disease in people, animals, or plants, or cause materials to deteriorate. These agents can be used directly to cause diseases such as anthrax, cholera, plague, or diphtheria, or indirectly to infect crops and reduce food supplies. These diseases spread in a variety of ways including ingesting the infected plants or animals, bites from infected animals and insects or inhaling the micro-organisms. Micro-organisms used in biological warfare include bacteria, rickettsiae, fungi, and viruses (commonly referred to as germs). They enter the body, reproduce, and overcome the bodys defenses. Biological agents and chemical agents are generally disseminated in the same way. The mask can provide protection against some airborne biological agents. One of the best defenses against biological agents is the bodys resistance to illness. Staying in top physical condition and observing a high standard of personal cleanliness helps military members help reduce the spread of disease. Military members are routinely vaccinated during (and after) basic training for a variety of diseases. Additionally, military members who deploy to areas that are considered high threat for biological agents, receive the anthrax vaccine and the smallpox vaccine.

What resistance to change reveals about your leadership

What resistance to change reveals about your leadershipWhat resistance to change reveals about your leadershipResistance has a bad reputation.We see resistance as something negative - we blame people for getting in the way. As a former CEO, Ive been there many times. We are so focused on driving change, that we have little patience for those who resist (us).However, resistance is a necessary force of change. As Stanfords Bob Sutton said If you are bedrngnis facing resistance, it is because you are not pushing too hard.Stop fighting resistance and start paying attention. Lets use it to reflect on what we can improve as change leaders.The True Meaning of ResistanceIt is easier to resist at the beginning than at the end. ? Leonardo da VinciMany times people resist change because they dont want to try something new. Maybe they are too comfortable or afraid of uncertainty. Sometimes, they fear failure or believe they dont have what it takes.However, many times people are just tired, conf used, or not feeling safe. They are not fighting change - they just expect clear rules.If you want people to act differently, you have to behave differently too.Here are the six most frequent signals I observe when coaching teams improve their change-fitness. Youd better pay attention to them.1. People resist being exhaustedSelf-control represents the mental power we all need to focus, innovate, resist our impulses or to keep going in spite of failure or frustration. Self-control builds the resilience necessary to drive change.Research shows that self-control is an exhaustible resource. As cited on the book Switch, when people restrain their emotions, they burn the ability to control their feelings and behaviors.Change wears people out - what looks like laziness is always exhaustion.Any business transformation requires extra effort from your team members. Are you taking other tasks off their plates?2. People resist the lack of benefitsYou cant ignore self-interest. People are driv en by both functional and emotional benefits. If you cant connect the need for change with an apparent personal gain, they will stop paying attention.People are pragmatic - what looks like resistance is actually lack of interest.People wont bother doing something that wont provide them any clear benefit. Are you addressing the whats in it for me?3. People resist lack of contextYour team doesnt just want to do a job - people want to be part of a mission larger than themselves. Change initiatives should be tied to a meaningful purpose.People want to understand the big picture - what looks like indifference is often a lack of context.Dont assume. Provide context. Does your team understand the why behind a new initiative?4. People resist stupiditySometimes, certain initiatives dont make sense. Pressure from the board or the pressure to be perceived as innovative drive organizations to make foolish decisions.People dont like stupidity - what looks like resistance is usually sheer com mon sense.Be open to getting pushback from your team. Sometimes, we all miss what doesnt make sense. Do you allow your team to challenge you the same way you challenge them?5. People resist lack of prioritizationMost people dont know where their leaders are coming from. CEOs see things differently - they usually assume their teams shared their views. From a distance, things seem simpler said than done. What seems like a simple strategic direction might look complex and demanding for those who are in the trenches.People cant do everything at once - what looks like avoidance is basically lack of capacity.New initiatives always add more tasks and deadlines. Does your team have the autonomy to adjust priorities accordingly?6. People resist unsafe culturesThe culture of an organization is what is rewarded and punished. You cant have it both. Some companies encourage people to take risks but dont provide Psychological Safety - people are afraid of being attacked or fired if they make m istakes.People need a safe space to experiment - what looks like a people aufgabe is always a culture problem.Trying new ways of working requires taking risks too. Are you providing a safe culture for people to experiment and make mistakes?Whatever you resist, persistsWhere there is power, there is resistance. ? Michel FoucaultAn organizational transformation is never a smooth ride. It creates internal resistance in both leaders and their teams. Reflect on your own behavior.Navigating uncharted waters test the whole crew, not just the sailors.Resistance is a signal. Are you paying attention?Upgrade your teams mindsetDownload my ebook Stretch Your Team how to thrive in a changing world get your free copy.Receive my weekly Insights for Changemakers Sign Up NowThis article first appeared on Medium.