• Free Elon!

    Elon Musk at the Cannes advertising festival in June 2024.
    Elon Musk bought Twitter, then broke it. Which is a bummer, but not illegal.

    • Everyone has complaints about the way Elon Musk runs Twitter.
    • Add European regulators to that list: They don't like the way he's changed the service's "blue check" program for "verified users."
    • I don't like it either. But it seems stupid to fine him over it.

    Elon Musk bought Twitter for $44 billion in 2022 and promptly went about making the company worth much, much less by scaring away users and advertisers.

    That seems dumb! But not illegal.

    European regulators feel differently. They think that Musk's self-imposed penalty — owning a service so hapless it can't even launch a half-baked slate of video podcasts — isn't nearly enough. So they want to fine him for screwing up his own service.

    What specifically did Musk do to incur the European Commission's wrath? The first sentence of its press release accuses Musk of violating regulations regarding "dark patterns, advertising transparency and data access for researchers." And, to be fair, "dark patterns" sounds pretty ominous!

    But it turns out that European regulators — who are still using Twitter, which Musk now calls X — are just like any run-of-the-mill Twitter addict: They have complaints about the product. Specifically, the blue checks.

    Here's Commissioner Thierry Breton:

    https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js

    The story of Elon and the blue checks has been told — many, many times. The latest update is that after taking away blue checks from many "verified users" like myself and my colleague Katie Notopoulos, he handed them back this spring. For free. Anyone else who wants one can pay $8 a month.

    Which, again: Dumb.

    But in America, if you want to run through your own store, tear down the signage, and throw your merchandise on the floor, that's your right. Hard to see why it should be any different in Europe.

    The sober, big-picture analysis I'm supposed to provide here is about what this says about Europe's overall efforts to reign in Big Tech, and how it's become the world's primary tech regulator since the US can't or won't do real regulation, and how some of Europe's moves seem well-intentioned but muddled, and other moves may be flat-out overreach.

    But you can read that somewhere else.

    This one is way simpler: The world is full of problems. Elon Musk's approach to blue checks is not one that requires government intervention.

    Read the original article on Business Insider
  • I tried every kind of fries at In-N-Out, and I’ll only order them animal-style in the future

    the author outside in n out holding soft drink cup and in n out animal style fries with white fork
    I tried every style of fries at In-N-Out.

    • I went to In-N-Out for the first time and tried every kind of burger.
    • I also tried every kind of fries, from the classic fries to the "not-so-secret menu" animal-style fries.
    • I was disappointed by the cheese fries but loved the flavor and texture of the animal-style version.

    In-N-Out is famous for its burgers, but how do the chain's fries measure up?

    On a trip to Austin, I tried every single kind of fries on In-N-Out's menu, from its standard salted fries to "well-done" and animal-style. I walked away impressed by only one style of fry — and slightly let down by the others.

    In-N-Out is slowly expanding, but it's still largely considered a West Coast chain, with around 400 locations in eight states and territories. It has no immediate plans to come to the East Coast — where I live — anytime soon. So even though I didn't love most of the fries on its menu, I would travel across the country to have my favorite kind again.

    Here's every type of fries at In-N-Out, ranked from my least favorite to my favorite.

    Of all the fries I tried, the cheese fries came in last place.
    in n out cheese fries
    In-N-Out cheese fries.

    The cheese fries cost me $5, excluding tax. 

    On the order I received, the cheese clung to the top layer of fries in an unappetizing way, at least to me.
    in n out cheese fries
    In-N-Out cheese fries.

    Since the cheese was under-melted, they were easier to eat with my fingers. However, I really wished the cheese had been slightly gooier. 

    The cheese itself was tasty — it was a tangy, classic American cheese. However, most of the fries didn't even get a drop of cheese on them.
    in n out cheese fries
    In-N-Out cheese fries.

    While I did enjoy the cheese, I would have much preferred the cheese to actually cover the fries. However, this can probably be chalked up to an error on the day I visited In-N-Out.

    The regular fries were a tad underwhelming, in my opinion.
    in n out regular fries
    In-N-Out regular fries.

    The regular fry cost me only $2.79, which I thought was a good deal.

    They were crispy but could have used a touch more salt.
    in n out regular fries
    In-N-Out regular fries.

    The inside was also not fluffy at all, which I thought gave them an odd texture. Overall, I was just slightly underwhelmed by the regular fries — an opinion that I share with other In-N-Out diners.

    I much preferred the crispier, well-done fries over the regular fries.
    in n out kylie jenner meal extra crispy fries
    In-N-Out well-done fries.

    The fries also cost me $2.90, meaning there was no extra charge for asking them to stay in the fryer a little longer.

    They were well-salted and the extra time in the fryer definitely gave them a better texture.
    in n out kylie jenner meal extra crispy fries
    In-N-Out well-done fries.

    Overall, I was impressed by the crispier fries and would order them this way again.

    However, the next time I find myself at an In-N-Out, I know I'll be ordering my fries animal-style.
    in n out animal fries
    In-N-Out animal-style fries.

    The chain serves its animal-style fries with special sauce, a slice of melted American cheese, and chopped grilled onions. They cost me $6. They were slightly more expensive than the cheese fries, the regular, and the crispy fries.

    The fries were covered in cheese, which was perfectly melted, and the other toppings.
    in n out animal fries
    In-N-Out animal-style fries.

    The fries were covered in so much sauce and cheese that I needed to use a fork to eat them. The bottom layer of fries didn't have a ton of cheese or sauce, but the toppings were more evenly distributed than in the case of the cheese fries.

    This will be my go-to fries order in the future — the special sauce and chopped onions added a ton of flavor.
    in n out animal fries
    In-N-Out animal-style fries.

    In my opinion, the animal-style fries won by a landslide. I thought they had the best flavor, texture, and were well worth a couple of extra dollars compared to the regular fries. 

    Read the original article on Business Insider
  • A dietitian shares 4 snacks from the longevity-boosting Atlantic diet to help you cut back on processed foods

    A white plate featuring a row of crackers topped with tuna salad.
    The Atlantic diet is a flexible way to eat healthy, and includes foods like seafood, carbohydrates like whole grains, and dairy.

    • The Atlantic diet has similar health benefits as the Mediterranean diet but with more options. 
    • A dietitian said it offers a flexible options for eating healthy, including dairy and carbs. 
    • Try dietitian-approved, high-protein snacks like bean dip, Greek yogurt, and tuna on crackers.

    The Atlantic diet, based on traditional eating habits in regions of Spain and Portugal, could help you switch up your snacking habits for a longer, healthier life, according to a dietitian. Recent research has linked the diet to a lower risk of chronic illness and potentially a longer life.

    It has a lot in common with the Mediterranean diet, ranked one of the healthiest eating patterns in the world.

    However, the Atlantic diet includes a wider variety of options, including more dairy, lean meats, seafood, nuts, and carbohydrates like potatoes, said Amanda Blechman, registered dietitian and director of health and scientific affairs at Danone North America.

    "It's very plant-forward and nutrient-rich," she told Business Insider. "What I love about it is that it leaves room to make it more applicable and customizable to your unique preferences."

    Following a flexible eating plan like the Atlantic diet can help you make healthier long-term choices, such as swapping out processed snack foods for nutritious but delicious alternatives.

    "Too many changes at once aren't sustainable, so making small changes and incorporating foods you enjoy will increase your likelihood of continuing," Blechman said.

    She shared four simple snack ideas to help you get started.

    Add more beans to your diet as snackable dips or spreads

    Blechman said one grocery store staple in her household is beans, a convenient way to make meals and snacks more filling and nourishing.

    "We always keep beans around. They make it so easy to add fiber and a plant-based protein source," she said.

    Beans are sometimes called longevity superfoods because they're a key food source in Blue Zones, areas where people live the longest, healthiest lives.

    Adding more beans to your diet can also help you follow the more flexitarian eating style of the Atlantic diet and its Mediterranean cousin by eating meat in moderation. Consider using meat as more of a flavor enhancer than a main course, and try subbing in beans for half the meat in dishes like chili, stew, or even pasta sauce.

    For bean-based snacks, try a simple spread like hummus or three-bean dip, or consider roasting some chickpeas for a crunchy option that can be sweet or savory.

    Greek yogurt is a dietitian-approved, high-protein snack

    Blechman (whose company sells yogurt, among other dairy products) is a big fan of Greek yogurt for its nutritional benefits, and she's not the only one.

    Greek yogurt is rich in protein, which can help keep you full between meals, dietitians previously told Business Insider.

    It's a complete protein, which means it contains all nine essential amino acids we need in our diets, along with vitamins and minerals like calcium, vitamin D, and B vitamins.

    "When choosing foods, you want to assess the overall nutrition value and overall package," Blechman said.

    Greek yogurt is a versatile ingredient, which makes it convenient to incorporate into your diet, she added. Try it with fruit and granola for a quick, satisfying breakfast or snack, blend it into sauces or dips, or mix it into baked goods.

    Tuna is rich in healthy fats to keep you full

    For another protein-dense snack, look no further than humble tuna, according to Blechman. Paired with whole grain crackers, it checks many nutritional boxes by providing protein, healthy fats, and complex carbs.

    You don't have to opt for tuna if you prefer salmon or even sardines since all kinds of seafood are encouraged on the Atlantic diet.

    "So many kinds of fish are nutritious," Blechman said.

    Try fruit and nuts for a balanced sweet treat

    When you're craving a sweeter snack, Blechman said a combo of fruit and nuts is a filling choice packed with nutrients like fiber, vitamins, and minerals.

    If fresh fruit isn't in season, frozen produce is just as nutritious and often more convenient and budget-friendly.

    "I never want anyone to feel like nutrition is expensive and out of reach," Blechman said.

    You don't necessarily have to forego other desserts or treats, either. While the Atlantic diet does emphasize whole foods, the focus is adding more healthy foods to your diet, instead of trying to cut back or deprive yourself.

    "Naturally, as you incorporate good foods, there will be less space for less nutritious foods without feeling restrictive," Blechman said. "The best eating patterns are ones that incorporate a lot of nutrition foods but aren't too restrictive."

    Read the original article on Business Insider
  • A FIRE couple who retired early visited every national park. They shared 6 of their favorites — and 5 to skip.

    Steven and Lauren Keys, a FIRE couple that retired early and visited every national park and US state
    Steven and Lauren Keys visited every national park and US state.

    • Steven and Lauren Keys retired at 29 by saving over 60% of their income and investing early.
    • With a net worth of $1.1 million, they visited every state and national park.
    • Their favorite is Death Valley, while they weren't as fond of Hot Springs or Gateway Arch.

    Steven and Lauren Keys, now 33 and 34, retired at 29 and have visited every state and national park — managing to grow their wealth while doing so.

    Though neither earned more than $90,000 a year while they were working full-time, they saved over 60% of their income, began investing early, and avoided unnecessary purchases, allowing them to travel for much of the year while returning with more money than they started with. On one three-month trip, they returned with $26,000 more despite working just part-time by keeping costs low, getting freebies, and achieving large investment gains.

    "We never spend down our savings when on vacation, and we usually get richer in the process," Steven said.

    They've explored much of the country, deciding their favorite national parks are in California and Alaska — while their least favorite are in the Midwest.

    Achieving financial independence

    Steven and Lauren are part of the FIRE communityfinancial independence, retire early — consisting of people who saved and invested enough to be secure financially and not rely on income from work.

    They went to high school together outside Tampa and then attended the University of Florida. Lauren put herself through college thanks to scholarships, grants, and various jobs. Steven had some assistance from his parents and received a tuition scholarship. Both graduated debt-free.

    The summer after graduating, they did a road trip across the US, driving from Florida to Alaska with a stop in New York. They slept in their car for much of the 45-day trip and didn't spend much on food.

    After a stint in California, they moved back to Florida, where Steven got a full-ride scholarship for a master's program in science education. Lauren found a job at a small financial company, and both were making about $40,000 a year. Due to tight budgeting, they saved more than 60% of their income. In two years with both of them working five-figure jobs, they saved over $100,000.

    After growing fatigued with full-time employment, they married and took a six-month sabbatical to Hawaii, where they lived frugally. They rented an apartment for six months instead of staying at hotels, bought a cheap car and sold it for more than they paid for it, and did some part-time work. Despite barely working, they returned with over $1,000 more in net worth than they started from part-time work, low-cost purchases, and investments.

    They bought their first home — a $71,000 condo in Gainesville — in cash, then job-hopped for a few years until both made about $90,000 a year. By 2019, they were worth about $600,000, and they felt it was time to embark on a seven-month road trip hitting every US national park. Due to their investments and part-time work on the road, the trip cost them nothing on net.

    "The best way to save money on any trip is to attack your biggest costs, which are going to be lodging and transportation," Steven said. "Anywhere that you're willing to drive to instead of flying, particularly if there are multiple people, that's going to save you a massive amount of money in terms of airline costs. Another thing is getting away with camping, whether in your vehicle or in a tent or campground or anything like that."

    Lauren retired in 2020 while Steven worked full-time for six months before moving to a part-time arrangement. They moved to a condo by the ocean on Florida's east coast and continued to grow their investments in low-cost index funds, real-estate holdings, and retirement accounts. Steven has continued freelancing through tutoring while Lauren does part-time social media work.

    It's allowed them to take various one- to three-month vacations over the last four years. Last year, they went on a three-month trip to Australia, after which they came back $26,000 richer. They kept expenses to below $18,000 plus $3,000 in expenses in the US, and they made about $19,000 in freelance income and $28,000 in investment gains. They bought a cheap car on Facebook Marketplace in Australia, which they sold for slightly more than they paid for it, earned free loyalty nights at hotels, cooked many of their meals, and found free museums and concerts.

    Their net worth is $1.1 million, and they're gearing up for a road trip to eastern Canada. They calculated their sweet spot is spending at most $26,000 a year to feel fulfilled without breaking the bank, though they don't track their expenses or budget.

    Favorite — and least favorite — national parks

    Steven and Lauren ranked their favorite and least favorite national parks from their travels on factors such as how much the park took their breath away, how many fun things the park had, and how easy it was to find quiet in the park.

    "Nothing's worse than showing up somewhere beautiful, and you can't get a picture of it without a crowd in the way," Lauren said. "We've been to Yosemite a couple of times, and there are areas where you're sitting in traffic literally in a national park for an extra 45 minutes."

    Death Valley was their favorite, citing the vast sand dunes of Eureka Valley, the salt flats of Badwater Basin, and the colorful rocks of Artist's Palette. Despite the crowds, Yosemite ranked second overall, as they noted the waterfalls and granite cliffs are superb.

    Hawai'i Volcanoes was their third favorite, as they lived nearby for six months and explored the park's intricacies. They ranked Hawaii's Haleakalā, the highest point on Maui, in ninth.

    Other parks topping the list include Yellowstone, American Samoa, Carlsbad Caverns, and Canyonlands.

    About 41% of the total cost of attending all national parks came from traveling to Alaska, Hawaii, and other American territories. Still, four of their top 10 parks are outside the contiguous US.

    They said one of the easiest — and cheapest — places to camp is Alaska, which they've driven to three times.

    "You don't really have to pay anything because you can pretty much pull off wherever you want," Steven said. "Nobody stares if you camp or sleep in your vehicle."

    Their least favorite national park was Hot Springs in Arkansas, which was the first national park they visited. They felt it didn't live up to the status of "national park," which they also felt about the Gateway Arch in St. Louis. They also weren't thrilled by Voyageurs in Minnesota, which didn't have many activities other than inexpensive boat tours; Guadalupe Mountains in Texas, which had fantastic views but difficult-to-access sites; and Lassen Volcanic in California, which they found peaceful but smelled like "an ugly pot of bubbling sulfur water."

    Best and worst states

    The Keys' top four favorite states are California, Alaska, Hawaii, and Utah.

    "In terms of just natural beauty and uniqueness, California has so much diversity," Steven said. "Northern and Southern California are two completely different places with two completely different awesome experiences."

    Though everyone goes to Oahu, the Big Island in Hawai'i is "super underrated," Lauren said, due to the scenery and relative calm.

    Their home base of Florida didn't make the top of their top states list, as they viewed the state's three national parks as less interesting above-ground than many others, though they're great for scuba or snorkeling.

    Their least favorite states included Kansas, Missouri, South Carolina, and New Jersey. They found Kansas rather monotonous with plenty of cornfields, and they thought St. Louis and Kansas City were very congested but didn't have the same charm as other large cities.

    They felt North Dakota, South Dakota, Idaho, and Montana are underrated, as each has some of their favorite national parks, affordable accommodations, and cities with a calmer, suburban feel. Still, they found Mount Rushmore overrated, as they expected it to be larger.

    Have you visited every — or most — state or national park? Are you part of the FIRE movement or living by some of its principles? Reach out to this reporter at nsheidlower@businessinsider.com.

    Read the original article on Business Insider
  • North Korea executed 30 teenagers for watching South Korean dramas: reports

    North Korean leader Kim Jong Un speaks at a press conference
    Kim Jong Un's government has been known to place severe restrictions on its citizens

    • North Korea executed 30 middle schoolers for watching South Korean dramas, according to reports.
    • The shows were reportedly stored on USBs that were floated over the border by North Korean defectors.
    • North Korea has been accused of using harsh penalties for those caught watching South Korean media.

    In North Korea, watching your favorite Korean dramas could end in tragedy.

    According to reports from South Korean news outlets Chosun TV and Korea JoongAng Daily, around 30 middle schoolers were publicly shot last week for watching South Korean dramas.

    The shows were reportedly stored on USBs that were floated over the border by North Korean defectors.

    Business Insider was unable to independently verify the report.

    South Korean officials did not comment directly on the report, but according to Korea JoongAng Daily, one unnamed South Korean Unification Ministry official told reporters that "it is widely known that North Korean authorities strictly control and harshly punish residents based on the three so-called 'evil' laws."

    One of these is North Korea's Reactionary Ideology and Culture Rejection Act, which forbids individuals from disseminating media that originates in South Korea, the US, or Japan.

    It is unclear whether those restrictions apply to foreigners visiting the country, such as the Russian schoolchildren preparing to attend summer camps in the country.

    This is not the first instance of North Koreans reportedly being killed for their association with content from their southern neighbor.

    According to a 2022 UN Secretary-General report, a man in Kangwon Province was killed by a public firing squad after his neighborhood watch unit saw him selling digital content from South Korea.

    A 2024 report on North Korean Human Rights, released by South Korea's Ministry of Unification, claimed that phones in North Korea are regularly checked for "South Korean-style language" and that wearing white wedding dresses is punished for being "reactionary".

    A video was released earlier this year showing two teenagers being sentenced to 12 years of hard labor for watching a K-pop video.

    Despite eyewitness accounts compiled by Amnesty International, the North Korean government has denied that public executions take place in the country.

    According to North Korean authorities, the last execution took place in 1992.

    North Korea is still technically at war with its southern counterpart, with their conflict in the 1950s ending in a truce rather than a peace treaty.

    A defector told the Korea Herald that in 2020, North Korean parents were forced to sign a pledge stating they would ensure their children do not watch "impure video content" at home.

    Recently, experts have speculated that North Korean military personnel could be sent to aid Russian efforts in Ukraine, following closer ties between North Korean leader Kim Jong Un and Russia's President Vladimir Putin.

    Representatives from North Korea and the Committee for Human Rights in North Korea didn't immediately reply to requests for comment.

    Read the original article on Business Insider
  • I’ve been a recruiter for the corporate elite for 25 years. These 10 mistakes can cost even the most brilliant candidate their dream job.

    Deepali Vyas headshot wearing a red blazer.
    Corporate recruiter, Deepali Vyas says the difference between executives landing their dream job or being rejected often comes down to the smallest details.

    • Elite recruiter Deepali Vyas has seen top executives sabotage job prospects with avoidable mistakes.
    • Common errors include outdated LinkedIn profiles, poor networking, and generic applications.
    • Executives must prioritize their online presence, tailored applications, and interview etiquette.

    After nearly 25 years of headhunting for the corporate elite, I've seen it all. From Fortune 500 CEOs to unicorn startup founders, I've placed hundreds of CEOs, CFOs, chief technology officers, and other top-tier executives in career-defining roles.

    But here's the kicker: even the most brilliant minds in business can fumble the ball when it comes to landing their dream job.

    Let me pull back the curtain on the 10 most cringe-worthy mistakes I've witnessed. These mistakes have cost exceptional candidates their shot at the corner office.

    1. Digital ghosts: The LinkedIn lurkers

    In today's digital jungle, there's nothing more infuriating than trying to stalk — I mean, research — a candidate only to hit a virtual brick wall. Or worse, stumbling upon a LinkedIn profile so outdated it might as well be carved in stone tablets. I can't count how many times I've asked, "Why are you making me Google you?" It's 2024, folks. Your digital presence is your first impression. Neglect it at your peril.

    Pro tip: Your online presence is a critical part of your personal brand and should be cultivated throughout your career.

    Keep that LinkedIn profile current and compelling, actively engage with industry content to showcase your expertise, and invest in a high-quality, professional headshot. Remember, your digital first impression should scream "executive material," not "casual Friday at a family reunion."

    2. The 'I know everyone' syndrome

    You'd think C-suite execs would be networking ninjas. But I've seen too many candidates rest on their laurels, assuming their existing Rolodex (yes, some still have those) is enough. News flash: the business world moves fast. If you're not constantly expanding your network, you're falling behind.

    Pro tip: Treat networking like a vital organ — it needs constant care and attention to keep you alive in this game.

    Attend industry events, join new professional groups, and for the love of all that's holy, accept those LinkedIn connection requests.

    3. The copy-paste catastrophe

    Nothing makes me cringe harder than receiving a generic résumé or cover letter. Yes, even for C-level positions. I once had a candidate send me a cover letter addressed to the wrong company. Ouch.

    Pro tip: Tailor every single application.

    Show me you've done your homework on the company, the role, and the challenges they're facing. Generic applications scream, "I'm not that interested," even if you are.

    4. The 'I'll wing it' wipeout

    Imagine this: A tech giant CEO walks into an interview for a dream role, confident they can charm their way through based on past glories. Thirty minutes later, they're stumbling over basic questions about the company's recent pivot. I've seen it happen, and it's not pretty.

    Pro tip: Prepare like your career depends on it — because it does.

    Know the company inside and out. Be ready to discuss its challenges and opportunities and how you'd tackle them from day one.

    5. The nostalgia trap

    War stories are great at the bar, but not so much in an interview. I've watched brilliant execs spend 90% of an interview reliving their glory days, forgetting to connect those experiences to the challenges of the role they're interviewing for.

    Pro tip: Use your past wins as a springboard to discuss future strategies.

    Show how your experience has prepared you for the company's next big challenge.

    6. The EQ fail

    Technical skills get you in the door, but emotional intelligence gets you the job. I once had a candidate — a brilliant strategist — who managed to insult the interviewer's management style within the first 10 minutes. Needless to say, they didn't get the job.

    Pro tip: Soft skills matter, especially at the top. Show empathy, active listening, and adaptability.

    These traits often outweigh technical prowess in leadership roles.

    7. The salary stumble

    Even seasoned execs can trip over the compensation question. I've seen candidates lowball themselves out of insecurity, and others demand outrageous packages out of hubris. Both approaches are recipes for disaster.

    Pro tip: Do your research. Know your worth, but also understand the market. Be prepared to discuss total compensation packages, not just salary.

    To ensure you don't undersell yourself, start by flipping the script and asking the company what salary range they have in mind. Try saying, "I'm thrilled about this opportunity and confident in the value I bring. What salary range do you have in mind for this position?"

    For some executives, time is money. Skip the drawn-out haggling and be ready to dive into the total compensation package, covering base salary, bonuses, stock options, health benefits, retirement plans, and other perks.

    And please, leave the negotiation tactics you used to buy your last car at home. I once had a CFO candidate hesitate over $3,000 in a $3 million package — that's a big mistake! It makes you appear shortsighted and unprofessional.

    8. The culture clash

    Here's a hard truth: Most executive placements fail because of cultural misalignment, not competence. I've placed technically brilliant CEOs into companies where they lasted less than a year because they were like oil in water.

    Pro tip: Ask probing questions about decision-making processes, communication styles, and company values. And be honest with yourself about whether you'll thrive in that environment.

    Culture fit is not about whether you'll be best friends with everyone. It's about aligning your working style and values with the company's.

    9. The follow-up faux pas

    The interview isn't over when you walk out the door. I'm amazed at how many executives neglect the crucial post-interview period. No follow-up email? No additional insights sent over? It's a missed opportunity to stand out.

    Pro tip: Send a thoughtful, personalized thank-you note within 24 hours.

    Use the note to reinforce key points, address concerns, and demonstrate your continued enthusiasm for the role.

    10. The bridge burner

    The executive world is smaller than you think. I've seen candidates ghost companies after multiple rounds of interviews or respond poorly to rejection. Remember, today's rejected offer might be tomorrow's dream opportunity.

    Pro tip: Maintain professionalism at all times.

    Respond graciously to rejections. If you're turning down an offer, do it with class. You never know when paths might cross again.

    The bottom line

    Even the brightest stars in the corporate galaxy can dim their own light with these cringe-worthy mistakes. After nearly a quarter-century of placing top executives, I've learned that the difference between landing a dream job and being passed over often comes down to these seemingly small but crucial details.

    Remember, at the C-suite level, you're not just being evaluated on your past achievements or technical skills. You're being scrutinized for your potential to lead, inspire, and drive the company forward. Every interaction, from your LinkedIn profile to your thank-you note, is a chance to demonstrate that potential.

    Deepali Vyas is a Senior Partner at Korn Ferry. She is a seasoned executive-level advisor and consultant with over 24 years of experience, specializing in placing world-class talent.

    If you're a recruiter with unique advice for job seekers and want to share your story, please email Tess Martinelli at tmartinelli@businessinsider.com

    Read the original article on Business Insider
  • Meet the rich and famous people in Mumbai for the Ambani wedding

    The Ambani family pose together as they arrive for the wedding whilst smiling
    Anant Ambani with his parents Mukesh and Nita.

    • Radhika Merchant and Anant Ambani's wedding begins on Friday.
    • The three-day gathering will feature a traditional Hindu ceremony, followed by other events.
    • Priyanka Chopra, Nick Jonas, and Kim Kardashian are among the stars expected to attend. 

    A four-day cruise, a performance by Rihanna, and a mass wedding for 50 couples were all just the lead-up to the glitziest wedding of the year.

    Radhika Merchant and Anant Ambani, the youngest son of Asia's richest man, are getting married in Mumbai on Friday, with events following on Saturday and Sunday.

    The Ambanis will be surrounded by family, friends, and a who's who of business, entertainment, politics, and sport.

    The star-studded affair will kick off with a "Shubh Vivaah," a traditional Hindu wedding ceremony held around a fire, according to a leaked wedding invitation seen by news agency Asian News International.

    This will be followed by a "Shubh Aashirwad" or "divine blessing" ceremony on Saturday, and the wedding concludes with a reception party or "Mangal Utsav" on Sunday.

    It's expected to be held at the Jio World Convention Centre and the Ambani family home in Mumbai called Antilia.

    Here are some of the stars attending and invited to the wedding.

    John Cena
    John Cena smiling and posing with his hand near his face
    John Cena poses as he arrives at the wedding ceremony of Anant Ambani and Radhika Merchant in Mumbai on July 12, 2024.

    Hollywood actor John Cena arrived for the wedding wearing a light blue Indian outfit called a "Salwar Kameez."

    Priyanka Chopra and Nick Jonas
    Joe Jonas and Priyanka Chopra wave at a camera as they exit an SUV
    Joe Jonas and Priyanka Chopra arrived in Mumbai for the Ambani wedding.

    The couple was pictured after arriving in Mumbai on Thursday and is rumored to be attending the wedding.

    Kim Kardashian and Khloe Kardashian
    Khloe Kardashian and Kim Kardashian posing whilst stood next to eachother
    Kim Kardashian posted photographs on her Instagram Stories after she arrived in Mumbai on July 11

    Kim Kardashian and sister Khloe Kardashian shared photographs and clips on their Instagram Stories after arriving in Mumbai on Thursday and are rumored to be attending.

    Mike Tyson
    Mike Tyson.
    Mike Tyson.

    Mike Tyson is expected to attend the wedding, insiders told Bloomberg. The 58-year-old is regarded as one of the greatest heavyweight boxers.

    FIFA president Gianni Infantino is also expected to join the celebration, according to the outlet. He's headed the football association since 2016 and has been a member of the International Olympic Committee since 2020.

    Tony Blair
    tony blair
    NEW YORK, NY – SEPTEMBER 18: Tony Blair, Chairman, European Council on Tolerance and Reconciliation & Former Prime Minister, United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland, speaks at The 2017 Concordia Annual Summit at Grand Hyatt New York on September 18, 2017 in New York City. (Photo by Paul Morigi/Getty Images for Concordia Summit)

    Former UK prime ministers Tony Blair and Boris Johnson are also expected to be in attendance at the festivities, per Bloomberg.

    Global business leaders
    Saudi Aramco CEO Amin Nasser wearing a suit
    Saudi Aramco CEO Amin Nasser.

    According to Bloomberg, some business leaders invited to the wedding include Saudi Aramco CEO Amin Nasser, BP chief Murray Auchincloss, and Emma Walmsley, the CEO of drug giant GSK.

    Shahid Kapoor and Meera Rajput
    Shahid Kapoor and his wife Meera Rajput smiling whilst wearing black outfits
    Bollywood actor Shahid Kapoor and his wife Meera Rajput pose together at the wedding ceremony on July 12, 2024

    Bollywood celebrities have been prominent on the guest lists of all the pre-wedding and wedding events.

    Actors including Deepika Padukone, Ranveer Singh, Shahid Kapoor, Jhanvi Kapoor, Vidya Balan, Alia Bhat, Ranbir Kapoor, have been featured in official photos of the pre-wedding events.

    Bollywood's Shah Rukh Khan and his wife Meera Rajput arrived in Mumbai on Friday for the wedding weekend, according to the Indian outlet Mint.

    Read the original article on Business Insider
  • The 10 best things to stream this weekend, from a Nicolas Cage horror movie to an Apple TV+ dark comedy

    What to stream this weekend.
    • The first episodes of the sci-fi thriller "Sunny," starring Rashida Jones, are streaming on Apple TV+.
    • You can catch up on the season 21 premiere of "The Bachelorette" on Hulu.
    • Documentaries about Melissa Etheridge, Faye Dunaway, and Serena Williams are also out now.

    This week is a particularly busy one for fans of real-life stories.

    Oscar-winning actor Faye Dunaway, legendary musician Melissa Etheridge, and tennis icon Serena Williams are all the subjects of documentaries and docuseries that are now available to watch at home.

    If you'd rather escape from reality, new movies like "Arcadian" and the AppleTV+ sci-fi drama series "Sunny" are also available to stream.

    Here's a complete rundown of all the best movies, shows, and documentaries to stream this weekend, broken down by what kind of entertainment you're looking for.

    Reality TV fans can rejoice in the return of 'The Bachelorette'
    'The Bachelorette" host Jesse Palmer and star Jenn Tran on the season 21 premiere.
    'The Bachelorette" host Jesse Palmer and star Jenn Tran on the season 21 premiere.

    After being eliminated just before hometowns during season 28 of "The Bachelor," Jenn Tran gets the main character treatment and a second chance at love on season 21 of "The Bachelorette." If you missed the season premiere on Monday night on ABC, Hulu has you covered.

    Streaming on: Hulu

    Horror fanatics should check out 'Arcadian'
    Nicolas Cage, Maxwell Jenkins and Jaeden Martell in "Arcadian."
    Nicolas Cage, Maxwell Jenkins, and Jaeden Martell in "Arcadian."

    The Nicolas Cage renaissance — the Cageaissance, if you will — continues with "Arcadian," an action movie in which Cage plays a father trying to survive a postapocalyptic world with his two sons.

    Streaming on: Shudder

    For a true-crime fix, tune into "Mastermind: To Think Like a Killer"
    Dr. Ann Burgess in "Mastermind: To Think Like a Killer."
    Ann Burgess in "Mastermind: To Think Like a Killer."

    If you're still not over Netflix's cancellation of "Mindhunter," Hulu's latest docuseries, "Mastermind: To Think Like a Killer" will be of interest. The show focuses on Dr. Ann Burgess, a trailblazing forensic nurse whose approach to analyzing true-crime cases hugely influenced serial-killer profiling. Her work with the FBI's Behavioral Science Unit even inspired "Mindhunter."

    Streaming on: Hulu

    If you're in the mood for a thriller, watch the sci-fi show "Sunny"
    Rashida Jones in "Sunny."
    Rashida Jones in "Sunny."

    While you wait for the long-gestating second season of "Severance," on Apple TV"+, the streamer's new mystery thriller "Sunny" might be able to fill the void. The 10-episode dark comedy — which is being compared to "Black Mirror" — stars "Parks and Recreation" alum Rashida Jones as Suzie Sakamoto, a woman whose life drastically changes after her husband and son disappear in a plane crash and a robot shows up to keep her company.

    Streaming on: Apple TV+

    Or 'Emperor of Ocean Park'
    Forest Whitaker in "Emperor of Ocean Park."
    Forest Whitaker in "Emperor of Ocean Park."

    The 10-episode series is adapted from Stephen L. Carter's best-selling novel of the same name. "Emperor of Ocean Park" stars Academy Award winner Forest Whitaker as Oliver Garland, a judge whose death leads his family members to dig deeper and investigate suspicions of foul play.

    Streaming on: MGM+

    For an inspiring documentary, watch 'Quad Gods'
    (L-R) Prentice Hall, Richard Jacobs, Alejandro Courtney, and Blake Hunt exercising in Central Park in the documentary "Quad Gods."
    Prentice Hall, Richard Jacobs, Alejandro Courtney, and Blake Hunt exercising in Central Park in the documentary "Quad Gods."

    This HBO documentary follows the creation of the Quad Gods, a quadriplegic esports team that was founded to create space for people with disabilities in the gaming community.

    Streaming on: Max

    Music fans can tune into 'Melissa Etheridge: I'm Not Broken'
    Melissa Etheridge in the docuseries "Melissa Etheridge: I'm Not Broken."
    Melissa Etheridge in the docuseries "Melissa Etheridge: I'm Not Broken."

    In this two-part docuseries, the Grammy-winning singer returns to her home state and puts on a concert at the all-women Topeka Correctional Facility to uplift those incarcerated through her music. Etheridge also spotlights their stories in the hopes of minimizing the stigma around addiction and recovery.

    Streaming on: Paramount+

    Movie buffs can get an intimate look at Faye Dunaway's life in 'Faye'
    Faye Dunaway in "Faye."
    Faye Dunaway in "Faye."

    The new HBO documentary "Faye" promises an unfiltered and candid look at the illustrious career of Oscar winner Faye Dunaway, who made a name for herself starring in films like "Bonnie and Clyde," "Network," "Chinatown," and "Mommie Dearest."

    The documentary premiered earlier this year at the Cannes Film Festival and makes its way to streaming this weekend.

    Streaming on: Max

    Serena Williams gives tennis fans an in-depth look at her career in the new docuseries 'In the Arena: Serena Williams'
    serena williams at the 2022 us open
    Serena Williams is the subject of a new docuseries.

    Serena Williams announced her retirement from tennis two years ago, but she's not done sharing stories about her life. The Grand Slam champion reveals even more anecdotes and behind-the-scenes secrets about some of the most memorable matches of her career in an eight-part docuseries that premiered on Wednesday.

    Streaming on: ESPN+

    'Descendants: The Rise of Red' is a good pick to watch with kids
    Brandy Norwood as Cinderella in "Descendants: The Rise of Red."
    Brandy Norwood as Cinderella in "Descendants: The Rise of Red."

    The newest sequel in Disney Channel's popular musical franchise "Descendants" includes a coup, time travel, Rita Ora as the Queen of Hearts, and '90s icon Brandy Norwood — who reprises her role as Cinderella from the 1997 TV movie "Rogers & Hammerstein's Cinderella."

    Streaming on: Disney+

    Read the original article on Business Insider
  • Ukraine will likely have to wait a year before it’s able to launch another counteroffensive, NATO official says

    Zelenskyy, Nato
    Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy at the NATO summit in Washington, DC, in July 2024.

    • The NATO summit is being held in Washington, DC, with Russia's invasion of Ukraine a key topic.
    • NATO has agreed to provide Ukraine with $40 billion in new military aid, but it won't arrive soon.
    • Ukraine may have to wait another year before launching a counteroffensive, one NATO official said.

    Ukraine may have to wait another year before launching a new counteroffensive against Russian forces, a NATO official told The New York Times.

    During the NATO summit in Washington, DC, this week, members of the military alliance agreed to provide Ukraine with $40 billion in new military aid to fight the Russian invasion.

    But the new aid will take weeks or even months to arrive at the front line, the Times reported, with much of the support long-term assistance.

    As such, a senior US defense official told The Times that Ukraine would remain on the defensive for the next six months, while an unnamed senior NATO official told the outlet that the aid would enable Ukraine to push back against Russia in 2025.

    Ukraine's last, much-vaunted counteroffensive in 2023 failed to achieve much of a breakthrough.

    At the beginning of 2024, Ukraine was on the back foot after Republicans in Congress blocked a new aid bill, and Ukraine's forces began running low on ammunition and other supplies.

    During that time, Ukraine's European allies struggled to make up the shortfall and Russia was able to seize more territory in east Ukraine.

    But the release of US aid in April allowed Ukraine to blunt Russia's attacks.

    Ukrainian officials have regularly complained that Western aid arrives piecemeal and is often too late to make a decisive difference on the battlefield.

    The US has also placed strict limits on how Ukraine can use some weapons, banning Ukraine from using long-range missiles in attacks on Russia itself until recently, and then only allowing Ukraine to use them to target troops gathering for attacks across the border.

    Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, at the summit on Thursday, appealed to the US to lift the restrictions.

    Meanwhile, Western weapons that were highly effective during Ukraine's drive that pushed Russia's military back in 2022, such as GPS-guided long-range missiles, are notably less effective now due to improvements in Russian electronic warfare.

    Read the original article on Business Insider
  • Saudi Arabia’s Neom dreams collide with financial reality as budgets reportedly face big cuts

    A conceptual image of the planned design for The Line in Saudi Arabia's Neom, shows a large mirrored facade extending out into the water from the desert.
    The planned design for The Line in Neom.

    • Saudi Arabia is reportedly getting ready to slash Neom's budget.
    • The megaproject is expected to get 20% less than its target funding, Bloomberg reported. 
    • Saudi Arabia has been struggling to justify the enormous cost of megaprojects such as Neom.

    Saudi Arabia appears to be facing up to the reality of its Neom dreams.

    The kingdom is set to cut billions of dollars in spending on some of its Vision 2030 megaprojects amid rumors of spiraling costs, Bloomberg reported.

    Crown Prince Mohammed Bin Salman's Vision 2030 aims to transform Saudi Arabia both economically and politically by reducing its dependence on oil revenues and pivoting toward technology.

    Neom, which has emerged as the plan's flashy centerpiece, is reportedly expected to be given 20% less than its target budget for the year.

    Plans to launch a new airline for Neom are also on hold, unnamed sources told Bloomberg.

    The decision is part of a sweeping review of Saudi's megaprojects. In June, an advisor linked to the kingdom's government told BBC News that some Vision 2030 projects were being reviewed, and some may face delays.

    Saudi Arabia has been struggling to justify the enormous cost of megaprojects like Neom.

    Experts previously told Business Insider that the kingdom has failed to attract the foreign investment it hoped for and that it's unlikely to do so in the near future.

    The Saudi Public Investment Fund has borne the lion's share of the financial burden, but officials have reportedly become increasingly nervous about spiraling costs.

    Planners have reportedly dismissed the official $500 billion budget for Neom as unrealistically low. Some estimates have put the projected bill at as much as $1.5 trillion.

    Andreas Krieg, a Gulf specialist at the Institute of Middle Eastern Studies at King's College London, previously told BI: "Vision 2030 consumes a lot of money, and there's a lot of inefficiencies, especially when it comes to Western consultancy firms," he said.

    Construction is underway on some elements of Neom, such as The Line — twin mirrored skyscrapers designed to be 105 miles long.

    Krieg previously described The Line as a "completely ludicrous megaproject" that is not sustainable due to its huge cost.

    Satellite image of construction on The Line.
    Satellite image of construction on The Line.

    Representatives for Neom did not immediately respond to a request for comment from Business Insider.

    Read the original article on Business Insider