Paul Krugman identified the post-1980s as resembling the "gilded age" of the 1920s - one characterised by a high and rising concentration of income in the hands of a narrow elite.

Looks matter if you want to get a job - but it may only help you if you're a handsome man rather than a pretty woman.

If you want to move up, you'll need to take the initiative, says author.

"So, what's changed in the corporate fit-out business over the years?" asked the enthusiastic reporter from an uppity interior design magazine, interviewing this weary old warhorse. "Nothing much," I replied.

A tip for blokes: Look in the mirror - and please pull up your pants.

Job listings on internet auction site Trade Me are up 25 per cent on a year ago, with growth particularly strong in Southland and Gisborne.

Authors offer tips to ambitious executives keen on gaining promotion.

The residential rebuild in Christchurch could require up to 12,500 full time workers and reveal a number of skills shortages in occupations such as concreting and carpentry, Prime Minister John Key says.

Almost half of Kiwis say they are uncomfortable with "friending" their boss on a social networking site.