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Kevin Durbin

Greensboro

Honda Power

Information Technology

Livin' IT Every Day

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Following (15)

Groups (8)

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Rebecca Thorman I'm an inbox zero fan (clearing your inbox to zero every day), but found that I was also obsessively checking and responding to emails. Now, in addition to inbox zero, I've only been checking my email and Google Reader three times a day (7:30 am-9:30 am, 1-1:30 pm, 5-5:30pm) and literally closing those browser tabs when it's not one of those three times. I've found that creating this rule has dramatically increased my productivity and focus. Does anyone else do anything similar?

65 weeks ago from Perfectionist Rehab, Social Media, Work/Life Blur and Productivity & Time-Management 2 more

Ryan Healy, Shun Jackson and Megan recommended this

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Eboni Dunbar: That makes a ton of sense. I definitely over check my email. Unfortunately, nobody is emailing me that often! I'll have to try and do the specific ...MoreThat makes a ton of sense. I definitely over check my email. Unfortunately, nobody is emailing me that often! I'll have to try and do the specific times thing. It will make my partner happy too :)
47 weeks ago

Timothy Johnson III: Hi Rebecca. One thing I've done is unsubscribe from ANY email newsletter that hits my Inbox.

I've unsubscribed from email alerts from Brazen, ...MoreHi Rebecca. One thing I've done is unsubscribe from ANY email newsletter that hits my Inbox.

I've unsubscribed from email alerts from Brazen, Facebook, Twitter, so I can view those messages and interact when I'm actually using those sites.

As for Google Reader, I check it maybe ONCE or TWICE a week, at most. That way, I can catch up and read interesting posts all at one shot.

Lastly, I've disabled email notifications on my phone, so I have to open the relevant applications.

It seems to be working!

47 weeks ago

Kate Davids I'm toying around with writing a paper on Kindle vs. Nook vs. iPad. Which do you think you'd get (if you haven't already) and why? I'm a total Nook-lover, for instance. Got it because it is pretty, cheaper, and actually attached to a store (go in and buy vs. mail away). You?

65 weeks ago from Tech Gurus, Internet Marketers, PR & New Media, Blogging Ideas and Book Shelf 3 more

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Alicia Young: I must agree, I have a Sony and it is incredible!
62 weeks ago

Anoop Kansupada: I bought a Kindle in December of 2009. Its an older model but Amazon customer service is unbeatable. I was backpacking Asia at the time and had ...MoreI bought a Kindle in December of 2009. Its an older model but Amazon customer service is unbeatable. I was backpacking Asia at the time and had some issues with Thai sand getting in the device. They overnighted a new one to me when I ended up in Mumbai India for free. In Rajasthan India a camel decided that stepping on my kindle was a good idea, and once again, Amazon overnighted a new one to me (this time it was my fault though so it wasn't for free.)

I have a Kindle and my father has an iPad. I like browsing the internet, but not much else with my iPad. Reading is just amazing on the Kindle and battery life lasts forever.
62 weeks ago

JenG I'm fascinated by career change and what holds people back. I've been asking everyone I know (and many I don't) how they like their jobs and what's preventing them from finding their ideal career. My latest post reveals the results I've gathered so far. But I'd love to hear from you too? Does this resonate with what you're seeing/hearing or experiencing yourself? What do so many people settle for an okay job? http://bit.ly/i4ZhPR

66 weeks ago from Job Resources and Career Coaching, Ask A Coach, Creating a Life You Love and Career Changers 2 more

Sadya Siddiqui and Brett Kunsch recommended this

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Kevin Durbin: I think what holds people back is fear (Of failure perhaps), and also if you have put several years into your current career, you might not want ...MoreI think what holds people back is fear (Of failure perhaps), and also if you have put several years into your current career, you might not want to exit prematurely or you would miss out on the next step up (Or not). I spent a 20 year career in the US Army trying to figure out what I wanted as a career; it wasn't until I retired and thought about it that I decided to go the IT/IS route, which in the military, I had not ever officially held a similar position, in fact, didn't even think of it as a potential career track. Even now, I'm toying with moving towards something more financial/investment related, but not sure if that is what I really want (I'm better at working with computers/networks)
65 weeks ago

JRandom42: @Heather, not sure how she did it.but I heard of a female soldier that not only went through jump school, but Ranger school. Reminds me of GI Jane.
65 weeks ago

Kevin Durbin Any thoughts on the precious metals markets lately (Aside from gold)? I'm looking at silver particularly, ETF's and mining stocks

65 weeks ago from Investing

Kevin Li: REMX is an interesting ETF, focuses on strategic rare earths
65 weeks ago

Kevin Durbin: It also is a very young ETF; looks like it started in Oct 2010
65 weeks ago

William Bryan Question to all you Investing people, Can some please explain to me what is an option and how do invest in options? I am taking a class on it and the teacher did not do a very good job of explaining it. Plus I have start investing in it as soon as possible for class. So what is this thing?

87 weeks ago from Investing

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Dave Ellis: Here you go, William. From The Motley Fool... a very credible resource on all things investing...

MoreHere you go, William. From The Motley Fool... a very credible resource on all things investing...

http://www.fool.com/search/solr.aspx?q=options&source=ignsittn0000001
87 weeks ago

Kevin Durbin: Personally, I think options are not a good "starting" investment, particularly for a beginner unless you totally get the concept hands down and ...MorePersonally, I think options are not a good "starting" investment, particularly for a beginner unless you totally get the concept hands down and have a certain comfort level dealing with them. JMO
65 weeks ago

Kevin Durbin What I just finished reading: "Gods of Ruin" by Joseph SB Morse, Political Thriller; 3.5/5 stars What I'm reading now: "The Road to Serfdom" by F.A.Hayek; should be mandatory reading for all grades/age groups and politicians of all parties.

65 weeks ago from Book Shelf

TOP IDEA: Amy Ng I am intrigued by the increased level of parental involvement in Gen-Y job hunting and career development and management. I would love to better understand this new dynamic in the workforce. Gen-Y: Has your parent ever joined you for a job interview with a prospective employer or contacted your employer to discuss your performance or career development opportunities on your behalf? Employers: Have you been contacted by parents to discuss their child’s employment or future with your company?

104 weeks ago from Citi, GenYJourney: Tips, Insights, Experiences For Young Professionals, I am Gen Y, ERE on Brazen and Human Resources 3 more

Ryan Paugh recommended this

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Cooper: I don't think some parents realize how detrimental some of these practices really are. That, or their need to control their children and their ...MoreI don't think some parents realize how detrimental some of these practices really are. That, or their need to control their children and their children's life is out of control.
Does anyone teach their children well and let them go?.

I have done local alumni admission interviews, and it always gives me pause when a potential student, not much younger than I am, a student who wants to attend a huge university in one of the largest cities in the world, comes in to interview with a parent, and the parent expects to remain in the room during the interview.
99 weeks ago

Ty Unglebower: My mother has advised me, when she can. Just like she would with any event or situation I would share with her to discuss. And if she heard about ...MoreMy mother has advised me, when she can. Just like she would with any event or situation I would share with her to discuss. And if she heard about a job lead in her travels, she would write it down and tell me about it. But she never took any kind of specific initiative without my direct knowledge. (Such as calling a manager, or some such madness.)

But I know people in my family who would do that. I have often thought that I have many weaknesses, but none of them entail my mother going to a job interview with or for me. But more importantly, she would not presume to do so on her own.
99 weeks ago

Lauren Shanks How do you get out of a rut? I'm wondering what you do when you become so disillusioned that you don't want to do anything. How do find and ignite passion in something?

105 weeks ago from Ask Penelope Trunk!

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Aurian Campbell: @Douglas - I love that you told us what stationery you are using!
104 weeks ago

Kenji Crosland: I highly recommend Po Bronson's "What should I do with my life" The guy interviewed people around the country who had made a real change in their ...MoreI highly recommend Po Bronson's "What should I do with my life" The guy interviewed people around the country who had made a real change in their life. This book gave me the courage to take the leap and work for myself. After reading this book don't take the leap just yet, read "strengthsfinder 2.0" and "Is your genius at work" by Dick Richards so that you get a good idea of the greatest contribution you can make.
104 weeks ago

Ryan Paugh How do you feel about Transparent Salaries? Would you be comfortable if everyone in your company knew how much money you made? Brazen Careerist has Transparent Salaries. We talked about them on 20/20 last year (can't find the link!). What do you guys think?

108 weeks ago from Salary - Negotiating & More and Personal Finance

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Sara Gallagher: I wonder if salary transparency works against the employee in the negotiation process? Employers may be less likely to pay a premium for talent if ...MoreI wonder if salary transparency works against the employee in the negotiation process? Employers may be less likely to pay a premium for talent if they have to justify that salary to other (perhaps more mediocre) employees.
107 weeks ago

Morana Medved: I agree with Sara - salary transparency would likely discourage rewarding high performers with seemingly lower qualifications (years experience, ...MoreI agree with Sara - salary transparency would likely discourage rewarding high performers with seemingly lower qualifications (years experience, certifications, things you can easily count) for a fear of backlash and in turn would discourage high performers from sticking with the company. I personally don't care who knows how much I make, but I'm sure someone would find a reason to mind. I also know people who consider me underpaid, but if I'm satisfied with the complete package, again it's none of their business.
107 weeks ago

Timothy Johnson III It seems like Facebook is coming increasingly under fire, due to privacy issues and concerns, and never ending policy changes (http://bit.ly/7BfzoU). Has anyone left Facebook, due to these issues? If not, have you considered it? Or do you think living without Facebook is an impossibility? I'd love to hear your thoughts!

108 weeks ago from Generation Y Marketers, Social Media Marketers, Social Media Marketing, Blogging Ideas and Ask Penelope Trunk!3 more

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Ty Unglebower: I thought about leaving it for several reasons before. I haven't yet as it is convenient, but I only use it for my private friendships, etc. The ...MoreI thought about leaving it for several reasons before. I haven't yet as it is convenient, but I only use it for my private friendships, etc. The idea that I couldn't live without it is all hype. Things may be a bit more of a pain in the ass without out it, but not impossible. If people actually want to contact me, they will, and if they don't, I guess they are not my friends. (Which is the only thing I use it for anyway..privacy settings up to absolute maximum.)
108 weeks ago

: Actually, I have not experienced any of these supposed changes. Of course, I've already gone through all of my privacy settings and set everything ...MoreActually, I have not experienced any of these supposed changes. Of course, I've already gone through all of my privacy settings and set everything to completely private and have had no problems at all...
107 weeks ago

Kevin Durbin I did not realize back in the day that Earth day's 1st glorious celebration just so happened to coincide with the 100th birthday of Lenin (That soviet Russian guy, remember him? You know, the communist) This sort of brings it all together for me.......lol

109 weeks ago

Michael Felberbaum Do you think it's important to have a career destination, or is the path good enough?

110 weeks ago from Career Changers

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JenG: @Tina: unfortunately, it was a class to help people transitioning out of the military. So unless you happen to be the military, it's not ...More@Tina: unfortunately, it was a class to help people transitioning out of the military. So unless you happen to be the military, it's not available. However, I'd be happy to synthesize some of my lessons learned, maybe even as a blog post. I'll let you know when it's up.
109 weeks ago

paulmacp: I don't have a career goal, I have a life goal...” to help as many people as I can accomplish what is important to them”.

I maybe a DBA by trade ...MoreI don't have a career goal, I have a life goal...” to help as many people as I can accomplish what is important to them”.

I maybe a DBA by trade and IT person for my job. But when people ask me what I do for a living, my response is: “I help people better utilize technology and thus helping them improve the quality of their lives”.

Where am I going with this comment of mine... Have life goals, that your career is in alignment with. If your career is not in alignment with your life, you will never be really good at your job anyway. When your whole life (work, friends, family, hobbies) are in sync and moving in one unified direction, that is when you do extraordinary work and have a profoundly positive effect on the world around you.

109 weeks ago

Penelope Trunk Today I was helping someone apply for her dream job. I've been mentoring her for about three months now. I didn't find out til today that she is black. She said she took everything off her resume that might give it away - like, she was president of a black student organization, but she took off the black part when she wrote it in her resume. Her career counseling offfice told her to do that. I can understand why they told her that advice. I was surprised, though. What do you guys think?

111 weeks ago from Ask Penelope Trunk!

Kim N. Campbell and Regina Twine recommended this

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Allison Jones: I've been wondering about this when it comes to social networking as a tool for branding and career advancement. Does having my picture up alter ...MoreI've been wondering about this when it comes to social networking as a tool for branding and career advancement. Does having my picture up alter people's perceptions of my work or willingness to work with me? If it happens offline is it safe to say it happens online as well?
110 weeks ago

Ruth Adu-Gyamfi: This is one of many issues I face post graduation. I agree that you do want to increase your chance of getting your foot in the door. If that ...MoreThis is one of many issues I face post graduation. I agree that you do want to increase your chance of getting your foot in the door. If that means downplaying characteristics that may inadvertently hurt your chances of gaining a “dream job”, so be it. Change can happen, but it occurs from the inside and that’s hard to do if your name hurts your chance of even getting in. @Kim I think you are bringing an honest perspective to this question. Thanks for the articles. Gen Y’s view on the race issue is a grave improvement then previous generations but the world we live in is not solely Gen Y. Institutional racism still exists and at the end of the day in order to have a chance at success you must know the rules of engagement; which might be being Roger instead of Rahj. @ Sean That is the world we are striving to live in.
110 weeks ago

TOP IDEA: Niki Pocock I'm trying out this social resume feature. Are all of my "fans" getting this? If so, have any of you tried it?

113 weeks ago

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Niki Pocock: Thanks!
113 weeks ago

Kevin Durbin: Hi Nicki - Yes, I did see the message on my page; you must be doing something right....lol
113 weeks ago

Carlee Mallard Hey guys: job opening in the Triangle. LoneRider brewing company is looking for a self motivated individual to fulfill the sales representative role for the triangle and surrounding areas. The individual will work closely with LoneRider and our distribution partners to sell beer in bars, restaurants, and grocery stores. -- Send me a message if you're interested or want more details!

132 weeks ago from North Carolina Bloggers

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Carlee Mallard: they've got pale ales, too (are you trying to say a pale ale isn't a beer?!?) Morethey've got pale ales, too (are you trying to say a pale ale isn't a beer?!?) http://www.loneriderbeer.com/beers/
131 weeks ago

V. Holman: Oh goodness no....it just happens to be the only type of beer I like! LOL
130 weeks ago

Mark W. Gadget gender divide - A survey of 75K calls last month by the UK company Gadget Helpline revealed the following - 1) 64% of its male callers and 24% of its female callers had not read the instruction manual before ringing up, 2) women spent 32% longer on the phone to their helpers than men, and my favorite 3) men treat technology as something to be understood and conquered while women are more motivated by appliances that benefit them. http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/technology/8346810.stm

132 weeks ago from Tech Gurus

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Mark W.: Really different is an understatement. I'm thinking of the book 'Men are from Mars, Women are from Venus'. It's a perspective unlike any other ...MoreReally different is an understatement. I'm thinking of the book 'Men are from Mars, Women are from Venus'. It's a perspective unlike any other that makes things interesting and challenging at the same time. The 64% males vs. 24% females that had not read the instruction manual 'finding' reminds me of men who don't want to ask for directions or check out a map.
130 weeks ago

Jeffrey Hulten: I have talked about this with my wife and watched people on elevators. If a button doesn't light up when a man pushes it, his response tends to me ...MoreI have talked about this with my wife and watched people on elevators. If a button doesn't light up when a man pushes it, his response tends to me "its broken, let me push the button more/harder". If a button doesn't light up when a woman pushes it, her response tends to be "I did it wrong". Has anyone else observed this?
116 weeks ago

Kevin Durbin Showing my age here - retired from the US Army in 2004; spent most of my career @Ft.Bragg in the 82D between deployments and my last duty station was Ft. Drum, NY. I have a brother who is 9 years younger that is still in the Navy. I learned a great deal from my career travels and would still encourage younger folks to join and be a part of the Armed Forces if only for a single tour.

133 weeks ago from Military

Thomas Ransom Oh North Carolina... Why doesn't anyone in you want to hire me?

135 weeks ago from North Carolina Bloggers

Kevin Durbin: I hope you've found something; there are lots of jobs out there, I see plenty in certain areas of NC. Of course, not where I live and I'm not ...MoreI hope you've found something; there are lots of jobs out there, I see plenty in certain areas of NC. Of course, not where I live and I'm not willing to relocate, but that's me. I see most jobs (IT related) in RTP and Charlotte. GL to you!
133 weeks ago

Jennifer Vaaler: Yes, RTP would be your best option especially technology related.
107 weeks ago

Sarah Fowler Just started Ayn Rand's We The People (her 1st novel). Very engaging so far. Next been thinking about rereading Thoene Zion Covenant series.

136 weeks ago from Book Shelf

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: Ha nevermind, just saw your comment at 2:12 PM.
136 weeks ago

Sarah Fowler: Yes, We the Living. Whoops!
136 weeks ago

Finished the last book in the original Dune saga. Herbert was a genius. Now I have to read the 13 follow up novels.

136 weeks ago from Book Shelf

Kevin Durbin: Definitely makes you want more! I read the follow ups and at some point will read them again.
136 weeks ago

Sami Paju: My all-time favorite series. He indeed was. My favorites are Heretics and Chapterhouse for the philosophy in them and great storyline :)
136 weeks ago

Kevin Durbin Just wanted to ask the ? if any1 here received any Google Wave invites; last week or 2 was lots going around, but I missed out-Obviously:lol

136 weeks ago from Tech Gurus

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: Actually got two last week. One from a friend's invite, one from when I submitted a request to Google. Already gave it away though. :P
133 weeks ago

Kevin Durbin: Finally got the invite! Odd thing is it's Fri. the 13th......LOL! Now to read up more on it and get involved.
132 weeks ago

Penelope Trunk Trying to decide what I think of this. Wondering: Is the FTC regulating blogs absurd when blogs make so little money. What do you think?

137 weeks ago from Ask Penelope Trunk!

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Ryan Paugh: There's a good post about this today from a fellow Brazen Careerist - MoreThere's a good post about this today from a fellow Brazen Careerist - http://bit.ly/14JnT7 - Check it out!
137 weeks ago

Brian Wang: Mandating regulation creates jobs, in this case, useless ones, except from the regulator's perspective because their job is now on the line.
136 weeks ago

Mara L Question: I have a Palm pilot z22 that I got as a gift. Which is better to have in the long run:my Palm or itouch?

138 weeks ago from Tech Gurus

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Kevin Durbin: Hmmm, sorry, didn't mean to do that. BottomLine=Applications Are they important to you? Yes=Get the iPhone or iPod Touch
138 weeks ago

Timothy Johnson III: Hi Mara. Unless that Palm pilot is running Palm's new WebOS, which is used for the Palm Pre/Palm Pixie, you're better of in the long run using ...MoreHi Mara. Unless that Palm pilot is running Palm's new WebOS, which is used for the Palm Pre/Palm Pixie, you're better of in the long run using your iPod touch. It's pretty versatile and the amount of useful apps is mind boggling. I used to work at Apple Retail, so, if you have any Apple-specific questions, let me know.
126 weeks ago

Kevin Durbin I've been thinking about upgrading to the iPod 3G 64GB and letting my daughter have my 2G 32GB, but looking at features.... will wait.....

138 weeks ago from Tech Gurus