#customer service training manual

[imtrashraccoon]

Thank you @vii-naught for the tag! These seemed like interesting questions so why not?

Do you make your bed? Sometimes? I want to do it more often, especially now that I bought a body pillow. Not that kind!

Favorite number? 8. It's a fun shape and you don't need to lift the pen from the paper to make it.

What's your job? I currently work in customer service for a corporate hardware store.

If you could go back to school, would you? I really don't want to go into debt, however I probably will. I think I'll take something related to administration and if I can, some writing related courses since I'd love to publish my own books someday!

Can you parallel park? Yep, but I don't go downtown very often so I'm rusty.

Do you think aliens are real? Nope, but it would be fun if we weren't alone in the universe.

Can you drive a manual car? ...I can crash one.

What’s your guilty pleasure? Foodwise, any ice cream with peanut butter and chocolate in it. Otherwise, writing or looking at art of my favourite characters. You know the ones...

Tattoos? Nah, they're cool but I don't like needles. I'm not opposed to getting something small though.

Favourite colour? Purple. Then why are the words pink?? Because I didn't wanna copy!

Favorite types of music? I think it's called electronic pop? Whatever style Owl City does. I also like classical, a little rock, instrumentals, and video game music.

Do you like puzzles? Not particularly. I can do them but if I can't figure it out within a reasonable time, I get frustrated. Papyrus might have to convince me to participate unfortunately.

Any phobias? Not that I've been diagnosed with. I don't like biting insects or parasites. I also have some social anxiety but I can usually overcome it.

Favorite childhood sport? Soccer! Or football if you're European. I'd still play it if I was in shape and had time. I was also into swimming which may have inspired my love for mermaids and sirens.

Do you talk to yourself? Yep, fairly often too. Mostly in the car or when I'm alone at work when I want to vent. I also like to talk through potential plot points for my fics.

What movies do you adore? I'm more into the history of movies than actually watching them. I do love fantasy movies like How To Train Your Dragon and I remember loving the first My Hero Academia movie.

Coffee or tea? Tea.

First thing you wanted to be growing up? Silly. Definitely achieved that one... Joking aside, I think maybe a nutritionist or dietitian? Not so much anymore since I'd much rather be a children's writer.

[mysteryshoptls]

SSR Sebek Zigvolt New Year's Attire Voice Lines

When Summoned: This is a rather brisk and wonderful day. I sincerely extend my best wishes for a prosperous new year!

Summon Line: Customer service is all about clear communication. So then, here I go... WELLLCOMEEE!!!

Groooovy!!: The only way to improve your skills in ＨＡＧＯＩＴＡ is to train! First up is swing-practice, 1000 times!

Home: Right, time to start work.

Home Idle 1: Vil-senpai was instructing me on how to speak to customers, but... Humph, I don't see any reason why I should need to improve!

Home Idle 2: I would often visit my grandfather's house during the New Year's holiday. I still fondly remember how I'd lose myself in his old tales.

Home Idle 3: I've been working on my customer service smile in order to draw in more sales, but... Gah! I still cannot get used to this!!

Home Idle - Login: Happy New Year! The Young Master appeared in my first dream of the year. This will be a splendid year to come!

Home Idle - Groovy: How to control the pace of a rally... Ah, this? This is a badminton manual. I thought perhaps there would be something useful in it.

Home Tap 1: Food, sundries, clothes... This shop holds a large variety of products. It is quite difficult to remember where everything is located.

Home Tap 2: What are my New Year's resolutions? Without a doubt, that would be to be the Young Master's... Mmh, you mean you want a resolution that doesn't have to do with him? ...I cannot come up with anything. Give me a moment.

Home Tap 3: Earlier, I was double-checking my attire in the mirror and fixed everything down to the most trivial irregularity. I will not overlook a single flaw in my appearance!

Home Tap 4: Today, before coming in to work, I checked on the stables. Last night, the temperature dropped pretty low, yet it didn't seem as though any of the horses were doing poorly.

Home Tap 5: What do I plan to do with my paycheck? I will be purchasing the finest ice cream and tomato juice. Of course, it will not be for my own use. These are gifts.

Home Tap - Groovy: Oho, so you say you cleaned the whole Ramshackle dorm top to bottom before New Year's Eve, you say. Then, I shall come and check to see if it truly has been cleaned.

Duo: [SEBEK]: Let us put them to rout, Vil-senpai! [VIL]: Sebek, make sure to mop them up properly.

Requested by Anonymous.

[learnfromkarl]

The Myth of the "Easy" Job

Hey there, Learners! Today, let's talk about something that's been bugging me for a while: the myth of the "easy" job.

We've all heard it before: "Oh, that job is so easy! You just sit around all day and do nothing." Or, "I wish I had an easy job like that." Well, let me tell you something: there's no such thing as an easy job.

Sure, some jobs may seem less physically or mentally demanding than others, but every job has its own unique challenges and difficulties. Just because someone doesn't break a sweat or come home exhausted from their job doesn't mean it's easy.

Take customer service, for example. Some people might think that all you have to do is sit at a desk and answer phones all day. But anyone who has worked in customer service knows that dealing with angry or frustrated customers can be incredibly stressful and emotionally draining. It requires patience, empathy, and excellent communication skills.

Or what about retail? Sure, you might be folding clothes or stocking shelves, but you also have to deal with difficult customers, meet sales goals, and handle inventory management.

And let's not forget about the jobs that are physically demanding, like construction or manual labor. These jobs require strength, stamina, and skill. They may not require the same level of education or training as other jobs, but that doesn't make them easy.

The point is, every job has its own challenges and difficulties. Just because someone else's job looks easy from the outside doesn't mean it actually is. So let's stop perpetuating the myth of the "easy" job and start respecting the hard work and dedication that goes into every career.

Thanks for reading, Learners! Remember, there's no such thing as an easy job. Until next time, keep learning and growing!

[xirayn]

Stonathan Week Day 1: Scoops Ahoy - Jonathan helps Steve get ready to sling ice cream.

Hey Sailor

written by @xirayn and @aibhlynn

Trying something new by writing screenplays rather than short stories. Feedback on this format appreciated.

INT. HARRINGTON HOUSE – KITCHEN – EVENING

The kitchen is the height of modern interior design circa late 1980s: terra-cotta tile flooring, honey oak cabinets, white countertops and backsplash. JONATHAN is sitting at the island reading a SCOOPS AHOY training manual while STEVE gets a quart of rocky road ice cream from the freezer. There are already bowls on the island, as well as a white sailor’s hat with ‘AHOY’ embroidered in blue across the front.

JONATHAN

(Reading)

Greet all customers with a smile and a cheerful 'ahoy'.

JONATHAN looks up at STEVE, who sets the ice cream on the counter.

STEVE

(Deadpan)

Ahoy there, sailor. Would you like to set sail on this ocean of flavor with me? I'll be your captain, Steve Harrington.

JONATHAN is trying hard to suppress a smile. Steve rolls his eyes and takes the top off the ice cream.

JONATHAN

That wasn't very cheerful.

STEVE

(Still deadpan)

Ahoy, me hearty lads and lassies, I am Captain Steve and I will be taking you on a magical journey to an ocean of flavor.

JONATHAN

It is painfully obvious you have never worked with customers.

STEVE

I worked at the pool. There were a lot of customers there.

JONATHAN

You weren’t serving them. Here, give me the scoop.

JONATHAN reaches for the ice cream scoop and STEVE gives it over without any objection. With the scoop in his hand, JONATHAN smiles with the forced friendliness that comes with working in the service industry.

JONATHAN

Ahoy, matey. Are you ready to set sail on an ocean of flavor?

STEVE

Dude, you look like someone is controlling your facial expressions.

JONATHAN

Do you want my help, or not?

STEVE

Do you want my ice cream or not?

STEVE takes the scoop back as Jonathan laughs.

JONATHAN

Fine. Try adding some of that 'Harrington charm' this time.

STEVE runs the scoop over the smooth surface of the ice cream. He looks at JONATHAN through his lashes with the start of a coy grin.

STEVE

Ahoy, my good sir. I'm Captain STEVE, would you like to set sail with me on a journey through an ocean of flavor?

JONATHAN

Do you have anything other than rocky road?

STEVE

There's mint, butterscotch and Swiss vanilla.

JONATHAN smirks at ‘butterscotch’, trying not to laugh and making Steve tense.

JONATHAN

Butterscotch?

STEVE

What's wrong with butterscotch?

JONATHAN

Nothing, if you're taking your grandkids out for ice cream.

With a tight frown, STEVE returns the scoop of ice cream back to the carton. He closes the carton and returns it to the freezer, coming back with Swiss vanilla. JONATHAN is clearly unimpressed and possibly a bit exasperated by the display.

JONATHAN

And there goes your tip - You can't let the customer know you are anything other than happy to serve them.

STEVE pushes the bowl of Swiss vanilla across the island to JONATHAN. His expression remains neutral.

STEVE

Enjoy your vanilla ice cream, sir.

JONATHAN

Oh, come on, are you actually upset?

STEVE hesitates to answer while JONATHAN picks out the chocolate covered almonds from his ice cream.

STEVE

The very first and last time my mom took me to get ice cream, she got me butterscotch. Last time she said she was proud of me.

JONATHAN

You don't have to justify why you like something, Steve. Just like it.

This seems to be a revelation to Steve. He blinks, confused, then laughs lightly with a shake of his head.

STEVE

You might have a point there.

JONATHAN eats his ice cream while STEVE picks up the hat to idly fidget with as he sits down

STEVE

Did I mention the Party is already asking me for free ice cream? I haven't even started working yet!

JONATHAN

Of course they are. When I worked at the theater, they were always asking if I could sneak them in or get them free popcorn. Their favorite babysitter working at an ice cream shop is basically a dream come true.

STEVE flips the hat onto his head then slumps forward onto the counter, resting his head on his crossed arm.

STEVE

I fully expect them to beg me to let them sneak in to slip inside the theater unseen once I start working.

JONATHAN

And Dustin is the one that suggested you apply?

JONATHAN pushes the ice cream bowl aside so he can mirror STEVE’s posture. They are both grinning slightly with an almost playful energy that hints there is more to their relationship than what is seen at first glance.

JONATHAN

You got played, skipper.

STEVE

Are you going to complain about all the future free ice cream coming your way?

JONATHAN

Abusing your employee benefits already?

STEVE

If I'm going to be forced into abusing them for a bunch of brats, I might as well abuse them for my friends.

JONATHAN

So we're friends now?

STEVE

Dude, we're hanging out in my kitchen eating ice cream.

JONATHAN

That's true.

STEVE

How was your vanilla?

STEVE sits up slightly to take the spoon from the bowl JONATHAN pushed aside to have a taste. When he notices JONATHAN watching his mouth, he pulls the spoon out slowly. STEVE’s tongue flicks over his lips. JONATHAN swallows before looking away.

JONATHAN

Scoops Ahoy knows how to make ice cream. I don't get the obsession with chunks, though.

STEVE

Not even a ribbon of flavor?

JONATHAN

That's more understandable. I'm just not into chewing my ice cream.

STEVE

What can I say. I like nuts.

STEVE is clearly going for a double meaning that JONATHAN glosses over.

JONATHAN

I like them, too, but in trail mix or cookies.

STEVE

I could go for some cookies.

JONATHAN

All this ice cream isn't enough?

STEVE

How much did you see me actually eat, Jon?

JONATHAN

I asked if you were ready to set sail on an ocean of flavor.

JONATHAN gets up and goes around the island to lean beside Steve.

JONATHAN

What do you say, matey? Want to cast off with me?

STEVE chuckles, amused by JONATHAN’s attempt at flirting. It works, of course, and STEVE takes the hat from his head to put on JONATHAN.

STEVE

Aye aye, Captain.

[stimulated-radiation-emission]

tagged by my wonderful friend @zombf !! sorry for being so late with these hehe ;w;

ill refrain from @'ing anyone since i just @'ed ppl with the last one but again if anyone who sees this wants to do it as well pls feel free to ^__^

Get to know me tag game:

Do you make your bed? - i wishhhhhhh lol

What's your favorite number? - i feel like 8 is my go-to when i have to exaggerate things w a random number. like Oh this will give u 800 errors. itll screw you over for 8 million dollars. that kind of hyperbole. i think i do the same w 7 too, no other notable numbers tho

What is your job? - CUSTOMER SERVICE/CASHEIR[sic] AT CVS BABYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYY it sucksssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssss im cross-trained in the pharmacy too but barely get shifts back there. my 7-3s make me want to k*ll myself but its ok ^__^

If you could go back to school, would you? - yeah but tfw east coast fucking sucks. we have all these ivy leagues and universities and colleges between all these huge cities and none of them offer anything worth fucking taking. laser technology? Nah gotta be midwest or west coast. Sustainability? NAH GOTTA BE MIDWEST OR EAST COAST. id be an electrician but everyone is also like "Yea u need a car and all ur own equipment to do that tho lol" so im like OKay fuck me i guess. im going to lie down in front of a train

Can you parallel park? - what the fuck is a car

A job you had that would surprise people? - (barista) (cashier) (barista again) (cashier again) .....a pushover? wait no the question was "surprise" Fuck. Shit

Do you think aliens are real? - why not

Can you drive a manual car? - what like stick shift? i mean Imagine having ur license in the first place but if i did then idve learned on a stick.

What's your guilty pleasure? - sometimes i drink alcohol

Tattoos? - mew angel. nge seele. dishonored: death of the outsider eyeless. DRHDR OST cover

Favorite color? - purple red black Seafoam!

Favorite type of music? - i know that "i will listen to anything" is the cop-out stupid answer but i literally will listen to fucking anything. I fuck with hard basslines the most tho

Do you like puzzles? - YESSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSS video game puzzles and sudoku. Yayayayay

Any phobias? - HEIGHTS LMFAOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO sometimes ill be at the top of a staircase and start freaking out. like Shut up

Favorite childhood sport? - i didnt do sports as a kid i did P.E. and ran around my neighborhood. i liked roller blading the most thruout school tho

Do you talk to yourself? - o yea. especially at work

What movies do you adore? - METROPOLIS (OSAMU TEZUKA). PAPRIKA. REBUILD OF EVANGELION 3.33. AKIRA. sorry for being a weeb. TOKYO GODFATHERS !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! FUCK

Coffee or Tea? - uuuuu prob coffee. i dont get tea as often. im particular abt both tho x__x

First thing you wanted to be when you grew up? - GEOLOGIST/MINERALOGIST !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! ^______^

[kiranapassionategamer]

Top Work-from-Home Jobs for Housewives in 2024

Remote work has become more common because people understand that working from home using the Internet may be convenient. This change offers housewives a range of possibilities for organizing home chores and, at the same time, earning money. 

Here is a list of the best home-based activities housewives can do in 2024.

Best Jobs for Housewives 2024

Some women feel dependent if she not earning even she’s a housewives. However, the Ludo real cash game that offers an opportunity to win Rs10 lakh by playing games, these women feel mentally independent and stress-free. So, apart from paying games, here’s a list of some of the best jobs for housewives in 2024.

1. Freelance Writing

Freelance writing is flexible because one can write in any area of interest or specialization. Whether content writing, blogging, copywriting or technical writing, there is always a great demand for well-written content.

Types of Writing Jobs:

Content Writing: Writing web content such as articles, blog posts, and other types of text on the websites.

Blogging: Specialized in blogging about similar topics and making money through ads and affiliate marketing.

Copywriting: Developing copy for brochures and other forms of promotion.

Technical Writing: Writing manuals, guides and other technical writing work.

Tips for Getting Started:

Building a Portfolio: Gather notes and past works to prove your ability and advertise yourself to the clients.

Joining Freelancing Platforms: Freelance marketplace sites such as Upwork, Fiverr, and Freelancer avail clients to writers seeking to offer a plethora of writing services.

2. Virtual Assistance

Virtual assistants provide administrative support to businesses and entrepreneurs remotely. Their tasks can vary widely depending on the client's needs. 

Common Tasks and Responsibilities:

Email management entails replying to and organizing emails.

Organizing calendars and making appointments is called scheduling.

Taking care of questions and problems from customers is known as customer support.

How to Find Virtual Assistant Jobs:

Job boards: Virtual assistant jobs are listed on websites such as Indeed, FlexJobs, and Remote.co.

VA Agencies: These companies are experts at matching clients with virtual assistants.

Networking: Creating a network on social media and in business associations can help you get employment.

Necessary Skills and Tools Required:

Tech-savvyness, communication, and organizational abilities.

Working knowledge of Google Workspace, Microsoft Office, and project management apps like Asana or Trello.

3. Online Tutoring and Teaching

With the increasing popularity of online learning, the demand for online tutors and teachers has surged. 

Subjects and Skills in High Demand:

Academic Subjects: Math, science, and languages.

Language Teaching: Teaching English or other languages to non-native speakers.

Music Lessons: Offering lessons in instruments or vocal training.

Platforms to Get Started:

VIPKid: Teaching English to students in China.

Chegg Tutors: Offering tutoring in various academic subjects.

Coursera: Teaching specialized courses to a global audience.

4. Social Media Management

Social media managers create and manage content for businesses and influencers on platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter. 

Managing Social Media Accounts for Businesses and Influencers:

Content Creation: Developing posts, stories, and videos.

Analytics: Tracking engagement and performance metrics.

Engagement Strategies: Interacting with followers and responding to comments.

Essential Skills:

Content Creation: Writing, graphic design, and video editing.

Analytics: Understanding social media metrics.

Engagement Strategies: Knowing how to build and maintain a community.

Steps to Becoming a Social Media Manager:

Courses: Taking courses in social media marketing.

Certifications: Earning certifications from platforms like HubSpot or Hootsuite.

Networking: Joining social media groups and forums.

5. E-commerce and Online Selling

Online selling is one of the best work from home jobs for housewives that make them financially independent. Housewives can start their own online store or sell products on platforms like Etsy, Amazon, and eBay.

Popular Products to Sell:

Handmade Crafts: Jewelry, home decor, and personalized gifts.

Vintage Items: Clothing, accessories, and collectibles.

Digital Products: Printables, e-books, and courses.

Basics of Setting Up an Online Store:

Inventory Management: Keeping track of stock and supplies.

Marketing: Promoting products through social media and other channels.

Customer Service: Providing excellent service to retain customers.

6. Graphic Design

Graphic designers create visual content for businesses, including logos, websites, and marketing materials. 

Tools and Software Needed:

Adobe Creative Suite: Photoshop, Illustrator, and InDesign.

Canva: A user-friendly design tool.

Tips for Building a Portfolio and Finding Clients:

Portfolio: Showcase your best work on a personal website or portfolio site.

Finding Clients: Use freelancing platforms and networks within the design community.

7. Data Entry and Transcription Jobs

Data entry involves inputting data into systems, while transcription entails converting audio recordings into text. 

Necessary Skills:

Attention to Detail: Ensuring accuracy in data and transcripts.

Typing Speed: Fast and accurate typing.

Platforms to Find Work:

Upwork: A freelancing platform with data entry and transcription jobs.

Rev: Specializes in transcription services.

TranscribeMe: Offers transcription opportunities for beginners.

8. Online Surveys and Market Research

Participating in online surveys and market research studies can be an easy way to earn extra income.

Reputable Survey Sites and Research Panels:

Swagbucks: Offers surveys and other ways to earn points redeemable for gift cards.

Survey Junkie: Provides paid survey opportunities.

Vindale Research: Pays for participating in surveys and studies.

Tips for Maximizing Earnings and Avoiding Scams:

Maximizing Earnings: Sign up for multiple survey sites.

Avoiding Scams: Stick to reputable sites and never pay to join a survey site.

9. Affiliate Marketing

Affiliate marketing involves promoting products or services and earning a commission on sales made through your referral link.

Choosing a Niche and Promoting Products/Services:

Niche: Select a specific area of interest to focus on.

Promotion: Use a blog, social media, or a YouTube channel to promote products.

Creating a Blog or Website for Affiliate Marketing:

Blog: Write content related to your niche and include affiliate links.

Website: Build a dedicated site to promote affiliate products.

10. Customer Service Representative

Customer service representatives handle inquiries and issues from customers via phone, email, or chat.

Common Industries Hiring for Remote Customer Service:

Retail: Handling orders and returns.

Tech Support: Assisting with technical issues.

Finance: Managing account-related inquiries.

Required Skills and Qualifications:

Communication: Clear and effective communication skills.

Problem-Solving: Ability to resolve customer issues efficiently.

Platforms to Find Customer Service Jobs:

Indeed: Lists various remote customer service positions.

Remote.co: Specializes in remote job listings.

FlexJobs: Offers a wide range of remote job opportunities.

Conclusion

Working from home offers housewives the flexibility to balance their personal and professional lives while earning an income. Whether through freelancing, virtual assistance, online tutoring, or any of the other opportunities listed, there are numerous ways to embark on a rewarding work-from-home career. With dedication and the right skills, housewives can find fulfilling jobs that fit seamlessly into their daily routines.

[cashcountingmachinebybankomat]

Billing machines have become an essential tool for businesses across various sectors, streamlining the invoicing process and enhancing operational efficiency. This article explores the features, benefits, and types of billing machines, as well as their significance in modern commerce.

What is a Billing Machine?

A billing machine is a device specifically designed to generate invoices and manage transactions efficiently. It automates the billing process, allowing businesses to issue receipts quickly and accurately. Available in various forms such as portable, handheld, and point-of-sale (POS) systems, these machines cater to the needs of small businesses and large enterprises alike.

Key Features of Billing Machines

User-Friendly Interface: Many modern billing machines come with intuitive touchscreen interfaces that simplify the transaction process, making it easy for staff to operate without extensive training.

Fast and Accurate Billing: These machines are designed to process transactions rapidly, significantly reducing customer wait times and enhancing service efficiency.

Customizable Invoices: Users can personalize invoice templates to reflect their branding, including logos and business details, which adds a professional touch to customer interactions.

Comprehensive Reporting: Billing machines often provide detailed sales reports, inventory tracking, and financial records, enabling businesses to monitor performance and make informed decisions.

Tax Compliance: Many billing machines are equipped with features that ensure compliance with tax regulations, making it easier to calculate applicable taxes like GST or VAT.

Multiple Payment Options: They support various payment methods, including cash, credit/debit cards, and digital wallets, providing convenience to customers.

Benefits of Using Billing Machines

Increased Efficiency: Automating the billing process reduces manual errors and speeds up transactions, leading to improved cash flow and customer satisfaction.

Enhanced Security: Billing machines help in maintaining secure records of transactions, reducing the risk of loss or theft associated with cash handling.

Improved Inventory Management: Many billing machines come with inventory management features that allow businesses to track stock levels and set up alerts for low inventory, ensuring timely restocking.

Cost-Effectiveness: While the initial investment in a billing machine may be higher, the long-term savings in time and labor can be substantial, making them a cost-effective solution for businesses.

Types of Billing Machines

POS Systems: These are comprehensive solutions that combine billing, inventory management, and sales tracking, ideal for retail environments and restaurants.

Portable Billing Machines: These compact devices are perfect for businesses that require mobility, such as food trucks or market vendors.

Handheld Billing Machines: Designed for ease of use, these machines are often used in smaller retail settings or for on-the-go transactions.

Touchscreen Billing Machines: Featuring advanced technology, these machines offer a modern interface and are designed for high-volume transaction environments.

Conclusion

Billing machines are vital for modern businesses, providing a range of features that enhance efficiency, accuracy, and customer satisfaction. By automating the billing process, these machines not only save time but also contribute to better financial management and operational transparency. As technology continues to evolve, the capabilities of billing machines will likely expand, further transforming the way businesses handle transactions. Whether for a small shop or a large retail chain, investing in a reliable billing machine can significantly improve business operations.

[aservantnamedketchup]

join me as I jot down thoughts about roles (mostly Judges) on the Battle Subway

real life VGC/TCG Judges settle disputes, make sure everything is per the rules, and are usually people players can go to for help/advice. In the anime, Judges are basically referees - observing the battle and declaring when a Pokemon is down, they're also often a person of authority

for battle purposes, Judges are essentially performing the functions of the in-game menu - taking your team sheet, enforcing the rules, etc (and on the Battle Subway making sure your battle count is recorded correctly, healing your Pokemon, dealing with your battle video, etc)

employees on the Battle Subway usually have 2 jobs - a job to help the train function and a battling job

the job progression on a passenger train is generally brakeman/assistant conductor > conductor > engineer/driver

the Depot Agents are holding a signal light and whistle in their sprites, they're conductors - taking tickets, operating the doors, signalling the driver. "Depot Agent" is mostly just their battle title, you may see more senior Depot Agents driving the train.

"Subway Boss" again is mostly just their battle title - due to their design and the whole signalling thing, they're usually working as conductors but they are certified to drive the train so you may see them driving on a non-battle line (it's easier to "pause" your conductor job to battle than it is to switch drivers)

the Judges have a more wide-range of responsibilities, which would be the role of brakeman/assistant conductor. They assist the Depot Agent with operating the doors, taking tickets (and team sheets), and general customer service. Just like they would observe the battle, they are mostly helping the Depot Agent observe the operation of the train and make sure everyone is safe. There is a lot going on when you're battling on a moving train!

on freight lines the brakeman is also often leaving the train or driving ahead of the train to help couple or manually flip switches. The Judges are essentially the first to get out of the train to assess a situation.

since they're also performing rail duties, Battle Subway Judges are employed directly by the transit system and are not affiliated with the Pokemon League. Unless requested by the League, they cannot judge official League battles. They usually come in as established independent or former League Judges and get trained on rail duties.

There is a Judges Union in Unova, they provide training/certification and networking. Judges may go on to be contracted out to the League, hired by the League directly, or work with local trainers in their town. Judges looking for a more demanding job may be hired by the Battle Subway. They may be contracted out to the battle facility during busy times, but due to the additional responsibilities this would still require 3 transit employees to be on the train in addition to the contracted Judge. Generally, I like to think of Judges as having community roles like Gym Leaders usually do, probably often taking clerk or guide-type roles.

Problems on the Subway are usually few and far between, but due to the nature of the battle facility Judges may force problem challengers to face them instead as a form of punishment, at their discretion (A win against a Judge doesn't count towards your streak but losing will still get you kicked off the train). They are also required to carry their own Pokemon with them to assist with job duties as needed.

Working on the Battle Subway is considerably more dangerous than other battle-related jobs, and they're taking on multiple roles so they get paid rather well but the expectations are verrrry high

[elsa16744]

Healthcare Market Research: Why Does It Matter? 

Healthcare market research (MR) providers interact with several stakeholders to discover and learn about in-demand treatment strategies and patients’ requirements. Their insightful reports empower medical professionals, insurance companies, and pharma businesses to engage with patients in more fulfilling ways. This post will elaborate on the growing importance of healthcare market research. 

What is Healthcare Market Research? 

Market research describes consumer and competitor behaviors using first-hand or public data collection methods, like surveys and web scraping. In medicine and life sciences, clinicians and accessibility device developers can leverage it to improve patient outcomes. They grow faster by enhancing their approaches as validated MR reports recommend. 

Finding key opinion leaders (KOL), predicting demand dynamics, or evaluating brand recognition efforts becomes more manageable thanks to domain-relevant healthcare market research consulting. Although primary MR helps with authority-building, monitoring how others in the target field innovate their business models is also essential. So, global health and life science enterprises value secondary market research as much as primary data-gathering procedures. 

The Importance of Modern Healthcare Market Research 

1| Learning What Competitors Might Do Next 

Businesses must beware of market share fluctuations due to competitors’ expansion strategies. If your clients are more likely to seek help from rival brands, this situation suggests failure to compete. 

Companies might provide fitness products, over-the-counter (OTC) medicines, or childcare facilities. However, they will always lose to a competitor who can satisfy the stakeholders’ demands more efficiently. These developments evolve over the years, during which you can study and estimate business rivals’ future vision. 

You want to track competing businesses’ press releases, public announcements, new product launches, and marketing efforts. You must also analyze their quarter-on-quarter market performance. If the data processing scope exceeds your tech capabilities, consider using healthcare data management services offering competitive intelligence integrations. 

2| Understanding Patients and Their Needs for Unique Treatment  

Patients can experience unwanted bodily changes upon consuming a medicine improperly. Otherwise, they might struggle to use your accessibility technology. If healthcare providers implement a user-friendly feedback and complaint collection system, they can reduce delays. As a result, patients will find a cure for their discomfort more efficiently. 

However, processing descriptive responses through manual means is no longer necessary. Most market research teams have embraced automated unstructured data processing breakthroughs. They can guess a customer’s emotions and intentions from submitted texts without frequent human intervention. This era of machine learning (ML) offers ample opportunities to train ML systems to sort patients’ responses quickly. 

So, life science companies can increase their employees’ productivity if their healthcare market research providers support ML-based feedback sorting and automation strategies. 

Besides, hospitals, rehabilitation centers, and animal care facilities can incorporate virtual or physical robots powered by conversational artificial intelligence (AI). Doing so is one of the potential approaches to addressing certain patients’ loneliness problems throughout hospitalization. Utilize MR to ask your stakeholders whether such integrations improve their living standards. 

3| Improving Marketing and Sales 

Healthcare market research aids pharma and biotechnology corporations to categorize customer preferences according to their impact on sales. It also reveals how brands can appeal to more people when introducing a new product or service. One approach is to shut down or downscale poorly performing ideas. 

If a healthcare facility can reduce resources spent on underperforming promotions, it can redirect them to more engaging campaigns. Likewise, MR specialists let patients and doctors directly communicate their misgivings about such a medicine or treatment via online channels. The scale of these surveys can extend to national, continental, or global markets. It is more accessible as cloud platforms flexibly adjust the resources a market research project may need. 

With consistent communication involving doctors, patients, equipment vendors, and pharmaceutical brands, the healthcare industry will be more accountable. It will thrive sustainably. 

Healthcare Market Research: Is It Ethical? 

Market researchers in healthcare and life sciences will rely more on data-led planning as competition increases and customers demand richer experiences like telemedicine. Remember, it is not surprising how awareness regarding healthcare infrastructure has skyrocketed since 2020. At the same time, life science companies must proceed with caution when handling sensitive data in a patient’s clinical history. 

On one hand, universities and private research projects need more healthcare data. Meanwhile, threats of clinical record misuse are real, having irreparable financial and psychological damage potential. 

Ideally, hospitals, laboratories, and pharmaceutical firms must inform patients about the use of health records for research or treatment intervention. Today, reputed data providers often conduct MR surveys, use focus groups, and scan scholarly research publications. They want to respect patients’ choice in who gets to store, modify, and share the data. 

Best Practices for Healthcare Market Research Projects 

Legal requirements affecting healthcare data analysis, market research, finance, and ethics vary worldwide. Your data providers must recognize and respect this reality. Otherwise, gathering, storing, analyzing, sharing, or deleting a patient’s clinical records can increase legal risks. 

Even if a healthcare business has no malicious intention behind extracting insights, cybercriminals can steal healthcare data. Therefore, invest in robust IT infrastructure, partner with experts, and prioritize data governance. 

Like customer-centricity in commercial market research applications, dedicate your design philosophy to patient-centricity. 

Incorporating health economics and outcomes research (HEOR) will depend on real-world evidence (RWE). Therefore, protect data integrity and increase quality management standards. If required, find automated data validation assistance and develop or rent big data facilities. 

Capture data on present industry trends while maintaining a grasp on long-term objectives. After all, a lot of data is excellent for accuracy, but relevance is the backbone of analytical excellence and business focus. 

Conclusion 

Given this situation, transparency is the key to protecting stakeholder faith in healthcare data management. As such, MR consultants must act accordingly. Healthcare market research is not unethical. Yet, this statement stays valid only if a standardized framework specifies when patients’ consent trumps medical researchers’ data requirements. Healthcare market research is not unethical. Yet, this statement stays valid only if a standardized framework specifies when patients’ consent trumps medical researchers’ data requirements. 

Market research techniques can help fix the long-standing communication and ethics issues in doctor-patient relationships if appropriately configured, highlighting their importance in the healthcare industry’s progress. When patients willingly cooperate with MR specialists, identifying recovery challenges or clinical devices’ ergonomic failures is quick. No wonder that health and life sciences organizations want to optimize their offerings by using market research. 

[cosenangel]

I was tagged by @swedishwarriorwoman and decided to do this before going to bed.

Do you make your bed? Very rarely. Mainly if anyone visits, but otherwise no.

Favorite number: 13

What's your job: Customer Service. To companies, not for consumers. Never doing that again.

If you could go back to school, would you? No. I'm not good at school.

Can you parallel park? Yes! The first thing that I just Did Right while learning.

Do you think aliens are real? Yes. How, where and what I don't know but we are not alone.

Can you drive a manual car? Yes! And I can drive a pallet loader. I did technically train some in the big trucks and I did nail the theory for wheel loaders and the crane even if I never got the licenses.

What’s your guilty pleasure? I refuse to feel guilty about any of my pleasures. I want to enjoy things recklessly. (But most other things would probably call my slight obsession with bad movies (like doom) and movies about the end of the world (like day after tomorrow) guilty pleasure. )

Tattoos? 4.

Favorite colors: Deep green, gray and probably a royal purple?

Favorite types of music: pop and pop-punk (like all time low, fall out boy)

Do you like puzzles? Kinda? I like the thought of them more than doing them.

Any phobias? Earthworms probably. And Frogs/toads frak me out.

Favorite childhood sport? I didn't really do sports. Maybe Eventing (a horse thing that I really liked the thought of)

Do you talk to yourself? Often. Very often while working.

Tagging @anchsepaisis @gwen-of-myth and @yeditsaj

[spacenutspod]

Credit: NASA New space technology ideas emerge every day from innovators across the country, and NASA’s Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) program on Monday selected more than 100 projects for funding. This program offers small businesses in the United States early-stage funding and support to advance the agency’s goals of exploring the unknown in air and space while returning benefits to Earth. Specifically, NASA’s SBIR program awarded $93.5 million in Phase II contracts to bring 107 new ideas to life from 95 selected small businesses. Of these businesses, nearly 80% have less than 50 employees, and 21% are receiving their first Phase II award, valued at up to $850,000 each. Each small business was also eligible to apply for up to $50,000 in Technical and Business Assistance program funding to help find new market opportunities and shape their commercialization roadmap. “We are thrilled to support this diverse set of companies as they work diligently to bring their technologies to market,” said Jenn Gustetic, director of Early Stage Innovation and Partnerships with NASA’s Space Technology Mission Directorate (STMD) at the agency’s headquarters in Washington. “Inclusive innovation is integral to mission success at NASA, and we’re excited to see that 29% of the awardees are from underrepresented groups, including 11% women-owned businesses.” In Phase II, awardees will build on their success from the program’s first phase to bring their technologies closer to real-world use. The companies have 24 months to execute their plans, which focus on their technologies’ path to commercialization. For example, NASA selected women-owned and first-time NASA Phase II awardee nou Systems, Inc. in Huntsville, Alabama, for its genetic testing instrument. While portable genetic sequencing already exists, field sequencing – that would allow DNA analysis anywhere on Earth or off planet – remains unfeasible as the preparation of the DNA Library remains an intensely manual process, needing a trained wet lab technician and several pieces of laboratory equipment. The Phase II technology takes advantage of several cross-enabling technologies, creating an instrument to automate the genetic sequencing process. “Our program works directly with small businesses to forge innovative concepts and technologies that drive impact for NASA projects as well as a myriad of commercial endeavors,” said Jason L. Kessler, program executive for NASA’s SBIR and Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) program at NASA Headquarters. “This collaboration results in realized opportunities not only for NASA but all of humanity.” This includes technologies aiming to reduce astronaut workload and improve robotic scientific endeavors on the Moon and Mars. PickNik Inc. based in Boulder, Colorado, will use its Phase II award to continue developing a hardware-agnostic platform for supervised autonomy that empowers humans to command a remote robot to complete complex tasks with minimal input, which could support the Artemis program. Outside of NASA, PickNik’s software product may be of interest to commercial space customers working on low Earth orbit destinations, in-space servicing, and more, as well as on Earth in areas like warehouse management, oil rig maintenance, and deep-sea exploration.  The NASA SBIR program is open to U.S. small businesses to develop an innovation or technology. The program is part of STMD and managed by NASA’s Ames Research Center in California’s Silicon Valley. To learn more about the NASA SBIR program, visit: https://sbir.nasa.gov -end- Jimi RussellHeadquarters, Washingtonjames.j.russell@nasa.gov202-358-1600 Share Details Last Updated Apr 22, 2024 LocationNASA Headquarters Related TermsSmall Business Innovation Research / Small BusinessSpace Technology Mission Directorate

[annajade456]

Master the Recipe for Success: DevOps Training to Fuel Innovation and Growth

In today's technology-driven world, businesses across industries are constantly striving to enhance their operations and stay ahead of the competition. Successful companies understand that innovation and growth go hand in hand, and one key ingredient in this recipe for success is DevOps training. By investing in DevOps education and information technology (IT), organizations can equip their teams with the necessary skills and knowledge to streamline development processes, promote collaboration, and drive efficiency. This article explores the significance of DevOps training and how it can fuel innovation and growth within an organization.

The Advantages of DevOps Training

DevOps training offers numerous benefits to organizations seeking to optimize their development lifecycle and foster a culture of innovation. Here are some advantages associated with investing in DevOps education:

Enhanced Collaboration: DevOps training promotes a collaborative mindset by breaking down silos between development and operations teams. Through cross-functional training, individuals gain a deeper understanding of each other's roles, fostering communication and cooperation.

Streamlined Development Processes: With a strong DevOps foundation, businesses can streamline their development processes by implementing automation, continuous integration, and continuous delivery (CI/CD) practices. These streamlined processes reduce bottlenecks, minimize errors, and accelerate time-to-market.

Improved Efficiency and Productivity: By equipping employees with the necessary skills to effectively utilize DevOps tools and techniques, organizations can dramatically enhance efficiency and productivity. Training empowers team members to leverage automation tools, optimize workflows, and reduce manual effort.

Better Quality and Reliability: Through DevOps education, individuals gain expertise in implementing robust testing practices and quality assurance techniques. This results in improved software reliability, minimal downtime, and enhanced customer satisfaction.

Exploring DevOps Training Options

When considering DevOps training, organizations have a range of options to choose from. These options cater to diverse learning preferences and can be tailored to meet specific business needs. Here are some popular DevOps training choices:

1. Instructor-Led Training

Instructor-led training programs offer a structured approach to learning, combining theoretical concepts with hands-on exercises. Students benefit from real-time interaction with experienced instructors and fellow learners, fostering a deeper understanding of DevOps principles and best practices.

2. Online Courses

Online courses provide flexibility and convenience for individuals seeking to acquire DevOps skills at their own pace. These courses often consist of pre-recorded videos, interactive quizzes, and comprehensive learning materials. Students can access the content anytime, anywhere, making it ideal for busy professionals.

3. Certifications

Obtaining a recognized DevOps certification can be a valuable asset for career advancement and professional growth. Certifications validate an individual's expertise in DevOps methodologies and tools, instilling confidence in employers and clients alike. Several reputable organizations offer DevOps certifications, such as the DevOps Institute and Amazon Web Services.

The Role of IT in DevOps Training

Information technology plays a pivotal role in enabling successful DevOps training initiatives. IT teams act as facilitators, providing the necessary infrastructure, tools, and resources to support training efforts. Here are essential aspects of IT's involvement:

Provision of Training Environments: IT departments ensure the availability of training environments, such as virtual machines or cloud-based labs, where learners can practice deploying software, configuring systems, and working with various DevOps tools.

Management of Training Platforms: IT teams oversee and maintain the learning platforms used for delivering DevOps training. This involves ensuring proper access control, monitoring system performance, and troubleshooting any technical issues that may arise.

Support for Tool Adoption: IT professionals assist in the adoption and integration of DevOps tools into existing systems. This includes providing guidance on tool selection, configuration, and customization to align with an organization's unique requirements.

Security and Compliance Considerations: IT personnel play a crucial role in ensuring that all training activities align with security policies and compliance regulations. They implement measures to protect sensitive data, secure communication channels, and maintain the integrity of training environments.

DevOps training serves as a catalyst for innovation and growth within organizations by fostering collaboration, streamlining development processes, improving efficiency, and promoting quality. By investing in ACTE institute DevOps training options, businesses can equip their teams with the knowledge and skills needed to adapt and thrive in an ever-evolving digital landscape. With the crucial support of information technology, organizations can maximize the potential of DevOps training and embark on a path towards sustained success.

[that-gay-jedi]

Tbh it seems like I can get super autistic about anything I'm forced to think about often enough for long enough even if it's something I'm not personally or naturally interested in. It's like every job I've had since getting off disability has left a little mini fucking encyclopedia in my brain that just pops out like a springy snake from a Pringles can if you take the lid off.

Back when I worked for a cellphone company I used to answer anyone's technical questions in such rigorous detail that after moving on to the next customer I'd suddenly think "shit I probably overwhelmed/bored that last guy beyond all comprehension and now he knows less than before I gave him information" and I was capable of talking for upwards of 15 minutes uninterrupted just about a single topic like how not to ruin your battery or why you can't just shove any old SIM card from your provider into your new phone anymore etc. One night on my last call of the shift I spent about an hour talking to some guy about the specs of various secondhand phones.

Not only am I not particularly passionate about cellphones, but I'd straight up uninvent certain aspects if I had a time machine. I'm not exactly the guy you would expect to infodump half the user manual into your ear.

I cannot emphasize enough how much I do not, ultimately, care about the world of finance so long as I'm not asked to deal dishonestly with clients, my boss likes my work, and my paycheques keep coming. I loathe capitalism and I keep the ghost of Robespierre hovering above my left shoulder to periodically whisper affirmations in my ear. And yet now that I've had to learn a bunch about it I will ANIMATEDLY give a client a crash course in what the fuck their electronic balance does vs their available balance vs their current balance etc etc, how the release of unverified funds work and why their paycheque doesn't have their employer's name next to it, the difference between holding a Canadian based account that uses U.S. dollars and holding a US-based U.S. dollar account with a Canadian bank, rattle off the top of my head the handful of self-service transactions that can only be done on a computer/laptop and the ones that can only be done on a mobile device, etc etc.

Weirdest of all is now that a large part of my job is to do things like teach nervous elders how to use a visa debit card or book them the first videoconference appointment of their life, sometimes the cellphone shit from my old job becomes relevant and suddenly I'm reassuring a hospitalized client who needs a distance appointment but has technical issues with their phone that if they call the help line of their cellphone provider from another phone while holding the glitching one in their hand, they may get a rep who is trained to patiently guide them through basic troubleshooting steps to get their phone in working order for their banking appointment.

I realize this represents some kind of ADHD-autist survival mode, though luckily it's a world away from the survival mode that got me through 10 years of the way disability/unemployment/etc treat a person- in the long run it does seem to take less out of me overall, which is a scathing indictment of social services. I just wish I could be doing the same thing but with something I actually personally care about, like books or Star Wars or the human brain. Times like this are when I most regret how I got transphobia'd out of massage school because I could happily have spent my life locating minor anatomical landmarks on a bone or showing patients diagrams of their muscles.

[marnz]

if I’m real with you I do believe most people are capable of learning most skills at most jobs. However work is not ONLY skills, I think there has to be a wide variety of things at play—training, mentorship, temperament, aptitude, funding, benefits, etc—but skills are how we learn and why experience is so highly valued.

if I remember correctly, in a Marxist school of thought, you as a worker are selling your labor power to your employer for $$$ and your employer is then applying it to labor that needs to be done. you don’t hold the work, you hold the power to do the work. I think given the amount of economic coercion our society operates under, this power is forgotten until strikes happen and remind us.

and I think this framework does account for experience. you get paid more as an experienced worker (in theory) because your employer is paying for all of your past labor power! so we can say labor power accrues over time and is not depleted by being applied to labor. I would not say labor power is a measurement of your CAPACITY to do labor at any given point though, only that it does not work like capital where you “spend” it. Marx probably does a much better job of laying this out but it’s been a long time since I read Capital.

But say you are not a Marxist and the idea of labor power is too much like trying to do physics equations that calculate force. Fair enough! Let us return to skills. “Skills” have, for a long time, been used to devalue certain kinds of work—as if manual labor, customer service, retail, agricultural work, teaching, cleaning, etc, require no complex and difficult to acquire skills your average office worker does not have in their repertoire. all work takes skill! this is a labor slogan. and it does.

however I think there are other skills we must hone in the work place (and in life), and there’s been a lot of talk (anxiety?) recently about skills that are not being taught. tech skills! I also think it takes skill to learn and retain information and schools do not always do a good job of teaching this for whatever reason. resourcefulness.

so if we have established all of this…why say “it’s not hard” and devalue yourself as a worker? just because you can do it DOES NOT mean it’s not hard.