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Five Companies That Look After Their Employees Well-Being

Five Companies That Look After Their Employees’ Well-Being https://toddbaldree.net/five-companies-that-look-after-their-employees-well-being/ A company is nothing without its employees, with the well-being of the latter essential to the former. These five organizations are great examples of how to treat employees right and build a positive corporate culture. Johnson & Johnson With the stress of developing and distributing a vaccine for the COVID-19 pandemic, there is a lot of pressure on J&J’s workforce at present. Thankfully, the company has long enjoyed a reputation of having one of the best workplace cultures within the industry. From healthy food options in its dining areas to fitness programs to a day-to-day focus on employee outreach, J&J is a great example of how to sustainably build a positive corporate culture. Buffer A major source of employee stress can be feeling like they have to “grin and bear it” no matter how badly they feel. That attitude has a long and problematic history in American work culture, and can contribute to mental health issues in employees. By contrast, Buffer’s CEO Joel Gascoigne is open about his past struggles, creating an environment where employees feel safe doing the same. The company even offers access to online therapists, which is a huge step forward and one more thing that companies should emulate. Chesapeake Energy There are fitness programs, and then there’s what Chesapeake Energy Offers – a 72,000 sq ft fitness center crowned with a rock climbing wall and Olympic-sized swimming pool. Even if you can’t afford something as massive as that, fitness centers have for decades been a favorite tool of companies to combat office space ennui. The National Health Service The NHS role in the UK’s battle against COVID has been nothing short of herculean. While its employees continue to fight for a much-deserved pay raise, the NHS has sought to improve working conditions in its own ways. For example, they have offered cycling centers and yoga programs as well as a “Health Advocate” program, which is focused on encouraging employees to care for one another, creating a welcome environment of mental health camaraderie. Accenture Having a feeling of control and choice is key to maintaining a positive state of mind, and Accenture understands that. They offer flexible work schedules and an Accenture Active app that helps employees set wellness goals, which they are then rewarded for meeting. The company also places a strong emphasis on workplace wellness in its hiring practices as they work to maintain a positive environment for all. Each of these organizations exemplify different approaches to improving and maintaining employee wellness at work. The post Five Companies That Look After Their Employees’ Well-Being first appeared on Todd Baldree . via Todd Baldree https://toddbaldree.net April 12, 2023 at 11:24AM

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How Politics Can Affect Businesses

How Politics Can Affect Businesses https://www.blogtrepreneur.com/how-politics-can-affect-businesses/ Politics has always played a large role in shaping the economy. From policies to campaign promises, it can have a profound impact on how businesses operate and thrive.  To ensure success, companies need to understand how politics can affect them. The more knowledge you possess, the easier it will be to predict certain circumstances. In this article, we will discuss the various ways politics can impact businesses and the right strategies you should implement.  Interested in learning more? Then let’s get started. Regulatory Environment One of the most direct ways politics can impact businesses is through regulations. Governments may introduce new policies to enhance public safety or address environmental concerns.  While some can be beneficial, other policies can increase compliance costs. For instance, a new tax policy may require you to pay higher amounts, or an environmental regulation could mean that you need to invest in new equipment or procedures. To navigate this, businesses need to stay informed of any policy changes and provide their own insight. Your advice can help educate policymakers. It can also be wise to keep up to date on current political news – even things that don’t directly relate to your industry. Whether it be politics influencing justice system or a new change in the law – it’s always good to be informed. Economic Stability Politics can also have a significant effect on the overall economy. Changes in government can lead to shifts in interest rates, inflation, or international trade which then alters the demand for particular goods and services.  For example, a trade policy that leads to higher tariffs on imported goods can increase the cost of raw materials. Alternatively, a change may boost consumer spending, leading to increased revenue. To navigate these changes, businesses need to monitor economic indicators and adjust their strategies accordingly. It’s not necessarily easy, but it can help you protect your finances. Consumer Trends Consumer attitudes and preferences have a ripple effect throughout the economy. Social issues including things like immigration and climate change can lead to changes in consumer behavior and preferences. For example, a customer or client may choose to boycott a company that supports a political cause they disagree with. Companies need to stay on top of social issues and adjust their marketing strategies accordingly. Reputation Lastly, politics can severely impact a business’s reputation. Companies that take a strong stance on political issues may face backlash from consumers who have different opinions. Similarly, businesses that are perceived as not doing enough to address social issues may face negative backlash. To manage their reputation, businesses need to be in tune with their customer base and communicate clearly about their values and positions on key issues. It’s a fine balance, and you must understand your target audience. Final Words As you can see from the above, it’s clear that politics can impact businesses in several ways. By researching and following the necessary strategies, companies can reduce the harm and maintain their reputation in a changing world.   The post How Politics Can Affect Businesses appeared first on Blogtrepreneur. via Blogtrepreneur https://www.blogtrepreneur.com/ March 25, 2023 at 11:33AM

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How to Establish a Successful Vacation Rental Business

How to Establish a Successful Vacation Rental Business https://www.blogtrepreneur.com/how-to-establish-a-successful-vacation-rental-business/ It wasn’t too long ago that the world was on lockdown, meaning no one could travel anywhere outside of their homes. To that avail, the vacation rental business is among the most opportunistic of industries. From caravan holiday parks to luxury villas, there are a number of ways you can crack the vacation rental market.  After being locked down for a number of years, travel is among the top priorities for people globally. This is a prime opportunity for entrepreneurs to take advantage of a constantly growing demand.  Read on to discover just some of the steps that need to be employed to launch a successful vacation rental business. Get Insured and Protected The number one rule is to make sure the property and its contents are insured. No one likes to pay for this insurance, as it can sometimes seem pointless. Despite this, after investing a significant amount of money in your vacation rental space, this investment needs to be protected. You never know what might happen to the space, whether it’s damaged by guests or other unforeseen circumstances, such as flooding takes place. Even if it’s the most expensive, make sure you opt for the insurance that covers all eventualities. After all, you want to be protected against anything and everything. Weigh Up the Payment Options There are a number of ways to pay for a vacation rental, including buying outright, borrowing money, or renting. Each option has its pros and cons, and it’s important to weigh these up for your unique situation.  If you’re able to purchase the property outright, this will cost the most money upfront; however, it will reduce your monthly outgoings, as well as your debt, and generate better cash flows. Unfortunately, not everyone is lucky enough to have the money at their disposal to buy outright, meaning that mortgaging might be a more realistic route. When it comes to mortgaging, though, you will require a certain amount of money to get your loan approved. This isn’t the case for renting; however, renting out a rental property can be risky business. Get the Finances in Order It’s clear that setting up a vacation rental business is expensive, which is why it’s important to get all the finances in order. Unless you have a lot of disposable money, it’s likely that you’ll need to take out a loan or mortgage to finance a business in the early stages. Similarly, second residences tend to require more substantial downpayments, as well as higher insurance costs. As a result, you need a considerable amount of funding under your belt before you can proceed with vacation rental businesses.  Be Wary of Fixer-Uppers Properties that need renovating will be significantly cheaper than those that are ready to go; however, this is for good reason. In some cases, fixer-uppers will cost more than ready-to-go properties, as the extensive amount of work required pushes the price up significantly. Large-scale renovations, such as masonry, carpentry, electricity, and plumbing, are extremely costly, so you want to steer away from any property that requires this sort of work. When buying your first vacation property, it’s wise to avoid historic buildings, as these will likely require complex works to make them suitable for renting out.  Bear Location in Mind  Last but certainly not least, location is everything when it comes to purchasing a vacation rental. No one wants to rent out somewhere in the middle of nowhere, but they don’t want to be somewhere so busy that they can’t sleep. It’s about finding the sweet spot between the two.  The post How to Establish a Successful Vacation Rental Business appeared first on Blogtrepreneur. via Blogtrepreneur https://www.blogtrepreneur.com/ March 25, 2023 at 11:09AM

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Five Employee Wellness Programs to Consider

Five Employee Wellness Programs to Consider https://toddbaldree.net/five-employee-wellness-programs-to-consider/ Looking after the well-being of its employees is essential for any business. Not only are mentally and physically healthy employees more productive, but the moral imperative toward personal and professional wellness is strong. Nobody wants to work for a company that makes them feel drained and miserable, and no one should want to create such a hostile workspace. Instead, consider these five tips for boosting and maintaining employee wellness at your business. Flexible Working Hours and Arrangements The decades-old grind of working “9 to 5” may live on in Dolly Parton’s song, but with remote work on the rise, it’s fast becoming obsolete. What’s more, it’s a turnoff to employees who, for health reasons (see: social distancing) or a more online-based work ethic, expect a different kind of working environment. Make work hours flexible and incorporate a mixture of in-person and online work and meetings. Employee Autonomy Another consequence of the remote working revolution is that workers increasingly expect and desire more autonomy. Nobody likes to feel like Big Brother is watching them when they work, least of all when it’s in the privacy of their own home. Give employees you trust more autonomy to get their work done where, when, and how they wish, as long as it fits with your work schedule as well. Employee Appreciation No one likes to feel like they’re worthless or their work is meaningless. Employee appreciation gestures (gift baskets, gift cards, commendations in meetings, and so on) can help prove to your employees that they are valued. This in turn can boost their mental health, self-esteem, and how they esteem your company. Fitness Programs When employees do come to work, they’re bound to want to get out of their cubicles and offices and stretch their legs. Fitness programs have become a phenomenon with companies over the past few decades. It offers a fantastic way for team members to take a break, clear their head, improve their physical and mental health, and bond with team members. Community Engagement Another way to help with team building is to schedule volunteer events. This can help foster a positive and charitable corporate culture, strengthen the bonds between team members, enable you to give back to the community, and improve your company’s public reputation at the same time. Each of these steps can help you improve the well-being of your employees and the overall health of your company. The post Five Employee Wellness Programs to Consider first appeared on Todd Baldree . via Todd Baldree https://toddbaldree.net March 12, 2023 at 11:23AM

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Private APEX Cheats Which Are At Top And Available From SkyCheats

Private APEX Cheats Which Are At Top And Available From SkyCheats https://www.blogtrepreneur.com/private-apex-cheats-which-are-at-top-and-available-from-skycheats/ Leading source of Apex Legends cheats and hacks SkyCheats gives players access to a variety of tools that will give them a competitive advantage in the well-known Battle Royale game. Players may easily defeat foes, dominate rivals, and improve their chances of winning by using its potent hacks. One of the most well-liked Battle Royale games available right now is Apex Legends, which draws in millions of gamers from across the globe. It is renowned for its action-packed, fast-paced gameplay and broad array of characters, each of which has special skills and playing preferences. Although the game is entertaining on its own, many players struggle to keep up with their rivals and climb the leaderboards. Good variety of hacks Each of the potent Private APEX Cheats available from SkyCheats is intended to give users an edge over their rivals. Aimbots, which constantly aim and fire at foes, wallhacks, which let players see through buildings as well as other obstacles, and ESP, which tells players where adversaries are and how healthy they are, are some of these exploits. The SkyCheats aimbots are among the most sophisticated on the market, with a wide range of customization possibilities and a high level of accuracy. The wallhacks are also excellent, giving players a perfect perspective of the battleground and enabling them to precisely plan their attacks. The ESP elements are also immensely helpful since they give players crucial knowledge about the whereabouts and health of their foes, giving them a significant advantage in battle. SkyCheats offers a variety of other features and tools in addition to these hacks to assist gamers become better at Apex Legends. They include custom crosshair settings, which let players choose the ideal crosshair for their requirements, and data tracking and analytics, which let players understand how they’re doing and change their playstyle appropriately. 24/7 Support The dedication to customer service at SkyCheats is just another outstanding feature. They offer a devoted support staff that is ready around-the-clock to assist gamers with any problems or inquiries they might have. Also, they regularly update their hacks to keep one above the rest and continue to work in the ever evolving Apex Legends universe. Finally, it’s important to note how seriously SkyCheats handles security. They make sure that their hacks are safe to use and untraceable by utilising cutting-edge encryption and anti-cheat methods. As a result, users of SkyCheats may do so with assurance, understanding that their identities will be safeguarded and that they won’t be suspended for using cheats. Conclusion In conclusion, SkyCheats is the best option if you’re seeking for a means to boost your efficiency in Apex Legends and advance your gaming. It’s understandable why so many gamers rely on SkyCheats for all of their Apex Legends requirements given the site’s potent cheats, first-rate customer support, and dedication to security. Why then wait? Start using SkyCheats now to take control of the battlefield! The post Private APEX Cheats Which Are At Top And Available From SkyCheats appeared first on Blogtrepreneur. via Blogtrepreneur https://www.blogtrepreneur.com/ March 01, 2023 at 01:42AM

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Why Pay the Most Amount to the Employees in the Industry?

Why Pay the Most Amount to the Employees in the Industry? https://www.blogtrepreneur.com/why-pay-the-most-amount-to-the-employees-in-the-industry/ The salary the employers offer is a collective decision made by the HR managers and top-tier management. They factor in current market stance, opportunity cost, and revenue. The components are crucial in deciding the salary. Here is an argument for why companies must offer above-average salaries Recognizing talent Pay stubs will not always reflect talent well. Today’s employment market is very dynamic and ever-changing. In addition, the employees are also diversifying their skills to increase income. Therefore, if you wish to attract talent to the organization, you can pay them above-average salaries. Engineers, designers, salespersons, and accountants usually seek work where their pay accurately reflects their qualifications. It is a powerful motivator to contribute to the business’s well-being. The owner will notice streamlined operations and increased revenue.  More effort Even though the concept may seem materialistic, it is a bitter employment reality. If the owner is paying above-average market rates, they expect high-quality work too. However, workers seek a hygienic environment and cooperative colleagues as other motivators. A high-paying job cultivates the assumption of increased output. Employees who realize they are being paid more than their competition invest more in the company. Their efforts increase which pleases the owners, who reward them with bonuses and other perks. Collaboration  These uncertain economic times have provoked individuals to seek better-paying jobs that protect their future. When owners hire employees at high-paying jobs, they are likely to refer other professionals in their social circle. In other words, an above-average pay scale will increase engagement within the organization. The employees will collaborate and communicate effectively. They are happy working at the organization because their efforts are being actualized. The owner can give them personal attention, praise them openly, or involve them in the decision-making process for healthy communication. Fewer disruptions One of the top reasons employees resign is because they are underpaid. A high-paying job will severely reduce the employee turnover rate. As a result, they understand the culture and norms of the organization quickly. Therefore, high remuneration will ensure their place in the organization for the long term. In addition, the employees are more productive in reaching short and long-term goals. The bond within the team strengthens to minimize disruptions at work. Lastly, it saves money on recruiting process too. Long term growth A high-paying job is also important from the employee’s perspective. If an individual is investing valuable time into the organization, they deserve to be recognized. Therefore, the salary is an excellent way to compensate the workers for their effort. Since the remuneration motivates the workers to accept more responsibility, the owners will hire fewer employees for the same job. As a result, the company saves in paying salaries while maintaining high team morale. The business grows and prospers. The Bottom Line A high-paying salary seems a substantial expense. However, the company saves more in recruiting, hiring, and training costs. Increased salaries are a long-term investment that builds the company into a happy organism. Everyone is productive to reap the high rewards.  The post Why Pay the Most Amount to the Employees in the Industry? appeared first on Blogtrepreneur. via Blogtrepreneur https://www.blogtrepreneur.com/ February 16, 2023 at 12:06PM

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How to Make Sure Your Business Name Is Available for Use

How to Make Sure Your Business’ Name Is Available for Use https://toddbaldree.net/how-to-make-sure-your-business-name-is-available-for-use/ You have a great name for your company, one you’re sure is a winner that will resonate with people and become a household name. The only problem is someone’s already had that very thought and trademarked the name before you. How can you avoid this embarrassing situation and make sure ahead of time your desired startup name is available for use? Google it This is about as simple and obvious as it gets, but that’s also why it’s worthwhile. A five-second Google search can save weeks or even months of hard work wasted on producing branded content for a name that’s already taken. Check Fictitious Names Databases Yes, these really exist, and yes, they can be very helpful in this situation. Check with your county clerk’s office to see if there is a database for these names and if yours is on it. Corporation, LLC, and Business Names Databases Now we’re starting to get into the more time-consuming options. Nevertheless, searching these databases is essential, since it’s where you’ll find the names of different companies, partnerships, and LLCs in your state and/or country. Keep in mind that trademarks may also be unregistered or not in use at the moment, so do your due diligence in researching them before drawing any premature conclusions. The Thomas Register This is a useful online resource for finding unregistered trademarks. Its database includes entries from several industries, allowing you to conduct a wider search. That said, as with other databases, The Thomas Register is not an all-encompassing list, so just because something isn’t on there doesn’t mean it isn’t registered or that you shouldn’t check your state’s official databases as well. The U.S. Patent and Trademark Office Once you have done all or a mixture of the above, it’s time to take the final step and see if the name in question is a registered federal trademark. If it is, it will be registered with the USPTO. This process may be dull and time-consuming, but it’s essential for accidentally stumbling into trademark infringement when naming your company. The post How to Make Sure Your Business’ Name Is Available for Use first appeared on Todd Baldree . via Todd Baldree https://toddbaldree.net February 12, 2023 at 10:21AM

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5 Tips to Make Traveling Abroad for Work Smoother

5 Tips to Make Traveling Abroad for Work Smoother https://www.blogtrepreneur.com/5-tips-to-make-traveling-abroad-for-work-smoother/ Does your job require you to travel abroad often? Do you sometimes feel like you spend more time out of the office than in it? Traveling for work regularly is something that takes a bit of tweaking to perfect. It’s all about finding tips and tricks that make life easy and organized while on the go both in terms of work and your home life.    So, if you’re tired of feeling stressed on your work trips and would love for things to go smoother and be more productive on the road, then these tips could be exactly what you need. Take a Minimalist Approach to Packing It doesn’t matter if your work trip is just a couple of days or a couple of weeks, learning how to pack like a minimalist will serve you well. Lugging around heavy luggage will only slow you down and cause a lot of headaches. The goal should be to pack what you think you need and then downsize by at least 25%. Downsizing should also mean choosing the smallest suitcase possible for your needs. Below are a few tips to help you downsize what you pack: Choose a color palette so clothing can be mixed and matched. Roll clothing instead of folding it to take up less space. Stuff shoes with clothing in the suitcase. Use travel-sized toiletries. Wear your thickest layers while in-transit. Use packing cubes. Make Sure You Have Created an Office-on-the-Go To be productive while traveling you need to create an office on the go. This typically means setting up a laptop or Chromebook with the same files, documents, apps, software and contact information you would have in the office. You want things to feel seamless, meaning you can do all the same tasks on the road as you could at your desk in the office. Book Accommodation with High-Speed Internet This leads to the next tip, which is to make sure you only book accommodation with high-speed internet access in your room. Some hotels only offer this feature in common spaces like the lobby or a business center. You want to be able to set up a quiet office space in your room where you don’t need to worry about interruptions. Ideally, internet access should also be free. Set Up Meetings Before You Leave Setting up your business meetings before you leave means you can hit the ground running when you arrive and start working immediately. Once your meetings are set up, it allows you to create a daily schedule. Give Online Money Transfers a Try Depending on how long you’re gone, there may be a need to send money home to a family member. Finding a bank or a financial institution while traveling abroad for work is something you probably don’t have time for, and it can be expensive in terms of fees/service charges. This is why it’s smart to use digital tools to send money online. You can make the transfer from your smartphone or tablet and then track the transfer in real time. It’s a very convenient way to send funds. All of these tips will help you travel like a pro on your next work trip. The post 5 Tips to Make Traveling Abroad for Work Smoother appeared first on Blogtrepreneur. via Blogtrepreneur https://www.blogtrepreneur.com/ February 09, 2023 at 10:40AM

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Four Tips for Naming Your Startup

Four Tips for Naming Your Startup https://toddbaldree.net/four-tips-for-naming-your-startup/ “What’s in a name?” On the one hand, as Juliet poetically insists “A rose by any other name would smell as sweet.” On the other hand, as Bart Simpson points out, calling them “stench-blossoms” instead might take a bit of the bloom and beauty off their branding.  Fair or foul, names matter in business, so here are a few tips to help select the right name for your startup business. Avoid Trends for Trendiness’s Sake The Simpsons and the “Dot Come Bubble” were both huge in the 90s. One of these is remembered as being a silly fad, while the other is remembered as being timeless. Once the “Dot Com Bubble” burst, “Dot Com” names went from being trendy to passé. Likewise was a mid-2000s buzz around the word “Buzz” in names (“Buzzfeed”), which has likewise since passed. Trends may help your company today, but its name needs to last tomorrow and beyond, making trend-chasing a fast way to make it seem ridiculously dated. Be Clear About What You’re Offering If your name is too vague (especially as a startup) people won’t know what your business is offering or selling, making it that much harder to attract clients. Make sure your company conveys your services as well as your values. A future-focused tech company and a private farm have different consumer bases who may have different values, and their names and branding should reflect that. Brainstorm First Casablanca’s working title was Everybody Comes To Rick’s. T.S. Eliot’s original title for “The Waste Land” was “He Do the Police in Different Voices.” The Beatles were originally known as first The Quarrymen and then The Silver Beetles. In short, your first work is rarely your best. Brainstorm a bunch of ideas, ask friends and family, let your market research team do their thing, see what sticks – and don’t be discouraged if your first choice doesn’t quite click. As these examples show, when it comes to names, sometimes the second or third time’s the charm. Consider What You Can Trademark This one’s less a creative incentive than a business one, but still important. If at all possible, you’d prefer to trademark your name, so picking something too generic or too close to an established name is a no-go. The latter is a bad idea anyway since it can cause your company to have trouble standing out. Ideally, your name should be not too plain and not too obscure. Following these tips Measure for Measure can help you ensure All’s Well That Ends Well when naming your company. The post Four Tips for Naming Your Startup first appeared on Todd Baldree . via Todd Baldree https://toddbaldree.net January 12, 2023 at 10:20AM

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Four Tips for Making Sure Your Business Succeeds

Four Tips for Making Sure Your Business Succeeds https://toddbaldree.net/four-tips-for-making-sure-your-business-succeeds/ Let’s be honest – if there were a surefire way to make all businesses succeed every time, we’d all be doing it. No batter in baseball bats a perfect 1.000, and nobody’s business prognostications are right 100%, either. That said, you can raise your business’s batting average considerably with these key tips. Be Real About Your Finances Lying about your finances never helps – not with banks, and not with yourself. You need to be realistic about your financial situation right from the start. Pretending you have tons of cash when you don’t will simply lead you to make investments and business decisions you can’t afford, which can bring everything crashing down. You also need to make sure that you’re acutely aware of any debts owed. Debt isn’t necessarily bad (it’s often necessary for businesses to grow) but lying about how much you owe will be. Make Sure Your Team’s Committed No one makes it to the top themselves, and no business gets off the ground without a committed team ready to work together. You’re in for long nights and an even longer road ahead. Making sure you have the right people to go on that journey with from the start is essential. Customer Service Is Essential Your customer service may well be the first point of contact people have with your company. As such, you need to make sure it’s sterling. A few bad reviews about bad customer service can scare countless potential buyers off, especially when you’re just starting and don’t have much of a track record. Marketing, Marketing, Marketing Did we mention marketing? It’s kind of important to any company’s success. With countless options out there, businesses need to do everything possible to stand out – especially when they’re a startup. Think about what kind of audience you want to attract, what tone you want to strike, the “personality” with which you wish to imbue your brand, and market accordingly and tirelessly. Even if your business isn’t a home run at first, these tips can help keep you in the game long enough to swing for bigger victories to come. The post Four Tips for Making Sure Your Business Succeeds first appeared on Todd Baldree . via Todd Baldree https://toddbaldree.net December 12, 2022 at 10:18AM

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How to Be a Great Mentor

How to Be a Great Mentor https://www.blogtrepreneur.com/how-to-be-a-great-mentor/ There are many good reasons to be a mentor to a young person who is interested in a business career. If you had a good mentor yourself, this is an excellent way to pay it forward. It’s also a good way to develop some of your own leadership and interpersonal skills. Unfortunately, most requests to mentor aren’t accompanied by a how-to manual, so how can you make sure that you’re giving your mentee the best you have to offer? Ask Them Not everyone is going to know exactly what you can do to help them. In fact, asking them what would be most useful from you might be met with assurance along the lines of “whatever you can teach me would be useful.” However, asking your mentee specifically what they are interested in that you could help them learn, understand, or achieve can open up valuable lines of conversation, allowing each of you to set expectations. Big Gestures Grand gestures aren’t appropriate in all mentor relationships, but if you are working with a particularly promising young person and you have a lot of confidence in them, sometimes, you may want to give them the opportunity for that big break. That could mean introducing them to someone key in the industry who can help them. It could mean something like cosigning on a student loan. While this isn’t a typical role for a mentor and might not be something that you’re comfortable with if you have a strong relationship with the person and believe them to be responsible, cosigning on a loan if there is not another adult who can do it can make the difference in going to college and the necessity of going down a different path. Listen and Help One of the hardest things about being a mentor can be guiding the person without telling them what to do. This may mean listening to them and perhaps asking leading questions but doing your best not to impose your own wishes on them. You can make recommendations based on your experience, but ultimately, the choice is up to them. Work on Constructive Criticism You might feel as though your mentee is headed toward making a big mistake. There are a few things you should keep in mind. First, no one is going to get it right all the time. That includes you, meaning that it’s possible you aren’t right in this particular situation. However, it can also mean that your mentee might get it wrong this time and that’s okay. If you want to advise them against a particular course of action without coming across as overly critical or bossy, one way to do it is to tell a story about a time you were in a similar situation and what you did about it. Subtlety is often a better way to get your point across and can avoid making the person feel embarrassed or defensive. Stories that show you as fallible as well can also help them better accept constructive criticism. The post How to Be a Great Mentor appeared first on Blogtrepreneur. via Blogtrepreneur https://www.blogtrepreneur.com/ November 14, 2022 at 11:47AM

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How to Save Your Business From Failing

How to Save Your Business From Failing https://toddbaldree.net/how-to-save-your-business-from-failing/ As much as we strive to separate work and home life, professional failure can feel all too personal. After putting so much time, effort, and hope into a project, watching it spiral downward can be absolutely devastating. Thankfully, these four tips can help you stand a chance of saving your struggling business. Have the Right Mindset Things are going to be bad for a while. There’s no getting around that – and the more you try, the more you’ll delude yourself before ultimately feeling worse, all while nothing gets fixed. That being said, this doesn’t have to be the end. Many great companies, from Apple to Netflix, have gone through tough times and come out the other end thriving. It’s unrealistic to expect you’ll be the next Steve Jobs, but we can all learn from his calming meditative practices and tenacious mindset when faced with adversity. Conduct a SWOT Analysis Before you can cure what ails your company, you first have to diagnose the source of the problem. Review and gather data on the Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, and Threats facing your company. A SWOT analysis is key to many successful business restarts. “Survive and Advance” When coaching NC State to an improbable 1983 NCAA March Madness championship, Jim Valvano famously told his team to just “Survive and Advance.” The slogan has since become one of the most celebrated sports mantras of all-time – and can suit a struggling business perfectly. Whatever your previous goals are, your priority now is to just keep going. Every day your company survives is a mini-victory, and from those little victories you can start to build momentum. Of Cash Flow and Creditors Above all, tempting as it may be, do not ignore your finances. They may be ugly and give you anxiety when you look at them, but ignoring your problems won’t make them go away. Take small, tangible steps to resolve your financial issues one at a time, including: Creating cash flow forecasts so you have a clear idea of what you have coming in and going out Tally up your costs and talk to banks or financial planners about how to best manage them Speak directly to creditors about your situation and work with them to pay your debts Don’t try to do everything at once – resolving your financial situation will take time Understand that while too much debt can be backbreaking, debt itself isn’t the end of the world and is often necessary for businesses to grow Keeping these steps in mind can help you keep your head and work through your business woes. The post How to Save Your Business From Failing first appeared on Todd Baldree . via Todd Baldree https://toddbaldree.net November 12, 2022 at 10:16AM

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Common Hazards in the Workplace and How to Prevent Them

Common Hazards in the Workplace and How to Prevent Them https://www.blogtrepreneur.com/common-hazards-in-the-workplace-and-how-to-prevent-them/ Injuries in the workplace can occur anywhere and at any time. If the correct safety and precautionary measures are not put in place, there is a real threat of not only staff sustaining injuries but being faced with a hefty lawsuit. As a business owner, you have a duty of care for your employee’s health and wellbeing. Here we will examine some of the top hazards in the workplace, and what steps you can follow to prevent them from happening in the first place. Noise Hazards When the term ‘hazard’ springs to mind, we normally think of physical examples like a slip, fall, or fire. However, while these are very real hazards, there is a significant danger of noise, especially for those who operate in factories or other industrial environments. If the noise is loud enough to damage hearing, it’s crucial employees have the right hearing protection, like noise-blocking earmuffs or earplugs to wear. Whatever machinery or equipment is used, it’s essential that everyone can hear instructions, warnings, and alarms in the event of an emergency. Slips, Trips and Falls An incredibly common workplace hazard that can occur anywhere is the risk of slipping, tripping, or falling over. One of the main culprits is a damp or wet floor. If there are no signs in place to signify the floor is wet, there’s a high chance of someone falling and injuring themselves. This can lead to broken bones, brain damage, and potentially a fatal situation. These mishaps can easily be avoided by implementing preventative measures. Make sure you have a health and safety policy in place and enroll employees on specialist courses, so they’re aware of the dangers. Hazardous Substances Hazardous substances may consist of cleaning products like chemicals. For those who operate in the medical field, these substances could include bodily fluids like saliva or blood. For those who work in confined spaces, there are major risks linked with chemicals. If you work with hazardous substances, you must conduct a COSHH risk assessment to identify them. HS Direct have a COSHH risk assessment template you can use to do this. They provide health and safety advice to businesses across all sectors, which you can make use of and put into action within the workplace. Fire Risks Regardless of what kind of company you run, there’s always a substantial risk of fire. Therefore, it’s imperative your team are up to date with your business’s fire safety regulations. Health and safety courses inform your employees on what practices to follow in the event of a fire, as well as where the emergency assembly point is housed. Your business must have a fire extinguisher on site, as well as fire blankets and axes. Make sure to perform regular fire drills and test that your fire alarm and sprinkler systems are working correctly. When employees are at work, you need to make sure they’re in a safe and protected environment. For this to happen, having a thorough understanding of the hazards above is essential. That way, you can identify certain risks and put protocols in place to keep your staff out of harm’s way. The post Common Hazards in the Workplace and How to Prevent Them appeared first on Blogtrepreneur. via Blogtrepreneur https://www.blogtrepreneur.com/ October 24, 2022 at 06:17AM

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Po vs Invoice: What Are the Differences?

Po vs Invoice: What Are the Differences? https://www.blogtrepreneur.com/po-vs-invoice-what-are-the-differences/ When you’re a business owner, it’s important that you keep track of all the money you get and spend. After all, it’s the only way you can ensure your company stays successful, right? Enter the tax world, which is full of financial terms you don’t know. If you’re not familiar with the terms, it can be difficult to understand. That’s why we’re here to help you understand PO vs invoice. Learn more about the differences between these two here! PO vs Invoice: The Difference in Purpose The main difference between these two types of documents is their purpose. A purchase order is usually used at the beginning of a transaction before any goods or services are provided. An invoice is after goods or services are usually delivered, as a request for payment. There are a few other key differences between purchase orders and invoices. For example, PO includes detailed information about the goods or services purchased, while invoices contain only a brief description. PO is usually generated by the buyer, while invoices are usually generated by the seller. Finally, purchase orders are binding contracts, while invoices are not. Destination of the Document A PO, or purchase order, is a document that is usually sent from a buyer to a seller. This document indicates the quantity and requested delivery date of the goods or services that the buyer wishes to purchase. What is an invoice? It is a document sent from a seller to a buyer this document itemizes the goods or services provided, along with the corresponding charges. Once the buyer receives an invoice, they are responsible for paying the seller for the goods or services that were provided. Processing There are a few key differences between a PO and an invoice design processing. A PO is usually created before any goods or services are ordered, as it is a way for a buyer to commit to a purchase. An Invoice is after the purchase has been usually made, and used to request payment from the buyer. In terms of processing, a PO usually goes through a few more steps than an Invoice. For example, a PO may need to approve by a manager before it can be sent to the supplier, whereas an Invoice can be usually sent directly to the buyer. Additionally, a PO may need to match the corresponding Invoice before it can be processed, whereas an Invoice can process on its own. The Relation Between Po and Invoice After knowing the differences between PO vs invoice. Small businesses have a lot to keep track of and one of the most important things is making sure that these two are related. This can be a difficult task, but it is crucial for maintaining accurate financial records. A good way to stay on top of this is to use an invoice template that includes a place for you to enter your PO number. This will help you to ensure that all your records are accurate and up to date. If you find this article helpful, read our blogs today! The post Po vs Invoice: What Are the Differences? appeared first on Blogtrepreneur. via Blogtrepreneur https://www.blogtrepreneur.com/ October 24, 2022 at 06:09AM

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Securing Your Business Name

Securing Your Business Name https://toddbaldree.net/securing-your-business-name/ One of the first steps in turning your business dream into a reality is coming up with the right name. Once you have a name, you need to take steps to secure it. Otherwise, a competitor could beat you to it, and you have to start again. Register a Domain Even if you are not ready to build a website yet, claim your domain as soon as you have a name. That way, once you are ready to build a site, your branding can remain consistent, and customers can find you easily.  Try to snap up a .com domain as soon as you can because customers find those the most trustworthy. You should also register domains with similar spellings and alternate domain endings to avoid businesses with similar names confusing your customers. File a Trademark You do not have to file a trademark to start a business, but it can prove that you are serious about your business and protect you later if your business grows and someone infringes on your intellectual property. The first step in trademarking your name is to search the existing Patent and Trademark Office database to make sure that nobody else had the same brilliant idea. Then, you can apply for a trademark at the office or online. The process of filing and holding a trademark is complex and requires periodic renewals, so hire a lawyer to help you. Use Your Name You can take all the steps you want to secure your business name from legal challenges, but ensuring that it sticks in the mind of customers is a continuous process. Once you launch your business, use your name and logo on everything from your website to promotional materials and gifts.  You can track your progress toward establishing a memorable brand by monitoring mentions of your business name on Google and social media. This will also help you identify any potential infringement, which you should act on immediately. Coming up with a unique name is the first step in ensuring that your business will attract customers. However, you need to secure your rights to the name and use it often to make it memorable. The post Securing Your Business Name first appeared on Todd Baldree . via Todd Baldree https://toddbaldree.net October 11, 2022 at 05:19PM

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Can You Afford to Start a Small Business?

Can You Afford to Start a Small Business? https://www.blogtrepreneur.com/can-you-afford-to-start-a-small-business/ Are you thinking about starting a business but wondering if you have the financial resources to make the idea happen? It’s a common worry among creative business people who are itching to get their new companies off the ground. Fortunately, there are numerous techniques for raising money, keeping expenses low, reworking personal budgets to free up extra cash, finding investors, and leveraging the power of low-cost advertising. The first step is to reduce expenses within your personal budget. After that, consider beginning the search for investors, working from home for at least six months, and using free or low-priced tactics for advertising your new company’s goods and services. Here’s how to get off square one and make things happen. Search for Investors Initiate the hunt for investment money by spreading the word via social media, through family members, and by placing free ads on local websites. The best way to get seed money for an idea is to spread the word far and wide. That typically means joining relevant clubs and local business groups like chambers of commerce, trade shows, and merchants’ associations. Work from Home Office space, particularly in the current inflationary economy, is pricey. Even slivers in strip malls are going for top rates. To keep monthly expenses to a bare minimum, work from home for six months or a year. Consider using a post office box as a physical address. Upgrade computers and devices as needed, and set aside a room or section of your home where you won’t be disturbed while working. Deal with Student Loans First For so many hard-working people, entrepreneurial success hinges on having enough capital available to execute a great idea. Fortunately, for anyone who owes on one or more education loans, there is a simple, effective way to free up some cash for the purpose of starting a new business. When you refinance student loan obligations into a new loan, it’s possible to slash monthly payments by a significant amount. After a refi, it’s possible to end up with much more favorable terms in addition to lower monthly payments. Likewise, most budding entrepreneurs discover that the refinancing process gives them much more time to repay their school loans, which allows for even more breathing room in their personal monthly budget. Write a Two-Year Plan There’s no substitute for a detailed business plan. Include budgets, lists of employees, descriptions of positions, promotional plans, advertising strategies, legal information, and prospective financial statements for two years out. A well-written plan will help you with bank loans should you choose to borrow in the near future. Use Low-Cost Marketing For most new owners, the single largest expense is advertising. The good news is that anyone can benefit from low-cost and no-cost promotional tactics. Whether you sell goods or offer services on a retail or wholesale basis, leverage the power of inexpensive marketing tools like no-frills business cards, cold calling, social media ads, guest blogging, email marketing, and more. Consider joining as many local clubs and organizations as possible, provided they have the potential to bolster your networking list. Some of the best choices include chambers of commerce, dining out clubs, speakers’ bureaus, and power breakfast organizations. The post Can You Afford to Start a Small Business? appeared first on Blogtrepreneur. via Blogtrepreneur https://www.blogtrepreneur.com/ September 29, 2022 at 01:08AM

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Top UK Laws People are Guilty Of Breaking

Top UK Laws People are Guilty Of Breaking https://www.blogtrepreneur.com/top-uk-laws-people-are-guilty-of-breaking/ Breaking a law anywhere is such an awful thing, yet many people might have given little thought to whether they have broken any laws themselves. The UK’s weirdest laws probably include many laws people are guilty of breaking without realising. Let’s have a look at some of these laws: Rug Cleaning In the Street From cleaning rugs to dusting car mats, shaking these will be making people break the law.  What might be deemed harmless in terms of a quick clean will be an issue.  According to Section 60 of the Metropolitan Police Act 1839, it’s illegal to beat or shake any carpets, mats, or rugs except for doormats before 8 am. Therefore, people need to think twice before even considering doing such a thing.  Knock Down Ginger A popular game for teenagers who see it as a laugh, they are actually being a large nuisance towards the local neighbours. Section 54, part 16 of the 1839 Metropolitan Police Act states it is illegal for ‘any person who disturbs an individual through ringing a doorbell to knocking on the door without a lawful excuse is breaking the law. Sliding On Icy Streets This one is a no-brainer; everyone knows that it’s dangerous to take part in such activity but sometimes the thrill of being able to do something adventurous is just too much to resist. This is another of the weird UK Laws that are illegal. The Metropolitan Police Act of 1839, Section 54, addresses this because it is not only very dangerous, but it is very mischievous and can annoy the local residents. Moving Wood Along A Pavement This was brought in due to the threat it posed in medieval times as it was a common way of accidents happening. Carts used to become overloaded, which meant there was less stability and more of a chance of items falling off and hurting pedestrians. This led to the Metropolitan Police Act 1839, section 54 declaring “A plank of wood must not be carried along a pavement. It can only be moved if it is being unloaded from a vehicle or taken into a building.” Being drunk on licensed premises This might be perceived as a strange law as you would assume that a place where you can drink alcohol would not lead you to break the law. However, it is still legal to drink on licensed premises as long as someone is not visibly drunk. According to Section 12 of The Licensing Act of 1872, “Every person caught drunk on any motorway or any other public area, whether a building or not, or any licenced premises,” is guilty of a crime. Later, the act was amended in the Licensing Amendment Act 1988 to extend the prohibition to public places, such as clubs and pubs.  Drying Your Clothes In The Street While it is unlikely that most people would do this, as part of UK law, it’s stated in the Town Police Clauses Act 1847 that it is illegal for anyone to hang clothes in the street. Offenders could  face prosecution and could be fined up to £1000. Conclusion Although some laws may seem strange and absurd, it’s shocking how many people are guilty of breaking them every day without realisation. It’s important for people to be aware of these laws so that they do not find themselves in a situation where they are causing an offence without realising it.  These weird UK laws were identified by technology lawyers EM Law.  The post Top UK Laws People are Guilty Of Breaking appeared first on Blogtrepreneur. via Blogtrepreneur https://www.blogtrepreneur.com/ September 24, 2022 at 12:30AM