The Appearence Of The Workspace Affects Productivity

When it comes to efficiency of employees, you have got to find many different and creative ways to improve it, which could be a fairly difficult task sometimes. There are various factors that affect their morale and mood, hence their will to do the job properly and offer nothing but the best results. 

So, you actually have to keep doing something about it all the time and constantly make changes, since the dull routine is a really horrible thing, in business at least. However, there is one essential thing that does not require consistent attention and it is the workspace. 

The appearance of the workspace can significantly boost the performance of everyone in the office and if you manage to thoroughly design it only once in order for it to be splendid, you will not have to think about it for a long time, and it will be a crucial part of your company's success.

Don't believe it?

This article is here to prove the enormous impact the looks of the workspace has on people who spend a lot of time in it and their ability to stay focused and productive, so let us start with some obvious stuff that can be done easily. 

The first thing that is to be taken in consideration is the lighting. If the lighting is bad, it can be tiring for your eyes, cause headaches and fatigue or even depression, and make people lose their inspiration; so, make sure to do this right and right away and do not be one of those who completely overlook this issue. 

For example, you should buy natural light bulbs and make use of natural light whenever you can, therefore keep windows and doors open during daytime, and use lamps occasionally, in case it gets cloudy outside.

The next thing you should take care of are chairs and tables. Aim to please all of your employees and yourself, naturally, so get furniture that is fully adjustable to everyone's needs, that is suitable in every possible way and, of course, it is a must that you have enough space to stretch. 

In addition to these things that physically burden employees, there are a lot of those that mentally affect, as well. For instance, many carefully chosen ornaments and the color of the walls can be remarkably helpful. When painting the walls, always pick a relaxing color, such as green, but avoid those that have a negative effect on people, such as blue or gray. 

Of course, keep in mind that too much of anything is bad in this case, so add variations, such as items in diverse colors, from seemingly insignificant postcards and magazine cutouts to interesting and cheerful pictures.

Other than these, you should get more mesmerizing decorations - beautiful Sydney rugs, compelling flowers and plants or colorful cabinets. On top of all, there is a thing that many people neglect, but it is unbelievably significant and common sense. 

Namely, the office has to be clean at all times, otherwise there will be many unwanted distractions, and since this can be achieved effortlessly, there is absolutely no reason to spend about 10 minutes on a daily basis and get rid of the clutter. This way, you will most likely get rid of all unpleasant odors, too, which is rather important, because no one feels comfortable in a smelly workspace. 

Also, it is advised to get air-fresheners with the scent of pine, lemon or lavender. The last but not the least is the fact that the room temperature and noise level are to be kept at normal levels or the employees will not be pleased at all.

Believe it or not, numerous studies have proven that all of these things can increase the productivity up to 20%, which means they have an enormous impact, so what are you waiting for? Roll up your sleeves and start renovating your workspace as soon as possible and the positive results will appear in no time! 

Also, be aware that this is not reserved for large companies and huge offices only, but is of a great important for home-based businesses, as well, so, if your house is also your place of work you ought to redesign it as soon as possible.

Six Tips for Applying for a Payday Loan

Life can curve balls at us which may leave us needing a bit of financial help from time to time. From sudden medical expenses for home and vehicle repairs, a short term or payday loan is often a quick and easy answer to life's little surprises. If you are considering applying online for short term loans, there are some tips that you should keep in mind to best guarantee your chances of not only getting approved, but being able to manage the loan.

Proof of Employment

The beauty of applying for a short term loan is that it is quick and seamless as long as you are properly prepared. Unlike applying for a loan from a financial institution, companies which offer short term loans have a quick application process which largely relies on one being able to have proof of employment. Some ways you may be able to prove your employment status include:

• Tax forms
• A signed letter from your employer 
• Providing your National Insurance number 

Having recent proof of income from your employer may also be acceptable as a sole piece of proof of employment. This would include items such as a pay stub from your place of employment. Ask the loan company if the length of time you have spent with the employer will have an impact on your application as well. Typically short term loan outfits will only lend money to individuals if they have been working at the same place of employment for 3 months or longer.

Understand what the Loan Is

Short term loans are significantly different than a long term loan. This should be well recognized and accepted before the application process. Ideally, this type of loan will only be used to tide someone over should they find themselves in an emergency situation before they receive their next pay check. 

Do Not Apply for Multiple Loans

Payday loans are quick and easy. Many will hear back within hours after the application process whether or not they have been approved. Even if you are well-intentioned and trying to improve your chances of being approved, apply at one loan location at a time.

These companies have the means available to track every single loan request you make. If they see that you have made multiple loan requests in a short period of time, they may think that you are:

a) Trying to scam them; or
b) Will receive so many loans that you will not be able to pay them back on time, if at all.

Avoid Start-up Fees

Any payday or short term loan company which charges its clients a start-up fee should be avoided at all costs. Legitimate loan providers do not require any fees from you. They receive payment by other means.

A payday loan is a small, short-term unsecured loan, "regardless of whether repayment of loans is linked to a borrower's payday. The loans are also sometimes referred to as "cash advances," though that term can also refer to cash provided against a prearranged line of credit such as a credit card. Payday advance loans rely on the consumer having previous payroll and employment records. Legislation regarding payday loans varies widely between different countries and, within the USA, between different states.

Be Honest about Your Finances

The best way to protect yourself when taking out this type of loan is to be honest. There may be some unattractive details about your past or current financial state which may cause a loan company to reconsider lending you money. But being honest will help keep you financially afloat rather than unexpectedly drowning in debt.

Top 5 Things to Consider Before Purchasing From a Catalogue on Finance

  

If you are like me you may be seeing an increase of brochures and catalogues in your mail box. It's that time of year again where the shiny pages are trying to lure you into making a purchase. Whether it's new furnishings, gardening, clothes or home decor it can be very alluring.

Shopping from catalogues from the comfort of your easy chair has always been a real treat for me and my family. It's something I look forward to every year.  

But before you get the shopping started let me give you 5 things to think about before making that purchase. 

Here's Why Retailers Keep Sending You Catalogs Sure. That definitely happens. But sometimes it's more like this. My colleague Cara Tallo sent an email that basically said, what's the deal with catalogs? And she attached a picture of all the shopping catalogs she received in a single day. So we ...

1. Give that Purchase a Hold and Think a Moment 

When you are paging through you catalogue you see a favorite item at a incredible price. Frequently you buy simply because the products are on sale or on a discount rate. So stop briefly and think through whether you actually require the item. If not, do not order. The mail order brochures or other companies flourish on individuals who make spontaneous purchasing choices.

2. Shipping and Handling Costs.

When purchasing your item check the fees for shipping and handling. See if they are fair and reasonable. Some companies over charge or charge a higher amount in error. 

Checking here can help you save money. Also if you are purchasing multiple items make sure you only pay for combined shipping. Some companies overcharge by shipping your items separately.  Today you can have your items shipped in many different ways. There is standard shipping and also expedited shipping. Of course, you pay extra for expedited shipping. It is an additional profit source for the business. 

If you are not in a hurry to receive your purchase then go for the standard shipping and save the money.  Some companies offer lower shipping rates than other companies. Only buy from the companies that offer low cost shipping or even free shipping.

3. Only Buy From Businesses That Have Good Customer Service.

Normally, your purchase from a catalogue should happen without any problem. It's only when your purchase is not delivered to you or ends up delivered in a damaged condition do you find out what type of customer service a company really has. 

  Contacting a business when something is wrong with your purchase can be a pleasure or a nightmare. Prior to making your purchase be sure the business believes the customer is first. Is their telephone support handled well? Can you receive free return shipping on your purchase? Can they be counted on to back up their goods with a guarantee of satisfaction? So check out and convince yourself about the business's qualifications prior to buying.

4. Purchase Now and Pay Later Plans

When purchasing on finance make sure you know what the real costs are. Many people do not understand that when purchasing on finance that you are paying an interest charge for paying for your item over time. Paying over time is a necessity if you do not have the money at the present time to pay for your item. Know the additional cost of financing is smart and will save you from any surprises later. When paying over time keep in mind that the length of time you are paying determines the total amount extra costs you will pay.

Paying for your item in one year costs less than paying for your item in three years. Many people pay over three years because the payments are smaller and more affordable in your budget. But this smaller payments means you are taking longer to pay and that means you are paying finance charges for a longer amount of time. This adds to the final cost of your purchase. Keep in mind that when order now and pay later on you will certainly wind up paying quite bit additional in interest charges. Depending upon the number of months you wish to stretch the payments the rate of interest differ.

If you select the longest time-frame of 36 months you will certainly wind up paying the greatest rate of interest.

Home Shopping Catalogs | Top Coupon Patch  Home Shopping Catalogs. Experts agree that shoppers will spend an unprecedented amount of money buying gifts online this holiday season. You can shop while about the go. In the past, there\'s a picture of going in to the ...

5. Products Might Not Be Exactly What You Believe They Are

Purchasing from catalogues has one downside from shopping in genuine shops. Because you can in fact see the item, touch it or feel it you need to picture specific aspects about the item. A trust worthy business will provide as much data as possible as well as provide you other information like size, shape and color and feel of the item. 

The mail-order carriers who are in for the quick dollar will certainly provide the products to look much better than it really is and you wind up purchasing and feeling dissatisfied. They might have a no questions asked returns policy however you might still wind up a little poorer as you cover the shipping and handling charges.

Shopping from catalogues can be a fun and money saving experience if done right. 

Cheap Ways to Advertise Your Business

The secret of running a successful business is promoting it the right way. Whatever you are aiming for; opening a new business; expanding your old one or just attracting more clientele, the trick is to advertise it in the right manner. 

Many people believe that good marketing demands a lot of money, but the actual truth is that it just needs a little money and a lot of creativity. Here we will try and list a couple good ways that you can promote your business and save money in the process!

Internet

The best way to promote just about anything nowadays is through internet. There are many ways to advertise your business this ways. For instance if you don’t have one, it could be handy to make a website. It doesn’t cost much and there is a high chance that you already know somebody who is willing to do it for free. 

Other things, like social media, Facebook, twitter, LinkedIn etc… are just a great way of promoting yourself and what you do. Also, don’t forget about e-mail marketing. It’s flexible and has a high impact. You use it to send newsletter, announce any new products, deals or discounts you’re organizing.

Newspaper and Magazines

Although people tend to think that this is a dying business since the internet was introduced, it’s actually far from the truth. The newspaper industry is still blooming and there are tons of people who get information only from the paper. 

The key is to try and get published somewhere that is connected with your line of business, otherwise you will miss your target audience. Try and contact the Editor of your local paper or send a letter to the Editorial section.

Networking

Probably one of the first things you need to learn when you are starting a business. Perhaps it sound easy and perhaps it doesn’t sound that important, but you would be amazed to learn how much this can affect your work. 

It’s not just about knowing enough people, it’s about getting to know even more people who can benefit you. A good idea is to write down or make a scheme of the people you know and to divide them in categories (friends and family, acquaintances…) The key here is not to take advantage of those people but to make a network of people who will try and help you in your line of work knowing you would return the favor.

Human Resources

This is something to keep in mind. It doesn’t matter how good of a business you are leading, or how good of a promotion you are doing, if you don’t know the proper way to communicate with your customers. 

The goal is to keep the old ones and attract new ones. You need to make them feel special and unique and to try and meet their every need. Have you heard of the expression ‘The customer is always right’? Keep that in mind. It’s not always easy to please everybody, but it’s essential if you want to run a successful business.

Event

A smart thing to do once in a while is to organize some kind of an event. Something like a one week discount or some special sales and similar. It’s good to make some promotion materials or even promotional gifts to treat your customers with care. 

It’s always a good idea to attract them with a concept of free samples or just small tokens of appreciation. Those kinds of things don’t cost much and it makes you seem like you really care for your clientele.

A creative mind, a couple of good ideas, little money and you are good to go. These are all promotional techniques you can use to advertise your business but still maintain at a low cost option. These examples show you that just with a little wit you can accomplish a lot. 

You don’t need big marketing campaigns or billboards; all you need is to be innovative and creative. Also, the key is to be kind, persistent and to never give up. You never know who you will meet on your ladder to success, so it’s better to choose your methods wisely!