If you are buying LED Strip Lights don't forget your power supply. LED Strip Lights rely on a peripheral unit called a power supply, also referred to as a transformer or driver, which is needed to make them work.
Power supplies come in many shapes and sizes, ranging from very basic 'plug and play' units to commercial style transformers which can be hardwired into your mains supply. You will also hear these power supplies referred to as 'transformers.' This is because as well as powering the LED Strip Lights these units are designed to 'transform' the mains 230V AC to a low voltage 12V DC therefore making the supply applicable to the strip lights.
There are a few considerations you need to make when it comes to selecting the type of power supply you need.
Firstly, do you want to be able to plug into a wall socket, or are you planning to hardwire your LED Strip Lights into a light switch?
If the answer to the former question is 'yes' then you will require a standard 'plug and play' driver. This is the most basic supply available and allows quick and easy setup for standard domestic applications via a wall plug power source. The entire unit consists of a black transformer, a kettle-lead with a standard UK mains 3-prong plug and a 12V male connector which attaches to the LED Strip via a corresponding female connector. The entire unit closely resembles a lap top charger and is about 2 metres in length.
For more complex applications or where there is no wall plug available an alternative mains power supply is available. Instead of a kettle lead these supplies feature a length of mains wire which can be wired directly up to the mains supply.
In addition to choosing the type of power supply, you will also need to determine the size of it. These supplies come in varying sizes, ranging anywhere from a low 20watts to many times this figure. These figures described the maximum 'load' that the supply can manage. The 'load' of your LED Strip Lights is calculated by taking the wattage per metre and multiplying it by the number of metres you are using. For example, if the wattage per metre is 7.2W and you are using 10 metres, then the complete load is 72watts. It is important to make sure that this load does not exceed the maximum load on your supply, otherwise you will experience performance issues with your strip lights, such as voltage drop, and reduce the life span of your lights.
Peter Jenny is an experienced writer with a Masters Degree in Operations Management. Peter has a wealth of experience in the lighting industry and is keen to share his knowledge about upcoming products and new discussions around LED lighting. He is currently working as a Content Manager at Wholesale LED Lights, UK.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/6962672
Wednesday, March 28, 2012
The Power Of Business Brainstorming
As the old adage goes, "two heads are better than one." Brainstorming to solve critical business problems can authenticate this proverb. In a well-organized brainstorming session, quieter team members may become louder and more assertive while aggressive power-players may spend more time listening than talking.
A group that interacts every day, such as business colleagues, are naturally going to form beliefs their relative status. Some of these are derived from actual treatment while other beliefs stem from personal insecurity,
This is a key reason that brainstorming works. Business, personal and even familial hierarchies form rapidly and may persist for great spans of time. These hierarchies don't emerge from title, income or seniority. They are often based on who is the loudest, most aggressive and self-absorbed. When group roles organically shift, such as they do during truly democratic brainstorming, quieter voices with insightful ideas that are oft-overlooked can receive equal regard.
In order for an egalitarian session of brainstorming to occur, democracy needs to be its backbone. Every idea should be viewed on equal terms. Every idea is a viable candidate for solving the problem at hand. By immediately removing any biases that might affect the ideas we gravitate to, we are viewing the ideas on their own terms.
Applied Imagination is one of the most popular handbooks for effective brainstorming, and it is likely the oldest text on the subject. It was written in 1953 and is still used by consulting firms to teach both large and small businesses the benefits of brainstorming. The most important element is to strip the ideas away from the people that announced them. Only when ideas stand alone can their true merit be assessed.
The best sessions will have a volunteer record the most feasible solutions with the most supporters behind them. The recorder will then review the list with the group to evaluate the pros, cons and practicality of each item. Although the recorder wants to filter through the stream of incoming ideas, Applied Imagination recommends that quantity is better than quality. The book also says to welcome eccentric ideas and refraining from judging any idea.
Some of the best consulting firms in the country frequently rely on Applied Imagination to teach the art of brainstorming and creative problem solving. Kaizer Permanente is a national healthcare facility that relies on brainstorming heavily. They call it "innovation process" and it borrows heavily from the rules set forth in Applied Imagination. Kaizer Permanente has solid statistics to back up the results from their previous sessions. Nurse interruption improved by upwards to 50% after their first innovation process on the subject.
As the list of ideas begins to refine and good ideas merge together, it becomes important to disregard hierarchy as well. If any monetary group, whether a giant corporation or a small business, continues trying to solve complex problems but it cannot separate the raw logic from the unpredictability of human behavior, it is likely they will continue to fail.
Pretensions need to be left at the door. Contaminating pure ideas under pretenses of superior and inferior will always make the solution far more convoluted than it needs to be. You do not want selfish or otherwise convoluted human traits to stand between your group and a good idea. Remember, the best ideas sell themselves, so the human element should be removed as much as possible.
Applied Imagination explained how you could follow a few easy steps to successfully brainstorm after separating your logical mind from your emotional one. As complex as the entire process is, it can be described in one sentence: build your team, define the target, stay on course, learn from the masters and most importantly: practice.
Small Business Consultant; LA Grown and Small Town Fed; perfect face for radio; lover of fuzzy socks; Coffee is my best friend. Conducting business without a plan is like rolling the dice on a daily basis. Set your small business on a strategic path of growth today!
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/6960589
Monday, March 26, 2012
Responding to a Collection Agency's Interrogatories Correctly
If you are one of the thousands Americans who are facing potential lawsuits from creditors, don't be a sitting duck and learn how to fight a credit card lawsuit the right way. The fact is, many creditors expect their customers to not know any better. If you know how to fight a credit card lawsuit and you show them that you will not take the lawsuit sitting down, you just might have the lawsuit dropped in an instant.
On the other hand, if the lawsuit pushes through and you are in the phase where you need to respond to a collection agency's Interrogatories, then you still need to get as much information as you possibly can about how to fight a credit card lawsuit.
Here's how the Interrogatories phase will play out:
You will receive a set of questions from the plaintiff regarding your Personal information like your name, address, social security number, bank information and in some cases, employment questions. You need to respond to each and every question or object to certain questions. If you object to a certain question, make sure to provide grounds for your objection. For other questions, you need to provide a short, concise response.
It's important to object to certain answers that require divulging certain information you shouldn't divulge such as your Social Security Number. Here's a simple text format to object to this particular question:
Defendant objects to giving out his Social Security Number on the grounds that it [insert the grounds for your objection]. The defendant Answers that his or her full name is [insert your full name].
One of the most important factors to remember when learning how to fight a credit card lawsuit is to define the grounds as to why you are objecting to a certain Interrogatories question, particularly those that require giving out sensitive information. It's never a good idea to randomly object to all interrogatories questions without giving a clear answer why.
However, do remember that the plaintiff will likely present several trick questions to get you to admit that you own the debt in dispute and you did not pay for the debt. So if you can, you can either seek the help of a lawyer to guide you through the interrogatories state or in case you are representing yourself Pro Se, always read, re-read, understand each question and answer it with caution. In addition, a little researching will go a long way.
Thicker, Fuller Lashes With Obagi ELASTILash!
The global success of Obagi and their skin care systems have helped many women and men around the world improve the quality and appearance of their skin but behind all those wonderful products, a little known gem known as Obagi ELASTILash has been performing away, helping women around the world achieve longer, thicker lashes. Want to know more and what's so great about this product? Then check out our Review of Obagi ELASTILash Eyelash Growth Serum below.
What is Obagi ELASTILash?
Obagi ELASTILash is a non prescription eyelash solution which helps achieve the appearance of thicker, fuller lashes in a matter of a few weeks. Through nighttime application, the ELASTILash solution helps to strengthen weak lashes, giving them the perfect environment to flourish and become longer and more voluminous. It claims to have no evidence of side effects such as eyelid darkening or pigmentation of the iris and even is non-allergenic, which other eyelash growth serums can cause, making it ideal for those with light coloured eyes and fair toned skin. Additionally it has been dermatologically and ophthalmologically, making sure you have the safest, most effective treatment for your lashes.
How Do You Apply ELASTILash?
To apply this eyelash conditioner firstly dip the applicator brush into the solution and then apply a generous stroke to your upper lash line only. Repeat this on a nightly basis for 4 to 6 weeks in order to see results.
What are the advantages of ELASTILash Serum?
This eyelash growth serum has been clearly thought out and developed for the consumer who wants to achieve thicker, fuller lashes, reflected in its ingredients which are few and simple compared to other lash serums available. Obagi have simply included the ingredients which matter, which are Water, glycerin, myristoyl pentapeptide-17, hydroxyethylcellulose, 1,2-hexanediol, caphlyl glycol, tropolone, sodium chloride, disodium EDTA sodium borate and boric acid. Even though there are few ingredients this product still effectively grows your eyelashes in one of the most natural ways possible. Additionally it comes in convenient, compact packaging, being easy to store away as well as being able to be used on even the most sensitive skin.
Are there any disadvantages?
This product is not widely available and only can be found on selected websites online. For some this may be inconvenient as they would like to buy this product in local shops without having to continuously pay online and incur additional shipping fees.
Here we have provided you with a review of Obagi ELASTILash Growth Serum, helping you decide whether this is the lash growth serum for you. This product has many natural and safe ingredients, giving you impressive eyelash lengthening and thickening results, in line with their other impressive skin care products however its limited availability is a pitiful.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/6961597
Circumstances Don't Matter, Only Your State Of Being Matters
Operating in the vibrational level of the reality you prefer to experience, brings about that realty sooner! In a sense you're telling the universe that you are already in that reality, and this is where you are most comfortable to be! So, the universe has to accommodate the setting to match your reality.
That is why, most wealthy people who lose everything, regain it back very quickly! Because, they are so used to the state of wealth, sub-consciously they act and feel like a rich man. They can't help it! And then, the universe responds accordingly!
Remember, no matter what the circumstances, you create your own reality! Yes, it is true that there are many ill-intentioned entities and outside forces always in action to make life miserable, but they can only succeed if you fall into their trap and believe their imposed false reality. Then you'll become another sheeple. You created a reality that matches the controlled reality mocked up by forces that are only interested to control you.
To neutralize that, all you have to do is to say no to it! It is that easy! For example, one of the best ways you can do that is to stop watching this controlling tool called television. Stop watching the news, because 90% of what the media tells you is far from the truth anyway!
So, no matter how hard it might seem, most of your time and effort should be concentrated on practicing to bring your state of being to a point where the vibration of your ideal reality is achieved easily and regularly, until no effort is required to operate in that state. Meditation and reaching the alpha level can be a beneficial tool to form your mind to reach that level with more ease. Watching or hearing positive and inspirational programs can be another. But whatever you see and hear, be neutral to them and make them your reality if you feel good or excited about them.
Once you realize who you really are and that you, and only you, can create your reality, and start to think and feel independently from the outside seemingly real projection, then and only then you can live a happy and worry free life and actually manifest that which up to this point has stayed out of sight or invisible!
As we have been taught by wise spiritual teachers, over and over again, circumstances don't matter, only your state of being matters! Only your matched vibration to the thing you want materializes it!
A Breakthrough Boosting Formula! Reviewing L'Oreal Lash Boosting Serum
L'Oreal has churned out a number of different eyelash products over the years, wowing consumers with the impressive and effective results as well as innovative design and colours and so the release of their new lash boosting serum and its breakthrough eyelash formula comes as no surprise as an impressive addition to their eyelash product empire. Here we'll provide a review of L'Oreal Lash Boosting Serum, giving you all the information you need to decide whether this is the eyelash growth serum for you.
What is L'Oreal Lash Boosting Serum?
L'Oreal Lash Boosting Serum is an eyelash growth serum which aims to not only give you visibly fuller, thicker, natural lashes but also leave you with less lash fall out when removing your make up. It consists of a clinically tested, breakthrough formula which contains centella asiatica extract, arginine and a pro keratine formula which are key in reinforcing, conditioning and protecting your lashes, impressively being developed for over 3 years to fortify and nourish your eyelashes. Additional ingredients in this formula include Aqua, Alcohol Denat, Glycerin, Hydroxyethylcellulose, Phenoxyethanol Panthenol, Polysorbate 21, Madecassoside, Acrylamide, Methylparaben, Octyldodecanol, Isohexadecane, Sodium Hyaluronate, Aorginine, Serine, Citric Acid, Glutamic Acid, Polysorbate 80, Sodium Hydroxide, 2-Oleamido-1,3-Octadecanediol.
It has a curved applicator brush which was designed with a rounded end to treat the lash line and a curved edge helps to coat the length of your lashes from root to tip, promising to give you eyelash lengthened results in just 4 weeks.
What's the Best Way to Apply This Growth Serum?
For the best results this lash boosting serum should be applied and used in the following way:
Dip the applicator brush in the solution and apply from root to tip and from inner to outer eyelash corner. Use the rounded tip of the applicator brush to coat the lash line and then use the sweet curved brush to condition the length of your lashes. For improved results apply daily, under your mascara and at night to clean, product free lashes.
What are the Advantages of this Serum?
This serum has a number of advantages including having a small, but innovative package design, with a clear applicator bottle, allowing you to see just how much serum solution you have left. It's curved brush is perfect for applying the lash solution to your eyelashes, helping reach even the most smallest, hard to reach ones, normally located near the corners of your eyes.
It's breakthrough formula truly reforms your lashes, conditioning them in the best way possible through the use of water and keratin, a protein which coats and strengthens each lash strand as well as ensuring that your lashes will show improvement in condition and length from 4 weeks or even sooner in some cases.
Additionally, unlike many eyelash growth serums, you can use this product in the day and in the night, underneath your eyelash mascara, still reaping the benefits of its nourishing formula, with L'Oreal recommending to be used in conjunction with their Double Extend Lash Boosting Mascara.
Are there any disadvantages?
This lash serum can cause irritation to your eyes, especially if applied to your lower lashes and so is not suited to those of us with sensitive eyelashes. To minimise irritation, do not apply this serum to your lash line and only to your eyelashes.
Here we have provided you with with a review of L'Oreal Lash Boosting Serum, helping you decide whether this is the eyelash growth serum for you. This serum performs on every level, effectively growing your eyelashes after 4 weeks with a impressive, nourishing formula and applicator brush, helping you coat every lash throughout the day. The ability to use this lash growth serum in conjunction with your mascara is a real advantage but the possibility of eye irritation does let it down. For more information on other eyelash growth serums or for more information on other eyelash products visit Grow Longer Lashes
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/6961412
What is L'Oreal Lash Boosting Serum?
L'Oreal Lash Boosting Serum is an eyelash growth serum which aims to not only give you visibly fuller, thicker, natural lashes but also leave you with less lash fall out when removing your make up. It consists of a clinically tested, breakthrough formula which contains centella asiatica extract, arginine and a pro keratine formula which are key in reinforcing, conditioning and protecting your lashes, impressively being developed for over 3 years to fortify and nourish your eyelashes. Additional ingredients in this formula include Aqua, Alcohol Denat, Glycerin, Hydroxyethylcellulose, Phenoxyethanol Panthenol, Polysorbate 21, Madecassoside, Acrylamide, Methylparaben, Octyldodecanol, Isohexadecane, Sodium Hyaluronate, Aorginine, Serine, Citric Acid, Glutamic Acid, Polysorbate 80, Sodium Hydroxide, 2-Oleamido-1,3-Octadecanediol.
It has a curved applicator brush which was designed with a rounded end to treat the lash line and a curved edge helps to coat the length of your lashes from root to tip, promising to give you eyelash lengthened results in just 4 weeks.
What's the Best Way to Apply This Growth Serum?
For the best results this lash boosting serum should be applied and used in the following way:
Dip the applicator brush in the solution and apply from root to tip and from inner to outer eyelash corner. Use the rounded tip of the applicator brush to coat the lash line and then use the sweet curved brush to condition the length of your lashes. For improved results apply daily, under your mascara and at night to clean, product free lashes.
What are the Advantages of this Serum?
This serum has a number of advantages including having a small, but innovative package design, with a clear applicator bottle, allowing you to see just how much serum solution you have left. It's curved brush is perfect for applying the lash solution to your eyelashes, helping reach even the most smallest, hard to reach ones, normally located near the corners of your eyes.
It's breakthrough formula truly reforms your lashes, conditioning them in the best way possible through the use of water and keratin, a protein which coats and strengthens each lash strand as well as ensuring that your lashes will show improvement in condition and length from 4 weeks or even sooner in some cases.
Additionally, unlike many eyelash growth serums, you can use this product in the day and in the night, underneath your eyelash mascara, still reaping the benefits of its nourishing formula, with L'Oreal recommending to be used in conjunction with their Double Extend Lash Boosting Mascara.
Are there any disadvantages?
This lash serum can cause irritation to your eyes, especially if applied to your lower lashes and so is not suited to those of us with sensitive eyelashes. To minimise irritation, do not apply this serum to your lash line and only to your eyelashes.
Here we have provided you with with a review of L'Oreal Lash Boosting Serum, helping you decide whether this is the eyelash growth serum for you. This serum performs on every level, effectively growing your eyelashes after 4 weeks with a impressive, nourishing formula and applicator brush, helping you coat every lash throughout the day. The ability to use this lash growth serum in conjunction with your mascara is a real advantage but the possibility of eye irritation does let it down. For more information on other eyelash growth serums or for more information on other eyelash products visit Grow Longer Lashes
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/6961412
Thursday, March 22, 2012
Cyclops As an Expert in Laser Hair Removal
Scott Summers, otherwise known as Cyclops, is widely understood as the leader of the X-Men. Cyclops first made his appearance in X-Men #1 which debuted in September of 1963. One of the original X-Men developed by creators Stan Lee and Jack Kirby, Cyclops' main power is his ability to emit an incredibly strong optic blast from his eyes controlled through a mask and other eye wear that covers Scott Summers' eyes. As a result, Cyclops can destroy buildings, machinery, or large robotic sentinels in a fiery demolition. With controllable technology, Cyclops can make precise laser cuts through glass or other metals which would have made him perfect given a need for laser hair removal.
Several of the X-Men are incredibly hairy. Take for example, Beast, a professor who, after a chemical accident, now lives and breathes as a blue-haired primate-like animal with hair that covers his entire body. If he ever needed a trim or precision laser hair removal, Scott Summers could have easily obliged. Take Wolverine for another example, notorious for his burly chest and mutton chops. If Wolverine and Cyclops were ever caught in the desert together, Scott Summers could easily give him a trim to not only keep cool in a desert climate, but to keep his mutton chops perfectly even.
Nightcrawler, Gambit, and even the young Jubilee may have sought out Cyclops' unique ability for beauty enhancement when not fighting other villains. Although Professor X was already bald, he may have also had a need for Cyclops' ability that many readers may not know about. Of course, this is entirely complete speculation, as Stan Lee has never revealed any cosmetic needs insofar as hair removal about the mutant classes. Since many fans and readers will never know, one can only speculate about the mutant need for beauty alterations involving a laser, specifically one emitting from the eyes of Cyclops.
Maybe Storm, Rogue, or his long love, Jean Grey, might call upon him for the ultimate bikini wax. With Cyclops' ability to control his laser blasts, he could have easily scored the ladies a precise laser hair removal service that they may not have otherwise been able to receive since many human businesses were skeptical of mutant customers. Had Jean Grey, his wife and long-time love, not been killed by Magneto in a later edition of the X-Men series, they could have easily retired into the laser hair removal business for mutants.
Such a shop would have been highly beneficial for mutants with super hair growth issues stemming as a byproduct of their mutant abilities. With Cyclops' unique abilities, he could have easily performed procedures for an array of mutants who required specialized waxes, shaves, trims, or complete removals. Nevertheless, this process would not have worked on Multiple Man, a mutant who, when other mutant powers were used against him, automatically created a duplicate of himself. This mutant customer would have clearly filled up Scott and Jean's laser hair removal shop to the brim.
Tips For Travelers With Dietary Restrictions
Whether you're a frequent flyer who is on a diet to lose weight (was that your New Year's resolution?) or because you are allergic to certain foods, it can be difficult dining out while away from home. It may be a bit of a challenge, but it's not impossible to find the foods you can eat starting in the airport, on the airplane, and at your destination.
Researching Your Options
The good thing is that most restaurants and all commercially available food products in the U.S. now label their foods to alert diners of the ingredients. People who are allergic to nuts or wheat, for instance, should be able to clearly see at a glance whether or not the foods they buy in a store contain ingredients to which they are allergic.
If you travel with a smartphone (and who doesn't these days?), there are plenty of apps both free and paid that list common restaurants and the nutritional details of popular dishes.
You can do a bit of research at home, too. Before you depart, do an Internet search to find out what dining options you'll have at the airport and at your destination. You can then cross reference this list with your smartphone app in order to find all the details such as ingredients, calories, fat grams, etc.
Social media is the newest way to find good dining options all along your trip. Tweet that you are seeking a vegan restaurant in Cincinnati, for instance, and there's bound to be several users online who can point you in the right direction. There are plenty of group pages on Facebook that are comprised of members with allergies or other dietary restrictions and those members are also bound to offer prompt support.
Away From Home
Although many flights no longer serve food, there are still instances when you may have to eat on the plane, especially if you are taking a long, international trip. The best thing to do in this instance is to contact the airline ahead of time and ask what options you have. The same holds true if you are going to be on a cruise ship for any length of time; inform the cruise line ahead of time of any dietary needs so they can plan to make your meals according to your needs.
If you're going to be in a foreign country, chances are you won't have access to familiar restaurants or food. Before you depart, make sure you know enough of the language to ask a server or market clerk about specific ingredients. They may not understand or may have a different definition of terms such as "vegan" or "vegetarian, so ensure you know a variety of ways to ask important questions.
Of course, it's always a good idea to travel with your own stash of snacks. That way you're never in a position where you're starving and might make the wrong choice.
If you've got a choice about where you stay during your trip, try to find accommodations that are healthy to your lifestyle. For instance, if you're dieting to get into a bikini this summer, try staying at a spa rather than a regular hotel. If you are a vegan, you may be able to find a bed and breakfast that serves food from an onsite garden. Conversely, if you're allergic to dairy products, staying on a guest farm that raises cows probably isn't a good choice.
Just because you must watch what you eat doesn't mean you can't enjoy a trip away from home and your comfort zone. Do your research beforehand and be prepared to handle your dining options everywhere from the airport to your destination so you can truly enjoy your trip.
Purchasing a New Home or Refinancing an Existing One, Should You Pay Points?
When the question of paying points comes up, most borrowers will immediately say no. After all, no one wants to pay thousands of dollars on top of closing costs. To answer the question of points you first need to calculate what kind of savings it means to you.
Every lender has a beginning rate with zero points that they can offer you. You will also be given an opportunity to buy down the rate by paying the lender points that are added on top of the costs to close your loan. Find out from your lender how much lower of a rate you get if you were to buy it down by paying one point. While you're at it, get the rate for paying two points and so on. On every rate sheet there will be a point where you get maximum bang for your buck, as well as a point where is doesn't make any more sense to pay any more points.
If you are borrowing $300,000 your payment with no points will be about $1,850. If you were to pay two points (2%) and be able to lower your rate a full percent, say from four percent to three, your new payment would be about $1,700. Even though your loan amount would increase $6,000 to accommodate the 2 points (2%), you're going to be surprised at the results. Just by your willingness to pay the 2% (2 points) you save yourself about $150 each month. That adds up to $54,000 in savings over the life of a thirty year loan. When you look at it this way, why would you not pay any points?
Whether you are purchasing a home or refinancing an existing one, if you only plan on staying in the home a few years you may not want to pay points. You will just have to calculate it. On that same loan of $306,000 that saves you $150 a month, you will have to stay in the home for 40 months to make back the $6,000 the points cost you. After that the rest is pure savings. If you're going to move in two years you may want to pay just one point, maybe less. To do the calculations you need to use a mortgage calculator. If you don't have one you can buy one anywhere that sells calculators, or you can easily Google free mortgage calculators, and use that one.
When you are doing your own calculations make sure you increase the loan amount by the amount the points cost unless you are going to pay for the points out of your pocket. People don't usually do that on a refinance. It's usually done when someone is buying a house. Just start inputting the numbers until you find the biggest savings at the lowest cost.
So, the next time you are asked to pay points, do the math and see if it will save you money on your loan; it usually does. Good luck and happy borrowing.
Steps To Reporting Suspected Medicaid Or Medicare Fraud
The health care system seems to stay under constant scrutiny. For every insured person, who is trying to pay their way honestly, there are a dozen mooching off the system and adding to the growing health care costs. It is important to know when looking at the health care system that not all of these incidents of fraud are on the patient's shoulders. Many medical professionals also take advantage of the system through inappropriate billing activities. Charging for procedures that were not actually performed, failing to do procedures that needed to be done for fear of not getting paid, and other malfeasances are rampant. Nowhere more so than when it comes to Medicaid or Medicare. These two government programs, which are designed to take care of medical costs, or at least help out greatly, among the elderly and disabled, who are unable to earn enough to pay for the remedies can be rampant with abuse. If you suspect abuse of any kind, then you should do the following:
1. Report to trusted medical professional.
Most professionals in the health care industry are there to help the patient, and that may not just mean health-wise. Many care about your overall wellness whether they're trying to get you over the flu, or they're trying to watch out for your pocketbook. Medical billing professionals, in particular, must be accountable for the things that they do at their jobs, and if you suspect fraud, you should try to politely address the issue with those who work closely with the numbers.
2. Document your visits.
There is nothing to stop you from recording your doctor's visits, so that you know exactly what was said and how it can help you. Not only is this a good idea for raising accountability in the health care world, but it is also a good tool to improve your health if you have specific instructions that need to be followed with regard to medications and treatment plans. Of course, it is always a good idea to extend the professional courtesy by informing him of your intentions ahead of time. An honest practitioner generally won't mind, and may even be doing the same thing.
3. Know who the powers are.
Picking up a phone and calling a Medicare or Medicaid representative is perhaps the best thing that you can do if you suspect something is amiss. Even if everything is on the up and up, you can at least receive a more adequate understanding of what constitutes fraud and what to watch out for moving forward.
The health care industry is still a promising industry of growth, but it won't stay that way if fraud is allowed to go on undetected.
Promotional Merchandise: Information For Beginners
Promotional merchandise consists of several items that are used to promote, endorse and advertise a certain company, event or a particular brand name and the products they offer to customers. These items used for promotion usually have an image on them representing the company or brand (i.e. their logo) being endorsed or advertised. These items are usually given away at trade shows or conferences, various marketing campaigns and events such as product launches and exhibitions.
Items that are commonly used for promotional merchandise usually consist of t-shirts, mugs, cups, hats, caps, key chains, pens, mouse pads, bumper stickers, umbrellas, USBs, wristbands, carrier bags, badges, calendars and many more. Most promotional items are only small and relatively cheap, however, there are those companies that can afford more expensive ones like luxurious goods, perfumes and gadgets such as those in the iPod family. These expensive items are usually given to famous personalities. The celebrities will then be asked for a picture to be taken of them holding that particular product or item, which is another strategy of the company for their promotional merchandise.
Other goods such as expensive handbags are also given to celebrities but not for them to be taken a picture with the product - these are usually given because of the company's hopes that the famous person will use or wear that particular item in public, as well as in certain events and premieres, which will generate exposure and publicity, therefore, more customers, for the brand name and company of the product that the celebrity is sporting.
These particular items for endorsement are not only used by businesses. They could also be used by politics to endorse their causes or the ones they support. These products are also used to show the candidates for election and are given to the supporters of those running for various positions in the government. These promotional merchandise items are also used for organizations, for example, those in schools and various charities, usually to promote fund raising activities and awareness campaigns. One good example of an awareness campaign is the "Livestrong" wristband or bracelet which was released worldwide, to support and endorse cancer awareness and raise money for cancer research.
Here are some promotional merchandise ideas if you are new to the business world or you just simply need some tips:
• These giveaways should be creative enough to catch the eyes and attention of your targeted audience and lure them to your shop.
• They should also be planned properly - you need to choose the ones that are closely related to your business and also, they need to support the message you want to deliver to your targeted audience. For example, if you have opened a new pet store or pet care center, you could place your logo or marketing campaign on items related to your store such as pet dishes, collars, Frisbees, chewables for pets only and many more. If you're store is one selling fashion items such as clothes or accessories and you are promoting a sale, for example, then, you could giveaway shirts or bags with your logo on it, and also perhaps you could put on the giveaway the word "SALE" in a size and font big enough for people to read with no problem at all. Don't forget to mention the date and duration of your sale.
What to Consider in the Case of Brochure Printing and Design
When it comes to brochure printing and design, there are several options to choose from, depending on your company's profile and the services and products you provide customers. Brochures are an effective way for your company to be promoted on the market; this is why their creation should represent the company's quality standards. You should always choose professional services for brochure printing and design because, after all, they will represent the connection between your company and the market. There are many programs that are used for creating promotion materials; you might even try to create one by yourself. Whether you use the services of professional designers or you make it yourself, there are a few things you should consider.
Creativity and Originality
It is important for the materials to be original and appealing for potential clients to be interested enough to take it and read the information. You should see the advertising materials of the competition. Learn from their mistakes. You should also be sure that you include interesting and useful information. Use distinctive, professional fonts, but choose ones that can be easily read.
In order to successfully promote your business, brochure printing and design should be based on an original idea, captivate potential clients and be interesting.
The Correct Printing Size
If you are creating the promotion materials and you are printing them yourself, you should choose the right setup size. This is a mistake made by people who do it on their own. The printing layout has not been correctly set for the output size.
If you use the following layout, 8.5 X 11, print it on the same size paper type of 8.5 X 11. If the layout has to be reduced or magnified to suit the paper, the quality will be affected.
The Importance of Resolution
The quality of the images is very important for a professional design. Even if you have found the perfect picture, if the resolution is not high enough, the printed materials will have a blurry or soft look. The image can appear perfect on the monitor and it can be unfit for a professional marketing tool. Attention to such details is required when it comes to creating professional brochure printing and design.
The minimum resolution of the images that you plan on using should be at least 300 dpi for professional results.
The Proper Printing Paper
People generally apply two criteria when choosing the paper: to be cost effective and personal taste. You will probably have to choose between 80 lb. and 100 lb. paper. The difference in price is not high, but if you want the best promotion materials, you should opt for the 100 lb. paper. A heavier paper will show potential clients that you focus on high quality.
You will also have to choose between a matte and a glossy look. This is a decision based on your taste, but it is recommended to choose the glossy finish if you have strong colors.
Respect the guidelines to ensure that when it comes to brochure printing and design, you will have professional results.
Tuesday, March 20, 2012
How to Write Effective Multiple Choice Questions
You have almost certainly taken part in multiple choice quizzes and tests in your time. It is also possible that you have also been involved in setting the questions. If so, you probably already realise how difficult it can be to write effective questions.
If you are not careful the answers can be too easy to guess. In some case the questions can be difficult to understand. Sometimes it can be difficult to relate the questions to the topic being assessed. In fact, there a variety of ways in which a question can go wrong.
If you find yourself having to write multiple choice questions you can avoid the problems associated with them by following four basic principles.
1. Start With Objectives
Effective multiple choice questions must always be linked to clearly defined objectives unless you are writing them for a fun quiz. Clearly define what you are trying to assess and make sure that all of your questions are aimed at this. Avoid trick questions that are not related to objectives. Ultimately they prove nothing.
2. Clear and Understandable
As a general rule, language and sentence structure should be kept as simple as possible. Only use essential technical terms. Take care to avoid ambiguous questions, answers and distracters. Remember that you are trying to test objectives and not the ability of people to understand poorly written questions.
3. No Soft Clues
It can sometimes be possible to guess the correct answer from the question itself. Questioners may leave clues in the question, answer or distracters that they do not intend. One of the biggest mistakes that people make when writing multiple choice question is the failure to use meaningful distracters. This means that people answering the question can guess the correct answer by eliminating the options that are obviously wrong. Once again it is important to remember that you are assessing objectives not the candidate's ability to guess most of the answers correctly.
4. Meaningful Feedback
If your questions are part of a test the minimum that candidates will need to know is whether they have achieved the pass mark. If the questions are aimed at helping people to learn a particular subject then they will need to know whether their answers were right or wrong. They also need to know why they were right or wrong. There is much more to writing effective multiple choice questions than it is possible to cover in a short article. However, you will be making a good start if you follow the four basic principles outlined here.
Wolfgang Halliwell is a learning and development consultant who has authored a number of courses for Trainer Bubble.
Article III, the Size of the Federal Government and the Constitution
The story of Article III of the United States Constitution, the judiciary of the United States and other elements central to the legal system are in many ways the story of American constitutionalism itself. The story has a beginning but no end of it is fraught with tension, uncertainty and ambivalence. Article III of the Constitution defines and the limits the judicial power of the United States. It is intended to guarantee an independent federal judiciary and its first section provides that federal judges shall enjoy tenure during good behaviour. Section 2 of the article enumerates the categories of cases in which a federal court either may or must have jurisdiction. Section 3 defines the crime of treason.
Although Article III purposely establishes the judicial branch as the political of the legislative and executive branches established by Articles I and II, the framers plans the judicial power were beset with ambivalence. At the Constitutional Convention, all agreed that there should be one Supreme Court in Article III provides in mandatory terms for the tribunal's establishment. But the framers, some of whom feared that the federal courts would intrude excessively on the state's lawmaking prerogatives, divided sharply over whether there should be any lower federal courts at all. The dispute ended in a compromise, under which Article III allows Congress the power to create lower federal courts but does not require it to do so. It is a corollary of the so-called Madisonian compromise to the jurisdiction of the lower federal courts that are subject to congressional limitation.
Even the Constitutional provision for the Supreme Court power is surprisingly laconic and apparently compromised. Article III subjects the courts to appellate jurisdiction under such exceptions and regulations as the Congress shall make. To some commentators and critics, is also striking that Article III nowhere provides expressly for the power of judicial review which is the court's power to assess the constitutionality of the State and Federal legislation presented to it. Some framers, most noticeably Alexander Hamilton in the federalist papers at number 78 argued for the existence of this extraordinary power. But because Article III never mentions judicial review explicitly the debate is perennial over whether judicial review was intended and what its scope should be.
Viewed solely as a text, this article was determines very little. It affords the potential for what has in fact developed as perhaps the most powerful judicial system in the history of the world. But the words of the article are also consistent with a relatively insignificant federal judiciary, possibly without the power of judicial review and with a federal court's jurisdiction delimited by Congress to protect claimed congressional and executive prerogatives. It is often argued by scholars that the power of the Federal government in United States has been expanded far beyond what the framers of the Constitution ever intended.
How To Get More Lead Generation With Stickers
Stickers are a great way to promote just about any business, cause or event. They provide a quick and efficient way to get eyeballs to a business and also allow the prospect the opportunity to get more information. Viewed as a way to get your own free advertising, stickers allow you all of the opportunity to get big budget results on small budget ads. Below are the top four ways to ensure that stickers are a part of your marketing plan.
Location - Make sure that the placement of the sticker is something that is in line with your brand as well. Having a well placed sticker on will brand just about anything. So think of where your prospect goes and try to advertise there. Do they frequent a certain club? Are they frequently driving past a certain area? If so, try to think of landmarks that stick out, and place your stickers on them.
Design Scheme - Make sure that the design of your stickers is something that falls in line with the rest of your marketing initiatives. The design should compliment your other collateral such as your brochures, flyers, etc. As a result, try to use the same colors, fonts and images to create a cohesive brand.
Written Copy - Make sure that you have little to no copy. Remember, stickers should be fun and full of images. The images you include should all be properly branded as well as in line with all of your current imagery. So before you try to see what you should write, as yourself if you have enough room to allow for words. If not, go for strict pictures that will clearly identify your brand.
Unique Shape - Make sure that the shape of your sticker is something that stands out. The shape should be something that is cut around the design. Try to stay away from the standard square or circle. These can easily get lost in the crowd.
When you are done, sticker everything! Place your new-found marketing pieces on just about everything, and everyone you know. The more placements the better, so just be sure to go wild and place the on anything you come across. This is perhaps the best way to make sure that your pieces are in front of new prospects, and current customers alike. So be sure that you are doing all you can in getting the most eyeballs to your brand with the use of stickers.
Melanie Turner is a Business student at Columbia University and employee at 1800 Postcards. She has also been a Researcher at Deloitte Consulting where she worked with expert marketing teams on Fortune 500 clients. As a growing expert in the field of marketing, Melanie aims to provide insights and resources to Small Businesses.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/6952244
Monday, March 19, 2012
Road Warrior Rescue Plan: Create a "Travel Book" and Keep Your Spirits High
In a "past life", I traveled for business-a lot. I was in sales; do I need to say more? I was one of those exhausted people you pass in the airport security line, shifting from foot to foot in high heels that stopped being comfortable hours ago, wishing I were wearing jeans and a comfy shirt instead of a business suit.
After dragging home more dead than alive because of inevitable flight delays, lost baggage and other road hazards, I decided to take full responsibility for my mood. I might not be able to fix the weather, find my suitcase or fly the plane, but I was completely in charge of what went on inside my head.
I had always made sure that I carried a book; actually, enough books to last in case my plane was delayed. I loved mysteries or espionage stories that took me to a completely different world. Magazines were good, too-fun, informative and visually delicious. I tried walking, window-shopping and listening to music. It all helped take my mind off the worst parts of travel, but something was missing.
I realized that as much fun as the books and magazines were, they didn't quite hit the spot because they didn't speak to me in a way that nourished my soul. So I got a blank journal and grabbed some scissors, glue and other supplies and started to fiddle around with an idea that was just taking shape in my mind. What I came up with was so powerful, I've got to share it with you as an on-the-road sanity-saver and survival tool, because it changed my whole mindset when it came to business travel.
I realized that I was missing a book that validated and reinforced my personal perspective and encouraged my positive outlook toward my job and the people I worked with. I wanted to have a book that could lift me up, quiet me, encourage and inspire me.
I grabbed a blank journal, the kind you can find in stationery stores and gift shops. I chose something with an attractive and durable cover and lots of blank pages. You want something that feels good in your hand, and something that can stand some wear and tear in your suitcase.
I was already a rabid quote collector, so I started collecting more quotes. I looked for inspiring quotes, hopeful sayings, motivating comments that lifted me up. When you're creating your own book, look for quotes that take the high road, positive ideas that you respond to. Find inspiring, motivating and encouraging words that remind you that you CAN do it. Seek out quotes that help you get unstuck and that remind you that low points and obstacles are only temporary. Whether the words come from an anonymous source or someone you respect, look for words of wisdom, something that makes you laugh, or advice for overcoming adversity.
I also started to look for pictures that spoke to me. That included snap shots, magazine photos, even photos I printed off the Internet. For me, a visual/photo/postcard/magazine cutout can be instant gratification, a getaway, an escape. It takes me out of the moment like a breath of fresh air or a walk around the block. Photos like that provide a positive distraction, a visual message that is as strong and compelling as a written one. In the books I created for myself, I tried to put together a visual and a quote that enhanced each other.
The books I created gave me personal energy and support after a long day on the road. Some of them lit a fire under me, while others stood by my side. I had somewhere to turn if I needed someone in my corner with unending hope, vision and energy. Or, if I needed motivation to face a tough situation, I knew where to look to find what I needed.
My travel book of quotes and pictures helped me remember that I was part of a larger place and a bigger picture. That helped to put my worries in perspective. It gave me the courage to take risks and go for what I wanted. I credit my travel books with helping me create a wider view and think out of the box. When I was feeling low, my travel books helped me forgive, try again, or get back up and start over. They kept me true to what I really valued, and spoke to me in my own language to help me through tough times.
Life on the road is tough, but you can create your own private oasis. If the idea of creating your own travel book appeals to you, why not give it a shot? Try it, and you might find yourself looking forward to your next business trip!
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/6947241
After dragging home more dead than alive because of inevitable flight delays, lost baggage and other road hazards, I decided to take full responsibility for my mood. I might not be able to fix the weather, find my suitcase or fly the plane, but I was completely in charge of what went on inside my head.
I had always made sure that I carried a book; actually, enough books to last in case my plane was delayed. I loved mysteries or espionage stories that took me to a completely different world. Magazines were good, too-fun, informative and visually delicious. I tried walking, window-shopping and listening to music. It all helped take my mind off the worst parts of travel, but something was missing.
I realized that as much fun as the books and magazines were, they didn't quite hit the spot because they didn't speak to me in a way that nourished my soul. So I got a blank journal and grabbed some scissors, glue and other supplies and started to fiddle around with an idea that was just taking shape in my mind. What I came up with was so powerful, I've got to share it with you as an on-the-road sanity-saver and survival tool, because it changed my whole mindset when it came to business travel.
I realized that I was missing a book that validated and reinforced my personal perspective and encouraged my positive outlook toward my job and the people I worked with. I wanted to have a book that could lift me up, quiet me, encourage and inspire me.
I grabbed a blank journal, the kind you can find in stationery stores and gift shops. I chose something with an attractive and durable cover and lots of blank pages. You want something that feels good in your hand, and something that can stand some wear and tear in your suitcase.
I was already a rabid quote collector, so I started collecting more quotes. I looked for inspiring quotes, hopeful sayings, motivating comments that lifted me up. When you're creating your own book, look for quotes that take the high road, positive ideas that you respond to. Find inspiring, motivating and encouraging words that remind you that you CAN do it. Seek out quotes that help you get unstuck and that remind you that low points and obstacles are only temporary. Whether the words come from an anonymous source or someone you respect, look for words of wisdom, something that makes you laugh, or advice for overcoming adversity.
I also started to look for pictures that spoke to me. That included snap shots, magazine photos, even photos I printed off the Internet. For me, a visual/photo/postcard/magazine cutout can be instant gratification, a getaway, an escape. It takes me out of the moment like a breath of fresh air or a walk around the block. Photos like that provide a positive distraction, a visual message that is as strong and compelling as a written one. In the books I created for myself, I tried to put together a visual and a quote that enhanced each other.
The books I created gave me personal energy and support after a long day on the road. Some of them lit a fire under me, while others stood by my side. I had somewhere to turn if I needed someone in my corner with unending hope, vision and energy. Or, if I needed motivation to face a tough situation, I knew where to look to find what I needed.
My travel book of quotes and pictures helped me remember that I was part of a larger place and a bigger picture. That helped to put my worries in perspective. It gave me the courage to take risks and go for what I wanted. I credit my travel books with helping me create a wider view and think out of the box. When I was feeling low, my travel books helped me forgive, try again, or get back up and start over. They kept me true to what I really valued, and spoke to me in my own language to help me through tough times.
Life on the road is tough, but you can create your own private oasis. If the idea of creating your own travel book appeals to you, why not give it a shot? Try it, and you might find yourself looking forward to your next business trip!
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/6947241
How Can I Ensure That Readers Will Actually Read My Articles?
As an online article writer now with about 26,000 articles, I can tell you I often get frustrated, wondering if the article I just produced, that I spent over an hour on will be read by enough individuals to make it worth my while. Sometimes it's hit and miss, and sometimes it is actually the fault of the online article writer (me) for not presenting the best article title, or being able to grab the attention of the reader in the first paragraph. I've estimated that you have between 12 and 15 seconds to do that, or your online reader will click out.
Therefore, even if you have a really cool title, one which is compelling and grabs their attention, that still isn't enough. They will read or scan the first paragraph, and look down the page, if they don't find anything interesting, new facts of information, they will click out. The online reader does a lot of scanning and 12 seconds, they actually scan the whole page including the article which may be surrounded by advertising, or other links for them to click on. If they are not happy with the content of the article; they are gone - and they will not return, at least not to read that particular article of yours.
Now then, Dave Copeland had written an article in Read Write Web on March 16, 2012, it was an interesting piece titled "Best Practices for Writing For Online Readers," where he stated; "I have less than 30 seconds to capture your attention with this post." That was an interesting way to make a statement, as he was advising other online article writers exactly what it takes to hold the attention span of today's online reader who is surfing across the Internet.
Personally, I'm not sure that you have 30 seconds, Copeland may have overestimated, because in the Internet world 30 seconds is an eternity. Consider yourself if you will, how many times have you clicked on a video, realized that you had to put in 30 seconds of your time before the video played, and just said to yourself; "oh screw it, and clicked out," and you didn't even see if the video was any good or even know what it was really about, you were not willing to put in the 30 seconds. I'd say the number is more like 12 to 15 seconds as I stated above.
Still, whether it is 30 seconds, 20 seconds, 15 seconds, 10 seconds, or whatever it is, the point should be well taken, Dave Copeland, and myself are probably correct in our assertion that you have an extremely limited amount of time to grab the attention of your reader. And if you don't, they are not going to stick around. So if you're wondering; "how can I Insure Readers will actually read my articles?" The answer is you better grab their attention, have something worthy to say, and get it done quick, in the first paragraph, or they will not continue the process. Please consider all this and think on it.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/6946997
Therefore, even if you have a really cool title, one which is compelling and grabs their attention, that still isn't enough. They will read or scan the first paragraph, and look down the page, if they don't find anything interesting, new facts of information, they will click out. The online reader does a lot of scanning and 12 seconds, they actually scan the whole page including the article which may be surrounded by advertising, or other links for them to click on. If they are not happy with the content of the article; they are gone - and they will not return, at least not to read that particular article of yours.
Now then, Dave Copeland had written an article in Read Write Web on March 16, 2012, it was an interesting piece titled "Best Practices for Writing For Online Readers," where he stated; "I have less than 30 seconds to capture your attention with this post." That was an interesting way to make a statement, as he was advising other online article writers exactly what it takes to hold the attention span of today's online reader who is surfing across the Internet.
Personally, I'm not sure that you have 30 seconds, Copeland may have overestimated, because in the Internet world 30 seconds is an eternity. Consider yourself if you will, how many times have you clicked on a video, realized that you had to put in 30 seconds of your time before the video played, and just said to yourself; "oh screw it, and clicked out," and you didn't even see if the video was any good or even know what it was really about, you were not willing to put in the 30 seconds. I'd say the number is more like 12 to 15 seconds as I stated above.
Still, whether it is 30 seconds, 20 seconds, 15 seconds, 10 seconds, or whatever it is, the point should be well taken, Dave Copeland, and myself are probably correct in our assertion that you have an extremely limited amount of time to grab the attention of your reader. And if you don't, they are not going to stick around. So if you're wondering; "how can I Insure Readers will actually read my articles?" The answer is you better grab their attention, have something worthy to say, and get it done quick, in the first paragraph, or they will not continue the process. Please consider all this and think on it.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/6946997
Want to Turn Off Your Article Readers - Make Giant Block Paragraphs, They Hate That
Well, 26,000 articles later I've learned a little bit about online article writing. I can tell you I sure made a lot of mistakes in the beginning. One of my biggest mistakes was taking some of my previous work, and adding to it, producing articles that were over 1000 words plus with big block paragraphs, often riddled with sentence structure errors, and misspellings. Interestingly enough, back when I started there wasn't as much content online as there is today, so at least I was able to get away with it, or so I thought. Some people still read some of what I wrote back then which I find fascinating.
Nevertheless, I imagine the larger percentage of readers that came to my articles clicked out because it was just too much time to invest in a large article with poor use of white space, and big block paragraphs. A reader clicking in would have to decide if they wanted to invest that kind of time, and then as they read they would have realized that although there was decent information in the article, it wasn't flowing, or worth their time to read. Yes, you live and learn.
Not long ago, I read an interesting blog post by Dave Copeland; "Best Practices for Writing For Online Readers," on March 16, 2012, where he stated; "Online writing is visual: Long, dense paragraphs turn off online readers. Create white space in your copy by keeping paragraphs short and using bulleted lists when appropriate. Use bold text to accent key information and use block or pull quotes to draw readers into the copy."
Yes, any experienced online article author knows these things, Copeland is right of course, and this is what everyone is recommending now. Nevertheless, as I've said, I had to learn all that the hard way, and I must've written three or 4000 articles before I figured this out. Perhaps, I was headstrong and wanted to do it my way, but when the reader that reads an article for them at least; it's their way, and it's their Information Highway and they own the next exit too.
If you want to capture the attention of your readers, and you don't want to turn them off, there's no sense in creating paragraphs any longer than the paragraphs in this particular article.
Now then, you can do whatever you want, and you can do it your way, and you don't ever have to change, but this is the online world, things are different now. You must present your information in the format that the reader wants, and also remember that half of these online readers have the attention span of a gnat. If you want to harvest some of their time, you need to be thinking here. Indeed I hope you will consider all this, and think on it.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/6946943
Nevertheless, I imagine the larger percentage of readers that came to my articles clicked out because it was just too much time to invest in a large article with poor use of white space, and big block paragraphs. A reader clicking in would have to decide if they wanted to invest that kind of time, and then as they read they would have realized that although there was decent information in the article, it wasn't flowing, or worth their time to read. Yes, you live and learn.
Not long ago, I read an interesting blog post by Dave Copeland; "Best Practices for Writing For Online Readers," on March 16, 2012, where he stated; "Online writing is visual: Long, dense paragraphs turn off online readers. Create white space in your copy by keeping paragraphs short and using bulleted lists when appropriate. Use bold text to accent key information and use block or pull quotes to draw readers into the copy."
Yes, any experienced online article author knows these things, Copeland is right of course, and this is what everyone is recommending now. Nevertheless, as I've said, I had to learn all that the hard way, and I must've written three or 4000 articles before I figured this out. Perhaps, I was headstrong and wanted to do it my way, but when the reader that reads an article for them at least; it's their way, and it's their Information Highway and they own the next exit too.
If you want to capture the attention of your readers, and you don't want to turn them off, there's no sense in creating paragraphs any longer than the paragraphs in this particular article.
Now then, you can do whatever you want, and you can do it your way, and you don't ever have to change, but this is the online world, things are different now. You must present your information in the format that the reader wants, and also remember that half of these online readers have the attention span of a gnat. If you want to harvest some of their time, you need to be thinking here. Indeed I hope you will consider all this, and think on it.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/6946943
Friday, March 16, 2012
Using Employee Engagement Surveys to Boost Customer Satisfaction and Loyalty
If you need to increase your company's competitiveness and profit, where should you start? Should you focus on your employees first, or should you start by focusing on your customers first? In reality, you need to do both.
It is almost always best to start by focusing on your employees first. Highly satisfied and engaged employees are essential for achieving high levels of customer satisfaction, retention and long-term loyalty. Start by listening to your employees and taking action based on their ongoing feedback.
Conduct an employee survey / employee engagement survey to gather information, suggestions and insight from your employees. Ask them about what it is like to work for your company and what can be done to help them do their jobs more effectively and to do a better job of taking care of customers. Include questions about the effectiveness of internal communications, business processes, teamwork and how employees feel about your company's direction.
Make sure your employee surveys / employee engagement surveys also include questions about effectiveness of supervisors and managers, empowerment, ability of employees to make suggestions, effectiveness of rewards and recognition, fairness of compensation, adequacy of employee benefits, treatment of diverse groups and fear in the workplace. Include questions about quality, customer service and ways to increase productivity. Ask questions about anything that may be positively or negatively impacting employees' and customers.
Don't be surprised if you end up identifying a very large number of challenges and opportunities. If challenges and problems exist, you need to know about them, prioritize them and take action. There is no single silver bullet. Identifying and addressing the top three problems is not enough, especially when there are many more problems that are impacting your employees and customers.
It is important to do a thorough and objective job of analyzing the survey findings. It is then equally important to create a comprehensive action plan and to do a good job of getting everyone involved and executing the plan effectively. This requires communicating the results of surveys so that employees know that you listened to them and that you are committed to making needed changes based on their feedback.
Your goal should be to use the employee survey results to achieve large-scale increases in employee engagement and satisfaction, with a much greater focus on your customers and meeting or exceeding their expectations.
To ensure that you are achieving success, conduct employee attitude surveys annually to measure progress and to identify any new challenges and opportunities that surfaced since the previous employee survey. Your focus on and commitment to continuous improvement will ensure continued customer satisfaction and loyalty.
Once you start to achieve positive results, you should also conduct customer surveys to assess customer satisfaction levels and to see how your customers feel about your company, your employees, your products and services and other key issues that drive customer satisfaction and retention. Don't be afraid to ask customers about things you know you are not doing well. You need to learn about how customers feel. Guessing isn't good enough. Your customers are probably also buying from your competitors. It is important that you learn first-hand how they compare your company, products and services with those of your competitors.
In summary, take good care of your employees, set the right direction, provide good leadership, identify problems and opportunities, take action and measure ongoing progress. This will enable your company to attract and retain customers and to be competitive and profitable.
Resource: http://www.articlecity.com/articles/business_and_finance/article_16049.shtml
It is almost always best to start by focusing on your employees first. Highly satisfied and engaged employees are essential for achieving high levels of customer satisfaction, retention and long-term loyalty. Start by listening to your employees and taking action based on their ongoing feedback.
Conduct an employee survey / employee engagement survey to gather information, suggestions and insight from your employees. Ask them about what it is like to work for your company and what can be done to help them do their jobs more effectively and to do a better job of taking care of customers. Include questions about the effectiveness of internal communications, business processes, teamwork and how employees feel about your company's direction.
Make sure your employee surveys / employee engagement surveys also include questions about effectiveness of supervisors and managers, empowerment, ability of employees to make suggestions, effectiveness of rewards and recognition, fairness of compensation, adequacy of employee benefits, treatment of diverse groups and fear in the workplace. Include questions about quality, customer service and ways to increase productivity. Ask questions about anything that may be positively or negatively impacting employees' and customers.
Don't be surprised if you end up identifying a very large number of challenges and opportunities. If challenges and problems exist, you need to know about them, prioritize them and take action. There is no single silver bullet. Identifying and addressing the top three problems is not enough, especially when there are many more problems that are impacting your employees and customers.
It is important to do a thorough and objective job of analyzing the survey findings. It is then equally important to create a comprehensive action plan and to do a good job of getting everyone involved and executing the plan effectively. This requires communicating the results of surveys so that employees know that you listened to them and that you are committed to making needed changes based on their feedback.
Your goal should be to use the employee survey results to achieve large-scale increases in employee engagement and satisfaction, with a much greater focus on your customers and meeting or exceeding their expectations.
To ensure that you are achieving success, conduct employee attitude surveys annually to measure progress and to identify any new challenges and opportunities that surfaced since the previous employee survey. Your focus on and commitment to continuous improvement will ensure continued customer satisfaction and loyalty.
Once you start to achieve positive results, you should also conduct customer surveys to assess customer satisfaction levels and to see how your customers feel about your company, your employees, your products and services and other key issues that drive customer satisfaction and retention. Don't be afraid to ask customers about things you know you are not doing well. You need to learn about how customers feel. Guessing isn't good enough. Your customers are probably also buying from your competitors. It is important that you learn first-hand how they compare your company, products and services with those of your competitors.
In summary, take good care of your employees, set the right direction, provide good leadership, identify problems and opportunities, take action and measure ongoing progress. This will enable your company to attract and retain customers and to be competitive and profitable.
Resource: http://www.articlecity.com/articles/business_and_finance/article_16049.shtml
Essentials Of Wholesale Dropshipping Business
With the proliferation of World Wide Web, the spectrum and method of doing wholesale business has changed drastically over the past few decades. You can now start doing business without having to pre-purchase or stock any goods. All that needs to be done is to merely list products along with descriptions and graphics on the website of a B2B trade portal.
The secret of success lies in finding the right portal that has built its name and is well-known throughout the world of business for its extensive coverage of buyers and sellers. It would also be necessary to display the products of the wholesale business in an attractive manner with all pertinent information, prices, terms of business and graphics.
Basics of Wholesale Dropshipping Business
The essence of Dropshipping business is that you have to do some research and find products that would have a ready market and then find reliable dropshipping suppliers who would supply the goods against your orders promptly and without any complaints from your clients. You can only succeed if you can find saleable products and the relevant suppliers who will not let you down. Having done this exercise and having selected the right online trade portal, the products should be listed on that website in a proper manner.
You can then pass on the orders that are received, to the wholesale suppliers and ensure that the shipment is made on time. The website listing your products will receive the payment from the customer and will pass on the same to you after adjusting its charges. The payment to the wholesale supplier can be made thereafter.
Fighting Competition
It is obvious that since this business appears to be so simple, many people will be in the fray to capture the market. Competition will be fierce and you will have to find innovative means to fight the same for survival. The following tips will help in being successful in combating your competitors.
• The more attractive and informative your description of the product, the greater will be the possibility of impulsive purchases. It is essential that the information provided by you is persuasively descriptive.
• The description should be accompanied with attractive graphics and good quality photos of the products in actual use. It would also be a good idea to provide comparisons with other similar products. This will enable the visitor to the site to compare different products and make up his mind while he is still hooked on to your site. This will also prevent him from browsing and visiting other sites and ultimately it will improve your chances of getting the business.
• Offering a bonus with the product will prove to be very effective. The bonus could be in the form of reports containing interesting information and tips regarding use of the product.
• Once your client enters his credit card information and before the deal is closed, other products can also be recommended. If the wholesale order is for an electronic item, you can recommend related accessories.
Finding Good Wholesale Dropshipping Suppliers
If a reseller wants to have a smooth and profitable business operation, the most important thing is to find a good dropshipper. He will have no problems or hassles regarding delivery of goods, recovery of payments, and maintaining good quality of the products in line with what has been shown to the customer when the order was finalized. A drop-shipping list can provide names, addresses and telephone numbers of hundreds of companies but most of the time, these lists are outdated. As such, it is better to register with a website that has lists of itemized suppliers and make a choice. You can also become a member of wholesalers’ forums which will make it possible to get useful information by way of other people’s experiences and recommendations regarding reliable suppliers.
Wholesale dropship directories can also be consulted.
Wholesale dropship business can be profitable if proper research and homework is done in the beginning to find the right product and the right wholesale supplier.
The secret of success lies in finding the right portal that has built its name and is well-known throughout the world of business for its extensive coverage of buyers and sellers. It would also be necessary to display the products of the wholesale business in an attractive manner with all pertinent information, prices, terms of business and graphics.
Basics of Wholesale Dropshipping Business
The essence of Dropshipping business is that you have to do some research and find products that would have a ready market and then find reliable dropshipping suppliers who would supply the goods against your orders promptly and without any complaints from your clients. You can only succeed if you can find saleable products and the relevant suppliers who will not let you down. Having done this exercise and having selected the right online trade portal, the products should be listed on that website in a proper manner.
You can then pass on the orders that are received, to the wholesale suppliers and ensure that the shipment is made on time. The website listing your products will receive the payment from the customer and will pass on the same to you after adjusting its charges. The payment to the wholesale supplier can be made thereafter.
Fighting Competition
It is obvious that since this business appears to be so simple, many people will be in the fray to capture the market. Competition will be fierce and you will have to find innovative means to fight the same for survival. The following tips will help in being successful in combating your competitors.
• The more attractive and informative your description of the product, the greater will be the possibility of impulsive purchases. It is essential that the information provided by you is persuasively descriptive.
• The description should be accompanied with attractive graphics and good quality photos of the products in actual use. It would also be a good idea to provide comparisons with other similar products. This will enable the visitor to the site to compare different products and make up his mind while he is still hooked on to your site. This will also prevent him from browsing and visiting other sites and ultimately it will improve your chances of getting the business.
• Offering a bonus with the product will prove to be very effective. The bonus could be in the form of reports containing interesting information and tips regarding use of the product.
• Once your client enters his credit card information and before the deal is closed, other products can also be recommended. If the wholesale order is for an electronic item, you can recommend related accessories.
Finding Good Wholesale Dropshipping Suppliers
If a reseller wants to have a smooth and profitable business operation, the most important thing is to find a good dropshipper. He will have no problems or hassles regarding delivery of goods, recovery of payments, and maintaining good quality of the products in line with what has been shown to the customer when the order was finalized. A drop-shipping list can provide names, addresses and telephone numbers of hundreds of companies but most of the time, these lists are outdated. As such, it is better to register with a website that has lists of itemized suppliers and make a choice. You can also become a member of wholesalers’ forums which will make it possible to get useful information by way of other people’s experiences and recommendations regarding reliable suppliers.
Wholesale dropship directories can also be consulted.
Wholesale dropship business can be profitable if proper research and homework is done in the beginning to find the right product and the right wholesale supplier.
Is Mortgage Refinancing Right for You?
These days, it’s hard not to be enticed by the historically low mortgage refinancing rates. Now could be the perfect time to refinance, but is refinancing your loan right for you? Here are a few points to take into consideration if you’re thinking about refinancing your home loan.
The Benefits of Refinancing
Beyond potentially saving you thousands of dollars, refinancing your mortgage can also help you consolidate debt and pay off other bills. Your life has probably changed from the time you first got your home loan. Perhaps you got a better paying job or you have a new baby on the way. You may have new expenses that never existed before, or you may be making more money than when you started. In many cases, refinancing your home loan could save you hundreds, or even thousands of dollars – money which could be well spent in other areas of your life. Ideally, your mortgage should not be costing you above one third of your total gross income. If you’re dealing with a high interest rate, you’ve been hit with an adjustable rate that has skyrocketed, or you’ve experienced a drop in income for whatever reason – it’s a good idea to consider refinancing and locking in a better rate.
Working with a Trusted Lender
Working with a trusted lender is one of the best decisions you can make when you decide to refinance. Trusted lenders, like Aurora Bank (Equal Housing Lender, member FDIC) for example, understand a multitude of product options and can explain those options to you as well as the costs that are involved in the refinancing process.
Know Your Options
There’s no shortage of lending companies vying for your business. But it pays to do your own research as well.Take advantage of online mortgage calculators and run different scenarios based on your income, property tax, and extra payments you can afford to make.See exactly how much home you can afford and create a spectrum of possibilities for refinancing. Then, speak with a home loan consultant who can help you with your financing needs.You may be pleasantly surprised at just how much money you’ll save by refinancing at today’s low rates. Overall, honest, exceptional service and a dedication to customer satisfaction are what make the best mortgage refinancing lenders stand out.
Resource: http://www.articlecity.com/articles/business_and_finance/article_16057.shtml
The Benefits of Refinancing
Beyond potentially saving you thousands of dollars, refinancing your mortgage can also help you consolidate debt and pay off other bills. Your life has probably changed from the time you first got your home loan. Perhaps you got a better paying job or you have a new baby on the way. You may have new expenses that never existed before, or you may be making more money than when you started. In many cases, refinancing your home loan could save you hundreds, or even thousands of dollars – money which could be well spent in other areas of your life. Ideally, your mortgage should not be costing you above one third of your total gross income. If you’re dealing with a high interest rate, you’ve been hit with an adjustable rate that has skyrocketed, or you’ve experienced a drop in income for whatever reason – it’s a good idea to consider refinancing and locking in a better rate.
Working with a Trusted Lender
Working with a trusted lender is one of the best decisions you can make when you decide to refinance. Trusted lenders, like Aurora Bank (Equal Housing Lender, member FDIC) for example, understand a multitude of product options and can explain those options to you as well as the costs that are involved in the refinancing process.
Know Your Options
There’s no shortage of lending companies vying for your business. But it pays to do your own research as well.Take advantage of online mortgage calculators and run different scenarios based on your income, property tax, and extra payments you can afford to make.See exactly how much home you can afford and create a spectrum of possibilities for refinancing. Then, speak with a home loan consultant who can help you with your financing needs.You may be pleasantly surprised at just how much money you’ll save by refinancing at today’s low rates. Overall, honest, exceptional service and a dedication to customer satisfaction are what make the best mortgage refinancing lenders stand out.
Resource: http://www.articlecity.com/articles/business_and_finance/article_16057.shtml
Thursday, March 15, 2012
Transcription of the Proceedings of a Disciplinary Meeting
Every company and organization holds disciplinary hearings at some point or the other, according to the controversies and contradictions, occurring inside the company. Due to the sensitive and ambiguous nature of these meetings, it becomes necessary to keep detailed track of these hearings, in order to avoid any confusion or breach of information in the future. Any kind of lack of facts and details can mean loss of information and enough evidences to take a right decision.
These meetings oftentimes act as decision-making events wherein, the fate of an employee or anyone associated with the company is decided and at other times, it helps in resolving conflicts and internal issues among employees and departments. Thus, it is of utmost importance to transcribe the entire verbal communication and conversation happening in these meetings, and the most advisable way to do so is by hiring an external transcription company, which would be unbiased in transcribing the information collected by the spoken words by everyone present in the meeting.
Before you make arrangements for the recording of the disciplinary reviews, meetings and hearings, take care of certain aspects. First, make sure that everyone present inside the meeting room are aware of the recording happening inside the room and the purpose behind the same. It is necessary to seek their permission before starting the recording process and also make sure that the transcribed copy of the entire communication is provided to all the parties involved in the meetings. Also make sure that the meeting room is devoid of any extra environmental noises or disturbances except for the speakers' conversations, comments and suggestions and defenses.
It is a must to transcribe the same into verbatim in order to comprehend and observe the oddities and intricacies of the conversation and communication, apart from the finer nuances of speech and phrases used by the speakers. This will also help the decision-maker to identify any lies from the truths by the faltering and hesitations in the voice, which will help in forming a correct and proper decision about the hearings. Make sure to arrange for a flawless recording system to ensure the quality of transcription as well as to save time and effort of the transcriptionist. In case of transcribing disciplinary meetings, quality and clarity of recording carry a lot of importance, as this will lead to accurate and comprehensible transcription outcome.
Unclear recording may lead to omitted or missing words in some areas which will delay the process of decision-making, which should be based on complete and full-proof accumulation of every spoken words and information. In these meetings, it is often advised to use digital recording method to ensure quality and clarity of recording which would in turn facilitate the standard of transcription. The recording should keep track of the entire meeting which should start with a format introduction of the people present in the meeting and the purpose and goal of the meeting, along with a briefing about the background of the situation or reason behind the same.
Christina Benson being an online web content writer has recently picked interest about general transcription solutions. She is writing a variety of articles on transcription services and how it benefit various industries.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/6897374
These meetings oftentimes act as decision-making events wherein, the fate of an employee or anyone associated with the company is decided and at other times, it helps in resolving conflicts and internal issues among employees and departments. Thus, it is of utmost importance to transcribe the entire verbal communication and conversation happening in these meetings, and the most advisable way to do so is by hiring an external transcription company, which would be unbiased in transcribing the information collected by the spoken words by everyone present in the meeting.
Before you make arrangements for the recording of the disciplinary reviews, meetings and hearings, take care of certain aspects. First, make sure that everyone present inside the meeting room are aware of the recording happening inside the room and the purpose behind the same. It is necessary to seek their permission before starting the recording process and also make sure that the transcribed copy of the entire communication is provided to all the parties involved in the meetings. Also make sure that the meeting room is devoid of any extra environmental noises or disturbances except for the speakers' conversations, comments and suggestions and defenses.
It is a must to transcribe the same into verbatim in order to comprehend and observe the oddities and intricacies of the conversation and communication, apart from the finer nuances of speech and phrases used by the speakers. This will also help the decision-maker to identify any lies from the truths by the faltering and hesitations in the voice, which will help in forming a correct and proper decision about the hearings. Make sure to arrange for a flawless recording system to ensure the quality of transcription as well as to save time and effort of the transcriptionist. In case of transcribing disciplinary meetings, quality and clarity of recording carry a lot of importance, as this will lead to accurate and comprehensible transcription outcome.
Unclear recording may lead to omitted or missing words in some areas which will delay the process of decision-making, which should be based on complete and full-proof accumulation of every spoken words and information. In these meetings, it is often advised to use digital recording method to ensure quality and clarity of recording which would in turn facilitate the standard of transcription. The recording should keep track of the entire meeting which should start with a format introduction of the people present in the meeting and the purpose and goal of the meeting, along with a briefing about the background of the situation or reason behind the same.
Christina Benson being an online web content writer has recently picked interest about general transcription solutions. She is writing a variety of articles on transcription services and how it benefit various industries.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/6897374
Outsourcing Is a Good Choice For IT Lead Generation
The IT market has been very blessed. With the current usage and future demand of this industry where most of their product and services has been constantly used by the public, this is an understatement. Operating systems, like Linux, Ubuntu and Microsoft, are constantly on high demand. This is true with hardware, IT consulting, web design, web hosting servuces ans other technology products and services. But not every IT company is enjoying this success. Most of them, particularly small to medium businesses are encountering problems with their lead generation program.
This bit of news is not at all surprising. No one can blame why some IT business organizations are sailing an angry sea in their journey to obtain qualified appointments. Others have even been drowned because of their inability to plan, process and execute the right tool. Your firm might be one out of the thousands all over the world which are suffering the same fate. In order to end the constant struggle, the long and winding road to success in IT lead generation, a good option is to outsource it to the right offshore telemarketing service provider. Why is there a need to outsource and why to an offshore company? Let me tell you some of the reasons why.
For very obvious reasons, telemarketing is not your company's field of expertise. Even if you and your workforce know a little of marketing, it is not enough for you to advance in anyway. I bet you cannot dare to do a trial and error campaign because if you pursue, then it will be a farewell party for your business.
The principle applied her is so simple. You are an IT company but you are not a telemarketing firm. You need to partner with experts in the area of IT lead generation. This is the same with why other companies outsource IT products and service to your business entity.
Vendor specialization. With the weight of lead generation services out of your shoulders, your team will be blessed with the grace of time. This gift is going to be given for your firm to specialize your own business. Cost savings. Truth be told, outsourcing was conceived owing to reductions of costs. After all, minimization of expenses is the partner of maximizing profits. Among the expenses that will evaporate into thin air are costs of infrastructure, overhead, technology and labor.
Offshore companies are cheaper. In comparison to other telemarketing service providers, offshore firms, like those in the Philippines and India, offer lower prices. Furthermore, some countries have tax holidays and tax exemptions for foreign business entities.
International expansion. It would really come to a time when your company wants to have a larger customer base which will lead to international expansion. However, it will be too difficult for your firm to move the first step towards achieving this plan. Outsourcing will aid you establish brand in other nations.
Access to specialized skills. Success in lead generation is directly due to the specialized skills by the highly trained, experienced and educated professional telemarketers.
Required technology. Most importantly, offshore third party service providers are armed with the require technology, namely telecommunications technology, specialized applications and computer-and-telephony integration. All of these and more play a crucial part in the entire process of qualifying IT sales leads.
There is no denying that the IT industry is currently in the lead in terms of demand for both products and services. However, this does not bury the necessity of securing your company with a lead generation program which will serve as the backbone of your marketing strategy.
Phillip Mckenzie is a successful lead generation and appointment setting consultant specializing in IT Telemarketing. To know more about IT Telemarketing,
Monday, March 12, 2012
Where Are the Best Places in Turkey for an Expat to Live and Buy Property?
Turkey is a safe haven for expats. Each year sees a new influx of expats to Turkey, young and old, adventurous and homely, thousands of expats are flocking to live in Turkey each year as Turkey grows into an idyllic destination for foreign nationals looking to live a life of adventures.
As so many expats move to Turkey, questions are bound to arise, where is the best place for an expat in Turkey to live? In order to answer a question like this, we first need to determine exactly what kind of expat are you? There are several types of expats that move to Turkey seeking a new life and adventures.
1. The retired expat looking to live out their days in the sun. Many expats move to Turkey as older retirees having sold all assets in their home country and look to make Turkey 'home'. The older generation of expats in Turkey generally look to purchase a property in Turkey in the quieter and less frenetic areas of Turkey. A lovely setting with an easy life watching the world go by - Turkey has plenty of places that can suit these needs. Fethiye has some nice areas in which expats can retire and enjoy the nature that Turkey offers. Long walks in the nature, watching the sunset, expats who are retired enjoy much the lifestyle to be had in Turkey.
2. The young adventurer. These types of expats are those who move to Turkey looking for adventure and a busy lifestyle. These kinds of expats are after the fast life and would enjoy living in an area as such. Whether you are sailing from Bodrum to Fethiye or exploring the busy lifestyle of Istanbul, the young adventurer wants activity and somewhere they can come to relax and enjoy the sun whilst at the same time having fun and enjoying life to the max.
3. The lifestyle change. Many expats come to Turkey seeking a completely different change of lifestyle. Uprooting family and moving to Turkey to enjoy a new life together in a stable country with good prospects. These types of expats normally have more choice in where they can settle. There is many areas in Turkey where families can settle, in each region - Antalya, Bodrum, Fethiye, Istanbul - there would generally be parts that are suitable for expats looking for a lifestyle change.
4. The investor. Not exactly an expat per say, but Investors are flocking to buy a property in Turkey which they can also rent out during the peak months of the year and earn a premium return on their investment. These types of people still have a life outside of Turkey and would maybe visit Turkey for a couple months a year. Istanbul is busy with investors looking to capitalise on the popularity of Istanbul and earn a slice of the profit that can be seen in Istanbul.
So if you are an expat in Turkey looking to move to Turkey to seek a new lifestyle and new adventures, make sure that you do your research and thoroughly look into Turkey before making the big decision. Each region in Turkey is different and offers something different to the perspective buyer, remember, Turkey is big and vast.
Written by Ricky Carbis, I am a travel journalist who has travelled extensively and now writes about Turkey, giving information or expats in Turkey and those looking to move to Turkey. I work for a Turkey property website.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/6907004
As so many expats move to Turkey, questions are bound to arise, where is the best place for an expat in Turkey to live? In order to answer a question like this, we first need to determine exactly what kind of expat are you? There are several types of expats that move to Turkey seeking a new life and adventures.
1. The retired expat looking to live out their days in the sun. Many expats move to Turkey as older retirees having sold all assets in their home country and look to make Turkey 'home'. The older generation of expats in Turkey generally look to purchase a property in Turkey in the quieter and less frenetic areas of Turkey. A lovely setting with an easy life watching the world go by - Turkey has plenty of places that can suit these needs. Fethiye has some nice areas in which expats can retire and enjoy the nature that Turkey offers. Long walks in the nature, watching the sunset, expats who are retired enjoy much the lifestyle to be had in Turkey.
2. The young adventurer. These types of expats are those who move to Turkey looking for adventure and a busy lifestyle. These kinds of expats are after the fast life and would enjoy living in an area as such. Whether you are sailing from Bodrum to Fethiye or exploring the busy lifestyle of Istanbul, the young adventurer wants activity and somewhere they can come to relax and enjoy the sun whilst at the same time having fun and enjoying life to the max.
3. The lifestyle change. Many expats come to Turkey seeking a completely different change of lifestyle. Uprooting family and moving to Turkey to enjoy a new life together in a stable country with good prospects. These types of expats normally have more choice in where they can settle. There is many areas in Turkey where families can settle, in each region - Antalya, Bodrum, Fethiye, Istanbul - there would generally be parts that are suitable for expats looking for a lifestyle change.
4. The investor. Not exactly an expat per say, but Investors are flocking to buy a property in Turkey which they can also rent out during the peak months of the year and earn a premium return on their investment. These types of people still have a life outside of Turkey and would maybe visit Turkey for a couple months a year. Istanbul is busy with investors looking to capitalise on the popularity of Istanbul and earn a slice of the profit that can be seen in Istanbul.
So if you are an expat in Turkey looking to move to Turkey to seek a new lifestyle and new adventures, make sure that you do your research and thoroughly look into Turkey before making the big decision. Each region in Turkey is different and offers something different to the perspective buyer, remember, Turkey is big and vast.
Written by Ricky Carbis, I am a travel journalist who has travelled extensively and now writes about Turkey, giving information or expats in Turkey and those looking to move to Turkey. I work for a Turkey property website.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/6907004
Where Are the Best Places in Turkey for an Expat to Live and Buy Property?
Turkey is a safe haven for expats. Each year sees a new influx of expats to Turkey, young and old, adventurous and homely, thousands of expats are flocking to live in Turkey each year as Turkey grows into an idyllic destination for foreign nationals looking to live a life of adventures.
As so many expats move to Turkey, questions are bound to arise, where is the best place for an expat in Turkey to live? In order to answer a question like this, we first need to determine exactly what kind of expat are you? There are several types of expats that move to Turkey seeking a new life and adventures.
1. The retired expat looking to live out their days in the sun. Many expats move to Turkey as older retirees having sold all assets in their home country and look to make Turkey 'home'. The older generation of expats in Turkey generally look to purchase a property in Turkey in the quieter and less frenetic areas of Turkey. A lovely setting with an easy life watching the world go by - Turkey has plenty of places that can suit these needs. Fethiye has some nice areas in which expats can retire and enjoy the nature that Turkey offers. Long walks in the nature, watching the sunset, expats who are retired enjoy much the lifestyle to be had in Turkey.
2. The young adventurer. These types of expats are those who move to Turkey looking for adventure and a busy lifestyle. These kinds of expats are after the fast life and would enjoy living in an area as such. Whether you are sailing from Bodrum to Fethiye or exploring the busy lifestyle of Istanbul, the young adventurer wants activity and somewhere they can come to relax and enjoy the sun whilst at the same time having fun and enjoying life to the max.
3. The lifestyle change. Many expats come to Turkey seeking a completely different change of lifestyle. Uprooting family and moving to Turkey to enjoy a new life together in a stable country with good prospects. These types of expats normally have more choice in where they can settle. There is many areas in Turkey where families can settle, in each region - Antalya, Bodrum, Fethiye, Istanbul - there would generally be parts that are suitable for expats looking for a lifestyle change.
4. The investor. Not exactly an expat per say, but Investors are flocking to buy a property in Turkey which they can also rent out during the peak months of the year and earn a premium return on their investment. These types of people still have a life outside of Turkey and would maybe visit Turkey for a couple months a year. Istanbul is busy with investors looking to capitalise on the popularity of Istanbul and earn a slice of the profit that can be seen in Istanbul.
So if you are an expat in Turkey looking to move to Turkey to seek a new lifestyle and new adventures, make sure that you do your research and thoroughly look into Turkey before making the big decision. Each region in Turkey is different and offers something different to the perspective buyer, remember, Turkey is big and vast.
Written by Ricky Carbis, I am a travel journalist who has travelled extensively and now writes about Turkey, giving information or expats in Turkey and those looking to move to Turkey. I work for a Turkey property website.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/6907004
As so many expats move to Turkey, questions are bound to arise, where is the best place for an expat in Turkey to live? In order to answer a question like this, we first need to determine exactly what kind of expat are you? There are several types of expats that move to Turkey seeking a new life and adventures.
1. The retired expat looking to live out their days in the sun. Many expats move to Turkey as older retirees having sold all assets in their home country and look to make Turkey 'home'. The older generation of expats in Turkey generally look to purchase a property in Turkey in the quieter and less frenetic areas of Turkey. A lovely setting with an easy life watching the world go by - Turkey has plenty of places that can suit these needs. Fethiye has some nice areas in which expats can retire and enjoy the nature that Turkey offers. Long walks in the nature, watching the sunset, expats who are retired enjoy much the lifestyle to be had in Turkey.
2. The young adventurer. These types of expats are those who move to Turkey looking for adventure and a busy lifestyle. These kinds of expats are after the fast life and would enjoy living in an area as such. Whether you are sailing from Bodrum to Fethiye or exploring the busy lifestyle of Istanbul, the young adventurer wants activity and somewhere they can come to relax and enjoy the sun whilst at the same time having fun and enjoying life to the max.
3. The lifestyle change. Many expats come to Turkey seeking a completely different change of lifestyle. Uprooting family and moving to Turkey to enjoy a new life together in a stable country with good prospects. These types of expats normally have more choice in where they can settle. There is many areas in Turkey where families can settle, in each region - Antalya, Bodrum, Fethiye, Istanbul - there would generally be parts that are suitable for expats looking for a lifestyle change.
4. The investor. Not exactly an expat per say, but Investors are flocking to buy a property in Turkey which they can also rent out during the peak months of the year and earn a premium return on their investment. These types of people still have a life outside of Turkey and would maybe visit Turkey for a couple months a year. Istanbul is busy with investors looking to capitalise on the popularity of Istanbul and earn a slice of the profit that can be seen in Istanbul.
So if you are an expat in Turkey looking to move to Turkey to seek a new lifestyle and new adventures, make sure that you do your research and thoroughly look into Turkey before making the big decision. Each region in Turkey is different and offers something different to the perspective buyer, remember, Turkey is big and vast.
Written by Ricky Carbis, I am a travel journalist who has travelled extensively and now writes about Turkey, giving information or expats in Turkey and those looking to move to Turkey. I work for a Turkey property website.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/6907004
Myakka River Trails Real Estate for Sale - Venice, Florida
There is no mystery as to why the Myakka River Trails is a delightful option among properties in the Venice real estate market. This community, which is located along River Road, is the only neighborhood that has been granted development rights near the Myakka River State Park.
The river from which the community drew its name flows for about 70 miles, extending from Sarasota County to Charlotte Harbor. The entire Myakka River State Park covers 58 square miles, and by statute property development is restricted near it.
The homes of Myakka River Trails were built in expansive lots measuring from five to 15 acres basking in the splendor of the natural environment. Luxurious choices can be found among the sales-listed residences in this community as most of the houses here were custom-built by select construction companies. Many of the more exciting options are those properties with river access or with river frontage.
A riverfront residence among homes for sale in Myakka River Trails can be quoted in the high $800s and feature a floor plan of close to 4,000 square feet, five bedrooms and four bathrooms. The tag price of a residence that is on short sale, on the other hand, can hover in the vicinity of the mid-$700s for its floor space of about 5,100 square feet four bedrooms and five baths.
Superb community facilities further sweeten the deals found in Myakka River Trails homes for sale. The residents of this neighborhood have access to a tennis courts, a swimming pool and playground plus a clubhouse. The property was also developed as a gated complex to ensure privacy and security. Also incorporated into its development are ribbons of nature trails for hiking and horseback riding.
The neighboring Myakka River State Park provides many other alternatives for outdoor recreation. Besides sightseeing, various leisure pursuits are offered in this park. Its facilities include canoes, boats, bicycles, and log cabins for rent. Guided tours are also available along its nature paths and camping grounds.
The Manasota Beach, only a short drive west of the homes in Myakka River Trails, is another alternative for recreation. This pristine beach has boardwalks and boat ramps, as well as other support facilities for swimming, boating, and fishing.
Moreover, the River Road location of the community is near US 41 (Tamiami Trail) and I-75, enabling its residents quick convenient access to local shops and restaurants. Driving a few minutes northwest, for instance, opens access to fine commercial establishments at Center Road and Venice Avenue. In this area are charming restaurants like Mama Leone's and China One, both located near Sweetbay Supermarket and Venice Pines Plaza. Excellent dining and shopping can also be had along the Tamiami wherein establishments like Venice Shopping Center are located.
Christina Miller is a real estate broker in Sarasota Florida specializing in Premier neighborhoods and country club communities. Her business website features Sarasota Real Estate for Sale and articles relating to the surrounding communities.
Along with her current real estate focus, Christina also focuses her efforts on Venice Florida real estate. Venice, a long time favorite of Christina, is home to over 4,000 condominium residences as well as a large selection of opulent executive homes and old Florida-style bungalows dating back to the 40's and 50's.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/6928963
The river from which the community drew its name flows for about 70 miles, extending from Sarasota County to Charlotte Harbor. The entire Myakka River State Park covers 58 square miles, and by statute property development is restricted near it.
The homes of Myakka River Trails were built in expansive lots measuring from five to 15 acres basking in the splendor of the natural environment. Luxurious choices can be found among the sales-listed residences in this community as most of the houses here were custom-built by select construction companies. Many of the more exciting options are those properties with river access or with river frontage.
A riverfront residence among homes for sale in Myakka River Trails can be quoted in the high $800s and feature a floor plan of close to 4,000 square feet, five bedrooms and four bathrooms. The tag price of a residence that is on short sale, on the other hand, can hover in the vicinity of the mid-$700s for its floor space of about 5,100 square feet four bedrooms and five baths.
Superb community facilities further sweeten the deals found in Myakka River Trails homes for sale. The residents of this neighborhood have access to a tennis courts, a swimming pool and playground plus a clubhouse. The property was also developed as a gated complex to ensure privacy and security. Also incorporated into its development are ribbons of nature trails for hiking and horseback riding.
The neighboring Myakka River State Park provides many other alternatives for outdoor recreation. Besides sightseeing, various leisure pursuits are offered in this park. Its facilities include canoes, boats, bicycles, and log cabins for rent. Guided tours are also available along its nature paths and camping grounds.
The Manasota Beach, only a short drive west of the homes in Myakka River Trails, is another alternative for recreation. This pristine beach has boardwalks and boat ramps, as well as other support facilities for swimming, boating, and fishing.
Moreover, the River Road location of the community is near US 41 (Tamiami Trail) and I-75, enabling its residents quick convenient access to local shops and restaurants. Driving a few minutes northwest, for instance, opens access to fine commercial establishments at Center Road and Venice Avenue. In this area are charming restaurants like Mama Leone's and China One, both located near Sweetbay Supermarket and Venice Pines Plaza. Excellent dining and shopping can also be had along the Tamiami wherein establishments like Venice Shopping Center are located.
Christina Miller is a real estate broker in Sarasota Florida specializing in Premier neighborhoods and country club communities. Her business website features Sarasota Real Estate for Sale and articles relating to the surrounding communities.
Along with her current real estate focus, Christina also focuses her efforts on Venice Florida real estate. Venice, a long time favorite of Christina, is home to over 4,000 condominium residences as well as a large selection of opulent executive homes and old Florida-style bungalows dating back to the 40's and 50's.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/6928963
Sunday, March 11, 2012
Why Gold Is the Standard for Currency?
The currency in circulation in this type of system is fixed to the price of the gold that is in storage. This allows for a currency exchange that is predictable. The other type of money system is called a fiat currency system. In the fiat system, central banks can increase or decrease the supply of money without having the gold in their coffers to back it up. The U.S. operates currently on the fiat system, but it wasn't always that way.
When you hear the term 'gold standard', you are likely hearing about the International Gold Standard. This was established in the late 1800s after a silver crisis in England which ended with the U.S. suspending all silver payments. In 1871, the first gold standard was established by Germany, and within three decades, nearly all countries with big economies had established similar systems.
With the onset of the First World War, the gold standard reached an initial crisis. Britain had moved from it to a fiat standard, due to the huge cost that was involved in fighting the war. With the Treaty of Versailles, which set conditions for Germany's surrender, Germany was forced to turn over (as reparations), the bulk of its gold supply to the winning countries. This left Germany without enough gold to maintain it, thus giving them no other option than to switch to a fiat currency system.
The U.S. and most other major economies abandoned the gold standard by the mid Twenties. The official demise of the standard came in 1933 when those nations using the gold standard failed to come to an agreement on the value of gold. Following WWII, the Bretton Woods Agreement would govern the value of currency, until 1972, when the free-floating currency era began. Gold lost its status as the basis for reserve accounting for central banks.
The gold standard, initially, allowed for the expansion of trade around the world, but it was problematic. Gold supplies grew much more slowly than the global economy, which made the gold standard highly deflationary. For example, in the U.S., periods of deflation that lasted for as long as fourteen years were seen when the economy switched to the it. It is also possible for local distortions of value to be realized. Such was the case when the Irish found it more profitable to export potatoes to England rather selling them domestically, which led to what became known as the Great Potato Famine.
Lastly, it is important to note that it does not allow the government to print money out without having gold to back it up. This can leave the public prone to recessions and depressions. The current fiat system is based on trust, but that allows it to combat depressions as well as unemployment. The gold standard did not allow for that.
Is Everything You Do Each Day, the Most Effective Use of Your Time?
If we all have the same amount of time each day, how is it possible that some people get so much more done each day than others? When you discover the answer to this question, you will have unlocked the secret to invite almost any level of success into your life. You will be able to enjoy the same success, which you admire in the top performers all around you. The simple secret for accelerating your success and giving you many extra hours each day to focus on doing the most important things is "PRIORITISATION". When you stop spinning your wheels and you focus all your energy on the most important things every day, you stop being just feeling busy and you become productive, effective and efficient.
Any great leader knows that busyness is not effectiveness or efficiency and that activity is not achievement. If you want to be effective as a leader it is crucial that you invest time to research all the things that are consuming your time each day. If any of those activities are not the most effective and efficient use of your time, then it is time for a massive shake-up. It is time to discover what will bring the best results and to focus all your energy and time on only those activities each day.
Prioritisation is the reason Richard Branson is able to manage hundreds of companies, why Donald Trump manages to earn Billions of dollars a year and why any leader achieves greatness. When you make the decision to finally shake your life up, where you escape from your comfort zone and choose to live according to your priorities, you stop the cycle of busyness and you enter a realm of productivity. The challenge any great leader faces, is managing the pain associated with prioritisation. You may have become so accustomed to your daily routine and enjoy doing some of the unimportant tasks, which feel good to do, but waste buckets of your time every day. So the thought of delegating some of those things you love doing to others, may seem difficult at first. Prioritisation requires leaders to continually think ahead and to constantly evaluate their daily activities. To ensure that, these are the best use of their available time and that everything they do is aligned with the overall vision of the team or organisation.
I know the pain associated with prioritisation from personal experience. I live on the eastern side of Johannesburg and love living there, as I feel very comfortable and familiar in the area. This choice costs me about five hours a week in travelling time, as most of the meetings I attend are in the Northern side of Johannesburg. Although I love living and working in the East. It makes far more sense for me to move my business and home to the North of Johannesburg. This shift of priority will save me about five hours a week and allow me to be far more effective. This move will be a painful, but very necessary one, if I want to move my business to the next level.
If you want to become a great leader it is crucial that you constantly evaluate your priorities and see where you should be investing your efforts. Every year I invest about two weeks in December into designing my year. During this time I carefully look at my schedule from the previous year. I try to evaluate and see whether, everything I did was the best use of my time. I effectively use the previous year as a yardstick to try to see how I can do things better during the next year. I evaluate my commitments to work and family and try to balance these out as best as I possibly can. This then gives me a broad outline of the time I will allocate to work and other areas of prioritisation. The final step in evaluating and defining my priorities, is driven by my vision and goals for the next year. I explore the big picture and try to discover all the tasks, which I must do each day and work to eliminate all the tasks, which just waste my time and force me to spin my wheels.
Once you have built the foundation for your activities during the following year and you know what your priorities should be, move onto the final phase, where you evaluate the individual activities to see if they will deliver the outcomes you want.
Look at the priorities you have identified and ask yourself these few simple questions:
- Is this task really the most productive use of my time and is there really no one else that can do this task as well or better than me?
- Is this task allowing me to utilise my greatest strengths?
- Is carrying out this task going to frustrate or empower me?
When you evaluate your priorities by answering the questions above, it is important to know, that to become a great leader you must pull yourself out of your comfort zone but never pull yourself out of your strength zone. Explore all your priorities and if some of them are crucial, but not aligned with your strength zone or not necessarily the best use of your time, have the foresight to delegate them to someone else. We are always far more effective, when we are doing something we love, so always try to avoid including priorities in your schedule, where you are required to do things you do not enjoy doing.
You can never prioritise effectively, unless you know what your strengths are. Invest the time to evaluate and discover your strength zone. Armed with this information, you can examine all your priorities, which you carry out each day and see if they are aligned with your strengths. It is the responsibility of any leader to make decisions based on priorities. As you learn the art of prioritisation and you gradually eliminate all the time wasting activities from your life and you focus all your energy on only activities that give the best return on your time. You will see remarkable improvements in your efficiency, effectiveness and productivity.
Resource : http://ezinearticles.com/?Is-Everything-You-Do-Each-Day,-the-Most-Effective-Use-of-Your-Time?&id=6932304
Tuesday, March 6, 2012
How to Easily Answer 3 Difficult Interview Questions
The inherent problem with attempting to prepare to answer difficult interview questions is that the difficulty and proper response vary so greatly dependent on the interviewer as well as the atmosphere.
This is in conjunction with your nerves and overall mood at that particular time which is exceedingly hard to anticipate even though we all try.
Still, practicing and going through difficult interview questions before you have to interview will give you an advantage from a strategic thinking standpoint.
So you can get an idea as to how these questions are best approached, I picked out 10 from a list and did my best to help any job seekers in need of guidance.
Here are the 1st 3:
1. Tell Me About Yourself
When you think about it, this is probably the easiest question you will get, but why do people make a huge deal out of it? In my opinion, there are two main reasons why we practice this over and over again and they are:
a. You're probably going to be asked it as question. For the interviewer, it's a great icebreaker and sets the tone for a lighter back and forth conversation.
b. If it's any question that is responsible for us not getting the job, we hope to heck that it is not this one because people attach a personal rejection to it.
Want to know the truth? The interviewer feels just as uncomfortable asking this question because it's unoriginal.
2. Why Are You Looking to Leave Your Current Position?
The reason that so many people have trouble with this question is that they lie straight through their teeth as somewhere along the way honesty and this question became two entities best left separate.
With this question, it is in my sincerest opinion that you just level with them about what is so bad.
If you think that it is terrible, in a sincere tone prior to spilling it out tell them, "It may sound bad, but...." I can almost guarantee you that this honesty will be a breath of fresh air compared to the "It's time to move on" answer from all the other job seekers.
3. Why Do You Want to Work Here?
This is by far the hardest of the three questions because this is where the person wants to hear something in particular from you about the firm that they hold dear and, if you didn't do your research, you are probably not going to hit that point.
There is nothing more frustrating than when an applicant speaks in generalities upon being asked this question. As a matter of fact, the less specific you are in answering this question, the higher the odds that the interviewer will get insulted.
Chapter 13 Bankruptcy and the Hardship Discharge
Debtors must pay all payments required under their Chapter 13 plan in order to receive a discharge in Chapter 13 bankruptcy. However, there is an exception to this rule known as the "hardship discharge." Section 1328(b) of the Bankruptcy Code allows Chapter 13 debtors to receive a discharge without completing their plan if they satisfy three prerequisites.
First, the debtor must be unable to continue making payments to the trustee and circumstances beyond the control of the debtor must be the cause of their inability to complete their Chapter 13 plan. For example, if a debtor is injured in a car accident and unable to work this requirement would be satisfied.
Second, as of the date the debtor requests a hardship discharge they must have paid to their creditors an amount equal or greater than what they would have received if the debtor had filed a Chapter 7 bankruptcy case. In Chapter 7 bankruptcy cases the debtor must give her nonexempt property to a trustee who liquidates the property and pays the proceeds to the unsecured creditors listed in the schedules. In Chapter 13 bankruptcy cases the trustee does not liquidate the debtor's nonexempt property. Instead the trustee requires that the debtor pay an amount equal to the value of the nonexempt property to the unsecured creditors in the Chapter 13 plan. If the trustee has been paid an amount in the plan that provides the unsecured creditors distributions equal or greater than the value of the nonexempt property, then this requirement has been met.
Third, it must be impractical to modify the existing Chapter 13 plan. Plans can be modified to reduce the payment when the debtor's income decreases. If the income available to the debtor is so low that even a minimal payment cannot be paid then this rule is satisfied.
Most debtors will not qualify for a hardship discharge and will have to modify a plan or convert the case to a case under Chapter 7 of the Bankruptcy Code. But for debtors who do qualify, the hardship discharge provides an inexpensive way for a debtor to acquire a discharge quickly with no additional payments to the trustee.
Nathan S. Graham is an attorney with The Wright Firm, LLP. Nathan represents individuals and small businesses in Chapter 7 and Chapter 13 bankruptcy cases. The Wright Firm, LLP, has offices in Dallas, Denton, Lewisville, and Frisco.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/6921881
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