The last week of March, 2012 is tucked away! You made it through the first quarter.
Hope business is going well for you and perhaps you can look to hire people this year.
But in the mean time, give the brain a break by looking at these random facts I found out about this week.
Perhaps they are new to you too:
1. Popcorn beats fruits and vegetables for highest level of antioxidant. See: http://latino.foxnews.com/latino/health/2012/03/26/popcorn-has-more-antioxidants-than-fruit-and-vegetables-study-says/
2. Porta Nigra, "the Black Gate" found in Trier, Germany, is the only remaining Roman gate north of the Alps. It was built in 180 A.D.
3. The largest hail stone recorded in the U.S. was 8 inches in diameter and weighed approximately 2 pounds. It fell in Vivian, South Dakota. This is according to the Weather Channel.
4. Shoe size was officially standardized in England by King Edward II in 1374 using barleycorns as measurements. Americans didn't revise this system until 1880 when Edwin Simpson made whole size measurement 1/3" and half sizes 1/6".
5. Are you always thinking of a way to get fish oil in your diet besides just taking it straight?
I use Carlson's Fish Oil that is lemon flavored. Found a recipe in Organic Gardening that looks perfect for a salad dressing. Let's try it together!
4 Tbsp Carlson's Fish Oil Lemon Flavored
1/4 c. apple cider vinegar
1/4 c. balsamic vinegar
Add to taste:
1 or more fresh cloves of garlic
garlic granules
Rosemary leaves, crushed
Sea salt
Fresh ground pepper
Add both vinegars, all the seasonings, and the fish oil in a container with a lid. Shake.
Store in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
Panoramic View
Friday, March 30, 2012
Thursday, March 29, 2012
Working Wednesday: Paycheck Inequality
Yes, I know, this is not a fun subject to read about. But it is reality and if you are a business owner, you need to give this some thought and be prepared to treat everyone the same for the same skills and experience. This just isn't for legal reasons, it demonstrates trust with your employees and gives the workplace cohesion.
Progress has been made. When the federal Equal Pay Act of 1963 passed, women earned about 59% of what men did that year (full-time, year round employment). Now women make about 77% according to the Census Bureau. Of course this is a national figure, with dips and increases depending upon regions. Women are better off in Los Angeles where they make close to 90% of male salaries and far less in Baton Rouge where their wages are at 63% compared to men.
24/7 Wall St. has taken a look at 100 metro cities and their data to see who is the best and worst in the pay gap between men and women. To be fair, some of the gap may have to do with the leading industries in those metro areas. Obviously, some business sectors naturally pay better than others. 24/7 Wall St. announced the 10 worst cities. See: http://247wallst.com/2012/03/07/the-worst-paying-cities-for-women/
I am sorry to say we have a city in Ohio that made the list: Toledo. Women earned 70.0% of men for the past 12 months. The median income for men was $49,739 compared to women which was $34, 817.
Every business owner should be about "value added". What value is the person adding to the business, period. If you make this objective, straight forward, and your goals/evaluations are the same, then it is much easier to handle questions and concerns. Small business owners, you have it tougher because everyone literally knows everyone. If you show respect from day one, using skills and experience as your value points, your employees will know where they stand and what your expectations are.
Treat others as you would want them to treat you.
Progress has been made. When the federal Equal Pay Act of 1963 passed, women earned about 59% of what men did that year (full-time, year round employment). Now women make about 77% according to the Census Bureau. Of course this is a national figure, with dips and increases depending upon regions. Women are better off in Los Angeles where they make close to 90% of male salaries and far less in Baton Rouge where their wages are at 63% compared to men.
24/7 Wall St. has taken a look at 100 metro cities and their data to see who is the best and worst in the pay gap between men and women. To be fair, some of the gap may have to do with the leading industries in those metro areas. Obviously, some business sectors naturally pay better than others. 24/7 Wall St. announced the 10 worst cities. See: http://247wallst.com/2012/03/07/the-worst-paying-cities-for-women/
I am sorry to say we have a city in Ohio that made the list: Toledo. Women earned 70.0% of men for the past 12 months. The median income for men was $49,739 compared to women which was $34, 817.
Every business owner should be about "value added". What value is the person adding to the business, period. If you make this objective, straight forward, and your goals/evaluations are the same, then it is much easier to handle questions and concerns. Small business owners, you have it tougher because everyone literally knows everyone. If you show respect from day one, using skills and experience as your value points, your employees will know where they stand and what your expectations are.
Treat others as you would want them to treat you.
Monday, March 26, 2012
Alone in the Car: Employers and Facebook
Serious job seekers seeking advice have probably be given counsel about Facebook. It would go something like this: 1. don't get involved at all or 2. if you do, know that everything you write and show(photos, etc.) is out there for the public to view including prospective employers. This is nothing new and has been said to job seekers for some time now.
Another long-term policy which usually is part of new employee orientation, or at least should be, is computer use for personal reasons. Some companies allow it during working hours, some allow during break times such as lunch, and some have strict policy forbidding any personal use. Someone allowed to use a company computer could then get on their Facebook page while at work, following employer protocols.
Now we have a new twist. Employers may ask for a job seeker's name and password of their Facebook account. Facebook has responded by stating they will protect their users even if it means legal action.
Where do we go from here?
Here are my thoughts:
1. Thank you media for stirring the pot like you usually do. Let's see if we can find some cooler heads to prevail.
2. Employers, you have 3-4 times the usual amount of people applying for the job than you used to. I would anticipate in all those resumes you can find the person that matches your qualifications and can pass a background and financial check.
3. Get on the applicant's Facebook page, which is public, but after you interview. Get your own impression first and then look for additional information. Many companies prefer referrals anyway. Either they trust their own instinct or a trusted employee's instinct. Really, are you saying Facebook gives better, more accurate portraits than actually seeing and speaking to the applicant in person? Is that why you want their name and password?
4. Job seekers, if you know there are 200 resumes sitting on the personnel manager's desk for the same position, why on earth would you post anything that is embarrassing? Google your name and find out what is out there.
5. Would you hire you? Do you look like, from what people can find out on the internet, that you could be an asset to the team that is already in place? What salary should the employer pay based on what they saw? Does what they saw match in any way to your resume? Does it "compel or repel" (referring to a previous blog)?
6. In the short term, you the employer who is in fact a stranger, asking for someone's name and password is shaky ground in my opinion. I don't give out that information to anyone for any purpose for security reasons. My guess is you don't give your passwords out either. I would get a legal opinion before making this part of your hiring process.
Another long-term policy which usually is part of new employee orientation, or at least should be, is computer use for personal reasons. Some companies allow it during working hours, some allow during break times such as lunch, and some have strict policy forbidding any personal use. Someone allowed to use a company computer could then get on their Facebook page while at work, following employer protocols.
Now we have a new twist. Employers may ask for a job seeker's name and password of their Facebook account. Facebook has responded by stating they will protect their users even if it means legal action.
Where do we go from here?
Here are my thoughts:
1. Thank you media for stirring the pot like you usually do. Let's see if we can find some cooler heads to prevail.
2. Employers, you have 3-4 times the usual amount of people applying for the job than you used to. I would anticipate in all those resumes you can find the person that matches your qualifications and can pass a background and financial check.
3. Get on the applicant's Facebook page, which is public, but after you interview. Get your own impression first and then look for additional information. Many companies prefer referrals anyway. Either they trust their own instinct or a trusted employee's instinct. Really, are you saying Facebook gives better, more accurate portraits than actually seeing and speaking to the applicant in person? Is that why you want their name and password?
4. Job seekers, if you know there are 200 resumes sitting on the personnel manager's desk for the same position, why on earth would you post anything that is embarrassing? Google your name and find out what is out there.
5. Would you hire you? Do you look like, from what people can find out on the internet, that you could be an asset to the team that is already in place? What salary should the employer pay based on what they saw? Does what they saw match in any way to your resume? Does it "compel or repel" (referring to a previous blog)?
6. In the short term, you the employer who is in fact a stranger, asking for someone's name and password is shaky ground in my opinion. I don't give out that information to anyone for any purpose for security reasons. My guess is you don't give your passwords out either. I would get a legal opinion before making this part of your hiring process.
Friday, March 23, 2012
Random Facts Friday: March 23, 2011
Well, where I live March has been acting like a lamb for most of the month. Mother Nature, thank you!
I hope you have been able to get out of the office and take advantage of the great weather. Breathe some fresh air and give your brain some oxygen for another round of strategic planning and action.
But for now, just take a minute and read some random facts:
1. There is some discussion as to what sport/sporting competition was the first one in college. I favor the story of Yale creating a boating club in 1843, followed by Harvard in 1844. The first intercollegiate competition was naturally rowing between Yale and Harvard in 1852.
2. Some believe it helps putting a penny in the water for cut flowers. It's because the copper could act as a fungicide.
3. During the rainy season, the Amazon River will spill over its banks by as much as 10 - 12 miles.
4. Over 90% of the animal species in the Amazon rainforest are insects. A single square mile can have more than 50,000 species.
5. Recipe: Flavored Water
I used to order lemonade at restaurants, but found the flavor was way too strong. Also, I know I should drink water, but hate just plain water. So, I solved the problem by ordering ice water and asking for 2 slices of lemon. Then I squeeze the slices and toss the peels into the glass. If I want, I add a little fake sugar for a refreshing drink. I repeat this at home.
I have used this with lime too. Others have suggested berries and even mint and ginger. Just find the flavors that work for you. Sometimes it depends when the fruit are in season. I have a mint plant patch in my yard and use that flavor more in the summer. Mint is very easy to grow and will take over. It needs constant trimming. Mint is easy to dry also.
I hope you have been able to get out of the office and take advantage of the great weather. Breathe some fresh air and give your brain some oxygen for another round of strategic planning and action.
But for now, just take a minute and read some random facts:
1. There is some discussion as to what sport/sporting competition was the first one in college. I favor the story of Yale creating a boating club in 1843, followed by Harvard in 1844. The first intercollegiate competition was naturally rowing between Yale and Harvard in 1852.
2. Some believe it helps putting a penny in the water for cut flowers. It's because the copper could act as a fungicide.
3. During the rainy season, the Amazon River will spill over its banks by as much as 10 - 12 miles.
4. Over 90% of the animal species in the Amazon rainforest are insects. A single square mile can have more than 50,000 species.
5. Recipe: Flavored Water
I used to order lemonade at restaurants, but found the flavor was way too strong. Also, I know I should drink water, but hate just plain water. So, I solved the problem by ordering ice water and asking for 2 slices of lemon. Then I squeeze the slices and toss the peels into the glass. If I want, I add a little fake sugar for a refreshing drink. I repeat this at home.
I have used this with lime too. Others have suggested berries and even mint and ginger. Just find the flavors that work for you. Sometimes it depends when the fruit are in season. I have a mint plant patch in my yard and use that flavor more in the summer. Mint is very easy to grow and will take over. It needs constant trimming. Mint is easy to dry also.
Wednesday, March 21, 2012
Working Wednesday: Interviewing Good Candidates
We have heard much in the media about companies who complain they can't find good candidates. Skills don't match up with the job postings and the human resources department is inundated with resumes that list work histories which aren't even close to the what the supervisor needs.
But what if you find yourself in a position where you do indeed have several good candidates? What if your experience as a small business owner hasn't given you the skills to be a good interviewer and the confidence to screen out the one right for your company?
If my historical observations are correct, usually the owner will ask few questions and end up talking...a lot. They talk about the company, maybe give a tour, throw in a little about the past and on rare occasions what the current goals are, and all the candidate has to do is nod. If the candidate is smart, they will ask a few questions, smile, and many times they get the job.
Take a look at these articles:
1. One from Forbes magazines about only 3 interview questions- -
http://www.forbes.com/sites/georgebradt/2011/04/27/top-executive-recruiters-agree-there-are-only-three-key-job-interview-questions/
2. One from Careerbuilder on suggestions for interview questions--
http://www.careerbuilder.com/jobposter/small-business/article.aspx?articleid=ATL_0097BETTERINTERVIEWS
In a perfect world, I like to bring people in for 3 interviews, though I realize that is extreme. Probably 2 would be best. The first layer for me is the warm up. I ask general questions about information found on their resume/application. I take them on a tour, hoping this gets them out of the office setting into a more relaxed conversation. More general questions about their career field continue. I thank them for their time, etc. This ends the first screening process.
The second interview has very specific questions related to my company's job, not just the career field. I want to find out how much training, if any, will I need to plan for or can they hit the ground running on that first week or soon thereafter? This is where I would make cuts again and bring back the finalists, but most agree it is too hard for 3 interviews so I combine the two and ask the final set, which are some non-related work questions, though not the ones Careerbuilder suggests. Mine are a little more subtle such as the last book they read, how do they eat their dinner (all of one item before moving to the next or bites in random order), are they a desert, ocean, forest, mountains kind of person? These are designed to see how they will fit into the group of employees that are already at work. Make up your own knowing who is already working for you and their interests, personalities, etc.
Be thoughtful, ponder, and be sure to give yourself space between the first and second interview. Don't rush. You will be ok. Look them in the eye, give them a pleasant but firm handshake, and start with a casual question like you would when meeting any other person for the first time. And Smile!
But what if you find yourself in a position where you do indeed have several good candidates? What if your experience as a small business owner hasn't given you the skills to be a good interviewer and the confidence to screen out the one right for your company?
If my historical observations are correct, usually the owner will ask few questions and end up talking...a lot. They talk about the company, maybe give a tour, throw in a little about the past and on rare occasions what the current goals are, and all the candidate has to do is nod. If the candidate is smart, they will ask a few questions, smile, and many times they get the job.
Take a look at these articles:
1. One from Forbes magazines about only 3 interview questions- -
http://www.forbes.com/sites/georgebradt/2011/04/27/top-executive-recruiters-agree-there-are-only-three-key-job-interview-questions/
2. One from Careerbuilder on suggestions for interview questions--
http://www.careerbuilder.com/jobposter/small-business/article.aspx?articleid=ATL_0097BETTERINTERVIEWS
In a perfect world, I like to bring people in for 3 interviews, though I realize that is extreme. Probably 2 would be best. The first layer for me is the warm up. I ask general questions about information found on their resume/application. I take them on a tour, hoping this gets them out of the office setting into a more relaxed conversation. More general questions about their career field continue. I thank them for their time, etc. This ends the first screening process.
The second interview has very specific questions related to my company's job, not just the career field. I want to find out how much training, if any, will I need to plan for or can they hit the ground running on that first week or soon thereafter? This is where I would make cuts again and bring back the finalists, but most agree it is too hard for 3 interviews so I combine the two and ask the final set, which are some non-related work questions, though not the ones Careerbuilder suggests. Mine are a little more subtle such as the last book they read, how do they eat their dinner (all of one item before moving to the next or bites in random order), are they a desert, ocean, forest, mountains kind of person? These are designed to see how they will fit into the group of employees that are already at work. Make up your own knowing who is already working for you and their interests, personalities, etc.
Be thoughtful, ponder, and be sure to give yourself space between the first and second interview. Don't rush. You will be ok. Look them in the eye, give them a pleasant but firm handshake, and start with a casual question like you would when meeting any other person for the first time. And Smile!
Monday, March 19, 2012
Alone in the Car: The Public Library System
I was fortunate to grow up close to a great public library. It literally opened my mind to some amazing topics, famous people, history lessons, and authors. I discovered the Rosetta Stone in the 5th grade, Rose Greenhow in the 8th, and Broadway plays too. I am grateful we have such a resource in America.
The Columbus Metropolitan Library is one of the best in the nation. Several of the suburb libraries have also been highly rated. It is also says something about the people who support and use the libraries. They value the type of services, not just checking out books, that libraries provide. I am sure you feel the same way about your community library.
Everyone makes a big deal about diversity. Yet, public libraries have served all races, kindred, tongues, and people for ages. The public is truly welcome at a library. No matter your salary, what your house does or does not look like, who your relations are: you can still walk into a library just like anyone else.
Then for goodness sakes, pay your overdue fees! Currently, the Columbus Library has nearly $4,000,000 in fines not paid. Really? People, get with it. This is a great lasting heritage. Librarians protect your right to want to read and learn and this is how you repay them? How many of you have asked for assistance when conducting research? Are you one of the 150,532 people who owe between $1-$5 for a total of $327,000? You are not one of the 4 people who owe $400 or more are you? For Shame!
Think of how many times you visited the library as a child or take your own children now to choose books. Children love to pick out a book. Many attend story hour. And you can't even pay your fines?
And you are rationalizing this how? There are 1,009 people who owe $100 in fines. Good grief, how many books did you not return? How many children's books do you think the library could purchase with $123,526 (the amount of funds if all 1,009 people paid up)?
I thank the libraries all over Ohio for their fine work. I have been in many rural libraries and found their librarians to be earnest in their endeavors. Job seekers and small business owners can find resources right in their community libraries and librarians are trained to help each group.
Enjoy your library, both personally and professionally. And Pay Those Fines!
The Columbus Metropolitan Library is one of the best in the nation. Several of the suburb libraries have also been highly rated. It is also says something about the people who support and use the libraries. They value the type of services, not just checking out books, that libraries provide. I am sure you feel the same way about your community library.
Everyone makes a big deal about diversity. Yet, public libraries have served all races, kindred, tongues, and people for ages. The public is truly welcome at a library. No matter your salary, what your house does or does not look like, who your relations are: you can still walk into a library just like anyone else.
Then for goodness sakes, pay your overdue fees! Currently, the Columbus Library has nearly $4,000,000 in fines not paid. Really? People, get with it. This is a great lasting heritage. Librarians protect your right to want to read and learn and this is how you repay them? How many of you have asked for assistance when conducting research? Are you one of the 150,532 people who owe between $1-$5 for a total of $327,000? You are not one of the 4 people who owe $400 or more are you? For Shame!
Think of how many times you visited the library as a child or take your own children now to choose books. Children love to pick out a book. Many attend story hour. And you can't even pay your fines?
And you are rationalizing this how? There are 1,009 people who owe $100 in fines. Good grief, how many books did you not return? How many children's books do you think the library could purchase with $123,526 (the amount of funds if all 1,009 people paid up)?
I thank the libraries all over Ohio for their fine work. I have been in many rural libraries and found their librarians to be earnest in their endeavors. Job seekers and small business owners can find resources right in their community libraries and librarians are trained to help each group.
Enjoy your library, both personally and professionally. And Pay Those Fines!
Friday, March 16, 2012
Random Facts Friday: March 16, 2012
Wow! the day before St. Patrick's Day.
My husband's band, Mad Maudlin (http://www.reverbnation.com/madmaudlin) will be playing at Brazenhead in Columbus tomorrow, so a busy weekend for us!
But for now, the work week is done and time to catch your breath. Let your mind just drift with these random facts:
1. American Girl Scouts began selling homemade cookies in 1917. They turned it over to commercial bakers in 1935 and now sell 200 million boxes annually.
2. There are 353 Division I colleges/universities in the U.S. Sixty-seven of them participate in the NCAA Basketball Tournament.
3. The game of basketball was invented by Dr. James Naismith in Massachusetts in 1891. It was introduced to the Olympics in 1936 at the Berlin Games.
4. An eagle can see a rabbit about 1 mile or 1760 yards away. A normal person would need to be about 550 yards away to see the animal.
5. Recipe: Porcupine Balls
Make your usual meatball recipe. Keep it mild, it should be more like your meatloaf, not like Italian meatballs. While still raw, roll them in white rice. Boil them in tomato soup. I usually have to use several cans in order to cover all the meatballs. And yes, I use milk with the soup. I have tried water, but it doesn't taste very good. You may try half water, half milk. Boil for 20-30 minutes, making sure the meatballs are well done.
My husband's band, Mad Maudlin (http://www.reverbnation.com/madmaudlin) will be playing at Brazenhead in Columbus tomorrow, so a busy weekend for us!
But for now, the work week is done and time to catch your breath. Let your mind just drift with these random facts:
1. American Girl Scouts began selling homemade cookies in 1917. They turned it over to commercial bakers in 1935 and now sell 200 million boxes annually.
2. There are 353 Division I colleges/universities in the U.S. Sixty-seven of them participate in the NCAA Basketball Tournament.
3. The game of basketball was invented by Dr. James Naismith in Massachusetts in 1891. It was introduced to the Olympics in 1936 at the Berlin Games.
4. An eagle can see a rabbit about 1 mile or 1760 yards away. A normal person would need to be about 550 yards away to see the animal.
5. Recipe: Porcupine Balls
Make your usual meatball recipe. Keep it mild, it should be more like your meatloaf, not like Italian meatballs. While still raw, roll them in white rice. Boil them in tomato soup. I usually have to use several cans in order to cover all the meatballs. And yes, I use milk with the soup. I have tried water, but it doesn't taste very good. You may try half water, half milk. Boil for 20-30 minutes, making sure the meatballs are well done.
Wednesday, March 14, 2012
Working Wednesday: Thank You Bob Evans Restaurants
Ever been at the right place at the right time? I just happened to read a hard copy of the Columbus Dispatch newspaper's March 10th edition. Now, I usually read this paper on-line. But that day I read the hard copy first, and there buried in the News Briefs in the Business Section was a small note about a wonderful collaboration.
Bob Evans Restaurants, whose headquarters is in Columbus, Ohio, announced a new program for their full-time employees. They have partnered with Rio Grande University (pronounced "Rye-Oh" "Grand") to give these employees college degrees, either an associate or bachelor's. They can enroll in the Bob Evans Hospitality Management Program and earn credit in both the restaurant training program and college credits.
Why Rio Grande? Bob and his family lived on a farm near to that town and built a small restaurant on their land for people to try out their sausages. The sausages had been sold to groceries and meat markets for awhile, but it was decided to have a place where people could taste the sausages "right on the farm".
The Homestead, the home on the farm, was built in 1820, and still exists today. It was once owned by the University who happened to sell it to Bob back in 1953.
I love this story for several reasons. It highlights an entrepreneur in Southeast Ohio. Once again, it lets the light shine on one of the good guys. Bob Evans supported agriculture in Ohio, including 4-H youth development program. Most importantly, it demonstrates how business can team up with post secondary education and produce a needed workforce.
Companies of all business sectors say they can't find the right people to fill positions, yet so many are unemployed. Have you thought of working with a local college or university? You could take those already employed, help them earn college credits, and fill in the gaps you have. Then hire someone else
to take their place.
I wish the Columbus Dispatch had made more of this news. This truly is a positive step in bringing our economy back. It helps employers and employees. This is the news I want to hear.
Bob Evans Restaurants, whose headquarters is in Columbus, Ohio, announced a new program for their full-time employees. They have partnered with Rio Grande University (pronounced "Rye-Oh" "Grand") to give these employees college degrees, either an associate or bachelor's. They can enroll in the Bob Evans Hospitality Management Program and earn credit in both the restaurant training program and college credits.
Why Rio Grande? Bob and his family lived on a farm near to that town and built a small restaurant on their land for people to try out their sausages. The sausages had been sold to groceries and meat markets for awhile, but it was decided to have a place where people could taste the sausages "right on the farm".
The Homestead, the home on the farm, was built in 1820, and still exists today. It was once owned by the University who happened to sell it to Bob back in 1953.
I love this story for several reasons. It highlights an entrepreneur in Southeast Ohio. Once again, it lets the light shine on one of the good guys. Bob Evans supported agriculture in Ohio, including 4-H youth development program. Most importantly, it demonstrates how business can team up with post secondary education and produce a needed workforce.
Companies of all business sectors say they can't find the right people to fill positions, yet so many are unemployed. Have you thought of working with a local college or university? You could take those already employed, help them earn college credits, and fill in the gaps you have. Then hire someone else
to take their place.
I wish the Columbus Dispatch had made more of this news. This truly is a positive step in bringing our economy back. It helps employers and employees. This is the news I want to hear.
Monday, March 12, 2012
Alone in the Car: And I Really Mean Alone in the Car
I haven't done a true tough-in-cheek editorial for a long time, and decided now is the time.
It is about the auto industry.
Ohio and the Midwest were hit hard with the downturn of car manufacturing. Many jobs were lost, not only at the assembly plants, but midsize and small companies who manufactured particular parts. Lessons learned, efficiencies discovered, and some tier 1 and 2 suppliers survived, venturing into new markets.
I too have an idea for bringing back the auto sector. Redesign the HVAC in the front seat of cars.
Have you ever noticed the front passenger side gets more heat or sometimes more air conditioning than the driver? Why is that? I am alone in my car more times than with someone. Think about yourself: driving to and from work, the errands you run, meetings you go to, events you attend, etc. etc. Why would the design call for more heat for the passenger than the driver?
I have driven domestic and foreign, brand new and used, "better" and basic. They are all the same! Why on earth would car manufacturers decide the empty space(passenger side) floor vent needs to be better than the driver's?
So a small or midsize company needs to come up with a design that will revolutionize the industry. Find a company that will change their front seat floor vent and market this to drivers. Drivers who want to be comfortable. And while they are at it, the vent should point to the feet, not at an angle that hits the driver's face. But I don't want to ask too much at one time. That would mean the designers would have to multi-task. However, I still feel I have a great idea. Ahh, to drive down the road and have the whole body feel warmth.What a concept.
It is about the auto industry.
Ohio and the Midwest were hit hard with the downturn of car manufacturing. Many jobs were lost, not only at the assembly plants, but midsize and small companies who manufactured particular parts. Lessons learned, efficiencies discovered, and some tier 1 and 2 suppliers survived, venturing into new markets.
I too have an idea for bringing back the auto sector. Redesign the HVAC in the front seat of cars.
Have you ever noticed the front passenger side gets more heat or sometimes more air conditioning than the driver? Why is that? I am alone in my car more times than with someone. Think about yourself: driving to and from work, the errands you run, meetings you go to, events you attend, etc. etc. Why would the design call for more heat for the passenger than the driver?
I have driven domestic and foreign, brand new and used, "better" and basic. They are all the same! Why on earth would car manufacturers decide the empty space(passenger side) floor vent needs to be better than the driver's?
So a small or midsize company needs to come up with a design that will revolutionize the industry. Find a company that will change their front seat floor vent and market this to drivers. Drivers who want to be comfortable. And while they are at it, the vent should point to the feet, not at an angle that hits the driver's face. But I don't want to ask too much at one time. That would mean the designers would have to multi-task. However, I still feel I have a great idea. Ahh, to drive down the road and have the whole body feel warmth.What a concept.
Friday, March 9, 2012
Random Facts Friday: March 9, 2011
Can you believe we turn our clocks forward in 2 days? No, me neither.
I say we should be more like nature and follow its natural course, or at least turn our clocks forward
closer to summer. But at least it is Friday! And we can let our brains drift, starting with these random
facts.
1. Which came first, Scotch tape(known originally as Cellulose Tape) or masking tape? Masking tape, which was invented in 1925. Scotch tape, which by the way was invented by the same man (Richard Drew) came along 5 years later in 1930.
2. The first St. Patrick Day Parade was in New York City in 1766. It wasn’t until 1995 that Dublin got one when the Irish government decided it would help boost tourism. The day in Ireland is really considered a religious holiday where many attend church.
3. The most popular fruit in the U.S. is: Apples. Followed by Bananas, Pineapples, Papayas, Strawberries, Blueberries, Raspberries, Plums, Peaches, and Pears.
4. The first of the modern Olympic Games was in 1896 in Athens. There were fewer than 500 athletes representing 13 nations. The first Winter Olympics were held in 1924 in France.
5. Everyone has their version of a fresh layered salad using peas. This may be a good time to have it around St. Patrick's Day. The versions I have seen on the web have a slightly different dressing than mine. See what your think. Of course it is easy to add a layer of any fresh vegetable you like. But don't forget the green peas!
Layers, bottom to top:
1 head of lettuce, cut into bite size pieces
1/2 cup of chopped green onions
2 cups chilled peas (I use fresh or frozen)
1/2 lb. fried bacon, bite sized
2 cups of cubed Velveeta or shredded cheddar
6 hard cooked eggs, diced
Dressing:
1 cup of sour cream
1 cup of mayonnaise
1 cup of ranch dressing
Mix the 3 ingredients together and spread over salad. This should be the last layer. Chill and serve.
I say we should be more like nature and follow its natural course, or at least turn our clocks forward
closer to summer. But at least it is Friday! And we can let our brains drift, starting with these random
facts.
1. Which came first, Scotch tape(known originally as Cellulose Tape) or masking tape? Masking tape, which was invented in 1925. Scotch tape, which by the way was invented by the same man (Richard Drew) came along 5 years later in 1930.
2. The first St. Patrick Day Parade was in New York City in 1766. It wasn’t until 1995 that Dublin got one when the Irish government decided it would help boost tourism. The day in Ireland is really considered a religious holiday where many attend church.
3. The most popular fruit in the U.S. is: Apples. Followed by Bananas, Pineapples, Papayas, Strawberries, Blueberries, Raspberries, Plums, Peaches, and Pears.
4. The first of the modern Olympic Games was in 1896 in Athens. There were fewer than 500 athletes representing 13 nations. The first Winter Olympics were held in 1924 in France.
5. Everyone has their version of a fresh layered salad using peas. This may be a good time to have it around St. Patrick's Day. The versions I have seen on the web have a slightly different dressing than mine. See what your think. Of course it is easy to add a layer of any fresh vegetable you like. But don't forget the green peas!
Layers, bottom to top:
1 head of lettuce, cut into bite size pieces
1/2 cup of chopped green onions
2 cups chilled peas (I use fresh or frozen)
1/2 lb. fried bacon, bite sized
2 cups of cubed Velveeta or shredded cheddar
6 hard cooked eggs, diced
Dressing:
1 cup of sour cream
1 cup of mayonnaise
1 cup of ranch dressing
Mix the 3 ingredients together and spread over salad. This should be the last layer. Chill and serve.
Thursday, March 8, 2012
Working Wednesday: Beware of "Friendly Nations" When Opening New Markets
I imagine in my mind international companies with headquarters in the U.S. assigning American employees new "duty stations" around the globe for a few years and then returning them back home. This certainly would be true with countries friendly with our country. Visas, paperwork, documentation is cumbersome but the procedure is well known and completed to the satisfaction of all concerned.
But the economic downturn is a global one. No one really is doing business they way they were before 2008. Some countries, like Greece, has not only heard the bell, they are lying on the boxing ring floor. Other countries have heard their bell ring, others are waiting in the wings, and the United States government is over $15 trillion in debt. What has this do with small business/employment?
Many businesses are looking for new markets. These businesses need people "on the ground" to meet with others and engage in discussions, contracts, and build from the ground up a presence in a new place. Many are considering venturing into new territory, as in outside of the borders of the United States.
You may want to choose someone from the home office here in America to get things going. Beware, you may not have as much choice as you used to because of the global unemployment situation, even if it is in a "friendly" country.
For example, SHRM reports the United Kingdom is going to issue less visas than before. This is to protect their own citizens and perhaps see that their unemployed find jobs. The U.K. also plan to have restrictions on visas and will show up unannounced at a company to make sure they are compliant. This includes software the official can check describing employees with visas, their visas' expiration dates, and when/why they took time off from their job(illness, holiday, vacation). Please see: U.K. Border Agency’s website.
If you are planning on expanding your markets, do your homework. Leave nothing to chance. Include these websites in your research:
http://www.sba.gov/content/us-export-assistance-centers
http://www.sba.gov/about-offices-content/1/2889
But the economic downturn is a global one. No one really is doing business they way they were before 2008. Some countries, like Greece, has not only heard the bell, they are lying on the boxing ring floor. Other countries have heard their bell ring, others are waiting in the wings, and the United States government is over $15 trillion in debt. What has this do with small business/employment?
Many businesses are looking for new markets. These businesses need people "on the ground" to meet with others and engage in discussions, contracts, and build from the ground up a presence in a new place. Many are considering venturing into new territory, as in outside of the borders of the United States.
You may want to choose someone from the home office here in America to get things going. Beware, you may not have as much choice as you used to because of the global unemployment situation, even if it is in a "friendly" country.
For example, SHRM reports the United Kingdom is going to issue less visas than before. This is to protect their own citizens and perhaps see that their unemployed find jobs. The U.K. also plan to have restrictions on visas and will show up unannounced at a company to make sure they are compliant. This includes software the official can check describing employees with visas, their visas' expiration dates, and when/why they took time off from their job(illness, holiday, vacation). Please see: U.K. Border Agency’s website.
If you are planning on expanding your markets, do your homework. Leave nothing to chance. Include these websites in your research:
http://www.sba.gov/content/us-export-assistance-centers
http://www.sba.gov/about-offices-content/1/2889
Monday, March 5, 2012
Alone in the Car: Gallop Poll's Well Being Index
Gallop Poll recently presented their results on their Well Being Index. This measured American views on Life Evaluation, Emotional Health, Physical Health, Healthy Behaviors, Work Environment, and Basic Access. You can find information on this survey at http://www.gallup.com/poll/152912/Hawaii-No-Wellbeing-West-Virginia-Stuck-Last.aspx and at http://www.well-beingindex.com/
I want to spend some time specifically on Work Environment. The Work Environment Index measures issues that include a trusting and open work environment and whether an employee is able to use their strengths to do what they do best every day. North Dakota came out on top and Delaware employees rated their state the worst.
Now to Ohio.
Gallop interviewed 13,172 people for the survey here in Ohio. Overall, the state ranked 46th. In the Work Environment, Ohio ranked 41st. Many times reports only look at the metro areas in the state, which means that the Southeast quadrant gets overlooked. I am glad to say this survey does include metro areas, but does not stop there. It also gives results by congressional districts. Please see: http://www.well-beingindex.com/stateCongresDistrictRank.asp and select Ohio.
When one glances at the charts, because they are color coded by the ratings, it is easy to see Ohio does not do well in any of the districts. There are some bright spots or "brighter spots", but we can't pit one city against each other, like states pit themselves against each other when marketing to businesses. We need to work together to raise Ohio's economy and make it whole again. Look no further than our state or national legislature to see how murmuring, isolation, and self serving has moved us and our economy forward. Are you and your company better off because of the stalemate that exists there? Only by understanding what is at stake (the panoramic view) can visionaries come together and agree to work for the higher cause. If you are a visionary and want to contribute, look for others of like mind and create a group or join one already in existence in your community. There are too many examples of one person making a difference. Then when your community is ready, reach out to the next town and join together. Red Rover is no fun, and virtually impossible, to play by yourself.
I want to spend some time specifically on Work Environment. The Work Environment Index measures issues that include a trusting and open work environment and whether an employee is able to use their strengths to do what they do best every day. North Dakota came out on top and Delaware employees rated their state the worst.
Now to Ohio.
Gallop interviewed 13,172 people for the survey here in Ohio. Overall, the state ranked 46th. In the Work Environment, Ohio ranked 41st. Many times reports only look at the metro areas in the state, which means that the Southeast quadrant gets overlooked. I am glad to say this survey does include metro areas, but does not stop there. It also gives results by congressional districts. Please see: http://www.well-beingindex.com/stateCongresDistrictRank.asp and select Ohio.
When one glances at the charts, because they are color coded by the ratings, it is easy to see Ohio does not do well in any of the districts. There are some bright spots or "brighter spots", but we can't pit one city against each other, like states pit themselves against each other when marketing to businesses. We need to work together to raise Ohio's economy and make it whole again. Look no further than our state or national legislature to see how murmuring, isolation, and self serving has moved us and our economy forward. Are you and your company better off because of the stalemate that exists there? Only by understanding what is at stake (the panoramic view) can visionaries come together and agree to work for the higher cause. If you are a visionary and want to contribute, look for others of like mind and create a group or join one already in existence in your community. There are too many examples of one person making a difference. Then when your community is ready, reach out to the next town and join together. Red Rover is no fun, and virtually impossible, to play by yourself.
Friday, March 2, 2012
Random Facts Friday: March 2, 2012
We had February 29th this week. Do you know anyone born that day?
We have made it into March and another Friday is here! Need to clear your mind?
Start by using these random facts.
1. Sealed bedrooms don't have enough oxygen and may be why you feel tired. Open up your windows just a crack even in the winter for 5-10 minutes after you wake up and just before you go to bed. This will help release carbon dioxide out of your house and let oxygen in, helping the brain get the oxygen it needs.
2. The gemstone for March, Aquamarine, gets its color from iron.
3. There are 3 species of zebras and some of these even have sub-species, each with its own pattern. The importance of this: some have wider black stripes and some have wider white stripes. This adds to the debate about what color is the main color of the animal and which one is the stripe color.
4. It takes about 40 gallons of maple sap to make 1 gallon of maple syrup.
5. Need a quick dessert? Make a little buffet of these toppings to go over vanilla ice cream:
maple syrup
grenadine syrup
warm cooked chocolate pudding (not yet refrigerated)
walnuts
whipped topping
We have made it into March and another Friday is here! Need to clear your mind?
Start by using these random facts.
1. Sealed bedrooms don't have enough oxygen and may be why you feel tired. Open up your windows just a crack even in the winter for 5-10 minutes after you wake up and just before you go to bed. This will help release carbon dioxide out of your house and let oxygen in, helping the brain get the oxygen it needs.
2. The gemstone for March, Aquamarine, gets its color from iron.
3. There are 3 species of zebras and some of these even have sub-species, each with its own pattern. The importance of this: some have wider black stripes and some have wider white stripes. This adds to the debate about what color is the main color of the animal and which one is the stripe color.
4. It takes about 40 gallons of maple sap to make 1 gallon of maple syrup.
5. Need a quick dessert? Make a little buffet of these toppings to go over vanilla ice cream:
maple syrup
grenadine syrup
warm cooked chocolate pudding (not yet refrigerated)
walnuts
whipped topping
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