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From the Business Desk
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Monday, June 30, 2008
Emerging trends for the seniors and aging baby boomer markets
Good day everyone! I'm Jeff N Marquis at the business desk.
How many of you are having difficulty keeping up with breaking news for seniors and aging baby boomers?
How many of you are just dying to learn what the emerging trends are for this very potent market?
Are you dying to know what types of services and products the seniors and aging baby boomer markets are seeking?
Then, take a look at our headlines for this week. Here you will learn about what various companies and communities are doing in order to satisfy this very virile demand, and you will also learn why seniors and aging baby boomers are choosing certain services over others and what trends they are setting.
At the business desk, I'm Jeff N Marquis along with our team wishing our Canadian neighbors a happy Canada Day and an early July 04 holiday greeting to our American readers.
News for retirees, aging baby boomers, and seniors A New Measure of Income Adequacy for Older Americans Reveals Many ...
PR-Inside.com (Pressemitteilung) - Wien,Austria
Baby boomers are not necessarily going to cause a 'tsunami' when they retire by swamping social support systems. Rather, boomers can use the Index to plan ...
For more detail check out:
http://www.pr-inside.com/a-new-measure-of-income-adequacy-r654266.htm Father's Day
The News - Salem,AR,USA
... care workers will increase by better than 50 percent over the next 20 years as the Baby Boomers move into retirement and the older population increases. ...
For more detail check out:
http://www.areawidenews.com/story/1438522.html The dream factory
By Renato Zane(Renato Zane)
Television commercials offer multiple visions of what life could be like for aging baby boomers: an active and healthy lifestyle, weight loss, carefree travel, gratification and happiness. It's dream fulfillment that can be inspiring, ...
Zanepost -
http://zanepost.blogspot.com/ FH Boom Daily Digest- June 20, 2008
Overview: "A new national survey of baby boomers shows a growing need for better communication about driving issues among adult children and their aging parents, calls for additional restrictions on their parents' driving -- whether ...
The Boomer Blog -
http://www.theboomerblog.com/ Canadian seniors and baby boomers still play like kids
Sudbury Star - Sudbury,Ontario,Canada
In fact, the Celebrex Bowling Classic recently rolled into major cities across Canada to show seniors living in various retirement centres that the bowling ...
For more detail check out:
http://www.thesudburystar.com/ArticleDisplay.aspx?e=1083856 Seniors make service focus of 'encore careers'
Charlotte Observer - Charlotte,NC,USA
But in a recent national survey, nearly 10 percent of baby boomers polled said they are pursuing work that matters in the second half of life, ...
For more detail check out:
http://www.charlotte.com/business/story/679414.html Too expensive to retire
Kerrville Daily Times - Kerrville,TX,USA
Why do seniors and baby boomers want retirement jobs? Money The chance to earn supplemental income is one of the main reasons people want retirement ...
For more detail check out:
http://web.dailytimes.com/story.lasso?ewcd=aed7c5aeb7532498
Saturday, June 28, 2008
How call centers in India are affecting special needs workers in North America
Good morning! We hope that you are getting ready to enjoy a nice pleasant summer's weekend. Take some time to be nice to yourself and when you have a few moments, please read this week's editorial which has been written by a very knowledgeable special needs business consultant. We feel that this topic is important enough for you to read about as it can very well affect you or a close friend or family member if it has not done so already. Have a great weekend. The business desk team How call centers in India are affecting special needs workers in North America By Donna J Jodhan For the past few years we have seen where more and more companies have been relocating their call centers to India. It started off as a small group of elite or blue chip companies doing it, but nowadays it appears that even the medium sized ones are doing it and they are no longer hiding the fact that they're doing it in order to reduce their overhead costs. While I generally do not have a problem with anyone wanting to reduce their overhead costs, even those big bad corporations, I do take issue with the fact that by relocating call centers to India, many jobs have been lost right here in North America and surprise of all surprises! The job losses have been highest among our special needs labor force. Statistics continue to show that the unemployment rate among our special needs labor force has hovered at around 80% and above for at least the last 20 years and in Canada statistics show that over 70% of disabled persons live below the poverty line. Up till when the trend to relocate call centers to India started, many persons with special needs were able to find employment at call centers. They were jobs that were opened to them for a variety of reasons and many of them depended on income from these types of jobs to keep themselves afloat but more importantly to keep themselves from slipping below the poverty line. Now, this picture has changed and in an economy where it is so difficult for anyone to find gainful employment, companies have unwittingly made it even more difficult for special needs persons to find gainful employment. If mainstream employment seekers are finding it difficult to find jobs then think what it is like for special needs employment seekers. The spectrum of job opportunities for persons with special needs is already so narrow and when a major source of employment is taken out from under their feet and sent abroad then what? There is yet another dark side and it's this. Special needs jobs seekers are not the only ones who have been greatly affected by this trend. Those retirees seeking to supplement their incomes have also been affected. Those who do not have the right type of skills to seek higher-paying jobs have also been affected by this and those who have been depending on part-time employment to help them make ends meet have also been affected. Added to this are the following factors: In a land where English is the primary language, consumers have to put up with customer service reps whose first language is not English and accordingly it is often difficult to communicate with them. The companies who have relocated their call centers abroad seem to have forgotten how to train their call takers when it comes to product knowledge and phone manners and they have also seem to have forgotten how to treat their loyal customers. I urge all of those companies who have relocated their call centers to India to re-think your strategy. Charity begins at home and surely you large companies who have done this could find it in your corporate hearts to see the goodness in returning your call centers to North America. I have no doubt that you have managed to reduce your overhead costs but in so doing you have also managed to inflict damage on yourselves; your corporate image. In addition, you have managed to create great dissatisfaction among your North American customers. Complaints against your call center personnel in India are increasing with each day and if you don't address this problem sooner than later then you may very well find yourselves being forced to change your strategy. Donna J Jodhan is the president of Sterling Creations and you can learn more about this dynamic woman and leader by visiting www.sterlingcreations.ca. Donna is herself blind and a woman of mixed race who has never let any road blocks stand in her way.
Friday, June 27, 2008
Business opportunities awaiting your attention
Hey there! I'm Alix Shadonnay at the business desk and I would like to add some fun and adventure to your weekend reading.
I would also like to give a bit of a tonic to your creative juices by providing you with a potent list of news on various types of opportunities for aspiring home business owners, small business owners, internet business adventurers, plus more. If you are finding it difficult to keep up with news on these types of arenas, then by all means, check out our weekly feature. All it will cost you is a few minutes of your time. You'll never know what you missed if you don't read it.
Now for our Amazon picks of the week.
Mommy Wars: Stay-at-Home and Career Moms Face Off on Their Choices, Their Lives, Their Families
by Leslie Morgan Steiner
This is a very thought-provoking book and one that all moms should read. The author has captured the essence of the dilemma that faces those moms who choose to take the plunge. So many moms take the plunge without taking the time to fully investigate and this book is one that they should read before making the move. The Last Chance Millionaire: It's Not Too Late to Become Wealthy
By Douglas R. Andrew
This author brings hope to us at a time when economic times are hard and scary. We often give up hope because we don't really know what to do or how to go about doing what we want to do. This book is a great starting point. I'm Alix Shadonnay wishing you a terrific weekend.
Home business opportunities, Internet business opportunities, small business opportunities, business opportunities in Asia Featured Music Industry Stocks ADVERTISEMENT
InvestorIdeas.com (press release) - Point Roberts,WA,USA
The Company's business consists of the Home, Designer, Automotive after market and Integrated Audio lines of products. Boston Acoustics' speakers are ...
For more detail check out:
http://www.musicindustrystocks.com/MIS/Stock_List.asp [promote_your_business] Digest Number 26893
By Febie "pepNo" Kurniawan(Febie "pepNo" Kurniawan)
Success University is a real business with real people and is simply the most amazing opportunity out there. Our entire team is committed to your success, and the success of others on our team. My up line has years of experience in the ...
Online Business List -
http://onlinebusinesslist.blogspot.com/ Selection of news for SN made on the 13.6.08
By caridad
BIOMIMICRY: beetle-based water harvesting Funding opportunities (max 1). - Bilateral aid: update on new water funding from Japan, Australia and Spain - Water kiosks: providing affordable urban water services in Cameroon and Tanzania ...
Visite a Crepa pour Sources Nouvelles -
http://snouvelles.wordpress.com Starting A Profitable Home Business - Business Plan Posted By ...
By admin
Online coupons provide their customers with outrageous savings opportunities that can be saved for lifes future emergencies or fun. Wal-Mart Internet Site for Store Buying Posted By : Roy Shepherd Wal-Mart shopping online experience is ...
E-commerce portal -
http://www.ecommerco.net New Research Studies Executive Expats Abroad
ASIATravelTips.com - Amphur Muang,Nonthaburi,Thailand
The research revealed more about this breed of extended stay business traveler - the executive expat. They are largely senior executives who travel ...
For more detail check out:
http://www.asiatraveltips.com/news08/166-Expatriates.shtml An appointment via PRSA Professorhood and CEO Rhoda Weiss
By estherwok
John Middle Greek, an Internet business leader undefined needing his come clean ebullition in preparation for the party in power started this gyp artist robe. As all get-out basically inner man coop witness and savvy, American Detailed, ...
Estherwok's Weblog -
http://estherwok.wordpress.com Find A Job
By wgjthzed63(wgjthzed63)
Find A Job In Australia Where to find best job opportunities online career job opportunities jobs announcements job sites find search get online needed jobs in business. The hiring process is too much of a hassle, and they don't want to ...
Find A Job -
http://find-a-job2.blogspot.com/ Get on the telephone
By Zane Safrit(Becky McCray)
About the Author: Zane Safrit's passion is small business and the operations' excellence required to deliver a product that creates word-of-mouth, customer referrals and instills pride in those whose passion created it. ...
Small Biz Survival -
http://www.smallbizsurvival.com/ GOPIO NEWS for INDIAN DIASPORA - June, 20008
By Mr A.N. Onymous(Mr A.N. Onymous)
Rihiras Batta and GOPIO-Australia Business and Entrepreneuers Council Dr. JS Virk), digntaries (Indian Consul General Sujan Chinoy was the chief guest. Ms. Tanya Gadiel MP from Parramatta) and otehr community leaders and activists. ...
Malaysian Indian Minorities'... -
http://malaysianminorities.blogspot.com/ Renewing American Competitiveness
The other day, Senator McCain gave a speech to the Small Business Summit where he attacked my plan to provide tax relief for the middle class. What he didn't say is that I've also proposed exempting all start-up companies from capital ...
RealClearPolitics - Articles... -
http://www.realclearpolitics.com/articles/ Jobs, Innovation and Trade
By Bill Haynes
They arrive here and work their way up in a couple of decades to be shop owners, small business owners and similar employment. They give up nice cars, color TVs and long vacations, and by the time their second generation is out of ...
Time Left -
http://timeleft.org Russians Buy Furs, Homes In Dubai
By BB-Leo
It is now mostly tourists who take advantage of Dubai's shopping opportunities, visiting places like Al Nasser Square, a district so popular with Russians that many of the cafes feature Cyrillic writing on their front windows. ...
NNN Reporters Newsroom -
http://www.newnation.vg/forums
Thursday, June 26, 2008
How you can protect your computer from hackers and identity thieves
Hi Everyone! I'm Heather DeMarco at the business desk.
When was the last time you thought about the security of your home computer? How often do you check on your kids to ensure that they are not surfing those tasteless websites that can only bring a bunch of no good to them? When was the last time you checked your hard drive to ensure that no erroneous info was inadvertently being stored there or that no dangerous downloadable files were somehow hanging out on your hard drive?
Are you just too busy to find enough time to check to make sure that all is secure with your hard drive?
I know, it's not easy and it's why we want to help you stay safe and happy. Let us help you! No cost! Give a read to this week's news on security tips for home computer users.
I'm Heather DeMarco wishing you a pleasant day.
Security tips for home computer users Home Computer Security
By Spasticon
You as a computer user would usually know something was wrong because the way your computer worked changed. It would get slower or files would start being corrupted or the system would crash entirely. The biggest protection that a home ...
See Ted Run. Run Ted Run. -
http://www.spasticon.com/ RU Botted - Watches your System for bot-related Activities
By Bill Mullins
For your own benefit it's obviously important to keep your computer from becoming infected and becoming a part of this problem. Perhaps it's less obvious that we all share a responsibility to help protect other computer users on the ...
MakeUseOf.com -
http://www.makeuseof.com PC Pandora is The Parent's Key to Safe Summer Surfing
By KenS
Kids home for summer means kids on the computer more, especially during the day when parents are at work. PC Pandora monitoring software can help make sure your kids are playing safe all day long in the digital sandbox. ...
Pandora's Blog -
http://blog.pcpandora.com Basic computer security tips
By sateesh
User security. Most computer users have post it notes stuck to their monitors with passwords on them or they don't even bother logging off of the system when they go on a coffee break or go home for the night by not logging out and ...
students2day.com -
http://students2day.com Airtel Hack for free internet
By Ankit(Ankit)
Go to ur connection settings and make a new internet profile using the default settings of airtel live. name that new profile as nething(for eg masala); change the home page of that profile to nething u like for eg www.google.com. ...
LATEST COMPUTER TRICKS, TIPS... -
http://impcompfacts.blogspot.com/ How To Keep Your Passwords Safe
By Spasticon
In today's home computer security post I'm going to end up talking about KeePass. It is a free open source password vault program which I recommend everybody use. First though some background:. With a significant increase in the number ...
See Ted Run. Run Ted Run. -
http://www.spasticon.com/ Over 5GB of ebooks on FTP!
By Invisible
cisco press - wireless networks first-step.chm cisco security specialist's guide to pix firewall.pdf cisco&checkpoint.zip cmp books - network tutorial, fifth edition.chm concrete mathematics - a foundation for computer science.pdf ...
JamiiForums.com -
http://www.jamiiforums.com Firefox Browser Blog
By Brandon(Brandon)
A Beginner's Guide to Firefox, B&TW: Firefox Priv-Sec, Firefox Help - Online Help for the Mozilla Firefox Web Browser, Firefox Help, Tips and Tricks, Firefox links page, Gripes about Firefox web browser, Frequently encountered issues, ...
Firefox Browser Blog -
http://firefoxbrowser.blogspot.com/ Saturday Link Roundup 2
By Becky
10 Tips For Mastering A Messy Home Living a clutter free and bare-bones minimized possessions lifestyle would be great and easy to manage in single or adult couple homesbut here are 10 practical tips for mess-free family sized living ...
babblative.com -
http://babblative.com/ Sophisticated nuances of car selling facilities
By admin
Top Motorcycle Security Tips Author Ian Owen explains: motorcycle security, bike security tips, motorcycle, motorbike. Braking Methods Modern brakes were invented in the late 19th century, around the same time as the tyre. ...
All Car Info -
http://www.all-car.info Free Antivirus Software For My Computer
By Hugh Duddy
Next step is to spend a little time on your favorite search engine and choose your own or follow my lead and make AVG your first choice. About the Author:. For more Internet & PC Security Tips and the Best PC Security Articles head over ...
Product Reviews Site Article Directory -
http://productreviewssite.com/ Viruses
By vlmgdpif281(vlmgdpif281)
Wolfe and his team focus on Zoonotic diseases, caused by viruses jumping from animals to humans One might think of a computer virus as a tiny computer program designed to perform mischief. Most computer users have heard about computer ...
Viruses -
http://viruses2.blogspot.com/ The Threats of Online Security:How safe is your data?
By mahhuixin(~vErOn~)
Though using online services seems exposing us to vulnerable threats to the security of our data, there are still enough sophisticated software and safety measures that can be taken by online users to prevent data loss. For further tips ...
News@E-Commerze.com -
http://e-commerzeworld.blogspot.com/ Free computer security software you HAVE to get
By aduong
I'd say this easily beats the likes of McAfee protection wise, but unfortunately, ease wise, it is slightly difficult for the home user to pick up easily. However, if you are fairly advanced, or understand a relatively high amount about ...
Online Tech Tips -
http://www.online-tech-tips.com The Perils of Social Networking
By emelyanova
According to some estimates, more than thirty percent of US web traffic is taken up by users interacting on social networks like Facebook, Myspace and LinkedIn. Social networks (SN) can be fun and useful places to be when you want to ...
Internet security tips and advice -
http://www.securityteacher.com Macro Recorder - A Task Automation Tool For Everyone
By xanasblog1130
... security features available; ability to batch process and batch script. In conclusion, macro recorders are not only for advanced computer users, but also for any PC users in general. For those at home, using a PC as a pass time, ... Xanas Blog -
http://iblogarea.com/xanasblog1130 djay 2.1: Train to be a DJ Or At Least Just Look Like One
By Vash the Stampede
What does that mean for users? Uses the Gecko 1.9 rendering engine for faster page rendering; Improved support for web applications like Gmail and Zoho Office; Reduced memory footprint; Security enhancements; Improved password manager ...
vashNYC -
http://fanpotai.wordpress.com
Wednesday, June 25, 2008
Pay attention to your mental health before it's too late
Good morning! I'm Kerry J Harrison at the business desk. It's Wednesday, the middle of the week, and we're halfway to another weekend. Summer is here and I am sure that everyone is just looking for ways to enjoy the wonderful weather.
In the same way that we are seeking ways to enjoy the summer, I hope that we are also working hard to find ways to take care of our mental health. Our minds are what drive us to do what we need and want to do. Healthy minds are the key to healthy lives and when we fail to take care of our minds, we also fail to take care of other important things. Too many of us fail to give due consideration to our mental health and when we realize that our minds are bawling for help, it's a bit too late. So, this morning, I am putting out a plead for you to take a few moments and listen to what your minds are asking for. Some down time, some relaxation, some sleep time.
Give a read to our news this week and use it to help you make a plan to become more mentally healthy.
Take care and have a pleasant day.
I'm Kerry J Harrison.
News on stress, anxiety, and depression Kill your TV
By zoewinters
But could the television itself increase stress, anxiety and depression? I think it can. First there's the news. I don't watch the news. Primarily because it's almost always bad news. It gives a skewed view of the world. ...
The Road to Magical Happy Greatness -
http://zoewinters.wordpress.com Coffee Beans May Be Newest Stress-Buster -- Just Inhaling The ...
By EmpowHer
Previous studies have shown that coffee consumption can reduce depression and suicide risk, as well as relieve stress, effects generally attributed to the caffeine in coffee, the researchers noted. But while some 900 compounds that ...
Latest from EmpowHer.com -
http://empowher.com/rss.xml America the Anxious
By Gregory LeFever(Gregory LeFever)
And 94.4 percent of Mexicans - bone-crushing poverty and barbed-wire borders notwithstanding - have never experienced a major episode of anxiety or depression. But move a Mexicano north of the border, according to a study in the ...
Gregory LeFever -
http://greglefever.blogspot.com/ UK Funds Expansion of Talk Therapies
By Rick Nauert, Ph.D.
"This initiative will transform the way the NHS helps people with depression and anxiety disorders. It will help to reduce the stigma associated with mental health problems. I believe it is one of the most important advances for NHS ...
Psych Central News -
http://psychcentral.com/news Exercise works as well as drugs to combat depression
By Erich Vieth
A good friend of mine once told me to "lead with the body" when you are struggling with anxiety or depression. Talking things out has it's limits, he said, as do drugs. It was my friend's belief that exercising the body will often allow ...
Dangerous Intersection -
http://dangerousintersection.org some news on depression
By laura l. kilarski(laura l. kilarski)
Increased plasma levels of vasopressin, a nonapeptide involved in the neural and endocrine response to stress and expressed in the hypothalamus, pituitary and in limbic regions, are linked to affective disorders such as anxiety and ...
psique -
http://psiqueii.blogspot.com/ Health Care Spending: The Basics; How Much Do We Spend on Nursing ...
By Maggie Mahar
The news is almost as depressing as The Savages. (A powerful film, starring Philip Seymour Hoffman, Laura Linney, and Philip Bosco about a brother and sister who are faced with putting their father in a nursing home.) ...
Health Beat -
http://www.healthbeatblog.org/ Anxiety and Depression: What is the Connection?
By admin
Anxiety or feelings of stress may be referred to as symptoms or a response to pressure. The more these feelings become intolerable in a person, the worse the anxiety is going to react. Now, this does not indicate that person may only ...
Health News|Health Articles -
http://edlife.braverx.com So I haven't written in a long time....
By msdemonhunter(msdemonhunter)
I'm still freaking out on a regular basis over nothing, though I've started a program that my father got for me called, "Attacking Anxiety and Depression." I'm hoping the results will be good. Because it's suppose to cure me of it ...
Complicated Lives -
http://msdemonhunter.livejournal.com/ Who Killed Heath Ledger?
By gezrikuikr(gezrikuikr)
Xanax is the trade name of the generic anti-anxiety/tranquilliser prescription drug, alprazolam, listed in Ledger's toxicity report. The donating cars anti-anxiety drug was diazepam, or more commonly known as Valium. ...
Ot -
http://otgajhxliac.blogspot.com/ Hunger Hormone Increases During Stress, May Have Antidepressant Effect
Science Daily (press release) - USA
"Our findings in mice suggest that chronic stress causes ghrelin levels to go up and that behaviors associated with depression and anxiety decrease when ...
For more detail check out:
http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2008/06/080615142252.htm Working Overtime Linked to Anxiety and Depression
Newswise (press release) - USA
Newswise Employees who work overtime are at increased risk of anxiety and depression, suggests a study in the June Journal of Occupational and ...
For more detail check out:
http://www.newswise.com/articles/view/541679/ Working Overtime Linked to Anxiety and Depression
Employees who work overtime are at increased risk of anxiety and depression, suggests a study in the June Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, official publication of the American College of Occupational and Environmental ...
NewsBlaze.com Current News - Environment -
http://newsblaze.com/ How Stress Can Be a Killer
By Azbet(Azbet)
Many negative symptoms have been attributed to stress. Symptoms and problems such as insomnia, backaches and even cancer have been related to the side effects of stress. Anxiety and depression can be caused by copious amounts of stress, ...
Health -
http://j-health.blogspot.com/ Anxiety Attacks!
By Left Turn(Left Turn)
Turns out that anxiety disorder -- a spectrum that includes panic, obsessive-compulsive disorder, post-traumatic stress, phobias and the catch-all, generalized anxiety disorder -- is now the most prevalent mental health problem in the ...
Jo Swift -
http://joswift.blogspot.com/ Checking expiry dates - on medications
By Marijke Durning(Marijke Durning)
If you're obese, your pregnancy may be more expensive. Can epidurals affect breast feeding? News for Today:. Women Get Lung Cancer From Smoking at Same Rates as Men (HealthDay). Working Overtime Linked to Anxiety and Depression ...
Marijke: nurse turned writer -
http://medhealthwriter.blogspot.com/
Tuesday, June 24, 2008
Important answers for consumers
Top of the morning to you out there! I'm Donna J Jodhan at the business desk.
Well, I am back to diving into our e-bag to answer as many questions so here goes.
From Carol Linton: Please comment on whether or not there is actually a worker shortage developing due to the retirement of more and more baby boomers.
Answer: Carol, it is my belief that there is indeed a very real shortage of workers developing and it is only going to get more acute with time. More and more baby boomers are starting to retire now and this is starting to create a shortage of skills, experience, and leadership in several industries. Many companies are even starting to think of enticing older workers to stay on and it is only left to be seen how this plays out. On the other hand, because of the present economic conditions in the United States, some older workers are making the decision to stay on because they are concerned about how their after retirement incomes will be affected. Of course, there are other factors painting this picture at the present time, but to answer your original question, yes, there seems to be a developing trend of a shortage of workers due to early retirement.
From Joe Delucca: Do you think that the recent policy changes by our airlines in America will lead to less and less persons traveling?
Answer: Joe, if you are referring to the recent fees of $15 being charged for each piece of checked in luggage, plus what came down recently in Canada with Air Canada crying because of increased gas prices, the answer is a definite maybe. I do believe that the present time the airline industry is in big trouble and most of it is due to the rocketing prices for gas and fuel. Add this to present economic conditions and you have a very gloomy picture. Many experts are saying that we could very well see a return to the days when flying becomes a luxury. There is not much for us the public to do but wait and watch. We can only pray that oil prices start to decline soon.
From Kim Hatter: Donna, as an accessibility and special needs consultant, do you think that there are careers for those who want to work with the development of special needs awareness?
Answer: Kim, yes. I see more and more opportunities cropping up every day. With a rapidly aging population, we are going to look towards skilled professionals who can fill the gap by creating awareness of the needs and demands of a rapidly aging population. It is simply no longer enough for universities to churn out social workers and psychologists. They have to develop programs to train students to be able to deal with real demands and needs, train them to understand these needs and demands, and train them to know why these needs and demands should be dealt with. What we are sorely lacking these days are skilled professionals who truly understand the needs and demands of an aging population. We need professionals who can go out there and advise companies how to provide better customer service support to seniors and persons with special needs. Recently, I had the misfortune of running into a customer service rep at A & P Canada who told me that her company was not in the business of helping people. Her exact words. She went on to tell me that "They were in the business to sell groceries" and then she added fuel to fire by telling me to go to social services and find someone to help me do my shopping. Very shocking coming from someone like this who was a supervisor. This type of attitude is not going to get her very far and she would or could probably benefit from working with professionals who are skilled in understanding the needs of persons with special needs.
From Darrell Monplay: Can you give me some stats on the success rate of start-ups for small businesses and maybe some of the reasons why they often fail?
Answer: Darrell, I recently read an article in a business magazine which stated the following: Over 25% of small businesses fail within the first two years of start-up, and half of the rest of them go under within the first five years of initiation. As far as some of the main reasons for failure, here is my informal list.
1. The majority of small business owners do not take the time to develop a sound business plan.
2. They do not take the time to ensure that consumers and demands are real.
3. They fail to analyze their competition.
4. They do not have the necessary expertise and resources to launch their ventures.
Of course there is a lot more.
I am out of time for this week but I will leave you with my tip for the week.
Work smarter, not harder. Prioritize your tasks, establish deadlines and timelines that are realistic and attainable.
At the business desk, I'm Donna J Jodhan wishing you a terrific day.
Monday, June 23, 2008
How companies can tap into a growing market of seniors and aging baby boomers
Good day everyone! I'm Jeff N Marquis at the business desk and I would like to start the week by putting out a call for those of you who are seeking to increase your revenues and expand your customer base. I am also putting out a call for those of you who are having difficulty keeping up with news for seniors, retirees, and aging baby boomers.
You see, I am trying to create a mutual meeting place for consumers and businesses to meet and get to know each other a bit better. There are not many places like this but we have one for you and it's right here. This week we have chosen a number of tidbits and headlines for you to ponder and to use wisely. For companies, use our info to build your next business plan and for consumers, use our info to make wiser decisions.
I'm Jeff N Marquis wishing you a great day.
News for retirees, aging baby boomers, and seniors Your Money: To retire or un-retire? Ways to consider the question
Daily Record (subscription) - Baltimore,MD,USA
Add retirement to the long list of things Baby Boomers are changing their minds about. An April, 2006 study by Zogby International and the MetLife Mature ...
For more detail check out:
http://www.mddailyrecord.com/article.cfm?id=5665&type=UTTM Agency on aging holds hearing on four-year plan
Daily American Online (subscription) - Somerset,PA,USA
... graying population in Somerset County as baby boomers are now reaching retirement age. The agency must prepare to redesign how it serves senior citizens ...
For more detail check out:
http://www.dailyamerican.com/articles/2008/06/13/news/news/news614.txt Local Agency Provides Help for Seniors
Elburn Herald - Elburn,IL,USA
by Gwen Allen Many baby boomers are approaching retirement, and while some are prepared, many are not. With the average age of retirement moving up and the ...
For more detail check out:
http://www.elburnherald.com/6132008/emptynesters1002.asp PACE fulfilling needs of Southwest Va. seniors
Bluefield Daily Telegraph - Bluefield,WV,USA
As the baby boomer generation slowly faces retirement, a new program in Southwest Virginia is working to address the complex needs of seniors while ...
For more detail check out:
http://www.bdtonline.com/local/local_story_164205718.html Nest egg can bloom
Inland Valley Daily Bulletin - Ontario,CA,USA
Younger at heart than previous generations, today's baby boomers are bypassing the Sunbelt that created a retirement haven for their parents and heading for ...
For more detail check out:
http://www.dailybulletin.com/ci_9589005 The Baby Boomer Nightmare
By admin
Retirement communities are geared up and focusing on your business in the very near future. Much of the news on radio and television is concerned with "Are we ready for the Baby Boomers to reach retirement age?" ...
Ju Ju Ju -
http://jujuju.org/ Retirement Life by Pamela Pope
By Nikki Leigh - Author(Nikki Leigh - Author)
Every news outlet is discussing elder care and aging in place. With 77 million Baby Boomers approaching retirement age, this topic will be relevant for the next 20 years. If there's anything else you would like to share, ...
In Detail With Nikki Leigh -
http://detailwithnikkileigh.blogspot.com/ Reverse Mortgage
By helen(helen)
This blog covers all consumer interest items about Reverse Mortgages - from the educational basics, to how to obtain a reverse mortgage, to news, government actions, and events that are happening that relate to reverse mortgages. ...
reverse mortgage -
http://cikedikmedik-u2.blogspot.com/ An untapped wealth of talent
KeepMEcurrent.com - Scarborough,ME,USA
A $95000 grant from the Atlantic Philanthropies is enabling the nonprofit to draw a blueprint for recruiting baby boomers and seniors as civic leaders and ...
For more detail check out:
http://www.keepmecurrent.com/Community/story.cfm?storyID=53595 Housing for the future
Fairbanks Daily News-Miner - Fairbanks,AK,USA
The "boomers" are aging and, even more important to note for Alaska, the baby boomer generation includes pipeliners and those associated with Alaska's ...
For more detail check out:
http://newsminer.com/news/2008/jun/16/housing-future/?opinion
Saturday, June 21, 2008
Would you like to meet a dynamic company with a unique leader? She's blind, a woman, and nothing stops her!
Good morning!
We hope that you are about to embark on a wonderful weekend and that whatever your plans are, they come true for you. Life is o too short not to be able to enjoy it. You need to relax and recuperate from a hard week's work be it at home or at the office.
We're not going to bother you too much but instead we'd like to help you relax and recharge your battery for next week.
So, we're going to take you to some fun spots where you can spend a little time reading, enjoying, and vegetating. Take five and let us motivate you to do better next week. It's all for free so why not take advantage of it? If you're seeking a mug of motivation then Donna J Jodhan is standing by to share one with you. She produces a free monthly online magazine that is jammed packed with all kinds of exciting and interesting news. Tidbits on health, inspiring editorials, but most of all, articles that will help to motivate your creative juices. Take your time and browse through this free online magazine and just enjoy reading it.
Donna J Jodhan wants to motivate you to reach for the sky. She is a very successful entrepreneur, business consultant, and author and she does not let her blindness hold her back!
Visit www.sterlingcreations.ca/magazine.html If you like traveling and have always wanted to work and live abroad then we have just the thing for you. A website that has a free weekly blog on all kinds of opportunities to get you going. Doesn't hurt to dream does it?
This website can help to stimulate your imagination to reach for those wonderful opportunities in some very great countries.
Visit www.translationpeople.com/free-useful-info.html Finally, a place that you can go and call your very own little spot. A place where you can read about all kinds of helpful tips; consumer tips for women, seniors, retirees, and parents. Healthy eating tips, home business opportunities tips for women, seniors, retirees, and parents. Security tips for home computer users, and tips on how to deal with stress, anxiety, and depression.
You are also encouraged to make your own little contribution and it's all for free!
Visit www.onestopbookcafe.com
Have fun!
Friday, June 20, 2008
Home business opportunities plus much more
Greetings everyone! I'm Jayna Sheffield at the business desk and I would like to end the week with some important news on all kinds of opportunities for you. Home business opportunities, Internet business opportunities, small business opportunities, plus much more.
This weekend, when you have some down time, give some thought to our selection for this week.
In the meantime, here are our Amazon picks for this week.
God is at Work: Transforming People and Nations Through Business
by Ken Eldred
An extremely thought provoking book. There is a lot of meat between the pages and much to ponder. The End of Poverty: Economic Possibilities for Our Time
by Jeffrey Sachs
We chose this book because we thought that it may help to bring you some positive thoughts during this time of recession concerns. At the business desk, I'm Jayna Sheffield wishing you a terrific weekend.
Home business opportunities, Internet business opportunities, small business opportunities, business opportunities in Asia Airmen keep servicemembers, families connected
By afnews@afnews.af.mil (Tech. Sgt. Michael...
Thanks to the efforts of Airmen from the cable, small computers and technical control shops, as well as heavy equipment operators, electricians, and Oasis staff members, the morale center now affords Airmen even more opportunities to ...
Air Force Link Top Stories -
http://www.af.mil [promote_your_business] Digest Number 26850
By Febie "pepNo" Kurniawan(Febie "pepNo" Kurniawan)
REAL HOME BUSINESS OPPORTUNITIES THAT REALLY PAY From: post_it_for_free; 11.2. REAL HOME BUSINESS OPPORTUNITIES THAT REALLY PAY From: post_it_for_free. 12.1. THE NEW INTERNET IS COMING From: CS. 13a. How to avoid home business failure!, ...
Online Business List -
http://onlinebusinesslist.blogspot.com/ Caprock Analytics Stock Ratings
By Admin
The Company also provides reinsurance for the life and annuity market when opportunities arise. Max Capital operates in the reinsurance and insurance business serving four segments: the property and casualty reinsurance segment, ...
Stock-Net.com -
http://stock-net.com Bubble87
By guy(guy)
You dont need to itemize your deductions to take advantage of this opportunity. This reduces your income before you get to your itemized deductions. The key is that you are engaging in a business with the intent to make a profit. ...
http://emanuellebedroom.blogspot.com/ [bisnisprof] Digest Number 8621
By sikommo(sikommo)
*Life first Business Opportunities in the US and Canada.*. *Information to help you create and grow a business.*. *Find entrepreneurs located in your area that offer products and services meant to enhance the quality of your life.* ...
business and income site -
http://business-and-income.blogspot.com/
Thursday, June 19, 2008
How to better protect your home computers
Hello there! I'm Matt Chadwick at the business desk and it's time for me to pass on our weekly tips on security tips for home computer users.
We are living in times when it is becoming more and more important for home computer users to take extra precautions against hackers and Internet crooks. So, please, let us help you to stay safe.
Give a read to our weekly selection of security tips.
I'm Matt Chadwick wishing you a great day.
Security tips for home computer users 12 lessons learned from a life on the road
MiamiHerald.com - Miami,FL,USA
Here are a dozen tips from of them, in their own words: Expect nothing. That way, you won't be disappointed. ''Lower your expectations when you travel,'' ...
For more detail check out:
http://www.miamiherald.com/986/story/560751.html dell xps m1710
We offer: * Priority 24/7 access to our XPS phone queue, staffed by a group of XPS-trained technicians * An online support site is loaded with valuable information including user manuals, troubleshooting guides, hints and tips * Access ...
UK Classifieds - Ads -
http://www.ukclassifieds.co.uk/ Identity theft growing in undocumented job market (The Gazette)
News); Identity Theft Rates Among Top Banks (Slashdot); Island Insurance offers ID theft services (BizJournals); Prevent Identity Theft with Post-Tax Season Security Tips from Identity Finder (PR Newswire via Yahoo! ...
I Stole Your Identity -
http://istoleyouridentity.net 20 Things You Didn't Know About Windows XP
By Anoop Phanse(Anoop Phanse)
Select Run... from the start menu and type 'control userpasswords2', which will open the user accounts application. On the Users tab, clear the box for Users Must Enter A User Name And Password To Use This Computer, and click on OK. ...
Windows Tips & Tricks -
http://windowstipstrickshelp.blogspot.com/ Avg Free
By rueoblszv72(rueoblszv72)
More Perspectives and Tips on AVG Free version 8 . For home users, be sure to upgrade to AVG Free 8. Version 7.x updates were to end May 31, 2008. Go to www.download.com and search AVG Free to download. Avg Free 8.0 Thats the one, ...
Avg Free -
http://avg-free.blogspot.com/ 50 Ways to Take Back Control of Your Personal Data
Inside CRM - San Francisco,CA,USA
Whether you need to send files or chat at an Internet cafe, or you just feel like someone might be spying on your home computer, consider using an IM ...
For more detail check out:
http://www.insidecrm.com/features/50-ways-take-control-data061008/ Dealing with ID theft can be expensive, emotionally draining and ...
Pittsburgh Post Gazette - Pittsburgh,PA,USA
Protect personal information on your home computer. Use strong passwords, with at least eight characters, including a combination of letters, ...
For more detail check out:
http://www.post-gazette.com/pg/08162/888642-96.stm A wedding match game: Web site brings brides, businesses together
FayObserver.com - Fayetteville,NC,USA
Their Web site offers couples free tips and advice, along with searchable information about chapels, florists, photographers, caterers and other vendors in ...
For more detail check out:
http://www.fayobserver.com/article?id=296350 In Santa Fe, Wi-Fi plan opposed by 'electrically sensitive'
Las Cruces Sun-News - Las Cruces,NM,USA
The 15 or so hard-wired computers at each location are in use "every minute we are open" and patrons seeking computer time must be turned away, ...
For more detail check out:
http://www.lcsun-news.com/ci_9542308 Free Antivirus Software For My Computer
By Hugh Duddy
For more Internet & PC Security Tips and the Best PC Security Articles head over to www.easypcsecurity.com. Related Posts. How to Protect Your Computer from Viruses. by Roberto beiro You may already have had a bad experience with a ...
Tips Answers Guides -
http://www.my2live.com Going Wireless - Commonly Asked Questioned About Wireless Internet
By streamyx-dsl65265(streamyx-dsl65265)
Now, we see laptops being transported cable free while their users Google the latest sports scores or work on projects in coffee shops, parks, and their homes. Thanks to this the world is at our finger tips almost anywhere. ...
Streamyx Dsl -
http://streamyx-streamyx-promotion58585.blogspot.com/ 25 Radical Network Research Projects We Should Know
By Beauty(Beauty)
computer engineering at RIT, in a statement. "Through this project we hope to increase the integration of RFID into existing cardiac sensor networks, ensure the overall security of the system and promote the ...
Think About This -
http://brainunused.blogspot.com/ Computer Tips [ Who Can You Trust? + Magical System Safety Net + ...
By ris(ris)
Even the most novice computer users can do that ;-). Everyone who tries a USB hub says the same thing - "Wow, what a difference - I can't believe how much I love this thing! Instead of crawling around on the floor swapping plugs every ...
All Viagra -
http://bestviagra2u.blogspot.com/
Wednesday, June 18, 2008
Taking care of your mental health, very important
Good morning! I'm Kerry J Harrison at the business desk and it's time for me to give you a gentle reminder when it comes to taking care of your mental health.
When is the last time that you took a few minutes to treat yourself to a day off? How often do you take a few precious minutes to review some important news about stress, anxiety, and depression?
Not often may I say? Well, here I am to give you a wee push. Do you yourself a big favor and take a few minutes to review our headlines and news flashes.
At the business desk, I'm Kerry J Harrison wishing you a pleasant day.
News on stress, anxiety, and depression Children with depressive, anxiety disorders have more sleep problems
EurekAlert (press release) - Washington,DC,USA
... sleep problems might represent a pre-cursor or early symptom of a more serious emotional disorders, including anxiety and depression, according to a ...
For more detail check out:
http://www.eurekalert.org/pub_releases/2008-06/aaos-cwd_1050708.php Foreclosures take an emotional toll on many homeowners
By admin
Studies also show a strong connection between financial distress and emotional stress, including anxiety, depression, insomnia and migraines. "Often, there is a dilemma of not being able to afford private mental-health treatment in the ...
RelistrReal Estate News, Mortgage,... -
http://relistr.com/real-estate Child Sleep Problems May Be Linked to Depression or Anxiety
By Rick Nauert, Ph.D.
However, for a small percentage of children, sleep problems might represent a pre-cursor or early symptom of anxiety and depression. A new study, authored by Flavia Giannotti, MD, of Center of Pediatric Sleep Disorders at the University ...
Psych Central News » Children and Teens -
http://psychcentral.com/news Psychological Advice For Managing Stress - 10 Tips
By Money Back(Money Back)
... run 24 hour helplines, and can guide you through how you feel. Chronic stress is usually a sign that something is not right in your life, and you could see it as an opportunity for important changes to be made. depression blog news.
Mental Health -
http://mentalhealth-articles.blogspot.com/ Children with depressive, anxiety disorders have more sleep problems
By News
... from poor sleep habits and inadequate sleep hygiene. However, for a small percentage of children, sleep problems might represent a pre-cursor or early symptom of a more serious emotional disorders, including anxiety and depression.
Science Codex - -
http://www.sciencecodex.com Suffering in Silence: Rape Victims Likely to Face Stress Disorders
BYU Newsnet - Provo,UT,USA
Nearly one in six women in the US is raped, and as a result, many develop post traumatic stress disorder, depression, anxiety or other mental health ...
For more detail check out:
http://newsnet.byu.edu/story.cfm/68797 Child Sleep Problems May Be Linked to Depression or Anxiety
By Rick Nauert, Ph.D.
However, for a small percentage of children, sleep problems might represent a pre-cursor or early symptom of anxiety and depression. A new study, authored by Flavia Giannotti, MD, of Center of Pediatric Sleep Disorders at the University ...
MyDailyApple News Alert: Personal... -
http://www.mydailyapple.com/news Scientists Launch Major Study of Depression
By Rick Nauert, Ph.D.
"We hope to link differences in the switches that control these genes with susceptibility to distressing conditions such as depression and chronic anxiety. Also, we hope to find out how these differences may change the way that ...
Psych Central News -
http://psychcentral.com/news Does your commute make you anxious?
By Neely
Psychologists are starting to see more people complaining of anxiety and depression brought on by stressful commutes - stuck in stop-and-go traffic jams, thinking about all you could be doing and where you're supposed to be if only you ...
Challenge for Change -
http://mnenergychallenge.wordpress.com Exercise may help prevent substance abuse
By Narconon of Georgia(Narconon of Georgia)
In people, exercise acts as a mild antidepressant and relieves stress. Depression, anxiety and stress increase risk of alcoholism, smoking or drug abuse. Volkow is intrigued that attention deficit disorder and obesity both involve ...
Narconon of Georgia News -
http://narcononofga.livejournal.com/ Creativity & "Madness"
By BatyaD(BatyaD)
What are your experiences: does your anxiety/depression/etc. work for or against your creativity? Does your avoidance of creativity increase or decrease your mental-health symptoms? I'd love to read your thoughts on the topic! --Batya.
UPositive Blog -
http://upositiveblog.blogspot.com/
Tuesday, June 17, 2008
How better customer service can enhance your business and increase your revenues
Top of the morning to you out there! I'm Donna J Jodhan at the business desk and after a bit of a holiday I am back. I hope that everyone is enjoying this gorgeous weather.
While I was gone, we received so many emails with regard to my last blog where I talked about some of those companies who are guilty of bad customer service. Companies such as: Doubleday, Telehop, A & P Canada, and R E B Magnetics. For the most part many of our readers agree with us and all that I can say is that I truly hope that companies such as these plus the many others, take note and start paying more attention to the needs and demands of consumers.
It is simply not enough for any company to provide mediocre service and hope that consumers will accept it and remain loyal. It is simply no longer acceptable for companies to say things like "We are not in the business to help people. We are in the business to sell groceries" as A & P said to a customer a few months ago. It is simply no longer acceptable for companies to advertise one thing and then turn around and provide sub par services like Telehop. It is simply no longer tolerable for companies such as Doubleday to try and bully customers into taking out memberships for their book club. It is no longer acceptable for companies such as R E B Magnetics to tell consumers that it is too costly to provide manuals and instructions in Braille when they have the nerve to advertise that they provide products for blind and visually impaired persons.
We live in a world where customer service is becoming even more important and believe me when I tell you that customers are no longer willing to put up with nonsense. If they are unhappy with the type of customer service that they are receiving from a company, then they will go elsewhere. Loyalty is out and customer satisfaction is in and the sooner that companies listen to and understand this message, then the quicker they will be able to increase their revenues and customer base.
We are living in a world where more and more of our consumers are seniors, aging baby boomers, and persons with disabilities and the majority of these persons are demanding more and more services that will provide them with personal convenience and personal assistance. These demands are not going to go away and will only increase so that those types of companies like A & P Canada should really take note. As for companies like Telehop, due to increased competition in the long distance company arena, Telehop needs to ensure that what it says is exactly what it provides or sooner than later it may very well find itself having to work harder to attract new customers. Using the honey stick of reduced long distance rates is not going to work for too much longer. My advice to this company is to live up to your advertising and provide adequate services that cater to your consumers.
With regard to Doubleday, try using softer tactics to attract customers. Lose the bully attitude fast. Finally with regard to R E B Magnetics, get your priority straight. If you find it too costly to provide Braille manuals and instructions to your blind and visually impaired customers, then get out of your present arena and sell something else where you are able to provide adequate support and not be concerned with cost.
I am out of time for this week but I promise to return to our e-bag next week.
At the business desk, I'm Donna J Jodhan wishing you a terrific day.
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