Scientists and philosophers have long believed that the mind consists of three components. Of course, most people are well aware of both the cognitive (intelligence) and affective (emotions) aspects of the mind; however, relatively few are familiar with the conative (instinct) component, which determines how each individual naturally takes action and solves problems. These three aspects of the mind all play a part in determining who we are and how successful we will be. However, while the affective aspect will drive what we want to do, and the cognitive aspect will determine what we know how to do, it is the conative aspect of the mind that actually determines how we will take action to accomplish a task. READ MORE

When we find ourselves in the struggle of challenging relationships, we wonder how we got there, and more importantly: How can we resolve these situations? How can we change the course of these relationships from conflict to collaboration? By confronting, being vulnerable, and listening we can create an atmosphere of open communication and trust. These are the foundation required to prevent conflicts from becoming personal. When combined with a focus on collaborative problem-solving, we help others seek solutions that will satisfy their needs while simultaneously satisfying ours. Together these tools will enhance our interactions and lead to more effective results. READ MORE

The single greatest step to improve employee retention is to ask first-line managers to achieve a retention goal and then hold them accountable for doing so. This sounds like a foreign language to CEOs and HR executives who continue to ask what more they can give employees such as more money, better healthcare, improved newsletters, or a new career development program. But our research along with the research of other companies proves this is true. Our path is to first place a dollar value on turnover in order to grab their attention to take action. READ MORE

This year, several state and local governments are raising their minimum wage rates, and federal law may soon follow suit. Given the large number of low-wage workers that they employ, hotels will be particularly affected by these changing requirements. Faced with increased operating costs, hotels often implement measures, such as downsizing workers, that threaten to impair guest satisfaction. Fortunately, the tax code offers another solution known as the Work Opportunity Tax Credit (WOTC). A straightforward and lucrative incentive, WOTC provides businesses with tax savings ranging from $1,200 to $9,600 for each new employee hired from certain target groups. READ MORE

An increasing number of hoteliers are embracing social media because of its potential for engagement and collaboration with networked consumers. Through social media, marketers can gain rich, unmediated consumer insights, faster than ever before. This article will focus on M Live APAC, Marriot's new Asia Pacific state-of-the-art marketing and brand newsroom command center, which has become the company's epicenter of real-time marketing to customers in the region. M Live APAC allows Marriott not only to seize more chances to engage with consumers quickly, but also to create memorable and shareable experiences. READ MORE