Category: Brandpoint Business & Finance

2020-05-19T06:03:00

(BPT) – As a parent, you would do almost anything to give your child the best opportunities for a bright future. In fact, a recent study by College Ave Student Loans conducted by Barnes & Noble College Insights shows that 83% of parents plan on paying for their child’s college education and 37% of those expect to pay $100K or more.

But funding your child’s education may look different nowadays, and despite the unique financial challenges ahead, you don’t want to sacrifice your own future. These days, paying for college and saving for retirement may seem like a steep hill to climb, but with a few key steps, you can make sure you’re marching ahead toward both investment goals.

Start with your employee retirement account

Through student loans, scholarships, work-study programs and more, kids will always have other options to help them pay for school. But once you’re retired, your options aren’t so abundant – there are no unsecured loans to help cover retirement costs. Make sure you’re saving as much as possible for your future by funding your employee savings plan enough to get the full employer match. And as your income increases and you are able, put extra money toward your retirement.

Weigh all sources of funding to pay for college

With the costs of college tuition and housing, you may find you need to supplement your income and savings to pay for college. One option — after your child has exhausted scholarships and grants — is student loans. Federal loans in the student’s name should be considered first, as they often come with unique benefits, such as income-driven repayment plans. However, there is a limit on the amount you can borrow in federal loans. If you need to borrow more, College Ave Student Loans offers private student loans that can cover the full cost of college and are customized to fit your budget and goals. With competitive interest rates and flexible repayment plans offered on undergraduate, graduate and parent loans, and so many useful tools, they can help make your education-funding experience as painless as possible.

Consider the goals and cost of college

There’s no way around it — college is expensive. But there are many ways to manage that cost. Help your child carefully evaluate their goals and budget. Help them create a list of schools at different price points to compare financial aid awards and find a school that fits best. For example, starting out at a community college can significantly reduce the higher education price tag. Make sure your kids are involved in the financial decisions that go into paying for college.

Ask your kids to chip in

As your children get older, teach them about the responsibility of saving and paying for their education. According to the same College Ave survey, 68% of parents expect their college student to help pay for some part of their education expenses. Include them in the conversation by communicating your expectations and letting them know how much you can afford to contribute. Create a plan that’s right for your family by considering all your options, including financial aid, grants and scholarships. One easy scholarship to encourage your child to try for is the College Ave Student Loans $1,000 Scholarship Monthly Sweepstakes. They can enter each month for a chance to win.

Saving for retirement and your child’s education may involve some tough choices, but with a little planning and strategic thinking, you can get it done. To learn more about saving and borrowing for college, visit collegeavestudentloans.com.

2020-05-14T08:01:00

(BPT) – As the world seeks a “new normal” following the advent of COVID-19, many Americans are looking forward to taking trips again — albeit safer, carefully chosen vacations.

A mid-May survey by research firm Destination Analysts found nearly seven in 10 Americans greatly miss vacationing, while more than half miss the planning itself. Forty-five percent predict they’ll take at least one road trip between now and the end of August, and 20% anticipate engaging in air travel during that time.

“Everyone has a touch of cabin fever after the worldwide coronavirus lockdowns,” writes Christopher Elliott in USA Today. “So it’s no surprise people want to travel soon. Whether it’s a cabin in the woods or a cruise ship cabin, Americans are dreaming of their next trip — and not just dreaming but booking.”

Many Americans are also closely watching their budgets right now in reaction to economic changes caused by COVID. But with a little extra planning, we should still be able to enjoy fun, relaxing getaways without having to break the bank. In that spirit, here are a few money-saving tips for your next trip.

• Consider a nature-focused vacation. Hiking or sightseeing amidst America’s natural beauty can be a cost-effective alternative to the hefty admission fees attached to theme parks, museums, cultural centers, entertainment venues and other key attractions. You may also find it easier to maintain social distancing guidelines in the great outdoors.
• Pre-book your lodging via Hotels.com™. The one-stop shop for hotel pricing and availability is offering major rewards on future travel. Hotels.com Rewards members who book at eligible properties by May 24, 2020, and stay between June 1, 2020, and Aug. 31, 2021, will collect double stamps. For every 10 stamps you collect, you receive a free night. This promotion will get you to that free night twice as fast, at the same cost. To participate, log in to your Hotels.com Rewards account and enter coupon code RWD2X2020 at checkout.
• Seek out mid-week airfares. Not only are you likely to find attractive airfares as America eases back into more extensive air travel, but you may find even less-expensive (and less-congested) flights on the slowest travel days of the week — Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday.
• Spend your food dollars wisely. Your dining plans (or lack thereof) can easily make or break your vacation budget. You may wish to make great food a major highlight of your trip, but if you’d rather use your money elsewhere you can use strategies like self-packed lunches, the free continental breakfasts at your hotel, restaurants where kids eat free and water instead of pricey drinks. When you do dine out, make lunch your biggest meal of the day and avoid higher-priced dinner menus.
• Optimize credit cards that offer travel rewards. Options include general purpose cards that pay rewards on all travel purchases or brand-specific cards that reward only for spending money on specific airlines or hotels. Look for cards that offer unlimited cash back on your greatest expenditures and seek generous expiration dates for redeeming rewards. Other available perks may include sign-up bonuses, waived baggage fees or foreign transaction fees, complimentary companion tickets or bonus rewards for booking with travel partners. Do expect annual fees and do pay monthly balances in full to avoid interest charges, forfeited rewards and/or negative impacts to your credit rating.

Your next vacation need not take a big bite out of your budget if you plan ahead. Wherever you choose to go, travel safely and travel wisely this season.

2020-05-13T06:01:00

(BPT) – There may be times when you are less likely to have your car on the road, whether that means it is sitting in your garage or stored in a facility. Even if you aren’t using your vehicle for an extended period of time, there are still financial and physical aspects to taking care of your car. With a little bit of maintenance, you’ll be able to save on costly repair bills while also boosting your vehicle’s resale value.

2020-05-13T07:01:00

Having children is a great joy, but it also can be stressful. Pressures are plentiful, from making sure your child has the right gear to needing to help manage their school and social schedules. To intensify matters, COVID-19 has brought quarantines and social distancing around the world, and parents are now tasked with educating and entertaining their kids more than ever before.

Financial stress is growing dramatically. A whopping 71% of parents are worried about their personal finances right now, and 81% describe their level of parenting stress as medium or high, according to the OfferUp 2020 Parents and Kids Recommerce Report.

In addition to financial concerns, there is a multitude of challenges for parents during these unique times. Keeping kids entertained at home is the No. 1 cause of stress for parents during the pandemic, followed by educating their children at home, the study found.

Keeping kids on top of their studies as well as happily entertained doesn’t require spending a lot of money. Consider these low- and no-cost ways to keep your children occupied at home:

Seek free educational resources

Go online to discover a variety of high-quality educational websites. Many museums are now offering virtual tours and online educational classes to engage kids of all ages. Educational websites such as Khan Academy and Sesame Street offer no-cost learning materials. Remember to sign up for newsletters from parenting organizations as well to get free activity ideas sent right to your email.

It’s also smart to reach out to your children’s school or local community center to explore options. Some offer memberships to websites that they can share so you can access material at no cost. Additionally, you can call and ask your local library about digital storytimes and virtual classes they might be holding, which can be a fun way to connect kids with others while they learn.

Find what you need through local resale opportunities

Have your kids played with all their toys and need some new supplies? Parents are turning to online resale marketplaces such as OfferUp to buy baby and kids items during the coronavirus pandemic with the goal to save money, make more sustainable purchasing decisions and support their local communities. Whether it’s a new toy or a necessary supply, you can find just what you need for less.

You can also consider selling what you no longer use and make some money as a family. OfferUp is the largest mobile marketplace in the nation for local buyers and sellers and it’s as easy as taking a picture with your phone to sell items and then meet with local people in a safe, secure manner. Millions of people buy and sell on OfferUp every year, and billions of dollars’ worth of items are exchanged. Why not make it a family effort to clean out rooms, sell unused items and save toward a group goal?

Don’t forget traditional fun and acts of kindness

Old-fashioned fun is low cost and keeps kids entertained. Have family game nights and bust out the board games, work on puzzles together or start a crafting project. Go outside to play yard games, catch or kick around a soccer ball. Work on a time capsule, scrapbook or teach your children a hobby. Think about all the things older generations did to stay busy when people spent less time online and find your inspiration.

To help spread positivity when so many people are stressed, consider simple things you can do from afar to spread cheer. Kids will enjoy brainstorming acts of kindness, and most don’t cost anything. For example, write inspiring messages on the sidewalk for people to see as they walk by, or color pictures to send to a local nursing home for residents who may not be able to receive visitors.

Keeping kids educated and entertained while at home shouldn’t cause financial stress. Follow these tips to save money and keep kids happy.

2020-05-12T14:01:00

(BPT) – Mobile banking helps you manage your finances without having to leave home. Many mobile banking apps can help you do everything from depositing checks, to paying bills or sending money, all without visiting a branch or ATM.

2020-04-29T08:01:00

(BPT) – While most of the world has hit pause on daily life, kindness and giving can be considered essential services. Socio-economic consequences of the COVID-19 health pandemic are challenging families across the globe, as schools have closed, after-school meal programs have paused, businesses have shut down, and families are feeling greater strain on finances. Children living in poverty are especially vulnerable, needing the support of nonprofit organizations and community assistance now more than ever. Providing this support has always been the mission of Red Nose Day — the annual fundraising campaign encouraging Americans to aid organizations working to end child poverty through the purchase of Red Noses at Walgreens. This year the campaign is back, but instead of selling the iconic Red Nose in Walgreens stores, the retailer created a way to engage in kindness and giving from the safety of your home to support children in need and those affected by COVID-19.

Due to public health concerns and the need for social distancing because of the COVID-19 outbreak, Walgreens is bringing Red Nose Day digital. The online shift offers a way for everyone to rally around the Red Nose in support of those in need during a critical time, even while remaining physically distant.

Get your digital Red Nose on

Now through May 30, when you donate a minimum of $1 at Walgreens.com/RedNoseDay, your donation will unlock a digital Red Nose filter to share proudly on Facebook, Instagram and Snapchat. Invite your friends and family to join you, sparking a wave of online donations and keeping the Red Nose spirit alive by spreading virtual joy. You can feel good knowing that 100% of funds raised will benefit Red Nose Day partner organizations that help keep kids safe, healthy and educated.

How it helps

The efforts of the Red Nose Day campaign are especially crucial during this year of economic upheaval and health crisis. Your donations provide funds for nutritious meals, essential medicine, clean water, education-based services and other vital aid to help children in America and around the world.

Grantee partner recipients of the Red Nose Day Fund include:

• Boys & Girls Clubs of America, which provide safe places for children to learn and play after school
• Children’s Health Fund, which brings essential medical services to underserved children
• Feeding America, the hunger relief organization
• Save the Children, which provides critical early childhood programs
• City Year, which provides the social, emotional and academic skills to young adults in low-income households to succeed in school and life
• Covenant House, which provides housing and support to youth facing homelessness
• International Rescue Committee, a global humanitarian aid organization
• Laureus Sport for Good, which uses the power of sport to end violence, discrimination and disadvantage for young people
• UnidosUS, which advocates for Latinos in civic engagement, education, health and housing
• The Global Fund, a partnership to accelerate the end of AIDS, tuberculosis and malaria

Join the cause

You can join the celebration when stars unite for a world of good during the Red Nose Day TV Special, Thursday, May 21, at 8/7c on NBC.

Want to get your own Red Nose on and get involved? Visit walgreens.com/RedNoseDay to learn more.

2020-04-29T02:01:00

(BPT) – Though most office employees are working remotely during this unprecedented time, there will be a time when the world re-emerges from COVID-19. What will office space look like then?

Despite concerns regarding more companies shifting completely to remote working, workspaces play an essential role and impact companies in numerous ways. According to a recent Bloomberg article, people are overworked, stressed and eager to get back to the office. It’s much more than simply an address where people report for their job. An office can help define a company brand, promote safe employee engagement, underscore efficiency and even help boost retention and recruitment efforts, giving an organization an edge over competitors.

Workspaces are also constantly evolving. Just think about where and how your parents worked compared to where and how you work today. What’s interesting is we were in the midst of a dramatic shift in the types of amenities that companies desire for their workplaces, largely driven by the millennial workforce and preparing for Gen Z, which is just now entering the workforce. This shift is now experiencing its own shift as companies work to comply with social-distancing mandates and create safer workplaces that limit the transmission of COVID-19.

KBS, one of the nation’s largest owners of office properties across the U.S., provides key insight into these demands and what the workspaces of the future may look and feel like as tenants go back to work.

Here are five potential ways office spaces of the future may evolve:

Reconfigured Use of Space

We will begin to see interior office designs evolve to incorporate more space between workstations, as well as unique ways to break down density throughout a building.

Office owners will be challenged to deliver environments that are safe, aesthetically pleasing and still provide that collaboration and camaraderie that tenants want. We will likely see significant innovation within office space designs over the next year as office owners reconfigure spaces to inspire collaborative environments, as well as maintain a safe distance.

Smart Tech and Touchless Amenities

Office owners will likely begin implementing touchless amenities into many office properties across the U.S. This includes items such as touchless elevators, automatic doors, faucets and possibly incorporating voice command for frequently used items within a building in order to limit the transmission of illness.

These features will be important in our current environment; however, they will likely become commonplace as we move further into the future. Companies and their employees want environments that put their health top of mind. Smart tech and touchless features are an easy way to do this.

Integration of Health Focused Materials

Beyond touchless features, we will also see office spaces incorporate more antibacterial materials into office designs. Office property owners will be more selective in the materials used in order to further limit the spread of illness in the future. Office spaces may also incorporate antibacterial coatings on surfaces, as well as more sanitation stations throughout a building.

Additionally, electrostatic cleaning is gaining popularity. This method uses an electrostatic machine to spray all surfaces including chairs, keyboards, telephones, carpet, kitchen appliances, counter tops, file cabinets and door handles; covering all surfaces and in a quicker fashion. This method is compliant with CDC guidelines for COVID-19 cleaning.

Increase in Concierge Services

While concierge services and service-based amenities were a growing trend in office space prior to COVID-19, we will likely see an increase in concierge services, especially those that incorporate contactless options such as food delivery, dry cleaning lockers and other services that make everyday life easier.

In fact, for the KBS office property in Chicago, Accenture Tower, we created a customized app that easily connects tenants and their employees with surrounding amenities. The app includes the ability to order food directly through the app, limiting contact and the need for employees to leave the building.

More Customized Space

The shift to remote working for all employees and processes has allowed them to identify what is working and what’s not. This renewed understanding of their business operations will result in more demand for customized office spaces that fit companies’ specific needs, and they will be looking to landlords to provide it.

KBS, as a forward-looking office owner, truly understands how to deliver these customized spaces, even when tenants aren’t able to visualize it themselves. In fact, prior to COVID-19, KBS consistently built spec space without a committed tenant.

At District 237, a KBS client portfolio property in San Jose, California, we repositioned an entire building, 100,000 square feet of spec space. It was an extremely progressive strategy that was successful and something we would definitely consider doing again if it was the right fit for the property. The reason we were able to do this is because we look at every property on an individual basis and what that specific property’s needs are, as well as the surrounding community, demographics, tenants, etc. We would apply these same principles in customized space today, also taking into account shifts in needs based on COVID-19, ultimately delivering an in-demand space that tenants want. For more information and to see other office properties from KBS visit kbs.com.

2020-04-23T07:01:00

(BPT) – The coronavirus pandemic has altered life dramatically across the world. For millions of Americans, their new quarantine routine includes working remotely 100% of the time. Telecommuting makes work possible, but it’s not without challenges. Fortunately, there are some simple solutions you can use to work effectively from home now and in the future.

Problem: Fuzzy conference calls with annoying delays

Solution: Anker PowerConf speaker for clear conference calls

Conference calls are now a daily essential. However, many people are quickly learning the speakerphone on their computer and cell phones are sub-par at best. The Anker PowerConf Bluetooth conference speaker makes those calls amazingly clear, with six microphones for 360 degrees of coverage. With its Smart Voice Enhancement feature, it makes your voice stand out, blocking background noises in the next room or outside (e.g., dogs barking, kids playing or a lawnmower next door). With its 24-hour playtime and charging port for your phone, you’ll feel like a boss at every meeting.

Problem: Limited MacBook ports

Solution: PowerExpand Direct 7-in-2 Hub helps you maximize your MacBook

So much to do, but not enough ports to do it with? Expand your MacBook’s two USB-C ports into one Thunderbolt USB-C port, one USB-C data port, two USB-A ports, one HDMI port, one SD card slot, and one microSD card slot — all from the ultra-compact PowerExpand Direct 7-in-2 Hub. The Thunderbolt 3-enabled USB-C port supports huge charging power up to 100W, data transfer up to an astounding 40 Gb/s, and media display at resolutions up to 5K. Plus, the HDMI port supports a resolution of 4K at 30Hz while the Thunderbolt 3 port supports 5K at 60Hz. Connect to two displays simultaneously, so you can stream content and work at maximum efficiency.

Problem: Annoying earbuds that drop audio

Solution: Soundcore Liberty Air 2 earphones with optimized audio

Earbuds are a work-from-home essential, but not all are created equal. Whether you’re listening to a work presentation or taking a call, you need the crystal-clear sound that you get with the Soundcore Liberty Air 2 earbuds. Each earbud is equipped with two microphones and noise-reduction technology that reduces outside noises by 60% to ensure that everyone on the other side of the call can clearly hear what is being said. The ultra-light, yet rigid driver maintains its structure, even when vibrating at high frequencies, to ensure you can effortlessly hear your colleagues as well. A single charge provides 7 hours of listening, while the charging case extends it to 28 hours of playtime. When the case is in need of a recharge, simply set it down on a wireless charger or use the included USB-C cable.

Problem: A dusty, dirty home office

Solution: The eufy RoboVac 15C MAX smart robot vacuum

You’re spending more time at home, which means there are probably crumbs, dust and more in your workspaces. Technology can help keep things clean so you can focus on your work. Enter the affordable eufy RoboVac 15C MAX smart robot vacuum with a super-slim design and impressive suction power of up to 2000 Pa that quietly cleans for up to 100 minutes. When this RoboVac encounters a mess, it activates BoostIQ Technology that increases suction power for the best clean possible. With Wi-Fi capabilities, use the EufyHome app, Alexa or Google Assistant voice control services to activate your vacuum for a clean floor with zero effort from you. You can keep working and get your floors clean simultaneously, making you a multitasking master.

Problem: Slow charging and not enough ports for devices

Solution: The Anker PowerPort Strip PD 2 mini with USB expansion

Using all your devices at home burns through battery life, so you need a solution with ultra-fast charging capabilities to keep everyone connected. With the compact PowerPort Strip PD 2 mini you get one USB-C port, two PowerIQ-enabled USB charging ports, and two AC outlets to power five devices simultaneously. What’s more, PowerIQ provides charging times that are 2.5 times faster than generic wall chargers. Rest assured, safety is top of mind with this charger thanks to a seven-point safety system, which includes a fire-retardant casing and child-friendly safety shutters. With 5 feet of cable and a worry-free 18-month warranty, it’s a smart choice for the whole family.

For inspiration and more solutions for flawless working from home, visit www.anker.com.

2020-04-20T06:01:00

(BPT) – This time of year, high school seniors and parents are on the edge of their seats waiting for college acceptance letters — and to learn how much school will cost. Like many families during this unprecedented time, how parents and students approach paying for college may be evolving. One important document that will help with the college decision-making process is the financial aid offer. And now, decoding it is more important than ever.

First, you filled out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). Each year, you should fill out the FAFSA as early as possible (it’s available for the new academic year on Oct. 1).

What happens after the FAFSA?

After your FAFSA is processed, you can view your Student Aid Report (SAR) — not to be confused with the financial aid offer letters from each school you designated on the FAFSA. The SAR summarizes the information from your FAFSA and should be checked for accuracy. It will state your Expected Family Contribution (EFC), which helps determine eligibility for federal student aid. If you need to correct the SAR, go to studentaid.gov.

After your child starts receiving letters of acceptance from schools, you’ll receive financial aid offer letters from those schools, usually around March or April.

What’s on financial aid offer letters?

You may find your child’s financial aid offers confusing. You’re not alone. In a recent College Ave Student Loans parent survey conducted by Barnes & Noble College Insights, 42% of parents who received a letter found aspects of the aid offer letters confusing, and 68% agreed that the terms and layout of these letters varied from school to school, making it hard to compare them.

One tool you can use to compare offers: Finaid.org/calculators/awardletteradvanced.phtml.

Cost of attending school

Cost of attendance (COA) is an estimate of tuition and fees, room and board, and some other costs. Some letters use the term “net price” or “net cost” to describe the cost of attending for the academic year. It includes tuition, plus on-campus housing and dining. Many costs may or may not be listed, such as books, clubs, athletic and student activity fees, plus travel to and from school.

Scholarships and grants

If your child was awarded a federal grant (such as a Pell grant) or scholarships from the college or university, they will be listed on your offer letter. These do not need to be repaid and are applied directly to the school’s tuition.

Work-study programs

If your child indicated interest in work-study on the FAFSA and qualifies for a work-study program, he or she can work part-time on campus to help cover expenses. This is money that does not need to be repaid.

Federal loans

On the financial aid offers, you’ll likely see loans for the student and/or parent. These loans will need to be repaid. For loans in the student’s name, the payments typically begin after the student leaves school. The amount students can borrow is limited and depends on factors such as the year in school.

The most common type of student loans are Direct Loans, which offer low fixed interest rates, and you may or may not be charged interest while in school depending on your financial need. Parent PLUS loans are an option parents can use to help children pay for college. Repayment on Parent PLUS loans typically starts right away, not after the student leaves school.

What if all costs aren’t covered?

Even families who qualify for aid may find the total cost isn’t covered. In the College Ave Student Loans parent survey conducted by Barnes & Noble College Insights, 68% of parents said paying for 100% of college was an unattainable goal.

You can write a letter to the school appealing your aid package in light of family circumstances. Of the 21% of parents who received an aid offer in the study and appealed it, 61% were successful in getting money from the school.

Additional options:

• Private loans
  To cover the gap between financial aid and college costs, College Ave Student Loans are customized to fit the individual needs of each student and family. Compare loan options and begin your application at CollegeAveStudentLoans.com.
• Live at home
  On-campus room and board can be a substantial portion of college expenses.
• Attend community college
  Many community colleges have transfer agreements with 4-year institutions. Some students can take courses at a lower cost in the first 1 to 2 years, then transfer to their desired school to complete their degree. Have a clear plan and make sure credits will transfer if this sounds like the path for you.

College Ave Student Loans simplifies the student loan experience. Visit CollegeAveStudentLoans.com/tools/calculator to explore the best ways to save money and see estimated monthly loan payments.

2020-04-16T15:01:00

(BPT) – Skills are like kitchen knives, over time they can get dull. By continuing to refresh your skills and experiences, you may find your way into a new job or career path. With our day-to-day routines changing and evolving, it’s more important now than ever to invest in your skills to grow both professionally and personally — whether that’s brushing up on what you already know, adapting to the changing job market, or learning something new. According to a recent survey by LinkedIn, almost one-third of professionals in the U.S. are planning on learning new skills.

Here are four ways you can get started with online learning.

1. Set aside time for learning

Oftentimes, online learning is associated with changing roles or brushing up on skills for a job interview. While these are key areas where learning can be useful, you’ll get the most value from learning if you make it part of your everyday routine. LinkedIn Learning courses are “bite-sized,” making it easy and convenient for you to add online learning to your daily schedule. For example, you can watch an hour-long course in 10-minute segments, so consider committing 10 minutes a day to learning over your morning coffee or lunch break.

2. Discover courses for in-demand skills

LinkedIn Learning gives you the flexibility to search for courses, skills, videos and instructors across hundreds of topics and industries. You can “follow” skills that you want to learn more about, discover learning paths to start a new career and receive suggested courses to stay sharp based on your current role. It’s okay if you don’t know where to start — focus on what you need to learn to do a specific job, and for inspiration, LinkedIn will show you trending courses that are popular with other learners. If you’re currently working remotely, which requires a slightly different skill set, LinkedIn released a free learning path to help you adjust to your new environment and tips to be more productive.

3. Boost your job search

Job searching can be stressful, especially in today’s job market, but there are lots of ways to discover new opportunities and stand out. Whether that’s creating a search plan that connects you to jobs based on your skills and experience, leaning on your professional network for referrals, making a lasting impression during your interview or mastering ways to negotiate salary, there are a number of best practices to learn to get your job search on the right track. LinkedIn’s learning path for job seekers is also available to help you get back on your feet when facing challenging times.

4. Make learning fun and collaborative

Learning has become much more social in the online world as people lean on their community to share courses and collaborate. Those who learn together often feel more energized and connected. Also, consider posting about the online courses you found valuable on your LinkedIn feed, or suggesting courses for individuals within your network to help them reach their goals. There are more than 16,000 expert-led courses on LinkedIn Learning, ranging from managing a diverse team, how to develop resilience, incorporating mindfulness into your routine, demonstrating executive leadership and more. Sharing best practices with others helps strengthen relationships, which could lead to opportunities down the road.

You’ll spend approximately 90,000 hours working throughout your career, so it’s important to think about what you’re “in it” for. Many professionals fear they don’t have the right skills for their job, or haven’t simply taken a step back to ask themselves: “Am I in the right job?” Asking yourself these important (sometimes difficult) questions, and committing to learn and enhance your skills, will help set you up for success, no matter where you are in your career.