Category: Brandpoint Business & Finance

2019-08-27T11:53:01

(BPT) – If you’re running a small business, chances are your budget is tight. You may consider buying new PCs a luxury you can’t afford, at least not right now. But if your employees are working on computers that are five years old or older, this could actually be costing you serious money.

How do older computers result in your business throwing money away?

1. Lost employee productivity

Older computers result in less productive employees, for a variety of reasons. In a recent study of 3,297 small businesses in 16 countries by J. Gold, commissioned by Intel, the small businesses reported that employees using older PCs spent what could amount to 11 hours per year just waiting for their computers to start up.¹

And that’s just one of the ways employees are slowed down. Anyone trying to use new or resource-intensive software applications, load web pages or run a number of applications at the same time on an old computer knows it can result in massive slowdowns. Computers with slower, less powerful processors typically can’t handle the load.

When work doesn’t get done in a timely manner due to these slowdowns, business owners can mistakenly think they need to hire more employees to handle the work, which will likely cost more money. Or they may turn to cloud computing or software as a service (SaaS) to try to boost efficiency and save money. However, while technologies such as cloud computing and SaaS may help somewhat, to make a substantial difference they would also require the speed and processing power not available from your old computers — asking more than an older machine can deliver.

Overall, the J. Gold study found that computers five years old (or older) can result in lost productivity, up to 29%. What does that mean in terms of dollars? Each older PC being used in your business could cost you up to $17,000 annually in lost productivity alone.²

2. Computer malfunctions and upgrades

On top of lost productivity due to slower start-up times and inefficiently running software applications, PCs that are five years old or older may be more likely to break down or need upgrades to function properly. While it may seem more cost-efficient just to install more memory here, make a repair there — the money you’re dumping into outdated computers adds up. And that’s money you could have used to invest in new PCs.

The J. Gold study discovered that over the course of a year, the small businesses that they surveyed estimated about 43% of their older PCs malfunctioned or suffered a breakdown. The study also found that the reported repair costs for PCs five years old or older are $662 per year, on average.³ Enough of such repairs could soon equal the cost of a better, more powerful new PC — and newer PCs are less likely to fail or malfunction.

3. Cybersecurity breaches

The last thing a small business wants is to have to cope with a cyberattack, whether that means being hacked or getting hit by malware, but it can and does happen. A survey by global insurance company Hiscox reported that 47% of small businesses experienced at least one cyberattack over the span of a year, and nearly half of those businesses had been hit more than once.⁴ Unfortunately, the older your PC, the more vulnerable it may be to cyberattacks. In the study by J. Gold, the respondents estimated that nearly 35% of their PCs over five years old had been hit with malware or some other form of cyberattack, while less than 6% of their PCs under one year old had been attacked.

A data breach can be extremely costly for a small business, beyond the harm to your customers and to the reputation of your business. In the Hiscox survey, small businesses estimated that the average cost of cyber incidents over the past year totaled $35,604.⁵

Updating your PCs to the newest operating system available (currently Windows 10*) is often the best way to boost your cybersecurity. However, running Windows 10 on an older computer means you may not have access to all the newest security features. If you continue to run an older operating system like Windows 7, you should know that Microsoft will not be providing security features for Windows 7 after Jan. 14, 2020.

What’s the upshot? Consider the potential cost in terms of lost employee productivity, repairs and security risks when you calculate the price of new computers for your business. If your company’s PCs are five years old or older, it may not be saving you money to hang on to them — it could be costing quite a lot. Look for PCs that run 8th Gen Intel® Core™i5 or Core i7 processors, which help computers access information more quickly, helping to deliver reliable and efficient performance to enable your employees to work more effectively and productively. Upgrading to newer, more powerful computers can be the best investment you can make in your business.

¹ 2018 web-based study commissioned by Intel and conducted by J. Gold Associates, LLC.
² Also based on the 2018 web-based study commissioned by Intel and conducted by J. Gold Associates, LLC. 3,297 respondents from small business in 16 countries (Australia, Canada, China, France, Germany, India, Italy, Japan, Mexico, Saudi Arabia, South Africa, Spain, Turkey, UAE, UK, USA) estimated that for PCs over five years old, employees would be up to 29% less productive, based on an average assumed employee’s salary of US$60,000, so that the lost productivity cost would amount to US$17,000. To review this statistic and the full report, see https://www.intel.com/content/www/us/en/business/small-business/sme-pc-study.html.
³ The percentage of malfunctioning computers is based on based on a 2018 web-based survey, commissioned by Intel and conducted by J. Gold Associates, LLC., of 3,297 respondents from small business in 16 countries (Australia, Canada, China, France, Germany, India, Italy, Japan, Mexico, Saudi Arabia, South Africa, Spain, Turkey, UAE, UK, USA) to assess the challenges and costs associated with using older PCs.
⁴ The 2018 Hiscox Small Business Cyber Risk Report^TM commissioned Forrester Consulting to assess the organization’s cyber readiness.
⁵ Ibid.
^*Intel, the Intel logo and Intel Core are trademarks of Intel Corporation or its subsidiaries in the United States and/or other countries.

2019-08-27T08:01:00

(BPT) – Have you seen a modern classroom with a variety of seating options that allow kids to sit, stand, wiggle and wobble as they engage in learning throughout the day?

If so, you are familiar with flexible seating, a leading educational trend in K-12 classrooms nationwide. Both teachers and students are finding this alternative to traditional rows of desks to better align with how kids move, learn and collaborate. This in turn helps teachers engage and educate students.

Wondering how flexible seating could help at your local schools? Here are the top benefits of flexible seating from the educational experts at Smith System:

Choice

Students feel empowered by having some degree of choice and control over their environment. Flexible seating allows students to choose where they work and with whom. It also allows them to change their location and positions as needed, which teachers believe supports the development of higher-order thinking skills.

Physical health

Flexible seating allows children to wobble, rock, bounce, lean or stand, which increases oxygen flow to the brain, blood flow and core strength. Physical activity is linked to higher academic performance, better health and improved behavior. An academic paper by Matthew T. Mahar titled “Effects of a Classroom-Based Program on Physical Activity and On-Task Behavior,” found that simple in-class activities can boost performance. Studies suggest that children who participate in short bursts of physical activity within the classroom have more on-task behavior, too.

Comfort

An uncomfortable student is a distracted and unproductive student. For example, picture a student who skipped or didn’t have access to breakfast. As the countdown to lunch approaches, his or her growling stomach will make it impossible to concentrate on the teacher’s voice. An uncomfortable chair can have the same effect. Flexible seating encourages students to find their best spot to stay calm, focused and productive.

Community

Traditional desks can make students territorial or possessive over their space and supplies. Flexible seating encourages students to share both seating spaces and supplies needed to complete educational tasks. Plus, it encourages them to take turns in different locations and with different seating options.

Collaboration

Flexible seating allows students to quickly and easily pair up, work in small groups or discuss educational topics as a whole class — without moving numerous heavy desks to establish eye contact. This encourages communication and collaboration to boost critical thinking and deeper understanding of educational materials.

Participation

A 2012 study from the University of Minnesota found that students participated 48% more in discussions in a classroom with collaborative group seating versus traditional lecture-style seating, and also improved their performance on standardized tests. This underscores the value of flexible seating and its ability to create a collaborative environment that boosts participation.

Communication

When introducing flexible seating, teachers must establish new classroom management tools. That includes creating a system to make seating choice fair and nondisruptive. It also requires introducing higher-order thinking skills, like problem-solving, and emotional skills, like conflict resolution. There’s also much value in fostering turn-taking and patience, especially for a generation of kids immersed in immediate gratification.

Sensory input

Many flexible seating options stimulate students’ sense of touch. This type of stimulation can help children focus and process information. Sensory input is especially helpful for students with ADHD, ADD and ASD.

Fun

Flexible seating helps make learning fun. Children look forward to where they will sit, and each day becomes a unique educational adventure. Teachers adopting a change to flexible seating can set a positive mindset that is infectious to students.

Flexible seating helps students become more enthusiastic learners while giving them choices, which is empowering. To learn more about flexible seating, visit smithsystem.com.

2019-08-23T08:11:22

(BPT) – Did you know nearly 1 in 3 people think they’re more likely to learn Bigfoot is real than to save enough to retire comfortably? That’s according to a recent survey from AARP and the Ad Council.

But successfully saving for retirement doesn’t have to be a fantasy — or scary. Chances are you’re better at saving than you think. Have you put kids through college? Bought a house? Purchased a car or two? You’re probably better at achieving financial goals than you give yourself credit for. The careful planning and savings skills you’ve already used can help you reach your next big financial goal: a secure retirement.

The right tools make it easier. You can get started today with a free online resource from AARP where you can create your personal action plan in just a few minutes. Meet your friendly digital retirement coach, Avo, at AceYourRetirement.org.

“In just three minutes you can get answers to a few simple questions, plus personalized tips and saving strategies,” said Debra Whitman, AARP executive vice president and chief public policy officer. “The to-do list format is effective and works for any age.”

The sooner you start, the sooner you’ll have peace of mind, and a concrete plan. While everyone’s situation is unique, here are steps you can take today.

1. Take advantage of your employer’s retirement benefits. If your workplace offers a 401(k) or another savings plan, make sure you’re getting the most bang for your buck. If your employer matches part of your contribution, aim to contribute at least enough to get the full match.

“It’s basically free money for your future, and it can be a huge way to amplify the amount you’re able to save for yourself,” said Whitman.

If possible, consider boosting your contribution past that employer match by a percentage or two, to increase your savings even more. A long-term goal might be to set aside 10-15% of your income as a contribution to your 401(k).

2. Try to pay down debt. No matter your situation, reducing debt is always smart, as debt you carry eats away at savings you’re trying to set aside. Check interest rates on your current mortgages, car loans, home equity loans, parent loans or credit cards. Consider working toward paying down loans or cards with the highest interest rates first. Call your credit card companies and ask for a lower interest rate. Some debt may be eligible for refinancing, so consider that option to lower interest rates.

3. Have a family conversation. When it comes to any big financial decision, it helps if everyone is on the same page. You and your spouse could create a budget and incremental goals to work on together. Talk to your adult children about how paying down your debt and saving for retirement is a priority, and that helping them with their education, housing or other responsibilities is a secondary goal.

4. Plan your retirement timing. “As soon as possible” isn’t the best way to decide when to retire. If your health and work situation allow, delaying retirement until your late 60s or even early 70s can make a big difference to your long-term financial security.

“Earning a few more years of income can really help you grow your nest egg and waiting to claim Social Security increases your annual benefit for the rest of your life,” said Whitman.

Calculate your Social Security benefits to determine your best strategy at ssa.gov/benefits/retirement/estimator.html.

5. Live within your means. Spending only what you can afford is key to financial security. The sooner you develop a budget and track your spending, the more cash you’ll save in the short term, helping you make more accurate projections for the long term. Enjoy life now, but don’t let that enjoyment come at the cost of your future. Saving money consistently every month can help make a secure retirement a reality.

These goals are within your control, and you can make progress if you start small, start today and plan. For more information, visit AceYourRetirement.org.

2019-08-19T08:01:00

(BPT) – Sharing your wireless plan with family members is a great way to save. It eliminates the hassle of multiple bills and lets you benefit from bundled savings offered by your provider. But choosing the right one requires some homework: Family plans today come in all shapes and sizes.

Here are a few key things to consider before signing your family up with a new carrier.

How much data do you need?

The biggest difference in wireless plans these days is based on your data needs. Since cellphones function more as personal computers than calling devices, data packages drive up the price far more than minutes or texts.

Many carriers offer “unlimited” data which, at a glance, may seem like a great option for a family. But unlimited data plans actually have some limits. Most carriers give you some super-fast LTE data but then slow down your speeds after you’ve used a certain amount.

Instead, calculate your actual data usage to see if you can adopt a plan that is more affordable. By connecting to Wi-Fi and using other data saving methods, the average person uses less than 3GB of data per month. Once you’re clear on your real data usage, you can choose a more customized plan, and the savings can be substantial.

Do you really need the latest phone?

Before you settle on a family plan, consider what you’re going to do regarding cellphones. There are plenty of choices available from a new carrier, but purchasing a few new phones, or even one, can be an expensive proposition.

Most wireless carriers allow you to bring your own device to their service, if the phone is compatible with their networks. Some carriers will even attempt to entice new customers with “Bring Your Own Phone” incentives, like an extra credit or a free month of a certain plan. This is especially convenient if you’re ready for a new carrier but don’t want to give up a like-new iPhone or Samsung Galaxy.

You can typically switch carriers by removing your existing SIM card and inserting a SIM card obtained from your new carrier. Just be sure to check that you can use your device with the new provider’s network. To check if your device is compatible, visit the carrier’s website and look for information on bringing your device or swapping SIM cards.

Who has the best deal?

Every cellphone carrier offers some sort of bundled or family plan. To find the one that’s right for you, focus on the amount of data the packages offer, the monthly charge for each additional line (these will vary), and any additional fees you may incur if you decide to switch to a different plan.

A recent survey by Wirecutter, the New York Times product review website, found the best value as belonging to Consumer Cellular. Their monthly per-line charge is a low $15, with no fees for changing plans. Wirecutter highlighted these Consumer Plans as top deals:

• A two-line plan, including unlimited talk and 10GB of shared data for $65 a month, was found to be “the best plan for couples.”
• A four-line plan, with unlimited talk and 20GB of shared data for $105 a month, was selected as “the best plan for a family of four.”

If there is more than one person in your household, you really ought to be in a family cellphone plan. You’ll save money over going it alone. Start by deciding on the data you’ll need, then choose a customized plan that’s just right for your needs and your budget.

2019-08-16T08:01:01

(BPT) – Resourceful thieves and cyber criminals continue to find new ways to hack U.S. consumers’ sensitive personal information. Dumpster diving, stolen or lost wallets and mail fraud should still be concerns, but the digital age of tablets, smartphones, PCs and Wi-Fi networks leaves people even more vulnerable than ever.

Think about it: Have you ever stored credit card information on your phone for added convenience to make payments in a checkout lane? Do you ever store passwords in apps to transfer funds between accounts? And what’s to keep hackers from accessing a wireless network you check your email on while you’re grabbing a quick cup of coffee?

”More than 15.4 million people a year will experience identity theft, with an average loss of more than $1,000,” said Jane Li, Mercury Insurance’s director of product management. “When one access point closes due to added levels of security, cyber attackers find another. Insurance companies like Mercury provide services that allow homeowners and renters to enjoy the convenience of accessing their connected devices at home and on-the-go, while also helping to protect customers from the potentially devastating effects of criminal infiltration, cyber extortion and identity theft.”

Keeping aware of the latest schemes and ensuring members of your household, friends and others you care about have the right tools helps stop criminals in their tracks.

Following are five do’s and don’ts to help protect your connected devices, as well as your electronic identity, from hackers.

1. Do power down your devices. This disables the internet connection, cutting off access to any personal information stored on your computer, tablet or phone. Unattended machines, especially if you’re asleep or you leave them at home while on vacation, are easy targets for hackers.
2. Don’t connect to unsecured wireless networks. Information accessed on an open network, including email passwords and sensitive bank information, is fair game for hackers. Don’t make their jobs easier. Turn off Wi-Fi access on your devices unless it’s a password-protected network you trust.
3. Do monitor your children’s device usage. It’s a good idea to limit use of computers, tablets and phones to public areas within the home like the living room or kitchen. This makes it easier for parents to keep an eye on who their kids are communicating with, especially on social media or gaming sites, to help prevent the sharing of sensitive information like full names, addresses or other things that can be used for identity theft or other potentially dangerous activities.
4. Don’t discard important paperwork without shredding it. If it has your name and address, it presents an opportunity for thieves to take advantage and open an account using your information. Remember to shred expired insurance documents, vehicle registrations, bills, loan pre-qualifications and other paperwork that would allow someone to call in pretending to be you. Check your credit reports at least twice a year to ensure all accounts opened in your name are valid.
5. Do install recommended updates. Smartphone, computer, tablet and smart TV manufacturers, among other providers of connected devices, offer periodic software updates to protect against potential security breaches. Chances are, if an update is recommended, hackers have already discovered a way to access your personal property and information, so keep your software up-to-date.

Li recommends homeowners and renters speak with their local insurance agent to learn more about the endorsements they may be able to add to existing policies to help safeguard their finances if their identities are compromised or connected devices are attacked.

“It can be daunting to try to regain your financial footing if a criminal takes advantage of you,” said Li. “Insurance exists to help protect consumers from unexpected events and, in this case, it’s better to be safe than sorry.”

2019-08-15T07:01:00

(BPT) – When we imagine “financial literacy,” we often think about credit cards, loans and debt. But these building blocks of our financial infrastructures tend to cloud our perspective, pushing important details, like checking accounts, to the sidelines.

Checking accounts are often overlooked but are actually the backbone of personal finance and money management. Routinely using a well-kept checking account allows people to responsibly spend their money. For many, checking accounts are often children, teens and young adults’ first financial accounts, and serve as an introduction to money management and responsible spending.

Because checking accounts are so important, it’s critical that individuals find options that work with their lifestyle and are accessible anywhere. To make the most of your money, here’s what you should look for in a checking account:

1. Read the small print and avoid fees

Opening a checking account feels like a fairly standard practice, so it’s tempting to overlook the fine print. But that’s where hidden fees and charges often linger. The onus is generally on consumers to assess which options work best for them. When reading the fine print, focus on how much — and how often — charges will arise. If a financial institution claims to charge no fee on an account, confirm that there aren’t hidden fees that kick in after a certain amount of time. You don’t want to be surprised later on.

“Look for accounts that are ‘fee-free’ or boast ‘no monthly fees’ so that you ensure your money stays yours,” says Katie Miller, senior vice president of savings products at Navy Federal Credit Union. “It’s worth the time on the front end to save money on needless expenses in the long run.”

2. Access cash anywhere

Take a look at a checking account with a financial institution whose ATMs are scattered around your work, grocery stores and other favorite places that you frequent often. Many checking accounts offer solutions that make your cash even more accessible like ATM fee rebates. Sometimes, your bank of choice will charge you a fee to use an unaffiliated ATM; other times, the ATM itself will charge you a fee to access your money. Rather than pay extra to extract your own cash, some accounts allow you to use any ATM, fee-free. Offers like Navy Federal Credit Union’s Free eChecking account pay up to $120 a year in ATM fee rebates. Use any ATM, anywhere, regardless of fees, and receive up to $10 per statement period to cover those expenses.

3. Accomplish your goals with ease

Free eChecking is a great option for people who are always on the go. Being able to access your money with a few touches of your smartphone makes it easy to budget, plan and manage your money.

“You should bank the way you live,” continues Miller. “Look for offers that allow you to transfer money between accounts, for when you file away a percentage of your paycheck into your savings account. Select a checking account that takes the work out of managing your budget.”

4. Make your money work for you

Find an account that earns you monthly dividends to reward your loyalty and use. “Choosing a checking account that allows your money to earn dividends lets you make money without thinking about it,” says Miller. Some accounts even offer built-in money management tools that let you look at your spending to inform future budgeting endeavors.

Checking accounts teach us the basics of money management: They show us how much money we have and how much we’ve spent in real time. With the right checking account, you can take ownership over your money in a way that can be both impactful and instructive. And when one has the proper insights to avoid unnecessary fees and obstacles, this tool can be the perfect foundation for a healthy financial path.

2019-07-31T07:01:00

(BPT) – Should you ask someone their credit score on a date? There’s actually an online dating app that’s based on one’s credit score. Maybe it’s not a bad idea.

Apparently, members of the millennial and Gen Z generations agree. With student loan debt at an all-time high, it’s understandable that young adults are more willing to discuss finances than previous generations — even on the first date.

According to a Bankrate survey, millennials are nearly twice as likely to feel comfortable discussing money with a romantic partner — even sharing credit scores and exchanging stories about debt.

Young adults today are coping with the largest burden of student debt of any generation, plus stagnant wages and often limited support from parents who may have been hit hard by the recession. It’s no wonder money is on their mind — and an important consideration when choosing a partner.

If you’re a millennial or Gen Z, what do you need to know about finances? Here are ways to determine if the person you’re dating has a responsible attitude when it comes to debt, credit and finances.

Are they a responsible borrower?

When discussing where you went to school, it’s very common to bring up the subject of student loans and how you’re coping with debt. As they say, misery loves company. You each can share tips and resources that have worked for you. Create a bonding moment out of something you both may be struggling with and learn a few tricks along the way.

Are they living within their means?

One way to cope with debt is to make sure you’re not taking on more. Perhaps after you’ve dated a little while, you may feel safe to bring this topic up. This is something you may be able to subtly pick up in conversations along the way. This is a two-way street, so you must be open sharing your saving plan, goals and debt situation. Being the first person to share can help your partner feel more at ease.

Do they know and understand their credit score?

Your credit score reveals how potential lenders see you. Did you know that traditional credit score models don’t take into account the fact that millennials and Gen Z may have higher assets and income, but are reluctant to take on more debt due to their student loan burden, and so may reflect less credit history? A story in USA Today reported this last year.

A fun tip to share with your date: the VantageScore model assesses younger borrowers more fairly. Over 2.5 billion VantageScore credit scores were provided directly to consumers last year, and you — and your date — can get your free credit score at yourvantagescore.com/free.

Do they think about the future?

Your date may be surprised when you ask how they imagine their retirement, but this can be a great indicator of their financial mindset. If your date sports a flashy wardrobe but gives no thought to the future — or assumes they’ll be wealthy enough to retire at 50 with no current plan — they may not be thinking it through. See if they have similar retirement goals and outlook as you. Keep the conversation light and breezy. You’re just getting to know each other and it’s OK if they have a different financial mindset than you. You can only control your own actions.

Knowing how someone handles their finances can be an indicator of their maturity level and their character. Do they take responsibility for their obligations, or are they just winging it? How far you decide to commit to the relationship may largely depend on what you discover about their attitudes toward money. Understanding your debt situation is the first step toward planning for the future. For more information and helpful tips, check out the VantageScore podcast at vss.credit/itunes.

2019-07-30T06:01:00

(BPT) – Whether you’re a small-business owner, a manager at a mid-sized company or CEO of a large corporation, you’ve had to cope with constant change over the course of your career, and you’ve learned at least one thing: More change is inevitable.

Between the constant evolution of technology, shifting corporate cultures, changing consumer expectations and global challenges, change is the one constant you can rely on. Effective change management has become crucial for successful leaders of any size business, requiring a complex skill set and a mindset that’s focused on the needs of employees as they cope with change.

Employees and business leaders alike can have responses to change that are as unpredictable as the change itself. Some employees embrace change, eager to make the most of what they see as unlimited potential. Others fear it, worrying that everything they thought they knew no longer applies. Most fall somewhere in the middle, feeling wary or skeptical of change — and looking to their leaders for clues as to how things are going. Leaders need to take the reins and show the way through the change, with a clear vision of the ultimate goal, even if the path to get there is less than clear.

What techniques can business leaders use to become more effective at change management? The training experts at Dale Carnegie offer some guidelines.

1) Evaluate

Before the proposed change is implemented, carefully evaluate both the opportunities and potential risks from the change. Careful planning can anticipate and avoid possible surprises, limiting a domino effect of one change causing further disruptions.

2) Coordinate

Because too much change at once can be overwhelming for anyone involved, coordinate efforts with all the other stakeholders, making sure to include anyone who will be affected in the planning as well as implementation of the change.

3) Commit resources

Plan to commit enough time, funding and preparation for everyone who may need to take on new responsibilities as part of any change initiative. One of the most common reasons people resist change is lack of confidence, so make sure your employees have the skills required to handle any new challenges.

4) Get leaders on board

Ensure that all the leaders in your organization are fully committed to the change. Consider how it will affect them by taking their point of view. Ask questions and make sure every leader is involved in the process to ensure success. All of the organization’s leaders will be responsible for communicating the desired vision for the change initiative, and employees will look to them to understand the need for this change.

5) Communicate

Make sure everyone in the organization understands the need for the change, and can visualize how things will be different once the change is implemented. Focus on the company’s goals and communicate how those goals will be better met as a result of this change.

6) Be others-focused

Try to see things from the point of view of others in the organization. Focus on the opportunities for individual growth that change can bring, and help everyone look to the future.

7) Be cooperative

Show respect for the opinion of others, and ask questions instead of giving orders. Remember that those closest to the situation often have the best ideas and solutions.

8) Enhance trust

Build trust before it’s needed by being consistent, honest and true to your own values and principles. If employees trust leaders, they will be more likely to positively embrace proposed changes.

9) Magnify improvements

Focus on what’s going well, no matter how small those improvements may be, and give prompt, sincere and specific praise. Communicate your praise publicly, and connect those achievements to the overall vision of the organization.

As Dale Carnegie once said, “Keep your mind open to change all the time. It is only by examining and reexamining your opinions and ideas that you can progress.”

Mid-level or experienced business leaders seeking to hone these and other skills can enroll in A Leader’s Guide to Managing Change in the Workplace to further develop ways to become a successful change manager.

For more information about the complete training program, Leadership Training for Results: Unleash Talent in Others, visit dalecarnegie.com.

2019-07-30T09:01:04

(BPT) – Everyone who loves the outdoors knows the impact humans can have on their environment, and this is especially true when it comes to wildfires. According to researchers from Swansea University’s College of Science, wildfires destroy 4% of the Earth’s surface each year. It has also been estimated that 84% of all wildfires are caused by humans, according to researchers from the University of Colorado. Rising worldwide temperatures and weather extremes have further increased the incidence of fires. From campers who get outside and explore our forests and parks, to backyard chefs tending the open flames of their grills, responsible use of fire is critical to preventing accidents like those seen around the world in recent years.

This sense of responsibility and a growing global urgency to help combat the devastating effects of wildfires inspired Zippo to take action. As creator of one of the most famous flames of all time, the iconic American brand is intimately aware of the power of fire. Zippo has teamed up with WOODCHUCK USA, creators of sustainably sourced wood-based products, as part of the BUY ONE. PLANT ONE.^® program. The partnership means that one tree will be planted for every windproof lighter sold from the Zippo Fight Fire with Fire collection.

The program is part of a long-term vision to support reforestation efforts in the aftermath of fires around the globe, beginning this year in Madagascar. As the fourth largest island in the world, Madagascar has had 90% of its original forests destroyed. Reforestation will create habitats for endangered species, help absorb carbon, halt erosion and flooding — and bring back healthy farming and fisheries.

Lucas Johnson, Senior Brand Manager, Global Marketing at Zippo, states, “Temperatures are at the highest level on record and wildfires are affecting almost every continent on Earth, but unlike most natural disasters, the majority of wildfires are caused by humans. According to National Geographic, in the U.S. alone there are around 100,000 forest fires each year, clearing up to 9 million acres of land. The Zippo windproof lighter gives people the power of portable fire, but with this comes responsibility.”

For individuals using fire, especially in regions susceptible to wildfires, it’s vital to follow practical safety measures. Here are some tips to help prevent wildfires:

Camping and the outdoors

When creating a bonfire, use a pre-made fire pit if available, or make a fire pit cleared of all vegetation with a boundary such as a circle of stones. Remove excess dead leaves or other potentially flammable debris from the area before lighting the fire.

Never leave a fire, lantern or cook stove unattended, especially overnight.

If the weather is windy, don’t start a fire — the risk is too high, as the embers can be carried across great distances and risk setting vegetation alight elsewhere.

When you’re finished with the fire, grill or stove, be sure to douse it thoroughly with water. Stir the coals or ashes to be sure all heat has been extinguished, and smother the campfire with dirt.

If you see fire that appears unattended or out of control, call 911 or the local park service right away.

In the backyard

Check and follow all local ordinances regarding fires, whether for recreation or burning yard waste.

Make sure the grill or bonfire is not near or underneath branches or other vegetation, or too close to your home.

For a fire pit, clear all grass, dead leaves or other possibly flammable material, and create a clear boundary for the fire using stones or bricks.

Consider fire risk when landscaping and maintaining your lawn and garden. Especially if you live in a wildfire-prone region, consult the National Fire Protection Association’s (NFPA) Firewise website for practical fire prevention tips such as using fire-resistant plants and creating a defensible zone around your home.

Consistently remove dead and dry leaves, pine cones and other plant material that could fuel a fire as part of your regular lawn maintenance.

Keep bushes and trees regularly pruned of dead branches.

Don’t use fire on a windy day, as the risk for fire spreading is too great.

If celebrating with fireworks, keep water and/or a fire extinguisher handy and spray down nearby grass and other vegetation before lighting fireworks. Be sure to thoroughly douse used fireworks with water. Don’t use fireworks at all if the weather is windy or if your area is under a Red Flag Warning.

Making a difference

Following these precautions to use fire responsibly is one way everyone can help prevent devastating wildfires. Every individual has the power to make a positive impact.

To learn more about how Zippo is making a difference, visit their YouTube channel. And to support Zippo’s efforts to help counter the effects of deforestation caused by wildfires, check out the Zippo Fight Fire with Fire collection.

Take the time to learn how you can contribute to the fight against wildfires in your area and beyond, to help protect the planet for generations to come.

2019-07-25T08:01:00

(BPT) – If you’re dreaming about starting a business, or if you’re already a business owner looking to grow your business, chances are that you’ll need a loan at some point to help your vision become reality. And if you’re a veteran or active-duty servicemember, you already possess the skills and vital experience needed to make your business a success.

“From resourcefulness and determination to the ability to take smart risks, military experience teaches skills that translate well for business ownership,” says Tony Pica, vice president of business services at Navy Federal Credit Union.

The U.S. Census Bureau’s 2012 Survey of Small Business Owners found that 2.52 million businesses in the United States (or 9.1%) are majority-owned by veterans. And fortunately, there are many resources available for veterans who are interested in starting or growing their business, including those from the SBA.gov.

What are lenders looking for? Here are five considerations to keep in mind before securing a loan for your business:

1. Do your market research and prepare a solid business plan.

Doing research on the industry and preparing a solid business plan is an important step to take when seeking financing for your company. If you can demonstrate to lenders that you’ve done your due diligence — created a detailed business plan, have a trusted team, know the demand for your product or service, and developed a sales strategy to show the viability of your business — you’ll be much more likely to convince them to take a chance on you and your company.

2. Review your overall financial profile.

“Your complete financial health demonstrates your creditworthiness to lenders, so it’s best to review your credit history before applying for a business loan,” says Pica. “You’ll also want to know the amount of money you need to borrow and what exactly it will be used for.”

Additionally, presenting your complete background, such as your education and experience, including whether you’ve worked at or managed a similar business in the past, can also make a big difference.

3. Be willing to invest some of your personal money.

Depending on the lending request, you might need to provide a cash injection and/or collateral. This may include your home, a vehicle, marketable securities, or tangible inventory. By doing so, the lender wants to make sure that you’re willing to put your own skin in the game. In many cases, a certain amount of capital may be required by law.

4. Expanding an existing business? Demonstrate evidence of continued success.

Lenders will want to see evidence of your past and projected cash flow as a result of expanding your existing company. If the loan is for a new business, you’ll need to show lenders your ability to repay it by providing a detailed explanation that includes projected expenses and income, based on solid research.

5. Partner with your trusted financial institution.

Once you’ve done your market research and developed a concrete business plan, talk to your trusted bank or credit union about the business lending products and services available to you.

For example, Navy Federal Credit Union Business Services provides much more than just loans for equipment, vehicles and commercial real estate for its members. They provide a whole suite of options, such as business checking and savings accounts and business credit cards, as well as assistance with bill pay, payroll processing, insurance policies and retirement coverage for employees.

Financing your budding business can be a smooth process with these considerations in mind.