Posts by Initia:
- Have A Solid Idea Of What You Want
- View The Artist’s Work In Person
- Lines – The tattoos’ single lines should be solid and straight. Remember, artists have to do this freehand and without a ruler, so accomplishing a clean line takes skill. Also, the stroke should be done with one pass, and shouldn’t have dots in between.
- Colors – Colored tattoos should have even shading and should never have blotches or darker patches, unless they’re part of the initial design. Consistency is crucial in designs that involve colors and shades.
- Outlines – There must be no gap between the outlines unless, again, it’s what the client wants. The color must stay within the lines.
- Script – Text tattoos seem simple and easy to create, but doing them actually requires practice and skill. You have to consider the font that you want and ask the artist if they can show you their work in a similar style.
- Be Mindful Of Hygienic Practices
- Check The Shop’s License
- Talk With The Artist
Hardship License Work Letter
January 28th, 2020If you, like most people, are dependent on your car for your daily activities, having a revoked or suspended license must definitely signify a hardship. You would like to be able to go to work, to school, to the doctor and to any other place you usually visit without having to think twice about how to get there.
However, with a suspended license you may just wish to do something that will allow you to go to work or to receive your medical treatment. Applying to get a restricted license will certainly help you in that respect. Getting a hardship license will permit you to drive to and from work or school and to your medical appointments. And if you are a parent, you might be able to drive your kids to school and to their other necessary appointments.
What is a “work letter” and why is it needed when applying for a hardship license case?
A work letter is a requirement when applying for a hardship license. It is a way for you to convey to the judge what your situation is. It must also state clearly that you are willing to accept any conditions that will be attached to the hardship license. In some cases, the license has as a requirement that your vehicle is fitted with a special type of tracker that will signal your location at all times. Other restrictions might include only allowing you to drive at a certain speed or at certain times during the day and no more than 12 hours per day.
What are the work letter requirements?
The hardship license work letter should be written on company letterhead and clearly state your name, your relationship with your employer and your work schedule. It is also useful to include information regarding your specific driving needs during the day. And if arriving at work using public transportation is not realistic or it would take an excessive amount of time, it should also be stated in the letter.
In certain situations, it may be impossible to get a letter on company letterhead, like when a minor who is not employed needs one. A minor might live in a remote area where no public transportation is available and need to drive their parents to and from medical appointments. Sticking to the facts, the minor could write a letter explaining the situation, making sure the letter is properly written with no grammatical or spelling mistakes.
Also, the letter should be short, preferably not longer than one page, and make reference only to facts and not to emotions and feelings. Go over it as many times as needed to make sure it is not full of spelling or grammatical mistakes. And don’t forget to make a copy for your own records.
Contact a hardship license attorney
If something as important as your job, your education or your health is at risk because you have lost your license, you definitely do not want to complicate your situation even more by trying to apply for a hardship license on your own and having your application rejected by an error that could have been prevented.
Lawyer Brian Simoneau can help you prepare the necessary paperwork to apply for a hardship license. Don’t jeopardize your livelihood, your education or your health by being unable to drive.
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Can You Beat A DUI With A Public Defender?
January 28th, 2020A DUI charge is an extremely serious offense, which is why the penalties for a DUI conviction can be so severe. You can have your driver’s license revoked, you can end up paying huge fines, and you can even get jail time. That is why you want the best possible defense when facing a DUI charge. An attorney who specializes in DUI cases is ideal, but what if, for some reason, that option is not available to you? If you cannot get an experienced DUI lawyer, then you may have to make do with a public defender instead. Can you get adept representation from a public defender? Keep reading to find out.
What is a Public Defender?
When a defendant cannot afford a lawyer, that individual is declared to be indigent and a public defender is assigned to them. The public defender’s office is a government-funded agency that provides lawyers to indigent defendants; a public defender is one of those lawyers. If a defendant is indigent, then the court appoints a public defender’s office to represent them and the office assigns a public defender to represent that individual.
There are certain assumptions and misconceptions related to public defenders, some of which have a basis in the truth. One of them is that public defenders are often underfunded, underpaid, and overworked. This can be true in many cases since public defenders often have a heavy workload. There is a recommended limit to how many cases a public defender can take, but many of them go over the limit because there are not enough public defenders to go around.
That is a result of the underpaid assumption, which is also sometimes true. The lower salary means that many lawyers do not choose to become public defenders, instead choosing to join the private sector. One misconception is that public defenders are bad lawyers but that is not usually the case. Rather, public defenders are dedicated attorneys who believe in helping people who cannot afford a private lawyer. If they underperform, then that is because they typically have a huge caseload that any talented attorney would struggle to balance.
What Are The Downsides To Using a Public Defender?
Even though public defenders are often good lawyers, they do not always have the time to become fully invested in their defendant’s DUI case. That is simply because they will likely be juggling several other cases and may not have the time to dedicate their attention to a single case. That means the defendant may not get the best representation possible.
A public defender is also unlikely to have the resources to fully engage in a DUI case. They may not be able to call expert witnesses to help explain why a breathalyzer test may be inaccurate, for example. The end result is that defendants might feel that they are not being adequately represented when they get to court. They may believe that the public defender simply wants to get through the case as quickly as possible so that they can move on to the next one.
Why An Experienced DUI Attorney Is Important
A DUI attorney specializes in those kinds of cases and also, they will have the experience needed to mount a strong defense. They will also have the time and resources to focus on a single client because they are not being pulled in several directions at once. Public defenders are often highly dedicated individuals who want the best for their clients but are not always capable of delivering their best because they are stretched too thin.
DUI attorneys are just as dedicated to their clients but can actually spend the time to carefully examine their case and construct a robust defense that will provide the best chance of avoiding serious punishment.
You Should Hire a DUI Attorney To Help You With Your Case
It is certainly possible for a public defender to successfully represent a defendant facing a DUI charge, but the odds are relatively low. That is because the public defender is unlikely to be able to give the case their complete attention no matter how talented or dedicated they may be. That is not the case with an experienced DUI attorney.
They will be able to give a case their complete attention and they will have the experience necessary to mount a strong defense. So, if you have been charged with a DUI, it is best that you put your trust in a DUI attorney rather than in a public defender.
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How to Act During a Plumbing Emergency
January 28th, 2020The last century brought about many changes to the daily lives of the population. Among them, indoor plumbing certainly made a difference! However, the fact that we are able to enjoy so many advances does not mean they come without their problems, headaches, and accidents. That is why it is of particular importance that everyone learns how to act when a plumbing emergency presents itself.
If your house is flooded, if your water heater has burst, if none of the toilets in the home function, it is important to know how to act. And digging your head in the sand like the proverbial ostrich will just not do in situations like these.
So, how should you act during a plumbing emergency?
Start by assessing the situation
Your plumbing emergency most certainly caught you by surprise. You may have thought you were hearing dripping water from somewhere, but never did anything about it, wishing it would just stop on its own and now the worst has happened. Is it water-related? Does it involve electrical as well? Is everyone in your family safe? Or is it necessary for them to leave the home until the problem has been fixed?
Turn off the water
If you don´t know the precise location of your main water valve, it would be a good idea to find this out before an actual emergency hits. Now that it has happened, don’t walk, run to close the water valve. By taking the water out of the equation you will certainly minimize the damage.
Contact your reliable plumber
Another item in your to-do list before the emergency happens is to have on hand the number of a plumber that is reliable and can respond to your crisis within a short period of time. Call them now.
Turn on all faucets
While the plumber gets there, turn on every faucet in order to drain any remaining water within the pipes. This way the pipes will be empty and the plumber can start fixing the problem right away.
Start with the cleanup
Mop as much of the water as possible and get some towels to start drying water from places that may be damaged by it, such as hardwood floors. Prevent the growth of mold by starting to clean up as soon as possible.
Is the water heater the source of the problem?
If you know how to shut it off, do it as soon as possible to prevent further damage to it and to other nearby structures. Water heaters are complicated, don’t attempt to fix them yourself. Get a professional to do it.
Are you dealing with a clogged drain?
Whether it is a sink, bathtub or toilet, it’s always a good idea to have a couple of different plungers on hand (with and without flange) as well as a drain snake. If you know what you are doing, go ahead and unclog your problem drain. If you don’t, call your reliable plumber.
Don’t wait until a small problem turns into a major headache. Contact a plumber in your area to find out all you need to know about Leading Edge Plumber & Rooter for all your plumbing needs. From the smallest leak to the largest bathroom renovation, count on them to get your plumbing problems taken care of on time and professionally.
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How is a State Court Different from a Federal Court?
January 28th, 2020There are several key differences between state and federal courts. If your facing charges, it’s important to understand those differences. It’s also crucial to hire a lawyer who has experience fighting cases in the type of court in which your case will be held.
Federal Court Cases
The federal court will hear cases that involve federal laws, crimes against the United States, and some lawsuits between citizens of different states. Additionally, they handle bankruptcy, maritime, patent, and copyright cases.
Over the years, Congress has created federal district courts. Federal trials take place in these courts, which are scattered throughout the country. If you make an appeal of a federal case, it first goes to the circuit court of appeals. The final stop could be the U.S. Supreme Court, but it is not common for cases to make it this far. The Supreme Court chooses which cases it will hear.
Federal judges are appointed for their lifetime and are paid for their services until their death. Meanwhile, Federal Magistrate Judges are only appointed for terms. They usually hear disputes regarding evidence and other related issues.
State Court Cases
A state or local court only hears cases involving state laws. Typically, this includes family law, personal injury lawsuits, criminal cases, traffic violations, and contractual disputes. Because of the wide scope of state court cases, the state courts handle many more cases than federal courts.
There are three tiers of state courts – trial court, appellate court, and supreme court. Typically, a trial court case only involves one judge. An appellate case could have between three and five judges, while a supreme court case has seven or nine judges.
Judges could be appointed or elected, depending on where you live. In Florida, trial judges are chosen in nonpartisan elections.
As you might expect, the trial court hears the majority of cases in Florida. But the appellate court is responsible for hearing appeals of those cases. There are multiple appeals courts located throughout Florida.
Common Ground
At times, state and federal cases overlap. The case is most likely to be held in a state court, but will be passed on to the federal court if the state tries to interpret a federal law. Likewise, some criminal cases involve U.S. Constitutional rights. If there is an appeal of one such criminal case, it will go into the federal appellate court.
In some situations, a defendant could be prosecuted in both a state and federal court. Although this is rare, it could happen when a person commits a crime that is both state and federal law.
If you’re unsure whether your case is a federal or state matter, your best course of action is to consult with an experienced lawyer. They will ask for the details of your case and determine what type of court will hear your case.
Why It Matters
Understanding the difference between federal and state court can help you in several ways. For one, it can prepare you for what to expect. Although a federal courtroom is similar to a state courtroom, the trial process differs slightly.
It also matters because the consequences can vary. Both the state and federal court have mandatory minimum sentences. However, federal judges have more guidelines than they do mandatory sentences.
In 2013, there were 45,783 crimes committed in Miami-Dade County. Whether you’re facing state or federal charges, you need an aggressive lawyer. Call Stroleny Law today.
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2019 Orlando Crime Rates
January 28th, 2020Over the past two decades, crime in Orlando has drastically changed. By looking at the 2019 Orlando crime rates, you can learn a lot about the city and the people who live in it. Find out everything you need to know about the city’s latest crime statistics.
What Do the Latest Crime Rates Look Like?
To date, it appears that crime in Orlando has decreased. It’s predicted that the overall crime rate in 2019 will be less than the overall crime rate in 2016.
That said, the crime rate in Orlando still remains higher than many other cities in the United States. In 2016, the city had a violent crime rate that was 111.11% higher than the national rate. Property crime was also much higher, coming in at a rate that was 113.01% higher than the national average.
Orlando also had a crime rate that was higher than the violent crime rate in Florida. For violent crimes, the city had a rate that was 94.8% higher than the average in Florida. Property crimes were 94.3% higher than Florida.
The Current Situation
According to recent data, the outlook isn’t much better for Orlando this year. It’s projected that there will be a total of 1,163 aggravated assaults in 2019, as well as 3,122 burglaries. By far, the most common crime committed is property crime. In fact, it’s predicted that there will be 13,721 total property crimes in the city this year. Violent crime incidents should only be around 1,454.
Other crimes committed frequently in the city include larceny, rape, and arson. One of the most common offenses is drug possession.
A Look at the Common Crimes
If you’re accused of a crime, you have a lot to lose. By taking a closer look at the most common crimes in Orlando and their penalties, you can learn what to expect after an arrest.
Drug Possession
In Florida, having any drugs on your person is known as drug possession. There must be evidence that you knew of the drugs and that you knew of the nature of the substance. Whether you are guilty of actual possession or constructive possession, you may face charges. The penalty ranges from a misdemeanor to a felony conviction.
Aggravated Assault
According to Florida law, aggravated assault is an assault that involves a deadly weapon but no intent to kill or an assault with the intent to commit a felony crime. Anyone who is accused of aggravated assault will face third-degree felony charges.
Burglary
Burglary occurs when an individual enters a dwelling or building with the intent to commit a crime. In most situations, the perpetrator is charged with a first-degree felony. Typically, the type of building and the way the crime was committed impact the harshness of the penalty.
Do You Need an Attorney?
If you’re accused of a crime in Orlando, you deserve an experienced lawyer. Without one, your future is at risk.
Before hiring a lawyer, you should look for one who has experience with your specific charges. For instance, a drug possession offense demands the expertise of an Orlando drug possession lawyer. They can build a strong defense strategy tailored to your case. Depending on the circumstances, they could convince the court to dismiss the charges or they may get your charges lessened from a felony to a misdemeanor. With the right defense, you can prevent a severe penalty.
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2020 property investment ideas to get you inspired
January 25th, 2020
Are you looking for a forward-thinking, promising property investment strategy to kickstart your finances in 2020? To help get you inspired, here are some of the most popular strategies throughout the UK at the moment.
Purpose-Built Student Property (PBSA)
PBSA is often referred to as one of the most affordable property types for investors and also one of the highest-earning in terms of monthly rental yield payments. Student property is simultaneously the perfect entry point for those new to the investment world, and those experienced in the field of property but looking to expand their portfolio with something different.
Beginner investors looking to purchase a purpose-built property will benefit from a range of different elements that are streamlined and simplified in this property type. Two key examples include the fact that the apartments are compacted and efficient with their space, meaning that investors have a comfortable starting-off space to control and look after. Also, the fact that these property types are typically managed by a dedicated company, allowing them to adopt a hands-off strategy as much as they like while getting started, rather than jumping straight in at the deep end.
If chosen in the right urban area/city, investors can stand to make a healthy amount of profit from their student flat, enjoying the regeneration in the area also, as by association the capital growth is more likely to climb steadily.
Liverpool properties dotted around the city centre are the most lucrative, and also the most popular among those studying at the universities in the city. Luxury spots within the L1 postcode that contain exclusive facilities such as swimming pools, spa rooms and gyms allow for investors to increase the rental price on their property, bringing in even more income each month through rental payments. For some great examples of these apartments, take a look at those offered by RWinvest, a UK property investment company with roots throughout the city and the north as a whole.
Residential City Property
As an alternative to investment in a student property builds, a standard residential property that appeals to young professionals and workers are few and far between. City centre living is rising in popularity consistently. An increasing number of young people either wanting to stay in the city to work after graduating from university, residential is easily one of the best ways for investors to ensure that their development has a tenant as soon as possible – with as few chances of void periods as possible.
Finding the perfect city – one that has an exciting amount of development and growing demand in equal measure – is the key to getting a successful stake in an investment property.
Off-Plan Development
This specific type of investment applies in part to both student and resident property. As explained above, the demand for these types of properties is so high that development and investment companies are continually having their opportunities snapped up by eager tenants. By investing in an off-plan development, investors have the chance to get early-bird access to a development before it’s completed. Additionally, while in the past there might have been uncertainty surrounding off plan since you can’t see your property before it’s done, growing tech trends such as VR are helping to show investors the potential of investing in the future. Bear this strategy in mind going through 2020 and into the next decade!
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GPS Fleet and Vehicle Tracking for Small Businesses
January 23rd, 2020
Every large business was once a small business that grew into a large reputable company. One major problem faced by small businesses is that most of the products that you need are designed to suit the large companies, and therefore the products could be unaffordable to a small business owner.
Vehicles are quite expensive, and therefore proper care and maintenance are required to keep them moving. This has been made simple as a result of the fast growth of technology, which has made vehicle and fleet tracking possible. Some of the benefits of GPS fleet and vehicle tracking for small businesses include:
Reduced Chances of Vehicle Theft
Vehicle theft has dropped since the introduction of GPS tracking systems. A feature known as geofencing sends you an instant notification once your vehicle leaves the designated parking slot., The Eye Ride GPS tracking system provides you with the real-time location of your car. Therefore, you can always keep track of your vehicle all day.
Improves Customer Care Service
In business, it said that customer satisfaction is the number one priority. Before the arrival of GPS trackers, customer care service providers were forced to give an approximate delivery time based on guesswork. Due to human error, the deliveries were always late, which angered customers who needed the products urgently. GPS trackers have made it possible for the companies to give exact delivery time because they can locate the driver’s position and the time it would take for them to arrive at the assigned destination. This accuracy will surely impress your customers and they will keep coming back for more.
Reduces the Cost of Operation
Every small business is bound to face some financial constrains as it struggles to compete with big and already developed companies. Therefore, it essential to find ways to reduce the cost of operation. GPS tracking allows the driver to finder quicker routes to the destination, hence saving on fuel.
Having listed some of the benefits that come as a result of GPS tracking installation, it is essential that we now list some of the best and highest rated tracking apps available.
MyCarTracks
This is the most popular and the downloaded tracking application on the Google Play Store. This application allows you to use your driver’s phone to track the fleet location. The advantage of this application is that it is free. The features available are geofences that enable you to know the time taken by your driver to arrive at that location and that it is free to utilize this app.
Mapme
Mapme can be installed in your Android or iOS device. The privileges that come with this app include the ability to provide real-time location of your fleet. It gives speed alerts, hence ensuring the safety of your workers and the vehicle. It alerts you once the car has arrived or departed a designated location and allows you to share the vehicle’s location, hence improving service delivery.
Conclusion
Any business, be it a small car hire, fast food delivery, or a small driving school, will find it easy to operate after the installation of an affordable GPS tracker.
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How Credit Score Affects the Home Buying Process
January 23rd, 2020Many people are not aware that credit score affects the home buying process. Many people buy their dream home through a mortgage and the lenders will definitely look at the current credit score and even dig deep into the credit history. As such, you are required to prepare these figures early enough to avoid being locked out of getting a home.
Whether you are a first-timer in taking a home mortgage or not, there is a lot that you need to know about the relation between this process and your credit score.
Why is the Credit Score Important to Lenders?
Before taking out a home mortgage, which is quite a lot of money that will be repaid for many years, the lenders want to know the risk level they are entering into. Thus, the nearer your credit score is to the highest possible figure, the lower the risk of defaulting on payment.
Alongside this figure, the lenders are also interested in your credit history to see if you have been performing well in previous loans and bills. They will also look at the current income whether you are employed or in business.
How to Raise Your Credit Score Before Buying a Home
All said and done, you now know that a home mortgage lender will definitely look at your current credit score. If your credit score is low, you risk two things: cancellation of the mortgage or approval of a lower amount, which will force you to buy a smaller home. But to avoid this, you can do the following.
· Understand the actual credit score needed – Do research well to know the minimum credit score that the lenders are looking for. If you are already there, you will do everything to keep it going higher. But if it is on the lower side, you will need to pull your socks to push it past the cut-off.
· Buying tradelines – This is a quick but temporary way of pushing the credit score high. Today, there are many people who are selling personal tradelines, and you can get to them through a professional tradeline selling company. Even with this, you still need to take care of your loans and bills to make sure that current lenders do not submit a negative report to the reporting companies.
· Fix errors on your credit report – Before you can make an application for a mortgage, look at your report history in detail and query any suspected errors. If you are not sure about them, it is better to speak to an expert who understands them quickly and in a better way.
Applying for the Home Mortgage
After getting your credit score in order, it is time to make the application. Filling the forms out appropriately is critical because any errors will lead to disqualification. It is better to go through this stage together with a financial expert with experience in mortgage applications.
According to people who have been through this stage, it is crucial to focus on getting approved for your dream home mortgage. After all, this is a one-time investment for your family.
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Here’s How to Handle Unauthorized Credit Charges without Panicking
January 22nd, 2020
Fraudulent charges on your credit card can be a painful experience to have. However, if you spot them early on and report them as soon as possible, you will be able to avoid paying for them.
To spot fraudulent charges, you need attention to detail and a memory that can remember the things you have spent your money on. Keep in mind that early detection is always the key to avoiding this financial problem.
What details and charges should you look for when checking your bill?
If you do not have the habit of using your credit card much and only use it on important things, seeing an unauthorized charge can be easy. However, if you use it on your day-to-day spending, you need a keen eye to spot credit card fraud.
You know what you buy and use every day. So if you see a refrigerator purchase on your bill or spot a charge for a PlayStation 4 game when you do not even own one, that is a sign that someone is using your card information.
However, if you are unsure if you did buy those things, a quick phone call to the vendor to ask questions can always do the trick. You can also ask your family (if they have access to your card) if they are responsible for the purchase.
Now that you have seen these charges, what should you do?
As much as the world wants to say that fraudulent charges are a rare occurrence, they happen quite a lot, but there are always people who can help you with this problem. Banks always advise that you need to report the error within 60 days of the statement to avoid drafting of the fraudulent charges.
If you have confirmed the credit card hijacking incident and have nothing to do with the purchase, call the customer service number of your credit card provider. They can guide you on the steps to follow to avoid penalties for invalid activity.
Usually, a bank representative will route your call to the fraud department so you can be helped efficiently. Provide them with the right information, and they can lay out the options on what you need to do next.
They can cancel the transaction if it still can be withdrawn from the statement. Your card can also be canceled and replaced to make sure all the charges (even maybe some that you did not notice) would be called off. In most instances, you won’t be responsible for paying these charges. So you won’t have to worry about anything.
What can I do to avoid credit card hijacking in the future?
Protecting your privacy at all costs is one crucial step to avoiding such instances. Always keep in mind never to share information about your cards and payment details whenever someone calls or emails you about these things.
Phishing is a common scam to defraud people and obtain sensitive financial information. Always be alert and keen on noticing patterns of questions that seem suspicious. If people randomly ask for your three-digit security code, consider it as a red flag.
By being vigilant about these things and aware of your spending habits, you can avoid facing situations like this in the future.
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The Marketing Essentials for Realtors
January 21st, 2020
Real estate agents are in one business. That’s the business of happiness. Their goal is to connect the ideal buyer with the ideal property. When it all comes together, a happy seller and a pleased buyer will come to an agreement that makes everyone delighted with the results. Even the best real estate agents need to keep certain things in mind. One of the most important is that of marketing. A good real estate agent may be overlooked merely because they aren’t using the right kind of marketing. Those who make this industry their own are those who understand this process well and do all they can to embrace it.
They need to know what they’re doing right now and how best to improve on it. Knowing what they are really well doing is the first step to a better career. An effective marketing campaign can help any real estate show off their ability to spot trends and get ahead of them. It can also show they are the go-to person in the area ready and willing to step up to the plate with the help any client needs exactly when they need it. Modern techniques make this easier than ever. Social media, personalized mailings, charity work, your own website and other marketing efforts are the way for any contemporary real estate agent to enjoy a truly successful career.
Knowing How to Use Social Media
One of the important things every should and must know today is the use of social media. Social media is where many clients spend their days. This is where they speak to others in a direct way about their lives and what is important to them. As a real estate agent, you need to know how to harness the power of social media to use it to reach out to your clients and demonstrate you are right there with them. You need to know how to make sure everyone knows what you do and how well you do it. An effective social media campaign needs to be one the largest tools in your real estate agent marketing box. It’s not only easy to use. It’s also one that can yield impressive results with a large audience often at very little cost.
Showing You Care Personally
Personal connections are so much in the field of real estate. When people know you or know someone who knows you, this means they are willing to consider hiring you to sell their property or represent them personally in a real estate deal as the buyers. To that end, it’s always best to be aware of as many details as possible about the lives of others when you can. You want to show you care because you do, in fact, care deeply about the lives of others. There are many ways to achieve this goal. For example, you can send out birthday cards wishing people a happy birthday on their special day. A small gift can also go a long way. Think about sending out a gift card in a small amount. For example, a gift card for a free ice cream cone is much welcomed by people and long remembered after their birthday is passed.
Local Mail
Mail should be at the very heart of all you do when it comes to the marketing campaign you have in mind. There are lots of wonderful advantages to using the mail to speak directly to clients. Many people keep the mail around for at least several days. A bright mailer can draw their attention to your work and make them remember they are thinking about selling their old home and buying a new one. Direct mail for real estate is inexpensive and gets results. All real estate agents should know how to use it.
All realtors will find it helpful to work with professionals to craft a thoughtful and effective direct mail plan. This is where so many real estate pros turn to those direct mail experts at Wisepelican.com. This is an organization that has set out to provide what clients in the real estate need right now. Unlike other direct mail companies, this one sticks to one industry and one industry alone. That is real estate. Doing so has made them experts in the field of direct mail marketing for all realtors. They’ll help you create custom mailing lists that speak to the needs of people in your area. They have the kind of templates you need to make sure that every single marketing effort you offer is one that is based on your understanding of the local markets. Not only that, but they also make it possible to order as many templates as you want when you want them. There is no mandatory minimum so you’re free to use the service as you like when you like it.
Charity Events
Charity is where you can really make a difference directly and remind people of your total commitment to the community. You’re not only the person who helps them find the right house to buy or creates the perfect sales pitch to entice buyers. You are also a member of the community who cares about it and loves being part of it. Look for ways to show that to others.
For example, if there’s a local sports team you like, you can look for ways to help them out. You might agree to sponsor their trip to a game in another part of the state in return for being allowed to advertise that fact. You can offer to engage in doing activities such as cleaning up a local park or providing funds for a new field and let others know about this. Good publicity shows you really care about your fellow residents. It also gives you something to show off in the newsletter and your social media work.
Your Own Website
Your own website is a must in the world today. You need a really great site. A great website introduces you to the community. You want people to know who you are, what you’ve done in the past and how you can help them today. The site can also be of use in your marketing efforts. For example, you can use it to update people about the houses you are bringing to the market. You can also use it to offer materials that people can bring with them when are looking for a home. For example, a good email address is one that allows people to contact you and your team with any questions.
Open Houses
Open houses get so many things done at the same time. Here, you allow people to step inside the home without a direct appointment. People who may be looking for a home but might not yet have decided to officially do so can stop by and get a feel for the local housing market. You should have marketing materials on hand to greet them as they come inside. Have a stack of business cards as well as marketing brochures about your company. People want to speak to real estate agents directly if they can. This is a chance to show how well you’ve prepared any home for sale. You can show off what it is that you do and how well understand how to please buyers. Having materials any potential clients can take with them is a must during any kind of modern open house.
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Why Tent Camping Is Rising in Popularity
January 20th, 2020
Love of the outdoors has always beckoned campers towards adventure. Recent trends show that allure has never been stronger. A steadily increasing number of people are making their way to campgrounds across the country. If you have been a regular camper for a long time, you’ve probably noticed that there are more people around. Heck, it’s become difficult to catch hold of the favorite spot where you could once easily setup that trusty old Ozark Trail tent. Here are some factors fuelling this phenomenon.
1. Health And Emotional Benefits
The health and emotional benefits of leaving the busy life behind and taking a break have been touted for a long time. More people are actually interested in the concept now and see healthier living as an essential aspect. The better air and the more relaxed ambiance of the outdoors are seen as a convenient, economical, and healthy getaway.
Physical activities that are necessarily linked with hiking and camping are also seen as a great plus. The constant activity that packs a camping day is healthier than the days spent in a cubicle or behind a desk. As it is said, “Sitting is the new smoking.” The active lifestyle that camping encourages could potentially have a wider effect on health even when away from the campground.
As noted before, camping can be very economical. While there is an associated cost for gear, quality gear is often affordable for beginners. As an example, while Ozark Trail style camping tents have always been about good value for money, they are far more affordable now. Specialized gear is expensive, but someone who goes camping sometimes can take a more generic approach.
2. Family Time And Tent Camping
Millennials account for around 41% of modern campers. If only 2018 is considered, about 51% of campers are Millennials. Together with GenX, the number goes up to almost 75% on average, while GenX stood at 36% in 2018. Both of these groups have displayed an increased interest in spending more time with their families. According to a report by Kampgrounds of America (KOA), nearly 81% millennials saw camping as a great way to spend time with their friends and family.
Many people see camping as a great way to introduce children to nature and to spend quality family time together. As trends show, family camping is ever-rising in popularity. Family campers are also likely to spend more time camping and are more likely to spend their seasonal vacations while camping. Nowadays camping is made easier with great camping gear, such as cooler boxes produced by Ozark Trail or Yeti.
3. Social Media And Friends
It seems it is impossible to separate trends and the invisible hand of social media guiding them. Many campers say “sharing” their camping experiences on social media with their friends is important. Whether it is groups of friends or families, campers have consistently displayed an interest in capturing moments for sharing on their favored social media platforms.
While more millennials find this important, GenX is not far behind a fairly large number deems it necessary to share their camping activity on social media. There’s also an interesting contrast in preferences here. While 27% of millennials and 25% GenX favor the use of technology, nearly 50% of all responders found gadgets to be a distraction.
It seems like an interesting question between the impulse to share experiences on social media and the conventional idea that camping should be a time to unplug. In any case, more campgrounds are bringing services like WiFi to their tent campers and internet connectivity has stayed important.
4. Campers Are Getting More Diverse
The increase in the number of people camping has also seen an increase in the diversity of campers. Numbers suggest that for new campers, there are almost 50% non-white campers. Overall, more American households are seeing regular campers. Almost 77 million US households have someone who camps at least occasionally. It is worth noting that the KOA report defines new campers as people who took up camping after 2014.
The increased diversity signifies that other racial groups are also significantly involved in camping. A fair chunk of the increase is likely coming from more groups taking up an interest in camping.
5. Camping Now Offers More Options
Once camping was mostly all about putting up your Ozark Trail tent or Coleman tent at the spot of your choice. And while the traditional style is still popular and is also increasing in popularity, camping has not escaped the touch of gentrification.
The phenomenal rise of glamping is a testament to the changes that have come to the world of camping. Prospects of luxurious camping in the great outdoors has encouraged more people to enjoy camping. Some simply want to experience glamping, while others would like the perks of tent camping without the hardships of primitive camping. Overall, the increased number of options has made camping more attractive to people.
Interestingly, millennials as a percentage of total campers were more interested in glamping. In the same vein, GenX took more interest in cabins with attached toilets and other facilities. Overall, all groups seem to have responded favorably to the evolving campground and options. Camping, glamping, cabins, RVs, van life, and other similar options have drawn more campers. An increase in planned activities at campgrounds has also been favorably received by customers.
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What to Avoid Doing After a Car Accident
January 18th, 2020
Even if you’re an excellent driver, there’s a great chance that you’ll get into a car accident someday.
Being a good driver does limit your risk, but some factors like other drivers are out of your control.
If you’ve never been in an accident before, then you might have no idea what to do when one does happen. Your emotions will be running high and your judgment can get clouded!
While there are certainly some important tasks to take care of right after a crash, there are also a few significant actions that you should avoid altogether. For example, make a point to avoid social media after a car accident so you don’t make your situation worse!
We’ll take a look at what else you shouldn’t do after a car crash below to help you steer clear of any problems.
Admit Fault
One major mistake you can make immediately after an accident is admitting fault.
Even if you’re positive that you caused the crash, you still shouldn’t say anything about it. This is important to mitigate your liability for any damage that you cause.
When you admit that a crash is your fault, it makes it much easier for the other party to receive money for damages from you. This means that you should never apologize to the other driver and limit any interaction that you do have with them.
Additionally, apologizing or admitting fault when you didn’t cause the accident can make it difficult for you to receive any compensation later on.
You’re much better off letting the police and insurance decide who’s to blame. If you have a dashcam, the footage will speak for itself and you don’t need to add anything!
Drive Away From the Accident
Arguably the biggest error you can make is leaving the scene of an accident. Regardless of whether you caused the accident or not, driving away afterward can turn the situation into a hit-and-run.
Depending on the injuries to the other driver, this can be classified as a misdemeanor or felony. Both situations will involve suspension of your license, a hefty fee, and potential jail time.
Beyond legal penalties, you need to stay at the accident scene for many other reasons. Some of them exchanging insurance information with the other driver, documenting the accident with photos, looking for witnesses, and contacting the police.
Neglect the Police
Speaking of police, another thing you should never do is fail to include them.
Regardless of how much damage is caused by an accident, you should always call the police. There are many important reasons why you need to contact them.
For starters, they will create a police report of the accident. This is vital to getting a resolution from either driver’s insurance company.
Secondly, a law enforcement officer can help you navigate the accident and inform you of what you need to do. They’ll also section off the scene to make it safer for you.
Finally, the cops will protect you from the other driver. If they’re particularly upset or thinking about fleeing, a police officer will incentivize them to calm down and stay put!
It’s always a good idea to involve the authorities after an accident. Don’t listen to the other driver if they tell you otherwise because this could mean they might have a warrant for their arrest, an expired license, no insurance, or any other type of legal troubles that they’re trying to avoid.
Lose Your Temper
One last consideration is that you should refrain from losing your temper.
This one can be particularly tricky because of the emotional reaction you’ll have in response to an accident. Any car crash is extremely stressful and can put you into a state of shock.
Your reaction can be compounded if you sustain any injuries, have family members with you (especially children), and the attitude of the other driver.
Regardless of who caused the accident and the extent of it, you should never lose your cool. You have no idea how the other driver will react. They may get violent or end up driving away from the scene.
As difficult as it may be, keep your emotions in check. Better yet, limit any conversation that you have with the other driver.
Closing Thoughts
Despite how jarring a car accident is, you need to be careful about what you do right after having one.
There are a few glaring mistakes to avoid that will make the aftermath of a crash even worse. This includes admitting fault to the accident, driving away from it, failing to include the police, and losing your temper.
It can certainly be hard to think straight after a wreck, especially if you didn’t cause it. Nonetheless, how you react immediately after having one can make a big difference as to how easy it is for you to move forward.
Remember to act rationally and put your emotions aside to help minimize the impact of a traumatizing car accident.
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What Makes The US Army One Of The Strongest In The World?
January 17th, 2020
The US Army is among the most powerful in the world for a variety of reasons. Soldiers are deployed around the world every year, and vast resources are dedicated to the military in America. There are a few things below that explain how the military operates, and you can see why the US Army is so strong.
The US Government Allocates Billions Of Dollars To The Military
The US Army has a cabinet secretary whose sole purpose is to manage that branch of the military. The Secretary of the Army is very important, and this person often advises the President on national security matters. The US military budget in 2019 was almost $700 billion, and that money goes to everything from equipment to solider pay.
The US Military Has A Worldwide Presence
The US Army has a worldwide presence. There are bases all over Africa, across Southeast Asia, a few in Australia, naval bases in the Pacific, and bases throughout South America. Plus, there is a base in northern Canada in the Arctic Circle. The US military has bases spread out throughout the country, and those bases are often among the largest employers in those cities.
Because you might have friends and family spread out around the world, you might need to send money to remote locations. You can send money from the U.S. to the Philippines when you know someone who is deployed to that location. The same is true is a friend or family member has been deployed to Cuba, Iraq, Afghanistan, Japan, Germany, and other bases that the US hosts around the world.
Legacies Are Important
The idea of a legacy joining the military is very popular in America. Children often join the military because their grandfather or father served in the military. Military service is not compulsory, but legacies join every year because they grew up dreaming of being in the military.
The Military Academies Train Elite Officers
The US Military has major service academies dedicated to the Army, Navy, Coast Guard, Air Force, and Merchant Marine. Students who attend the US Military Academy at West Point train to become engineers, and students at the Air Force Academy often train to become pilots. Students at the Naval Academy may join the Army or the Marines, and Coast Guard students learn how to save lives. Also, Merchant Marine students learn to manage ships in the busy shipping lanes along both coasts, the intercoastal waterways, and rivers.
The US Military Recruits Every Day
US military recruiters go to schools and colleges every day to recruit students for military service. Some students may want to join because the GI Bill will pay for their college education after they have served their initial commission. Some students join the military because they need discipline in their lives, and others join the National Guard.
The National Guard Has A Large Presence
People who join the National Guard go through typical military basic training, and they serve as a backup force for the military during wartime operations. Someone who joins the Army National Guard might be deployed during a natural disaster, or they may be called into service if a large battalion is deployed to a foreign location.
Volunteerism Is A Big Part Of The American Spirit
Americans during the revolution consistently volunteered to fight in the Army of the Potomac and beyond. George Washington, Alexander Hamilton, and other forefathers were military heroes. This sense of volunteerism makes the military a robust operation. Some people join during wartime or when international tensions rise because they feel they must do the right thing for their country.
Conclusion
The US Army is among the largest in the world because it has a massive budget, thousands of volunteers every year, and recruits well. Plus, the US military has a global presence because of the many military bases that it has started around the world. Soldiers could be deployed to remote areas around the world, and those soldiers often need friends and family to send money transfers. Plus, military academies in American train engineers, pilots, naval pilots, and officers who form the backbone of each branch of the armed services.
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Steps to take when building your commercial property
January 16th, 2020
Finding a property that will be perfect for selling your products or services isn’t always easy. There will always be something that makes the decision-making process that much harder, from thinking that the monthly rent might be too costly to worrying that the shape and size of the building are wrong for your needs. You also need to consider where the property is. If it is too far out of town, are people still going to come? If it is the middle of the city, is there anywhere to park? All this and more needs to be considered before you choose a property. However, finding one that fits all your requirements isn’t always possible, so, why not consider building your own commercial property instead? This enables you to dictate the size, location, and cost, and you might be surprised by how much easier this is. This guide will take you through the steps that you need to take when building your commercial property.
Find a location
Rather than finding a site that already has a building on it (which would require bulldozing), look to buy a section of land. The cost of purchasing farmland can range between $5,000 and $8,000 per acre, but it is considerably cheaper than putting down a deposit and paying the monthly rent for a building. There will, of course, be more affordable alternatives, so be sure to spend plenty of time researching the area you want to build your commercial property on.
You will also want to double-check the condition of the land; is it prone to flooding, for example? Is it possible to build a carpark? And can you easily access it from the main road?
Seek planning permission
As you will be constructing your property, in some countries and states, you will need to seek planning permission. Some lands permit people from building or making changes, so you will have to find out whether the area you are thinking of purchasing will allow you to build a property on it. You will also need to determine early on if the land you have purchased is for commercial use, and not residential.
Build your property – find the right materials
The common material to build the framework of your property is wood. However, wood can swell or shrink and is definitely not weather resistant. If you were to face a storm, your wooden framework would stand little chance at survival. Therefore, you should consider the benefits of using steel. Not only is it resistant to bad weather and fire damage, but it will also require little maintenance, which reduces your expenses in the long term.
Build an empty shell
You could hire an architect and designer to make you a fancy building, but it can quickly add up in terms of cost. Instead, you could opt for one of the Red Iron Buildings that will offer a dependable, solid, and affordable solution to your property needs. It will provide you with an empty steel shell to work with. Although they can take a few hours to construct, this is nothing in comparison to building a typical property. They can span as much as 50 feet without the need for interior columns, which means you have more freedom with the layout. It is the perfect option for builders and suppliers looking for a dependable and sturdy property to carry out their services.
Building inspection
Finally, once you have built your property and filled it with all your equipment, you will need to have a building inspection that will determine if your property is safe for customers to visit.
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Reasons Why Your Business Needs SEO
January 16th, 2020
Organic Search is the Primary Source of Website Traffic
Google owns 75% of the overall search market and is the most visited website in the world. Being highly visible as a trusted resource by Google is going to work in your brand’s favor. Quality SEO and a high-quality website will take your brand there. Making sure to have professionals behind your website should be the first step to follow. If you look for an SEO Surrey company, you will find quite unique options that will help your website to rank at the top of Google pages while providing you maximal exposure, catching potential customers to your business and building brand awareness.
Good SEO means a better user experience
Optimal user experience can give you better organic rankings and maximum visibility. Google knows how to interpret a favorable or unfavorable user experience, and a positive user experience has become a very important element in a website’s success. If customers cannot find what they are looking for, performance will suffer.
High-quality SEO incorporates a positive user experience as they can find the information they are looking for in fewer clicks.
SEO builds trust and credibility
SEO establishes a strong foundation for an attractive website with an effective user experience that is easily discoverable in search engines. It can also develop the trust and credibility of the brand and its digital properties. SEO writing can therefore improve the authority of your website regarding search engines such as Google when used in conjunction with other elements such as machine-learning signals, optimized on-page elements and content, and quality back-link profiles. A good place to discover the best in SEO writing is clickintelligence.co.
SEO impacts the buying cycle
Using SEO tactics to relay your messaging for good deals, groundbreaking services or products, and the importance and dependability of what you offer customers will be a game changer. This will affect the buying cycle in a positive way. For a worthy connection to be made, brands need to be made visible in the places where people need them.
Local SEO enhances that visibility and allows potential customers to find the answers more easily.
SEO is a long-term strategy
Over the past few years, SEO has a noticeable and measurable impact on the success of many websites. This success only continues to grow as the aftereffects can go on for years to come. Even a website with very basic SEO methods implemented can see an improvement. The more time, money and attention you pay to SEO, the better your business will do.
SEO encourages new opportunities
High-quality SEO is one of the best ways to improve the chances of your brand being discovered. SEO can help you to get onto page one of Google results which is vital in order to garner more visitors to your site. When customers are browsing for a product, the results are ranked in order of relevance. If your business is not on the first page, then it can be largely deemed as irrelevant, so it’s highly unlikely that your potential customers will find you.
Understanding SEO can help you to understand the web
Staying on top of SEO means that you will be included in the loop for the major changes taking place and can therefore stay up-to-date with the tactics being used by other local competitors, making sure you are you not being left behind. This means you will always have the best chances at success.
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One rule to start saving money, and keep doing it!
January 16th, 2020No matter what are your earnings, saving money should always be a priority. Saving is also one of the few things you can control. In your work or in your business there are a variety of factors that are completely out of your hand. But in savings, everything depends on you. You can check on Life UpSwing to learn about advice and tips for earning extra money.
Some might say that saving money is easier when you have a big income. That is true but only partially. The thing is – if you do not save when you have $100, you will not save even when you have $1,000 or $10,000 per month.
Saving is something that has to become a part of your life. As most of us start from scratch in terms of our income, the topic of saving while on a tight budget is something that we all should know about.
In this post, we will be talking about something that is closely related to the whole process of saving.
Habit.
Or rather, power of habit.
What is the main element of saving money? It is consistency. If you will not be consistent about saving money, you will quickly lose all that you managed to carefully save.
So you have to learn to be consistent with your savings. How do you learn it? You have to form a habit.
Some sources say that habit is formed in 66 days, some sources say it is roughly half. In case it always starts with that first day. You first paycheck since the day you decided to be serious about your savings. It always starts with those few dollars on your account, accumulating each month.
Teach yourself to pay yourself first. Sure, nobody can escape bills and some unexpected expenses. But try as hard as possible to put some money aside for you and then spend it on everything else.
Maybe even open a separate account, so you do not have direct access to your savings. The longer is the route to withdraw them, the more probability there is that you will not use them for unnecessary things.
Whenever you feel that your willpower to save is getting weaker, or you are considering spending some of that money, use the following technique. Imagine the freedom you may have when you saved enough to live for 1 month, 3 months, 6 months or maybe even a year.
Being able to sustain yourself without full-time employment for even 6 months! What a feeling!
That feeling will give you confidence that will soon reflect in the way you work. You will be confident (because you can leave anytime) but still humble because you know how hard it is to save money.
So if there is one thing that you should take away from this post is – saving money is a habit that can be formed in a couple of months. It takes time and dedication. It may be very hard in the beginning. But after that habit is formed you are set for life!
Start today!
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Dealing with the Lack of Snapchat Parental Controls
January 15th, 2020
Snapchat is a unique and fantastic social media platform which has provided us with a fresh way of interacting with our friends and family. It can be appreciated for many different reasons; these range from its ability to provide instant and easy video and picture messaging to its base feature which removes all pictures or videos sent after they have been viewed. However, despite the enjoyment of the application there are some concerns for youth using the applications due to the lack of Snapchat parental controls. Regardless of why many social media applications are now going without parental controls, there are a number of different options for those parents who are worried about what their children may be exposed to. As with anything sometimes one option works and sometimes a combination does, but there are always things which work best for different people, there is no right answer! So, read on and decide what will work for you when dealing with this lack of Snapchat parental controls.
Alter the Settings on the Snapchat App
There are settings already on the Snapchat app which will increase security. Though they do not classify as parental controls because you can’t lock them in place, they do take some steps to increase the safety of whoever is using the application. The settings do this by making it harder for people who don’t know you to add you. There are a number of different options which reduce your visibility to people who have not added you as a friend on the application. This approach works very well if you are only worried about your child talking to strangers who they haven’t specifically chosen to add. However, because you are unable to lock settings in place you need to trust that your child won’t go and change them themselves. Making sure they are aware of why you have made the changes to their settings could go a long way in helping them make the right choice in not privately making changes.
Download an Application
There are also many different options when downloading an application to help you with the lack of Snapchat parental controls. There are a multitude of options available which all take different approaches to filling in for applications which don’t have parental controls, or in some cases even apps which do have parental controls. When looking to download a parental application it is important to do your research. Find a specific application which works for you and your child that allows you to both feel comfortable. Finding the right application can sometimes be tough but it’s an important investment to keep your child safe and you both happy so put the effort in to find one that fits with what you want. Look for an application which does not share the information that it will have access to about you and your child as well as for an application which doesn’t make your child feel as though you are invading their privacy. Despite the fact that there are no Snapchat parental controls you can still take a wide variety of steps to making sure you have peace of mind and your child is safe.
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Tips To Find The Perfect Tattoo Shop For Your Next Tattoo
January 13th, 2020
Nowadays, getting a tattoo is a form of self-expression. Before, the process was more of a rite of passage. Ancient people had been getting inked for cultural and spiritual purposes. Interestingly, there’s even a mummy that had a tattoo of the archangel Michael.
Today, though, tattoos allow you to become a walking canvas. You don’t even have to flaunt them by wearing revealing clothes all the time. You can just get one for your pleasure and enjoy it in private.
Tattoos can become a bit addicting. A lot of people don’t just stop after getting their first tat. Often, they come back with more designs in hand, as well as a less nervous disposition because they’ve been through the process, and they already know what to expect.
If you’re one of those people, here are some tips to find the perfect tattoo shop for your next tattoo:
Before you research for the best tattoo shop, you have to know what design you want. With this, you can narrow down your search and find an artist who specializes in the style that you prefer.
Some are proficient with the traditional style, while others are a master at realism, which are the people you turn to if you want to get your loved one’s face inked on your skin. Other types of tattoo styles include watercolor, tribal, Japanese, and neo-traditional.
After you’ve determined the design that you want, you can then find a shop in your locality and review their artists’ portfolios. If you’re in New York, go for the reliable Brooklyn Tattoo Shop that has established a reputation for high-quality service.
Aside from checking their artists’ portfolios, you should also ask if you can view their works in person. This allows you to see first-hand the final output and assess their skills.
Another way to view an artist’s work in real-life is to ask family and friends who’ve already gotten a tattoo. If you see that their design is done well, and according to the style you want, you should visit the shop where they had it done.
These are some factors that can help you evaluate an artist’s ability:
Hang around the shop and watch how the artist works. Are they wearing disposable gloves and changing them in-between or after each session? Do they have needles packed in sealed, single containers and use a new one for each client?
If the shop doesn’t allow you to watch the process, you can observe the waiting area and other rooms that are available for your perusal to check for signs of unhygienic practices. Your safety should come first, so make sure that the shop you hire upholds high standards with regards to cleanliness.
In the movies, tattoo parlors look dingy and shady. However, in real life, these shops are clean and bright to ensure that they provide the best services to their clients. Moreover, health regulations require these businesses to maintain sanitation and hygiene to protect consumers.
The shop’s license should be displayed prominently in its interior. Often, it’s hung on a wall in the waiting area. If you don’t find this document in the vicinity, you can ask the staff to show it to you. If they can’t provide it, though, better find another establishment.
Schedule an appointment with the artist to have a thorough talk with them on the design you want and other specifications. Don’t be afraid to ask questions about their previous works so that you can get an idea of their ability to deliver quality outputs.
Conclusion
The perfect tattoo shop must have talented artists and uphold the highest standards of cleanliness. First, have a clear, definite idea of the design you want, then you can ask for referrals from people who have the same tattoo style you want.
Once you’re already in the shop, look around the area and check if they work with hygiene in mind. You should also ask for their license to ensure that the shop you’re hiring is legitimate. Of course, you must talk with the artist about any questions you have to avoid future complications.
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The Most Comprehensive Guide for Your Start-Up Business
January 7th, 2020
The great thing about entrepreneurs is that anybody can be one. It isn’t hard to find stories about someone with a million-dollar idea who turned their dreams of success into reality. However, dreams and ideas aren’t enough; no matter how great they are.
Being an entrepreneur means working hard in a way most people aren’t willing to deal with. Not that hard work is enough by itself either. The list of what makes a business venture successful is a lengthy one, and achieving that success is harder than most people content punching a timeclock will ever realize.
Even if a business does all those things right, success is never guaranteed. However, there are steps an aspiring entrepreneur can take to make the odds a little more in their favor.
Start with a Plan
There is a great deal of undeserved romanticism when it comes to winging it at business. We do hear the occasional anecdote of how someone stumbled into multi-million-dollar success when their eBay store or blog took off out of nowhere.
Success stories like this are rare, and these budding entrepreneurs soon take things more seriously and create a plan once business grows beyond a side hustle.
A business plan provides a perceived roadmap for the first few years of operation. While success is never guaranteed, a well-done business plan can give insights about potential growth opportunities and pitfalls to avoid.
It also gives you something to show the bank if you need a business loan. Lenders want as little risk as possible, and having something to show that you did your homework goes a long way. Entrepreneurs with a good business plan are twice as likely to secure a loan than those without one.
Funding Your Enterprise
Different businesses require different amounts of money to get started. Some ideas take off with a shoestring budget of a few hundred dollars, while others may require a quarter million or more to get started. As a business owner, you need to find out what you’ll need. Once you have a dollar amount, you’ll need to figure out how to raise it.
While there is nothing wrong with getting starting capital from a bank, there are other potential resources to draw from. Sam Walton started Walmart in part with a $20,000 loan from his father in law. Others used their own equity or even sold their personal belongings. Kevin Smith sold his comic book collection to help bankroll his first film, Clerks.
Avoid risky sources of money, no matter how tempting it may be. Maxing out credit cards can create years or even decades of debilitating debt if your business fails. The same goes for using certain personal assets as collateral. Never take out a business loan against your home.
Safety First
Easily avoidable injuries to workers or customers can happen to any business. When most people think of workplace safety, their minds go to construction sites with hardhat zones or factories filled with machines ready to take the fingers of careless workers.
The truth is most workplace injuries involve falls or job-related health issues like carpal tunnel syndrome. Workers compensation isn’t only for blue-collar laborers. Make sure all work areas are safe, have ergonomic office furniture, and secure all rugs and runners.
Small seeming safety concerns like this may not feel like a priority to an entrepreneur during the chaos and excitement of starting a new venture, but stopping a workplace accident before it happens can do as much to keep the doors open as doubling sales.
Change and Adapt
No business or industry is static. Trends will come and go, and technology can change the playing field so much that some companies fail before they have the chance to adapt. There may be no better example of this than the rise and fall of Blockbuster Video.
Be active instead of reactive when it comes to new technology. Look for new tools and technology-fueled industry trends and research them thoroughly. Find out which ones will help, and which ones won’t, before the competition chooses for you. Your business must remain flexible. Plan for the changes you see coming but never become so rigid that you can’t adapt to the changes you don’t see coming.
Get Ready for a New World
Your life will change as a business owner. It’s rewarding, but it has challenges many aren’t prepared for. Regular hours are gone, and so is the steady paycheck. Sick days, days off, and vacations will become much rarer and often will still require you to work. Sit around a hotel pool for a couple of hours, and you will eventually hear a business owner “on vacation” answering calls from customers or employees needing guidance.
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3 Ways to Keep Your Business IT Security Intact
January 6th, 2020
It’s never been more important to plan, roll-out and maintain a robust network and digital network security strategy. Cyber criminals, the malware they deploy, the phishing emails they write and the fake websites they set up are getting more sophisticated and harder to identify and negate. Alongside this, as we navigate an online business world that communicates via social media and relies increasingly on data to run the day to day processes that inform our eCommerce transactions, communications and online leisure time we run the risk of falling foul of devastating financial, time and reputation losses. Focusing on keeping our digital infrastructures secure from the perils of cyber crime should be a priority to businesses regardless of their offering and their size.
If you and your customers rely on data, personal details or sensitive information of any kind then you must keep your security watertight. How do you do this? In this article we’ll look at why keeping up to date is the primary goal.
Keep your software and hardware updated
Hackers love an open door and if you aren’t keeping your software and hardware updated on a regular basis then you are leaving your digital door wide open with a huge sign saying “Welcome all, our data is now your data”. Don’t do that; keep your doors as tightly shut as possible by ensuring that security patches, latest operating systems and updates are consistently, and preferably automatically, applied on all devices. Programmers generally try their best to keep their software safe from hackers, closing down loopholes with the latest code and if you don’t update regularly you’ll miss these updates and then you are vulnerable to attack.
Keep your staff aware and updated
One of your most effective weapons against potential cyber security issues is your team. Keeping them updated with the latest security protocols and plans means everybody can remain vigilant and understand the importance of keeping their devices, their regularly used software and their data updated and backed up. Invest in high quality cyber security awareness training for them, such as this ideal example: fraudwatchinternational.com/security-awareness/why-do-i-need-cyber-security-awareness-training-for-my-employees/ to give your team the requisite online security skills.
Keep your data backup strategies updated
If a nasty piece of malware slips the anti-virus net (if you didn’t keep your firewall or anti-virus software updated, for example) and makes it’s way into your system via an unmonitored email opening or other back door left ajar, it can take all sorts of disruptive and costly actions. Quite often they are designed to steal, disrupt or destroy data and if you rely on that data to operate on a daily basis then you could have a significant problem on your hands. You should always plan for a worst case scenario and this is achieved by regularly backing up your business critical data. Make sure this is done automatically and preferably keep a copy off-site too as it’s always best to take extra precautions with your data in case of fire or another hardware disaster.
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