For many, if not most, of us, the Internet is an essential work tool. It lets us send e-mails, share documents, participate in video conferences, conduct research, and browse cat videos (only during breaks, of course). Now, three communities are taking things even further, deploying widespread networks with speeds at or above 1 gigabit per second in the hopes of boosting economic development.How fast, exactly, is 1 Gbps? Well, the average Internet speed in the United States is somewhere between 5 and 6 megabits per second, according to various reports. These 1-Gig systems, therefore, are as mu... view article details

With the Labor Department reporting that the number of people receiving unemployment benefits is the highest it has been in seven years, is there such a thing as a “recession-proof” job? Probably not, but there are some careers that may survive the current economic crisis better than others. The key is to focus on work that continues even when most people do not have extra discretionary money to spend. So what are some in-demand jobs in a slow economy?Accountant Now more than ever, companies are paying attention to the bottom line. They need good “bean counters”, whether they are fres... view article details

The Skyscraper's the Limit No bones about it, said Kevin Hanna: Working the kitchen grill at his grandfather’s steakhouse as a teenager helped him to launch a successful career in the real estate business. Hanna, 36, has since traded in a greasy apron for a white shirt at Cushman & Wakefield of Massachusetts, Inc., a commercial real estate firm in Boston where he cooks up deals with some of area’s most cutting-edge companies. He negotiates leases for retail, healthcare, high-tech, and other industries that are seeking office and industrial space in Boston and greater New England. He represents... view article details

Real talk - the amount of compensation you receive does not speak to your success. There are many other factors in and out of the workplace that determine your personal notion of "being successful.” Wealth can't buy happiness directly, but some folks crave a lifestyle that is only possible if you're making your way up to and over half a million bucks. Here are 10 jobs that tend to pay more than $175,000. 1) Podiatrist: $197,380 A Podiatrist examines, diagnoses, and treats diseases and injuries of the foot. Like any good doctor, this foot expert recommends tests to help diagnose the condition a... view article details

If hospitality is your cup of tea—and you don’t mind serving others—a career as a hotel manager may be perfect for you.Hotel managers oversee all aspects of hotel operations including staff, maintenance, convention and conference services, reservations, office administration, sales, purchasing, housekeeping, security, recreation, and food management. Depending on how many services a hotel provides, the manager can be responsible for everything from banquets to conventions. Managers also take into account marketing and financial management. They set room rates, approve expenditures and ensure t... view article details

The flu has arrived, delivering its gifts of body aches, fevers, and nausea earlier and more generously than usual. As of the first week in January, 47 states were reporting widespread incidence of flu, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. New York state and the city of Boston, which has recorded 10 times as many cases of flu this year as at this point last season, have both declared public health emergencies in the face of the epidemic. States in the southeast and Midwest have reported particularly high flu activity.For employees, a bout of the flu means making an impo... view article details

In researching the pay for an executive position, it's best to consult several of the many sources of data to get a sense of the range for the job. Don't aim for the top of the range, because there could be unfortunate consequences if you become too expensive.It's relatively easy to get executive pay data for public and nonprofit companies. Publications such as The Wall Street Journal publish information about CEO compensation. A more detailed and more immediate source is your company's annual meeting proxy (DEF-14A filing) if the company is public. You can get it from your company's investor ... view article details

Dear Annette,I work in a small office. One of my coworkers doesn't shower very regularly, and we are unsure how to talk to him about it without hurting his feelings. He is a very funny, nice and bright person, but this is a problem.OdorlessDear Odorless,Every morning I review my Philosophy of Fragrance: that my personal scent is an opportunity to tell others who I am and what they can do for me. 'I am an unwashed person. Write for help' is probably not what your colleague had in mind. That's a pity, because aromas contribute so much to the formation of a personal brand. The beautiful memories ... view article details

Ready for a new job? We’ve got all the pointers and relevant trends to help you decide on a great role with competitive pay and modern-day perks. Here’s the top articles pertaining to the job search we feel are worth the read: 1) What Do You Want to Be When You Grow Up? If you are considering a career change, it may help to channel your childhood self and figure out – “what do I want to be when I grow up?” We gathered all-ages advice on that here. It may also help to simply see what sorts of jobs generate a range of five- and six-figure salaries. Here’s our list of in-demand jobs that pay over... view article details

Q. Two weeks ago I took a part-time job as an x-ray technician. In the classified ad the employer listed two positions available: x-ray technician and medical assistant. When I applied for the x-ray job, I was asked whether I was able to perform the duties of the other job, if needed. I said yes, I could and would help out if needed. Now I seem to be doing both jobs and the company isn't trying to fill the other position. I don't mind doing the work, because it enhances my skills, but I don't want to be taken advantage of. Should I address the situation now or bide my time? If they do not hire... view article details