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The UK needs a strategy to support young people not destined for university facing complex social problemsView the full article

When first starting a business, many entrepreneurs begin using a personal credit card for expenses. It’s the path of least resistance. However, once the business starts to thrive, you will garner tangible benefits from using a good business credit card — i.e., a credit card in your business name that is used strictly for business purposes. Here are the advantages that a business credit card can offer your business to help it grow and be profitable: Expands Your Overall Available Credit Establishes Business Credit History Access to Other Financial Products to Fuel Growth Maintains Separation of Business and Personal Expenses Saves Times through Technology Allows You to Delegate Yet Control Employee Spending Earn Valuable Rewards You Can Use the Way You Want To Building Your Credit Score Enhances Operational Flexibility Credit Card Security Features Protect Your Business Expands Your Overall Available Credit If you have ambitious dreams to grow your business, your growth may be stymied by using personal credit cards for business purposes. Why? You may have less credit available for family purchases because you’ve already used that credit for business purposes — and vice versa. Having a separate business credit card and separate personal credit card, each with its own credit limits can give you more potential credit overall for your business and for your family. Establishes Business Credit History Having a business credit card helps you establish a separate credit history for your business. Small businesses often get turned down for loans or get disadvantageous loan terms because they lack a credit history for their business. According to Tom Gazaway, founder, and CEO of LenCred.com, “From the business owner’s perspective, the importance of business credit has increased in recent years, and all the indicators point to this trend continuing in the years to come as well. It does depend on the type of financing you apply for, but the level of importance of business credit is clearly increasing.” Access to Other Financial Products to Fuel Growth Part of being a small business owner means constantly focusing on ways to increase the growth rate of your business. One way to use a business credit card to help grow your business may not be obvious. If you choose a business card with a provider that has a wide range of products that serve businesses, it can be the start of a strong financial relationship. For example, a company like Chase offers many business credit products. You can gain access to business-sized credit lines — beyond a credit card — to provide your business with more purchasing power and growth. “Chase offers financial services that meet small business needs no matter where they are in the lifecycle of their business,” said Laura Miller, president of Ink from Chase. “The Ink business credit card offers extended working capital and simplifies the management of everyday financial transactions.” Maintains Separation of Business and Personal Expenses If you own a corporation or LLC, it’s crucial to regard your business as distinct from your personal finances. This distinction is essential for preserving your personal liability limits, as noted by Nolo.com. Mixing personal and business expenses could jeopardize the legal protections you aimed to achieve through incorporation or forming a limited liability company. Also, for tax purposes, it is best practice to keep your business expenses separate. Only business-related expenses are deductible for a business tax return or Schedule C you file. A business credit card, by its very nature, will keep business expenses separate. Saves Time through Technology A business credit card that offers advanced technology does a lot of the recordkeeping work for you. It makes the process of managing your expense budget easy, with less work on your part to see exactly where you are spending and how much. It also keeps records properly identified for tax purposes, making tax time much less of a headache. That’s why it’s important to evaluate the technology that your credit card provider offers. The right technology can dramatically minimize the manual work needed to manage your finances. And it’s not just any old technology to consider. Make sure it’s a technology designed for business owners, delivering the right information in the right way for business use. For example, the Ink from Chase mobile app delivers advanced recordkeeping and analysis tools. Allows You to Delegate Yet Control Employee Spending As your business grows and adds employees, delegation becomes a critical skill. You want to provide your employees’s authority and not require them to come to you on minor decisions. However, you need control over critical things such as your business’ finances. That’s where a business credit card like Ink from Chase is a tremendous delegation tool and management aid. Ink offers free employee cards so you can give your employees the buying power they need within the limits you want. Monitoring each card is easy with the Ink mobile app: Set and adjust individual spending limits on the go. Get instant alerts for every purchase so you know when and where they’re spending money. Free employee cards help you earn rewards faster. Get more control and rewards with every employee purchase. How’s that for balancing delegation AND maintaining control? Earn Valuable Rewards You Can Use the Way You Want To It’s a good idea to consider the rewards of your business credit card. Most people look at the number of rewards they can earn. That is important, of course. But the proof of the pudding is when it comes time to redeem and use those rewards. Look for flexibility and ease in redeeming rewards. Is it easy to redeem them online? Can you use the rewards in a variety of ways — including cash back, travel, and gift cards? That’s how you’ll get the most out of your card’s rewards. Find out more about Ink from Chase business credit cards, including Ink Plus and Ink Cash. Maximizing Credit Card Rewards Using a business credit card wisely can turn everyday expenses into valuable rewards that contribute significantly to your company’s growth. Here’s how you can maximize rewards for your business’s benefit: Choose a Card That Aligns with Your Spending: Analyze your business’s spending habits to identify where you spend the most (e.g., travel, office supplies, telecommunications). Choose a credit card that provides higher rewards rates in specific categories to help you earn points, miles, or cash back at a faster pace. Leverage Sign-up Bonuses: Consider selecting cards that provide significant sign-up bonuses, as these can greatly benefit your business if you fulfill the initial spending criteria. Consider timing your application for a new card to align with significant upcoming purchases or business investments in order to meet these thresholds. Reinvest Rewards into Your Business: Use cashback rewards to offset operational costs or invest in areas needing improvement, such as marketing or new equipment. Redeem points or miles for business travel, reducing expenses for flights, hotels, and car rentals. Regularly Review and Adapt Your Strategy: Stay informed about any changes to your credit card’s rewards program and adjust your spending strategy accordingly. Consider having multiple cards for different spending categories to optimize rewards across all business expenses. Building Your Credit Score A solid credit history opens up new avenues for business expansion. Here’s how to build and leverage your business credit through the use of a credit card: Timely Payments and Credit Utilization: Ensure payments are made on time, every time. Late payments can negatively impact your business credit score. Keep your credit utilization low (ideally below 30%) to show lenders that you manage credit responsibly. Use Credit to Demonstrate Financial Reliability: A strong credit history signifies to lenders, suppliers, and potential partners that your business is financially stable. Leverage your good credit standing to negotiate better terms on loans and lines of credit, reducing costs and improving cash flow. Credit as a Tool for Negotiation: With established credit, you have the leverage to negotiate more favorable payment terms with suppliers, potentially allowing for longer payment cycles that can ease cash flow. Use your business credit to secure larger credit lines, providing the necessary capital to fund expansion projects without depleting cash reserves. Monitor and Manage Your Credit Profile: Regularly check your business credit report to ensure accuracy and address any issues or inaccuracies immediately. Understand that building credit is a continuous process; as your business grows, so do its credit needs and capabilities. Enhances Operational Flexibility The strategic use of a business credit card enhances your company’s operational flexibility, allowing for agile responses to both opportunities and challenges. Here’s how: Streamlined Expense Management: Utilize your business credit card for most expenses to centralize spending records, simplifying accounting and budget tracking. Employ the detailed monthly statements and online tracking tools provided by your card issuer to monitor spending patterns and adjust budgets promptly. Emergency Funds Access: A business credit card serves as a readily available source of funds for unexpected expenses, ensuring operations continue smoothly without dipping into reserves. This immediate access to credit can be crucial for repairing critical equipment, covering sudden operational costs, or seizing time-sensitive business opportunities. Flexible Cash Flow Management: The grace period between purchases and payment due dates provides a short-term credit advantage, improving cash flow management. Leverage this period to align outgoing expenses with incoming revenues, ensuring liquidity without incurring additional costs. Employee Empowerment: Issue cards to trusted employees for company expenses, empowering them to make necessary purchases and decisions swiftly, within set limits. This delegation enhances efficiency while also allowing management to dedicate more time to strategic planning and growth initiatives. Credit Card Security Features Protect Your Business In today’s digital age, protecting your business from fraud and cyber threats is paramount. Business credit cards come equipped with features designed to safeguard your company’s financial integrity: Fraud Monitoring and Alerts: Benefit from 24/7 fraud monitoring services provided by card issuers, which detect and alert you to unusual activity, potentially stopping fraud in its tracks. Set up customized alerts for transactions exceeding a certain amount, international purchases, or online transactions to maintain close oversight. Secure Online Transactions: Use cards with virtual account numbers for online purchases to minimize exposure of your actual account details, reducing the risk of data breaches. Employ cards featuring one-time-use or dynamic CVV codes that change with each transaction for additional online security. Zero Liability Protection: Take advantage of zero liability policies that protect your business from unauthorized transactions, ensuring you’re not held responsible for fraudulent charges. Prompt reporting of any suspicious activity plays a crucial role in activating this protection. EMV Chip Technology: EMV chips generate a unique transaction code for each use, making it harder for fraudsters to replicate your card compared to magnetic stripe cards. Encourage the use of chip-enabled terminals by your vendors for enhanced security of in-person transactions. FAQs: Why Use a Business Credit Card Why should I consider using a business credit card for my expenses instead of a personal credit card? When starting a business, many entrepreneurs initially use personal credit cards for expenses due to convenience. However, as your business grows, utilizing a dedicated business credit card offers several advantages, such as better credit management and separation of personal and business finances. What are the benefits of having a separate business credit card and personal credit card? Maintaining separate credit cards for your business and personal expenses provides you with distinct credit limits. This separation expands your overall available credit, allowing you to allocate credit more effectively for both your business and family needs. How does a business credit card help establish a credit history for my business? Using a business credit card helps build a credit history specifically for your business. Establishing a positive credit history is crucial for obtaining favorable loan terms and financing options in the future. Can a business credit card provide access to other financial products for business growth? Yes, selecting a business credit card from a provider with a range of business-oriented financial products can be advantageous. For instance, some providers offer access to credit lines beyond the credit card, which can provide your business with increased purchasing power and support growth. Why is maintaining the separation between business and personal expenses important? Maintaining separation between business and personal expenses is crucial for legal and tax reasons. Separation helps protect personal liability and ensures that you can deduct only legitimate business-related expenses for tax purposes. How can a business credit card save time through technology? A business credit card equipped with advanced technology helps manage expenses efficiently. It simplifies recordkeeping, budget tracking, and tax preparation by automating processes and offering detailed insights into spending habits. How can a business credit card help with delegating and controlling employee spending? As your business expands, delegation becomes important. Business credit cards like Ink from Chase offer free employee cards with spending limits that you can adjust. The accompanying mobile app allows you to monitor employee spending and maintain control while delegating authority. What rewards can I expect from a business credit card? Business credit cards often come with valuable rewards programs. While many focus on the number of rewards earned, it’s equally important to consider the flexibility and ease of redeeming rewards. Look for options to redeem rewards online and in various ways, such as cashback, travel, and gift cards. Can you provide examples of specific business credit cards that offer these benefits? Certainly, Ink from Chase offers business credit cards like Ink Plus and Ink Cash that provide the advantages mentioned above. These cards offer benefits such as flexible rewards, advanced technology, employee spending controls, and opportunities to establish a strong financial relationship. How can I find more information about Ink from Chase business credit cards? To find out more about Ink from Chase business credit cards, such as Ink Plus and Ink Cash, you can visit the Chase website or reach out to their customer service for comprehensive details on features, benefits, and how to apply. Transitioning to a business credit card from personal use is a critical move for entrepreneurs aiming for growth. This change brings several key benefits that significantly impact your business’s development. Advantages of Using a Business Credit Card: Enhanced Credit Capacity: Frees up personal credit for personal use while expanding business credit. Simplified Financial Management: Makes tax deductions easier and protects personal liability by keeping business expenses separate. Credit History Development: Helps in building a business credit profile, increasing credibility for future loans or credit lines. Streamlined Operations: Integrates with technology for efficient financial management, focusing more on core business activities. Rewarding Opportunities: Select cards offering meaningful rewards and easy redemption to reinvest in your business growth. Choosing the Right Provider: It’s crucial to select a credit card issuer that aligns with your business needs, such as Chase, which offers a wide range of financial products tailored to different stages of your business lifecycle. In conclusion, adopting a business credit card is more than a financial necessity; it’s a strategic decision that amplifies your business’s potential. By leveraging the full spectrum of benefits that a business credit card offers, entrepreneurs can ensure their business is well-positioned for expansion and success, marking a significant step forward in their entrepreneurial journey. This article, "Why Use a Business Credit Card? Here are the Top Reasons" was first published on Small Business Trends View the full article

When first starting a business, many entrepreneurs begin using a personal credit card for expenses. It’s the path of least resistance. However, once the business starts to thrive, you will garner tangible benefits from using a good business credit card — i.e., a credit card in your business name that is used strictly for business purposes. Here are the advantages that a business credit card can offer your business to help it grow and be profitable: Expands Your Overall Available Credit Establishes Business Credit History Access to Other Financial Products to Fuel Growth Maintains Separation of Business and Personal Expenses Saves Times through Technology Allows You to Delegate Yet Control Employee Spending Earn Valuable Rewards You Can Use the Way You Want To Building Your Credit Score Enhances Operational Flexibility Credit Card Security Features Protect Your Business Expands Your Overall Available Credit If you have ambitious dreams to grow your business, your growth may be stymied by using personal credit cards for business purposes. Why? You may have less credit available for family purchases because you’ve already used that credit for business purposes — and vice versa. Having a separate business credit card and separate personal credit card, each with its own credit limits can give you more potential credit overall for your business and for your family. Establishes Business Credit History Having a business credit card helps you establish a separate credit history for your business. Small businesses often get turned down for loans or get disadvantageous loan terms because they lack a credit history for their business. According to Tom Gazaway, founder, and CEO of LenCred.com, “From the business owner’s perspective, the importance of business credit has increased in recent years, and all the indicators point to this trend continuing in the years to come as well. It does depend on the type of financing you apply for, but the level of importance of business credit is clearly increasing.” Access to Other Financial Products to Fuel Growth Part of being a small business owner means constantly focusing on ways to increase the growth rate of your business. One way to use a business credit card to help grow your business may not be obvious. If you choose a business card with a provider that has a wide range of products that serve businesses, it can be the start of a strong financial relationship. For example, a company like Chase offers many business credit products. You can gain access to business-sized credit lines — beyond a credit card — to provide your business with more purchasing power and growth. “Chase offers financial services that meet small business needs no matter where they are in the lifecycle of their business,” said Laura Miller, president of Ink from Chase. “The Ink business credit card offers extended working capital and simplifies the management of everyday financial transactions.” Maintains Separation of Business and Personal Expenses If you own a corporation or LLC, it’s crucial to regard your business as distinct from your personal finances. This distinction is essential for preserving your personal liability limits, as noted by Nolo.com. Mixing personal and business expenses could jeopardize the legal protections you aimed to achieve through incorporation or forming a limited liability company. Also, for tax purposes, it is best practice to keep your business expenses separate. Only business-related expenses are deductible for a business tax return or Schedule C you file. A business credit card, by its very nature, will keep business expenses separate. Saves Time through Technology A business credit card that offers advanced technology does a lot of the recordkeeping work for you. It makes the process of managing your expense budget easy, with less work on your part to see exactly where you are spending and how much. It also keeps records properly identified for tax purposes, making tax time much less of a headache. That’s why it’s important to evaluate the technology that your credit card provider offers. The right technology can dramatically minimize the manual work needed to manage your finances. And it’s not just any old technology to consider. Make sure it’s a technology designed for business owners, delivering the right information in the right way for business use. For example, the Ink from Chase mobile app delivers advanced recordkeeping and analysis tools. Allows You to Delegate Yet Control Employee Spending As your business grows and adds employees, delegation becomes a critical skill. You want to provide your employees’s authority and not require them to come to you on minor decisions. However, you need control over critical things such as your business’ finances. That’s where a business credit card like Ink from Chase is a tremendous delegation tool and management aid. Ink offers free employee cards so you can give your employees the buying power they need within the limits you want. Monitoring each card is easy with the Ink mobile app: Set and adjust individual spending limits on the go. Get instant alerts for every purchase so you know when and where they’re spending money. Free employee cards help you earn rewards faster. Get more control and rewards with every employee purchase. How’s that for balancing delegation AND maintaining control? Earn Valuable Rewards You Can Use the Way You Want To It’s a good idea to consider the rewards of your business credit card. Most people look at the number of rewards they can earn. That is important, of course. But the proof of the pudding is when it comes time to redeem and use those rewards. Look for flexibility and ease in redeeming rewards. Is it easy to redeem them online? Can you use the rewards in a variety of ways — including cash back, travel, and gift cards? That’s how you’ll get the most out of your card’s rewards. Find out more about Ink from Chase business credit cards, including Ink Plus and Ink Cash. Maximizing Credit Card Rewards Using a business credit card wisely can turn everyday expenses into valuable rewards that contribute significantly to your company’s growth. Here’s how you can maximize rewards for your business’s benefit: Choose a Card That Aligns with Your Spending: Analyze your business’s spending habits to identify where you spend the most (e.g., travel, office supplies, telecommunications). Choose a credit card that provides higher rewards rates in specific categories to help you earn points, miles, or cash back at a faster pace. Leverage Sign-up Bonuses: Consider selecting cards that provide significant sign-up bonuses, as these can greatly benefit your business if you fulfill the initial spending criteria. Consider timing your application for a new card to align with significant upcoming purchases or business investments in order to meet these thresholds. Reinvest Rewards into Your Business: Use cashback rewards to offset operational costs or invest in areas needing improvement, such as marketing or new equipment. Redeem points or miles for business travel, reducing expenses for flights, hotels, and car rentals. Regularly Review and Adapt Your Strategy: Stay informed about any changes to your credit card’s rewards program and adjust your spending strategy accordingly. Consider having multiple cards for different spending categories to optimize rewards across all business expenses. Building Your Credit Score A solid credit history opens up new avenues for business expansion. Here’s how to build and leverage your business credit through the use of a credit card: Timely Payments and Credit Utilization: Ensure payments are made on time, every time. Late payments can negatively impact your business credit score. Keep your credit utilization low (ideally below 30%) to show lenders that you manage credit responsibly. Use Credit to Demonstrate Financial Reliability: A strong credit history signifies to lenders, suppliers, and potential partners that your business is financially stable. Leverage your good credit standing to negotiate better terms on loans and lines of credit, reducing costs and improving cash flow. Credit as a Tool for Negotiation: With established credit, you have the leverage to negotiate more favorable payment terms with suppliers, potentially allowing for longer payment cycles that can ease cash flow. Use your business credit to secure larger credit lines, providing the necessary capital to fund expansion projects without depleting cash reserves. Monitor and Manage Your Credit Profile: Regularly check your business credit report to ensure accuracy and address any issues or inaccuracies immediately. Understand that building credit is a continuous process; as your business grows, so do its credit needs and capabilities. Enhances Operational Flexibility The strategic use of a business credit card enhances your company’s operational flexibility, allowing for agile responses to both opportunities and challenges. Here’s how: Streamlined Expense Management: Utilize your business credit card for most expenses to centralize spending records, simplifying accounting and budget tracking. Employ the detailed monthly statements and online tracking tools provided by your card issuer to monitor spending patterns and adjust budgets promptly. Emergency Funds Access: A business credit card serves as a readily available source of funds for unexpected expenses, ensuring operations continue smoothly without dipping into reserves. This immediate access to credit can be crucial for repairing critical equipment, covering sudden operational costs, or seizing time-sensitive business opportunities. Flexible Cash Flow Management: The grace period between purchases and payment due dates provides a short-term credit advantage, improving cash flow management. Leverage this period to align outgoing expenses with incoming revenues, ensuring liquidity without incurring additional costs. Employee Empowerment: Issue cards to trusted employees for company expenses, empowering them to make necessary purchases and decisions swiftly, within set limits. This delegation enhances efficiency while also allowing management to dedicate more time to strategic planning and growth initiatives. Credit Card Security Features Protect Your Business In today’s digital age, protecting your business from fraud and cyber threats is paramount. Business credit cards come equipped with features designed to safeguard your company’s financial integrity: Fraud Monitoring and Alerts: Benefit from 24/7 fraud monitoring services provided by card issuers, which detect and alert you to unusual activity, potentially stopping fraud in its tracks. Set up customized alerts for transactions exceeding a certain amount, international purchases, or online transactions to maintain close oversight. Secure Online Transactions: Use cards with virtual account numbers for online purchases to minimize exposure of your actual account details, reducing the risk of data breaches. Employ cards featuring one-time-use or dynamic CVV codes that change with each transaction for additional online security. Zero Liability Protection: Take advantage of zero liability policies that protect your business from unauthorized transactions, ensuring you’re not held responsible for fraudulent charges. Prompt reporting of any suspicious activity plays a crucial role in activating this protection. EMV Chip Technology: EMV chips generate a unique transaction code for each use, making it harder for fraudsters to replicate your card compared to magnetic stripe cards. Encourage the use of chip-enabled terminals by your vendors for enhanced security of in-person transactions. FAQs: Why Use a Business Credit Card Why should I consider using a business credit card for my expenses instead of a personal credit card? When starting a business, many entrepreneurs initially use personal credit cards for expenses due to convenience. However, as your business grows, utilizing a dedicated business credit card offers several advantages, such as better credit management and separation of personal and business finances. What are the benefits of having a separate business credit card and personal credit card? Maintaining separate credit cards for your business and personal expenses provides you with distinct credit limits. This separation expands your overall available credit, allowing you to allocate credit more effectively for both your business and family needs. How does a business credit card help establish a credit history for my business? Using a business credit card helps build a credit history specifically for your business. Establishing a positive credit history is crucial for obtaining favorable loan terms and financing options in the future. Can a business credit card provide access to other financial products for business growth? Yes, selecting a business credit card from a provider with a range of business-oriented financial products can be advantageous. For instance, some providers offer access to credit lines beyond the credit card, which can provide your business with increased purchasing power and support growth. Why is maintaining the separation between business and personal expenses important? Maintaining separation between business and personal expenses is crucial for legal and tax reasons. Separation helps protect personal liability and ensures that you can deduct only legitimate business-related expenses for tax purposes. How can a business credit card save time through technology? A business credit card equipped with advanced technology helps manage expenses efficiently. It simplifies recordkeeping, budget tracking, and tax preparation by automating processes and offering detailed insights into spending habits. How can a business credit card help with delegating and controlling employee spending? As your business expands, delegation becomes important. Business credit cards like Ink from Chase offer free employee cards with spending limits that you can adjust. The accompanying mobile app allows you to monitor employee spending and maintain control while delegating authority. What rewards can I expect from a business credit card? Business credit cards often come with valuable rewards programs. While many focus on the number of rewards earned, it’s equally important to consider the flexibility and ease of redeeming rewards. Look for options to redeem rewards online and in various ways, such as cashback, travel, and gift cards. Can you provide examples of specific business credit cards that offer these benefits? Certainly, Ink from Chase offers business credit cards like Ink Plus and Ink Cash that provide the advantages mentioned above. These cards offer benefits such as flexible rewards, advanced technology, employee spending controls, and opportunities to establish a strong financial relationship. How can I find more information about Ink from Chase business credit cards? To find out more about Ink from Chase business credit cards, such as Ink Plus and Ink Cash, you can visit the Chase website or reach out to their customer service for comprehensive details on features, benefits, and how to apply. Transitioning to a business credit card from personal use is a critical move for entrepreneurs aiming for growth. This change brings several key benefits that significantly impact your business’s development. Advantages of Using a Business Credit Card: Enhanced Credit Capacity: Frees up personal credit for personal use while expanding business credit. Simplified Financial Management: Makes tax deductions easier and protects personal liability by keeping business expenses separate. Credit History Development: Helps in building a business credit profile, increasing credibility for future loans or credit lines. Streamlined Operations: Integrates with technology for efficient financial management, focusing more on core business activities. Rewarding Opportunities: Select cards offering meaningful rewards and easy redemption to reinvest in your business growth. Choosing the Right Provider: It’s crucial to select a credit card issuer that aligns with your business needs, such as Chase, which offers a wide range of financial products tailored to different stages of your business lifecycle. In conclusion, adopting a business credit card is more than a financial necessity; it’s a strategic decision that amplifies your business’s potential. By leveraging the full spectrum of benefits that a business credit card offers, entrepreneurs can ensure their business is well-positioned for expansion and success, marking a significant step forward in their entrepreneurial journey. This article, "Why Use a Business Credit Card? Here are the Top Reasons" was first published on Small Business Trends View the full article

France to host emergency meeting of heads of state and government as Washington and Moscow start negotiationsView the full article

Wellness Wednesday is a popular weekly topic on social media. And it can impact workplaces as well. If you own a business, this concept may provide benefits for you and your team. Here’s a guide to observing this weekly tradition. What Exactly is Wellness Wednesday? Wellness Wednesday is not an officially regulated activity. Rather, many businesses and organizations use the term independently to promote a healthy lifestyle in their own way. The term gained popularity in the early days of social media, as brands shared tips and tricks under the #WellnessWednesday hashtag. But today, many workplaces use it to promote well-being among employees. Potential Topics for Wellness Wednesday: Physical activity ideas Nutrition tips and healthy recipes Sleep hygiene practices Mindfulness and meditation exercises Mental health resources and coping mechanisms Why is Wellness Wednesday Important? Promoting physical and mental health makes workers and society as a whole happier and more productive. The following section outlines some specific ways Wellness Wednesdays can teach people how to stay healthy in the workplace. 10 Benefits of Getting Your Business Involved in Wellness Wednesday Wellness Wednesdays involve sharing suggestions and inspirational ideas that promote physical activity, nutrition, quality sleep, mindfulness, and mental health. Here are some benefits businesses can realize by participating. Better physical and mental health Promotion of a sustainable, healthy lifestyle Stress reduction and coping mechanisms Enhanced focus and energy levels Boost in morale and happiness Achievement of a better work-life balance Increased engagement and teamwork Decreased absences due to illness Lowered healthcare-related expenses Reduced turnover rates Better Physical and Mental Health Promoting holistic health is a central tenet of successful teams. When employees receive actionable advice about nutrition, exercise, and mental well-being, they can proactively address potential health issues. A holistic approach not only alleviates physical ailments but also improves mental clarity. Sharing these tips conveys a strong message: the company’s commitment to employee wellness extends beyond their professional performance. Such an initiative can foster a sense of belonging, boosting morale and job satisfaction. Healthy Lifestyle Wellness Wednesday stands as a beacon for lasting change, not just ephemeral health trends. By fostering a comprehensive understanding of well-being, it equips employees with the knowledge to make informed choices daily. Encouraging a holistic view, where physical health intertwines with mental and emotional well-being, promotes continuity in health practices. It emphasizes that wellness isn’t a one-time event but an ongoing journey, seamlessly blending into everyday routines. Lower Stress Levels In today’s fast-paced world, stress is a constant companion for many. By offering resources like meditation techniques or even simple relaxation exercises, employees get a valuable arsenal to combat daily stressors. Furthermore, by actively promoting stress-reducing activities, the organization fosters an environment that recognizes the challenges employees encounter both in the workplace and in their personal lives. This proactive approach not only enhances productivity but also underscores the company’s commitment to its holistic well-being. Increased Focus Concentration can suffer when a person’s health is not at its best. Even small health concerns can become major distractions, resulting in reduced productivity. By promoting self-care routines and creative wellness strategies, employees can revitalize their mental capabilities. Better sleep, better nutrition, and reduced stress culminate in a sharper mind. In this enhanced state, innovation flourishes, and tasks that once seemed challenging become more manageable. Improved Morale A positive work environment is symbiotically linked with employee well-being. Regular exercise, a balanced diet, and effective stress management techniques not only enhance physical health but also elevate mood. When employees feel good, it shows, leading to more vibrant interactions and a more cohesive team dynamic. Such a harmonious atmosphere significantly reduces workplace conflicts and fosters an environment of mutual respect and cooperation Better Work-Life Balance A well-rounded life is about more than just work. Employees who are physically and mentally healthy often find it easier to juggle their professional and personal commitments. This equilibrium ensures they can give their best at work while still having enough energy for personal passions and family time. Creating an atmosphere where health is prioritized means employees feel more equipped to delineate their work and personal lives, resulting in a richer, more fulfilling experience in both spheres. Increased Engagement Community-building is an essential aspect of a thriving workplace. Wellness Wednesday doesn’t just provide individual benefits; it serves as a platform for collective activities. Whether it’s group fitness challenges, shared recipes, or outdoor lunchtime walks, these shared experiences cultivate a sense of camaraderie. When team members bond over health and wellness activities, it deepens their connection, leading to enhanced teamwork and an overall more harmonious work environment. Fewer Sick Days A robust immune system is a natural outcome of a healthy lifestyle. When employees actively engage in the wellness practices you suggest, they build up their defenses against common ailments. This proactive health management means fewer unscheduled absences, ensuring smoother team operations. Moreover, when they do need to take time off, it’s for rejuvenating breaks rather than recuperating from illness, ensuring they return to work refreshed and ready to contribute effectively. Reduced Healthcare Costs An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. Encouraging your team to adopt preventive health practices means fewer visits to the doctor and a reduced need for medical interventions. Regular exercise, mindful eating, and mental wellness practices can stave off chronic conditions and mitigate the need for extensive medical care. In the long run, this not only benefits individual employees but also significantly reduces the company’s healthcare expenditure, representing a win-win for everyone. Lower Turnover Employee retention is a clear indicator of a company’s internal health. By creating an environment where employees feel cared for and valued, you enhance their loyalty to the company. When workers are physically fit, mentally agile, and emotionally supported, they perceive the workplace as a nurturing environment, reducing the allure of seeking opportunities elsewhere. By fostering such a holistic workspace, you lay the foundation for long-term employee commitment, ensuring continuity and sustained growth for the company. Comparison: Traditional Work Environment vs. Wellness Wednesday Work Environment Incorporating the principles of Wellness Wednesday can bring about significant positive changes to your workplace. The following table provides a comparison between a traditional work environment and one that has integrated Wellness Wednesday principles: Features / OutcomesTraditional Work EnvironmentWellness Wednesday Integrated Environment Employee Health (Physical & Mental)Often overlookedActively promoted Stress LevelsHighManaged and reduced Focus & ProductivityVariableEnhanced Employee Morale & SatisfactionInconsistentConsistently high Work-Life BalanceStrainedEncouraged and supported Employee EngagementIndividualisticCommunity-focused Sick Days TakenHigher frequencyReduced Healthcare Costs for CompanyHigherPotentially reduced Employee Turnover RateHigherLower Get Involved This Wellness Wednesday Wellness Wednesday isn’t just a trending topic on social media. Businesses can use this concept to create a real community among employees, helping them stay active, eat better, and enjoy a happier lifestyle. Encouraging Physical Activity: Beyond the Desk Incorporating physical activity into the workday can significantly enhance employees’ health and productivity. Consider organizing short group exercises during breaks, such as stretching sessions, quick walks, or even stand-up meetings. These activities not only energize the body but also enhance mental stimulation, setting the stage for more productive work sessions. Encouraging a culture that incorporates movement into daily routines can help mitigate the sedentary aspects of office jobs and create a more vibrant workplace atmosphere. Nutrition Tips and Healthy Eating Habits Nutrition plays a crucial role in overall wellness. Use Wellness Wednesday to share nutritional tips, healthy eating habits, and even simple, nutritious recipes that employees can try at home. Consider partnering with a nutritionist for a monthly health talk or setting up a healthy snack station in the office. Encouraging employees to make better food choices can lead to improved energy levels, better health outcomes, and a more positive workplace atmosphere. Prioritizing Sleep Hygiene for Better Rest The importance of quality sleep cannot be overstated. Educate employees on the benefits of good sleep hygiene practices, such as maintaining a regular sleep schedule, creating a restful environment, and disconnecting from screens before bedtime. Sharing strategies for improving sleep can help employees feel more rested and alert, reducing fatigue and enhancing overall performance at work. Mindfulness and Meditation for Stress Management Introduce mindfulness and meditation practices as tools for managing stress and enhancing mental clarity. Organize short guided meditation sessions or provide resources for employees to explore mindfulness on their own. These practices can help employees develop a more focused and calm approach to their work and personal lives, improving their ability to handle stress and challenges. Providing Mental Health Resources and Support Mental health is an essential component of overall wellness. Provide employees with resources and support for mental health, such as access to counseling services, mental health days, and workshops on coping mechanisms. Creating an open and supportive environment where mental health is prioritized can contribute to a healthier, more resilient workforce. Creating a Wellness Wednesday Community Board Foster a sense of community and shared learning by creating a Wellness Wednesday community board—either physically in the office or digitally on the company intranet. Employees can share their wellness tips, success stories, and healthy recipes. This collaborative space fosters employee interaction, allowing them to share their wellness journeys and support one another in reaching their health goals. Organizing Wellness Challenges and Incentives Motivate employees to participate in wellness activities by organizing challenges and offering incentives. Whether it’s a step challenge, a healthy eating week, or a mindfulness challenge, these activities can be fun and engaging ways to promote wellness. Incentives such as extra time off, gift cards, or wellness-related prizes can further encourage participation and make Wellness Wednesday something employees look forward to. Encouraging Regular Health Check-ups Remind employees of the importance of regular health check-ups and screenings. Encourage them to stay on top of their health by scheduling annual physicals and taking advantage of any health screenings offered by the company’s health plan. Providing information on the types of screenings recommended for different age groups can help employees take proactive steps toward their health. Offering Flexibility for Work-Life Balance Recognize the importance of work-life balance in overall wellness. Offer flexible working arrangements, such as telecommuting options or flexible hours, to help employees manage their personal and professional responsibilities more effectively. This flexibility can create a more balanced and satisfied workforce, which in turn reduces stress and boosts productivity. Evaluating and Improving Wellness Wednesday Initiatives Finally, continuously evaluate and improve your Wellness Wednesday initiatives based on employee feedback and participation rates. Regularly soliciting feedback can help you understand what’s working and what could be improved, ensuring that your wellness initiatives remain relevant, engaging, and beneficial to your employees. This ongoing commitment to wellness can help foster a culture of health and well-being within your organization, contributing to happier, healthier employees and a more positive work environment. By continuously focusing on the well-being of employees, businesses can create a more vibrant, healthy, and productive workplace. Wellness Wednesday serves as a weekly reminder to prioritize health and well-being, not just for the benefit of individual employees but for the overall success of the organization. Whether you share simple tips or host events or activities, focusing on wellness can be a major benefit to all types of workplaces. Image: Depositphotos This article, "What is Wellness Wednesday?" was first published on Small Business Trends View the full article

Wellness Wednesday is a popular weekly topic on social media. And it can impact workplaces as well. If you own a business, this concept may provide benefits for you and your team. Here’s a guide to observing this weekly tradition. What Exactly is Wellness Wednesday? Wellness Wednesday is not an officially regulated activity. Rather, many businesses and organizations use the term independently to promote a healthy lifestyle in their own way. The term gained popularity in the early days of social media, as brands shared tips and tricks under the #WellnessWednesday hashtag. But today, many workplaces use it to promote well-being among employees. Potential Topics for Wellness Wednesday: Physical activity ideas Nutrition tips and healthy recipes Sleep hygiene practices Mindfulness and meditation exercises Mental health resources and coping mechanisms Why is Wellness Wednesday Important? Promoting physical and mental health makes workers and society as a whole happier and more productive. The following section outlines some specific ways Wellness Wednesdays can teach people how to stay healthy in the workplace. 10 Benefits of Getting Your Business Involved in Wellness Wednesday Wellness Wednesdays involve sharing suggestions and inspirational ideas that promote physical activity, nutrition, quality sleep, mindfulness, and mental health. Here are some benefits businesses can realize by participating. Better physical and mental health Promotion of a sustainable, healthy lifestyle Stress reduction and coping mechanisms Enhanced focus and energy levels Boost in morale and happiness Achievement of a better work-life balance Increased engagement and teamwork Decreased absences due to illness Lowered healthcare-related expenses Reduced turnover rates Better Physical and Mental Health Promoting holistic health is a central tenet of successful teams. When employees receive actionable advice about nutrition, exercise, and mental well-being, they can proactively address potential health issues. A holistic approach not only alleviates physical ailments but also improves mental clarity. Sharing these tips conveys a strong message: the company’s commitment to employee wellness extends beyond their professional performance. Such an initiative can foster a sense of belonging, boosting morale and job satisfaction. Healthy Lifestyle Wellness Wednesday stands as a beacon for lasting change, not just ephemeral health trends. By fostering a comprehensive understanding of well-being, it equips employees with the knowledge to make informed choices daily. Encouraging a holistic view, where physical health intertwines with mental and emotional well-being, promotes continuity in health practices. It emphasizes that wellness isn’t a one-time event but an ongoing journey, seamlessly blending into everyday routines. Lower Stress Levels In today’s fast-paced world, stress is a constant companion for many. By offering resources like meditation techniques or even simple relaxation exercises, employees get a valuable arsenal to combat daily stressors. Furthermore, by actively promoting stress-reducing activities, the organization fosters an environment that recognizes the challenges employees encounter both in the workplace and in their personal lives. This proactive approach not only enhances productivity but also underscores the company’s commitment to its holistic well-being. Increased Focus Concentration can suffer when a person’s health is not at its best. Even small health concerns can become major distractions, resulting in reduced productivity. By promoting self-care routines and creative wellness strategies, employees can revitalize their mental capabilities. Better sleep, better nutrition, and reduced stress culminate in a sharper mind. In this enhanced state, innovation flourishes, and tasks that once seemed challenging become more manageable. Improved Morale A positive work environment is symbiotically linked with employee well-being. Regular exercise, a balanced diet, and effective stress management techniques not only enhance physical health but also elevate mood. When employees feel good, it shows, leading to more vibrant interactions and a more cohesive team dynamic. Such a harmonious atmosphere significantly reduces workplace conflicts and fosters an environment of mutual respect and cooperation Better Work-Life Balance A well-rounded life is about more than just work. Employees who are physically and mentally healthy often find it easier to juggle their professional and personal commitments. This equilibrium ensures they can give their best at work while still having enough energy for personal passions and family time. Creating an atmosphere where health is prioritized means employees feel more equipped to delineate their work and personal lives, resulting in a richer, more fulfilling experience in both spheres. Increased Engagement Community-building is an essential aspect of a thriving workplace. Wellness Wednesday doesn’t just provide individual benefits; it serves as a platform for collective activities. Whether it’s group fitness challenges, shared recipes, or outdoor lunchtime walks, these shared experiences cultivate a sense of camaraderie. When team members bond over health and wellness activities, it deepens their connection, leading to enhanced teamwork and an overall more harmonious work environment. Fewer Sick Days A robust immune system is a natural outcome of a healthy lifestyle. When employees actively engage in the wellness practices you suggest, they build up their defenses against common ailments. This proactive health management means fewer unscheduled absences, ensuring smoother team operations. Moreover, when they do need to take time off, it’s for rejuvenating breaks rather than recuperating from illness, ensuring they return to work refreshed and ready to contribute effectively. Reduced Healthcare Costs An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. Encouraging your team to adopt preventive health practices means fewer visits to the doctor and a reduced need for medical interventions. Regular exercise, mindful eating, and mental wellness practices can stave off chronic conditions and mitigate the need for extensive medical care. In the long run, this not only benefits individual employees but also significantly reduces the company’s healthcare expenditure, representing a win-win for everyone. Lower Turnover Employee retention is a clear indicator of a company’s internal health. By creating an environment where employees feel cared for and valued, you enhance their loyalty to the company. When workers are physically fit, mentally agile, and emotionally supported, they perceive the workplace as a nurturing environment, reducing the allure of seeking opportunities elsewhere. By fostering such a holistic workspace, you lay the foundation for long-term employee commitment, ensuring continuity and sustained growth for the company. Comparison: Traditional Work Environment vs. Wellness Wednesday Work Environment Incorporating the principles of Wellness Wednesday can bring about significant positive changes to your workplace. The following table provides a comparison between a traditional work environment and one that has integrated Wellness Wednesday principles: Features / OutcomesTraditional Work EnvironmentWellness Wednesday Integrated Environment Employee Health (Physical & Mental)Often overlookedActively promoted Stress LevelsHighManaged and reduced Focus & ProductivityVariableEnhanced Employee Morale & SatisfactionInconsistentConsistently high Work-Life BalanceStrainedEncouraged and supported Employee EngagementIndividualisticCommunity-focused Sick Days TakenHigher frequencyReduced Healthcare Costs for CompanyHigherPotentially reduced Employee Turnover RateHigherLower Get Involved This Wellness Wednesday Wellness Wednesday isn’t just a trending topic on social media. Businesses can use this concept to create a real community among employees, helping them stay active, eat better, and enjoy a happier lifestyle. Encouraging Physical Activity: Beyond the Desk Incorporating physical activity into the workday can significantly enhance employees’ health and productivity. Consider organizing short group exercises during breaks, such as stretching sessions, quick walks, or even stand-up meetings. These activities not only energize the body but also enhance mental stimulation, setting the stage for more productive work sessions. Encouraging a culture that incorporates movement into daily routines can help mitigate the sedentary aspects of office jobs and create a more vibrant workplace atmosphere. Nutrition Tips and Healthy Eating Habits Nutrition plays a crucial role in overall wellness. Use Wellness Wednesday to share nutritional tips, healthy eating habits, and even simple, nutritious recipes that employees can try at home. Consider partnering with a nutritionist for a monthly health talk or setting up a healthy snack station in the office. Encouraging employees to make better food choices can lead to improved energy levels, better health outcomes, and a more positive workplace atmosphere. Prioritizing Sleep Hygiene for Better Rest The importance of quality sleep cannot be overstated. Educate employees on the benefits of good sleep hygiene practices, such as maintaining a regular sleep schedule, creating a restful environment, and disconnecting from screens before bedtime. Sharing strategies for improving sleep can help employees feel more rested and alert, reducing fatigue and enhancing overall performance at work. Mindfulness and Meditation for Stress Management Introduce mindfulness and meditation practices as tools for managing stress and enhancing mental clarity. Organize short guided meditation sessions or provide resources for employees to explore mindfulness on their own. These practices can help employees develop a more focused and calm approach to their work and personal lives, improving their ability to handle stress and challenges. Providing Mental Health Resources and Support Mental health is an essential component of overall wellness. Provide employees with resources and support for mental health, such as access to counseling services, mental health days, and workshops on coping mechanisms. Creating an open and supportive environment where mental health is prioritized can contribute to a healthier, more resilient workforce. Creating a Wellness Wednesday Community Board Foster a sense of community and shared learning by creating a Wellness Wednesday community board—either physically in the office or digitally on the company intranet. Employees can share their wellness tips, success stories, and healthy recipes. This collaborative space fosters employee interaction, allowing them to share their wellness journeys and support one another in reaching their health goals. Organizing Wellness Challenges and Incentives Motivate employees to participate in wellness activities by organizing challenges and offering incentives. Whether it’s a step challenge, a healthy eating week, or a mindfulness challenge, these activities can be fun and engaging ways to promote wellness. Incentives such as extra time off, gift cards, or wellness-related prizes can further encourage participation and make Wellness Wednesday something employees look forward to. Encouraging Regular Health Check-ups Remind employees of the importance of regular health check-ups and screenings. Encourage them to stay on top of their health by scheduling annual physicals and taking advantage of any health screenings offered by the company’s health plan. Providing information on the types of screenings recommended for different age groups can help employees take proactive steps toward their health. Offering Flexibility for Work-Life Balance Recognize the importance of work-life balance in overall wellness. Offer flexible working arrangements, such as telecommuting options or flexible hours, to help employees manage their personal and professional responsibilities more effectively. This flexibility can create a more balanced and satisfied workforce, which in turn reduces stress and boosts productivity. Evaluating and Improving Wellness Wednesday Initiatives Finally, continuously evaluate and improve your Wellness Wednesday initiatives based on employee feedback and participation rates. Regularly soliciting feedback can help you understand what’s working and what could be improved, ensuring that your wellness initiatives remain relevant, engaging, and beneficial to your employees. This ongoing commitment to wellness can help foster a culture of health and well-being within your organization, contributing to happier, healthier employees and a more positive work environment. By continuously focusing on the well-being of employees, businesses can create a more vibrant, healthy, and productive workplace. Wellness Wednesday serves as a weekly reminder to prioritize health and well-being, not just for the benefit of individual employees but for the overall success of the organization. Whether you share simple tips or host events or activities, focusing on wellness can be a major benefit to all types of workplaces. Image: Depositphotos This article, "What is Wellness Wednesday?" was first published on Small Business Trends View the full article

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Steven Heine is a professor of social and cultural psychology at the University of British Columbia. He is the author of Cultural Psychology, the top-selling book in the field. His research has been featured in The New York Times, Washington Post, Guardian, Newsweek, and New Scientist, among other publications. What’s the big idea? A lot of people right now feel lost, anxious, and despaired. During these dark times, preserving a sense of meaning in our lives is vital. Fortunately, meaning can be cultivated and ground us when life feels turbulent. The emerging field of existential psychology is refining practices for tuning in to the worth, purpose, and importance of your life. Below, Steven shares five key insights from his new book, Start Making Sense: How Existential Psychology Can Help Us Build Meaningful Lives in Absurd Times. Listen to the audio version—read by Steven himself—in the Next Big Idea App. 1. Meaning in life helps protect against anxiety. Everyone seems on edge these days. The world is going through somewhat of a mental health crisis as rates of anxiety, depression, and deaths of despair have jumped sharply in many countries. How can we cope with these dark times? The sense of leading a meaningful life protects us from anxiety and uncertainty. When people feel that their lives are meaningful, a sense of purpose guides them, and their life makes sense. They feel that what they do matters and can make a difference in the world. People who feel their lives are meaningful can stand strong in the face of the slings and arrows thrown at them by these uncertain times. They enjoy greater well-being and fare better in coping with their anxieties. The emerging field of existential psychology has provided evidence-based answers to what makes a life meaningful. Ultimately, meaning is about connections, and a meaningful life is richly connected. For example, interpersonal connections play a key role because people feel that their lives are more meaningful when they spend time with their closest relationships, especially when taking on a caretaker role. People also feel more meaningful when they are part of a community because it gives them a sense of belongingness and identity. People’s connections to their work can also provide a sense of purpose and mastery. And people feel meaningful when their lives are connected to the transcendent realm, feeling that they are part of something much larger than the material world. When people’s lives are sufficiently connected in these domains, they are existentially grounded. Their lives make sense, they feel a sense of purpose in what they do, and they feel that their lives matter in the grand scheme of things. This mindset helps people thrive during trying times. 2. We tell stories to make sense of life. Our lives only feel meaningful when they seem to make sense. But the key challenge is that life often doesn’t seem coherent. For example, we may seem like quite different people in different situations. We might act silly with friends, but on our daily commute, we may be short-tempered, and then at work, we become ambitious and responsible. Which persona is the real self? Or we might struggle to identify a common thread connecting the different chapters of our lives. We might realize that the person we were in high school shares little in common with how we now think of ourselves. How can we weave all the different threads of our self together? We accomplish this by telling stories. We create stories with our self as the central character, going on a journey where we confront all the experiences and challenges in our lives. These stories help us organize our understanding of who we are, what we are doing, and why we are doing it. It lays the foundation of self. “Stories integrate those inconsistent facets of ourselves because they allow us to focus on particular episodes and edit out parts that don’t quite fit.” Importantly, the stories we tell are not typically literal accounts of what happened but improvised tellings that make our lives feel sensible. Stories integrate those inconsistent facets of ourselves because they allow us to focus on particular episodes and edit out parts that don’t quite fit. When we tell our stories well, we feel that our lives make sense. While each story we tell about ourselves is unique in certain respects, it often shares features in common with stories told by others. Many of our stories share common themes, such as redemption, when our story highlights how we conquered a challenge, or a theme of contamination, when our story explains how our life suddenly went off a cliff. Also, our stories rest upon simple but extremely important premises that guide how we experience the events in our lives. Our stories might be built around key premises such as “I am good” or “People get what they deserve.” These premises serve as a lens through which we see how our life unfolds. Part of leading a meaningful life is learning how to narrate the events in our lives through a compelling and sensible story. 3. When meaning is threatened, we seek to rebuild it. A key challenge with leading a meaningful life is that things often don’t feel meaningful. Feelings of meaning ebb and flow like the tide. But we have a psychological need to feel that things are meaningful. When things feel meaningless, we become especially motivated to make things seem meaningful again. It’s akin to feeling hungry when we haven’t had enough food. Likewise, our brains signal to us when our lives aren’t sufficiently meaningful. Research points to our brains having a sense-making system that strives to keep things feeling meaningful. When things feel meaningless, our brains detect a signal indicating a lack of sufficient meaning, and we are prepared to try to regain a sense of meaning. It’s a homeostatic system, much like your thermostat at home, that only becomes triggered when meaning is insufficient. This is all occurring beneath our awareness. There are different ways to rebuild a sense of meaning. Much research finds that people feel more meaningful after engaging in nostalgic reflections. Remembering how we were in past chapters of our life stories provides us with a better appreciation for how we became the person we are now, boosting our sense of meaning. We are most likely to drift off in a nostalgic reverie precisely when we feel that life is unsatisfyingly low in meaning. For example, our lives feel more meaningless when we are lonely or bored. When a sense of meaning is hard to come by, we make unconscious efforts to boost meaning. So, we often turn to memories in an effort to regain an existential footing. We may play songs from the soundtrack of our youth or flip through a photo album. Our sense-making system was tripped, and nostalgic reflections are one way to regain a sense of meaning. I don’t think it’s a coincidence that since the 2010s, the world has undergone a nostalgia boom. Movie theatres are playing remakes of films that were created decades earlier. New television series set in previous decades are discussed as much for their plots as they are for how they nailed the décor, fashion, and music of those times. During this anxious period, we’ve felt a collective need for meaning, and the world has been turning to the past to gain the meaning-boosting effects of nostalgia. 4. Life struggles can provide greater meaning. Feeling meaningful and feeling happy share much in common. However, there is more to meaning in life than positive feelings. We can learn a lot by focusing on how meaning is distinct from happiness. Jean-Paul Sartre perceptively observed that “human life begins on the far side of despair,” and much research supports this contention. One study explored the characteristics of people with more meaningful lives and found that they reported more negative life experiences, even though these experiences came with a cost to happiness. Our struggles can often feel meaningful. Likewise, we can see this relation when considering where meaningful lives are commonly found. Curiously, you are more likely to find them where life is harder. On average, the poorer a country, the more meaningful its citizens report their lives to be. The comfort and ease that people living in wealthier countries can enjoy appear to come at an existential cost: it often doesn’t provide the struggles that people rely on to build resilience and meaning. “People’s spiritual lives often become deeper after a trauma.” Friedrich Nietzsche proclaimed, “That which does not kill me makes me stronger.” Research finds that people often do rise to the challenges that life throws at them. The most common reaction to trauma is post-traumatic growth. People make more meaning in the aftermath of trauma because their relationships often become closer, as they usually receive a great deal of social support. It is also common for people to develop a new sense of purpose as they re-evaluate their lives, and they often become more altruistic toward others who have experienced tragedies. People also tend to grow because they discover that they had inner strengths that they hadn’t realized. In addition, people’s spiritual lives often become deeper after a trauma. And last, the realization that so much can be lost in an instant makes survivors of trauma more appreciative of what they still have. They no longer take their lives for granted. We can never lead a life without suffering, and our struggles certainly come with a cost to happiness. But it is reassuring that difficult times can help make our lives more meaningful. 5. Meaning in life can be cultivated. Meaning in our lives can be nurtured. We are not born with a certain amount of meaning; meaning can be cultivated, just like any other ability. First, there are existential exercises that provide temporary boosts to feelings of meaning, which can be invaluable for helping us get out of a rut. I think of these as the existential equivalent of a shot of espresso. One simple exercise helps people feel existentially grounded—a clear understanding of who they are and what they stand for. People will feel more grounded after reflecting upon their most important values. Simply writing a brief paragraph about your most important values puts you in a better position to respond with greater resilience to challenges. A second way to cultivate a more meaningful life is to examine your life’s foundations for meaning: our connections, especially with closest relationships, with communities, with work, and with a transcendent realm. I encourage you to conduct an existential audit of yourself to evaluate how deeply connected you are in these domains and identify where you have the most room for growth. Hardly anyone is richly connected in all these domains, but meaning is fungible. That is, the meaning you derive from one domain of connections can make up for a shortfall of meaning in another domain. It’s as though we can pay for the meaning in our lives from different accounts. Remember that our life stories tie together the threads of our lives and provide a sense of coherence, purpose, and importance. We cannot change the past, but this doesn’t mean that our life stories are carved in stone. As the author Gabriel García Márquez put it, “What matters in life is not what happens to you but what you remember and how you remember it.” Some ways of telling a life story provide more meaning than other ways, and you would likely benefit from reflecting on your own life story in a different way. One of the most successful templates for stories, which the mythologist Joseph Campbell calls the Hero’s Journey, focuses on an individual conquering difficult challenges with a band of allies. When people are instructed to think of their own lives in terms of the individual elements from the Hero’s Journey template, they come to feel that their lives are more meaningful. If you try to identify your transformations, allies you’ve relied on, or seemingly insurmountable quests, you too can likely learn how to reflect on your life in a more constructive, meaningful way. This article originally appeared in Next Big Idea Club magazine and is reprinted with permission. View the full article

There’s one scarce resource that nearly everyone wishes they had more of: time. It always seems like there are more things to do than hours in the day. Many ways to squeeze more productivity out of your workday may leave you feeling burned out. But there are ways to trim the time spent on many aspects of life that will leave you with at least a little more wiggle room. Here are a few strategies: Create a guide to reduce interruptions If you often lose hours responding to emails and Slack messages asking different versions of the same questions, create an FAQ document with the answers all in one place. If you want to take it one step further, you can follow the lead of former Google vice president and Stripe COO Claire Hughes-Johnson, who created a “Working with Claire” guide. It’s basically a reference manual to instruct people you work with. Fast Company writer Stephanie Vozza, explains: “In her guide, Hughes-Johnson sets expectations, such as how to share information with her, and the amount of time she needs to send a response. It also includes her preferences, styles, and approaches, as well as alternative sources for help when employees are in a pinch and can’t move forward.” Trim all your meetings by at least 10 minutes Yes, many people think all meetings are a waste of time. And while some companies have taken the extreme approach of eliminating all recurring meetings, many meetings are necessary and help build and maintain relationships. However, very few of us fully pay attention for the entire length of a meeting—especially remote meetings. In fact, LiveCareer found that 9% of people start losing focus in less than 10 minutes into a meeting, while 43% said they lasted 20 to 30 minutes. Only 4% of people said they stayed focused for an hour or more. Knowing that attention (and therefore usefulness) drops off after 20 minutes, trim the meetings you have control over. Half-hour meetings become 20 minutes, hour-long meetings become 40 minutes, and by the end of the week you’ve reclaimed several hours. Do it now or delegate it To-do lists are a great productivity and organization tool, but we all waste a lot of time accumulating and then coming back to small tasks that end up eating up more time than they’re worth. Vladislav Podolyako, founder and CEO of Folderly, uses what he calls the “Touch it Once” (TIO) principle. Here’s how it works for him: “If I can do a task in 10 minutes or less, I do it right away. If not, I either delegate it to someone else or set it aside for at least a week.” Podolyako uses emails as a perfect example, explaining that many of the emails he receives require quick decisions. “If I’m just bcc-ed, usually my action is no action at all. If I know someone who knows an answer better, I forward [the] email.” He adds that he saves time by focusing on “being helpful instead of crafting a beautiful-looking but useless email.” View the full article

The decision to hire a business manager can serve as a pivotal moment in a company’s trajectory. This decision is often based on the business manager’s job description, which provides a clear and comprehensive outline of the roles and responsibilities expected from the candidate. A skilled business manager not only brings order to daily operations but also catalyzes growth and innovation. They play a crucial role in implementing strategies that might come from unusual ways to promote a job opening, ensuring each strategy aligns with the company’s broader vision. By effectively coordinating teams, implementing training plan templates, and overseeing business development, this key role can steer a company toward unparalleled success. Moreover, during the recruitment process, a great business manager is also skilled in handling various aspects, such as crafting a respectful interview rejection letter when needed. What is a Business Manager? A business manager acts as the linchpin that holds various aspects of a company together. They are responsible for coordinating business operations, from human resources to finance, ensuring seamless functionality. Their responsibilities also include understanding how to onboard new employees efficiently and effectively, reducing the time it takes for a new hire to become a productive member of the team. Moreover, the business manager plays a crucial role in implementing business strategies that align with the company’s goals and vision. This might involve innovative methods, such as exploring unusual ways to promote a job opening, or more traditional avenues like posting on job platforms. Overseeing teams across different departments, the manager ensures that everyone is working cohesively toward common objectives. One challenging decision that often falls on the business manager is whether I should hire a family member. This decision requires careful consideration of potential benefits and drawbacks, ensuring that personal relationships do not compromise the company’s best interests. In the realm of business development, the role of the business manager is vital for identifying new opportunities, forging partnerships, and driving revenue growth. They also work diligently to reduce hiring bias to ensure that recruitment processes are fair, objective, and inclusive. In essence, a business manager serves as the backbone of any successful enterprise, ensuring that the business runs efficiently while also focusing on expansion and profitability. When Should You Hire a Business Manager? Recognizing the right time to bring a business manager into your organization is crucial for maximizing the benefits of this role. Various signs and scenarios can indicate the need for such a professional. These range from rapid business growth to the complexities of client management. If you’re currently navigating the process of recruitment, it may be helpful to explore job platforms to widen your search and find the best candidate for your organization’s specific needs. StepDescriptionTools/ResourcesKey Considerations Define the RoleClearly specify the responsibilities and expectations of the business manager.Job description templateEnsure alignment with company objectives. Determine QualificationsDecide on the necessary skills, experience, and education.Industry benchmarksConsider soft skills like leadership and adaptability. Advertise the PositionUse multiple channels to reach a wide pool of potential candidates.Job platforms, company websiteHighlight company culture and benefits. Initial ScreeningReview resumes and cover letters to shortlist candidates.Resume screening softwareLook for relevant experience and qualifications. Interview ProcessConduct thorough interviews, possibly in multiple rounds.Video conferencing tools, interview roomEvaluate cultural fit and problem-solving skills. Skill AssessmentTest the candidate's relevant skills with real-world scenarios or tasks.Assessment platforms, test projectsEnsure tests are relevant to your business's needs. Background & Reference CheckValidate the candidate's history and get feedback from previous employers.Background check servicesLook for consistency and potential red flags. Salary & Benefit NegotiationAgree on compensation, benefits, and other employment terms.Compensation surveysEnsure the offer is competitive and fair. OnboardingIntroduce the new hire to the company, its culture, and their specific role.Onboarding checklist, HR softwareEnsure a smooth transition for the new manager. Continuous FeedbackRegularly check in with the manager and provide feedback to ensure alignment.Performance review templatesEstablish clear communication channels. Business Growth and Expansion When a company experiences rapid growth, the need for a business manager becomes increasingly evident. The complexities that come with expansion—such as entering new markets or scaling operations—require specialized oversight. A business manager can oversee these initiatives, making sure that growth is sustainable and in line with the company’s long-term goals. Need for Specialized Expertise At certain moments, a business might encounter challenges or opportunities that necessitate specialized knowledge and skills. Whether dealing with regulatory compliance, mergers and acquisitions, or technological upgrades, hiring a business manager with the appropriate expertise can help navigate the complexities of these processes. Strategic Planning and Implementation Long-term success requires more than just day-to-day business management; it demands strategic planning and execution. A business manager can help formulate and implement strategies that are crucial for achieving the company’s long-term goals, ensuring that every department’s efforts contribute to this overarching vision. Client Management Managing client relationships effectively is crucial for the sustainability of a business. A business manager can supervise client accounts to ensure that deliverables are fulfilled and relationships are nurtured while also identifying opportunities for deeper engagement and increased revenue. Overwhelmed Business Owners For small business owners who find themselves overwhelmed with the multitude of tasks that running a business entails, hiring a business manager can be a lifesaver. This professional can take on a range of responsibilities, allowing the owner to focus on core business activities, thereby driving growth and profitability. Essential Skills and Qualifications for Business Managers Identifying the appropriate skills and qualifications in a potential business manager is essential for ensuring that the role contributes effectively to your organization. These skills are not merely desirable; they are vital for fostering business success, leading teams, and executing strategies. Skill or QualificationDescriptionWhy It's Important Business AcumenUnderstanding of market trends, financial management, and operational efficiency.Enables informed decisions aligned with company goals. Analytical AbilitiesCapacity to analyze complex data and situations for effective decision-making.Identifies opportunities and threats for better guidance. Leadership SkillsAbility to inspire and manage teams, ensuring projects are completed on time.Ensures team cohesion and timely project completion. Communication SkillsEssential for conveying strategies and negotiating deals effectively.Facilitates clear understanding and effective negotiations. Business Acumen A deep understanding of the business world is indispensable for a business manager. This includes knowledge of market trends, financial management, and operational efficiency. Business acumen enables the manager to make informed decisions that align with the company’s goals and contribute to its growth. Analytical Abilities The capacity to analyze complex data and situations sets apart exceptional business managers. These analytical skills are essential for problem-solving, decision-making, and strategy formulation. A manager with strong analytical abilities can identify opportunities and threats, thereby guiding the company more effectively. Leadership and Interpersonal Skills Leadership qualities, coupled with strong interpersonal skills, are vital for any business manager. The capacity to lead and motivate teams is crucial for ensuring that projects are finished on schedule and goals are achieved. Additionally, strong interpersonal skills are vital for fostering relationships both within the organization and with external stakeholders. Communication Skills Clear and effective communication is a cornerstone skill for the best business managers. Whether it’s conveying strategies to the team or negotiating deals with clients, the ability to communicate clearly can make or break important business relationships. Cost to Hire a Business Manager Hiring a business manager involves various costs, including salary expectations and potential recruitment agency fees. According to data from the Society for Human Resource Management and Zippia, the average cost per hire is approximately $4,700. This figure can increase significantly when considering benefits, which can amount to up to 40% of an employee’s base salary. Crafting an Effective Business Manager Job Description Creating a comprehensive and appealing job description is a critical step in attracting the best candidates for the business manager role. The document should clearly outline the responsibilities, qualifications, and skills required, making it easier for prospective candidates to assess their fit for the position. By being thorough and transparent in the business manager job description, companies can streamline the hiring process and increase the likelihood of finding the ideal candidate. Where to Find Qualified Business Manager Candidates Finding the right candidates for the role of a business manager is a task that requires strategic planning and a multi-faceted approach. Various platforms and methods exist to source qualified managers, each with its own set of advantages and limitations. Whether you choose to participate in traditional networking events or utilize online platforms, the essential factor is understanding where to search and how to effectively connect with potential candidates. Traditional Networking Events and Conferences Industry-specific conferences, seminars, and business networking events offer a fertile ground for finding qualified business managers. These settings provide an opportunity to meet candidates who not only possess the required skills but also are actively engaged in the industry. The face-to-face interactions that occur at these events allow for a more nuanced assessment of a candidate’s suitability for your organization. Online Job Platforms and Business Forums In today’s digital age, online platforms such as LinkedIn and Indeed have become indispensable tools for sourcing talent. These platforms offer a wide reach, allowing you to tap into a diverse pool of candidates with varying levels of expertise and experience. Business forums also serve as a valuable resource, providing insights into a candidate’s thought leadership and industry engagement. By utilizing these online resources, companies can efficiently screen and identify candidates who meet their specific needs and qualifications. The Interview Process: Evaluating a Business Manager Candidate The interview process is a vital step in the hiring journey, providing a structured framework to assess a candidate’s fit for the business manager role. This phase enables employers to explore a candidate’s qualifications, skills, and cultural alignment in greater depth, leading to more informed hiring decisions. Preliminary Screening for Business Managers Before conducting in-depth interviews, it is crucial to perform preliminary screening to narrow down the candidate pool. This process includes a careful assessment of resumes and cover letters to pinpoint individuals who satisfy the job’s fundamental requirements. Initial phone or video interviews can help narrow down this list further by offering a glimpse into the candidate’s communication skills and enthusiasm for the role. In-Person Interviews and Scenario-Based Questions For a more comprehensive assessment, in-person interviews coupled with scenario-based questions are highly effective. These strategies offer valuable insights into a candidate’s business acumen, decision-making abilities, and leadership skills. Scenario-based questions, in particular, can simulate real-world challenges, allowing you to gauge how well the candidate can build relationships and navigate complex business situations. The Role of Business Owners in Hiring Managers The owner of the business should play a central role in the hiring process, particularly when it comes to selecting a business manager. Doing so ensures that the chosen candidate aligns well with the company’s vision, culture, and long-term goals. By being intricately involved in the hiring process, business owners can make certain that the new manager will be a valuable addition to the team, capable of driving the company toward success. Hiring an Online Business Manager The concept of an online business manager is gaining traction as remote work becomes more prevalent. An online business manager operates from a remote location, overseeing various aspects of business operations, strategy implementation, and team management. The role offers added flexibility, allowing businesses to tap into a broader talent pool without geographical constraints. However, online business managers face unique challenges, such as managing remote teams and ensuring effective communication. To successfully navigate the digital landscape, online business managers must possess strong organizational skills, be proficient in remote work tools, and have excellent communication abilities. Onboarding and Integrating a New Business Manager Successfully integrating a new business manager into your company is crucial for long-term success. Proper onboarding ensures that the manager understands the company’s culture, objectives, and key stakeholders. When designing an onboarding process for your new business manager, be sure to consider the following essential elements: Orientation Program: Conduct a comprehensive orientation program to familiarize the new manager with the company’s policies and culture. This helps in setting the right expectations and provides a roadmap for success. Meet Key Stakeholders: Arrange meetings with key stakeholders within the company. This enables the new manager to understand the dynamics and build relationships from the get-go. Clear Objectives: Clearly outline the objectives and expectations for the role. This ensures that the manager knows what to focus on and how to align their efforts with the company’s goals. Mentorship: Assign a mentor within the organization to guide the new manager during the initial phase. This provides an additional layer of support and facilitates quicker integration. Regular Check-ins: Schedule regular check-ins during the first few months to discuss progress, challenges, and any required adjustments. This keeps the lines of communication open and allows for timely course corrections. Common Mistakes to Avoid When Hiring a Business Manager Hiring the right business manager is a complex process, and mistakes can be costly. Common MistakeConsequenceHow to Avoid Inadequate ScreeningPoor hireConduct thorough background checks and verify references. Vague Job DescriptionAttracts wrong candidatesClearly outline responsibilities, qualifications, and skills required. Ignoring Cultural FitTeam frictionAssess the candidate's values and work style. Rushing the ProcessRegrettable hiring decisionsTake time to evaluate multiple candidates. Neglecting OnboardingHindered effectivenessInvest in a structured onboarding process. Being aware of common pitfalls, such as the following, can help you make more informed decisions: Inadequate Screening: Failing to thoroughly screen candidates can lead to a poor hire. Always conduct background checks and verify references to ensure the candidate’s credibility. Vague Job Description: A poorly defined job description can attract the wrong candidates. Make sure to clearly outline the responsibilities, qualifications, and skills required for the role. Ignoring Cultural Fit: Overlooking the importance of cultural fit can result in friction within the team. Assess how well the candidate’s values and work style align with the company’s culture. Rushing the Process: Hastily making a hiring decision can lead to regret later. Take the time to evaluate multiple candidates and consider conducting second interviews for a more thorough assessment. Neglecting Onboarding: Failing to properly onboard a new manager can hinder their effectiveness. Invest in a structured onboarding process to set the manager up for success. FAQs: How to Hire a Business Manager How often should a business manager report to the business owner? The frequency with which a business manager should report to the business owner can vary depending on the nature of the business and the level of trust between the two parties. However, regular communication is essential for effective management and alignment with the company’s goals. Weekly or bi-weekly meetings are generally recommended for a detailed update, while daily or semi-weekly check-ins may be beneficial for more dynamic or fast-paced businesses. How important is business planning expertise when hiring a business manager? Business planning expertise is a critical skill set for any business manager. This expertise enables the manager to formulate effective strategies, allocate resources wisely, and set achievable objectives for the team. A manager well-versed in business planning can significantly contribute to the company’s growth and profitability. Therefore, when hiring a business manager, prioritizing candidates with strong business planning skills is highly advisable. What distinguishes a great business manager from a good one? The difference between a great and a good business manager often lies in their ability to inspire and lead a team, coupled with a keen sense for innovation. While a good manager can effectively oversee operations and meet targets, a great manager goes beyond these basics. They foster a positive work environment, encourage team members to reach their full potential, and are not afraid to take calculated risks to drive the business forward. Image: Envato Elements This article, "How to Hire a Business Manager" was first published on Small Business Trends View the full article

The decision to hire a business manager can serve as a pivotal moment in a company’s trajectory. This decision is often based on the business manager’s job description, which provides a clear and comprehensive outline of the roles and responsibilities expected from the candidate. A skilled business manager not only brings order to daily operations but also catalyzes growth and innovation. They play a crucial role in implementing strategies that might come from unusual ways to promote a job opening, ensuring each strategy aligns with the company’s broader vision. By effectively coordinating teams, implementing training plan templates, and overseeing business development, this key role can steer a company toward unparalleled success. Moreover, during the recruitment process, a great business manager is also skilled in handling various aspects, such as crafting a respectful interview rejection letter when needed. What is a Business Manager? A business manager acts as the linchpin that holds various aspects of a company together. They are responsible for coordinating business operations, from human resources to finance, ensuring seamless functionality. Their responsibilities also include understanding how to onboard new employees efficiently and effectively, reducing the time it takes for a new hire to become a productive member of the team. Moreover, the business manager plays a crucial role in implementing business strategies that align with the company’s goals and vision. This might involve innovative methods, such as exploring unusual ways to promote a job opening, or more traditional avenues like posting on job platforms. Overseeing teams across different departments, the manager ensures that everyone is working cohesively toward common objectives. One challenging decision that often falls on the business manager is whether I should hire a family member. This decision requires careful consideration of potential benefits and drawbacks, ensuring that personal relationships do not compromise the company’s best interests. In the realm of business development, the role of the business manager is vital for identifying new opportunities, forging partnerships, and driving revenue growth. They also work diligently to reduce hiring bias to ensure that recruitment processes are fair, objective, and inclusive. In essence, a business manager serves as the backbone of any successful enterprise, ensuring that the business runs efficiently while also focusing on expansion and profitability. When Should You Hire a Business Manager? Recognizing the right time to bring a business manager into your organization is crucial for maximizing the benefits of this role. Various signs and scenarios can indicate the need for such a professional. These range from rapid business growth to the complexities of client management. If you’re currently navigating the process of recruitment, it may be helpful to explore job platforms to widen your search and find the best candidate for your organization’s specific needs. StepDescriptionTools/ResourcesKey Considerations Define the RoleClearly specify the responsibilities and expectations of the business manager.Job description templateEnsure alignment with company objectives. Determine QualificationsDecide on the necessary skills, experience, and education.Industry benchmarksConsider soft skills like leadership and adaptability. Advertise the PositionUse multiple channels to reach a wide pool of potential candidates.Job platforms, company websiteHighlight company culture and benefits. Initial ScreeningReview resumes and cover letters to shortlist candidates.Resume screening softwareLook for relevant experience and qualifications. Interview ProcessConduct thorough interviews, possibly in multiple rounds.Video conferencing tools, interview roomEvaluate cultural fit and problem-solving skills. Skill AssessmentTest the candidate's relevant skills with real-world scenarios or tasks.Assessment platforms, test projectsEnsure tests are relevant to your business's needs. Background & Reference CheckValidate the candidate's history and get feedback from previous employers.Background check servicesLook for consistency and potential red flags. Salary & Benefit NegotiationAgree on compensation, benefits, and other employment terms.Compensation surveysEnsure the offer is competitive and fair. OnboardingIntroduce the new hire to the company, its culture, and their specific role.Onboarding checklist, HR softwareEnsure a smooth transition for the new manager. Continuous FeedbackRegularly check in with the manager and provide feedback to ensure alignment.Performance review templatesEstablish clear communication channels. Business Growth and Expansion When a company experiences rapid growth, the need for a business manager becomes increasingly evident. The complexities that come with expansion—such as entering new markets or scaling operations—require specialized oversight. A business manager can oversee these initiatives, making sure that growth is sustainable and in line with the company’s long-term goals. Need for Specialized Expertise At certain moments, a business might encounter challenges or opportunities that necessitate specialized knowledge and skills. Whether dealing with regulatory compliance, mergers and acquisitions, or technological upgrades, hiring a business manager with the appropriate expertise can help navigate the complexities of these processes. Strategic Planning and Implementation Long-term success requires more than just day-to-day business management; it demands strategic planning and execution. A business manager can help formulate and implement strategies that are crucial for achieving the company’s long-term goals, ensuring that every department’s efforts contribute to this overarching vision. Client Management Managing client relationships effectively is crucial for the sustainability of a business. A business manager can supervise client accounts to ensure that deliverables are fulfilled and relationships are nurtured while also identifying opportunities for deeper engagement and increased revenue. Overwhelmed Business Owners For small business owners who find themselves overwhelmed with the multitude of tasks that running a business entails, hiring a business manager can be a lifesaver. This professional can take on a range of responsibilities, allowing the owner to focus on core business activities, thereby driving growth and profitability. Essential Skills and Qualifications for Business Managers Identifying the appropriate skills and qualifications in a potential business manager is essential for ensuring that the role contributes effectively to your organization. These skills are not merely desirable; they are vital for fostering business success, leading teams, and executing strategies. Skill or QualificationDescriptionWhy It's Important Business AcumenUnderstanding of market trends, financial management, and operational efficiency.Enables informed decisions aligned with company goals. Analytical AbilitiesCapacity to analyze complex data and situations for effective decision-making.Identifies opportunities and threats for better guidance. Leadership SkillsAbility to inspire and manage teams, ensuring projects are completed on time.Ensures team cohesion and timely project completion. Communication SkillsEssential for conveying strategies and negotiating deals effectively.Facilitates clear understanding and effective negotiations. Business Acumen A deep understanding of the business world is indispensable for a business manager. This includes knowledge of market trends, financial management, and operational efficiency. Business acumen enables the manager to make informed decisions that align with the company’s goals and contribute to its growth. Analytical Abilities The capacity to analyze complex data and situations sets apart exceptional business managers. These analytical skills are essential for problem-solving, decision-making, and strategy formulation. A manager with strong analytical abilities can identify opportunities and threats, thereby guiding the company more effectively. Leadership and Interpersonal Skills Leadership qualities, coupled with strong interpersonal skills, are vital for any business manager. The capacity to lead and motivate teams is crucial for ensuring that projects are finished on schedule and goals are achieved. Additionally, strong interpersonal skills are vital for fostering relationships both within the organization and with external stakeholders. Communication Skills Clear and effective communication is a cornerstone skill for the best business managers. Whether it’s conveying strategies to the team or negotiating deals with clients, the ability to communicate clearly can make or break important business relationships. Cost to Hire a Business Manager Hiring a business manager involves various costs, including salary expectations and potential recruitment agency fees. According to data from the Society for Human Resource Management and Zippia, the average cost per hire is approximately $4,700. This figure can increase significantly when considering benefits, which can amount to up to 40% of an employee’s base salary. Crafting an Effective Business Manager Job Description Creating a comprehensive and appealing job description is a critical step in attracting the best candidates for the business manager role. The document should clearly outline the responsibilities, qualifications, and skills required, making it easier for prospective candidates to assess their fit for the position. By being thorough and transparent in the business manager job description, companies can streamline the hiring process and increase the likelihood of finding the ideal candidate. Where to Find Qualified Business Manager Candidates Finding the right candidates for the role of a business manager is a task that requires strategic planning and a multi-faceted approach. Various platforms and methods exist to source qualified managers, each with its own set of advantages and limitations. Whether you choose to participate in traditional networking events or utilize online platforms, the essential factor is understanding where to search and how to effectively connect with potential candidates. Traditional Networking Events and Conferences Industry-specific conferences, seminars, and business networking events offer a fertile ground for finding qualified business managers. These settings provide an opportunity to meet candidates who not only possess the required skills but also are actively engaged in the industry. The face-to-face interactions that occur at these events allow for a more nuanced assessment of a candidate’s suitability for your organization. Online Job Platforms and Business Forums In today’s digital age, online platforms such as LinkedIn and Indeed have become indispensable tools for sourcing talent. These platforms offer a wide reach, allowing you to tap into a diverse pool of candidates with varying levels of expertise and experience. Business forums also serve as a valuable resource, providing insights into a candidate’s thought leadership and industry engagement. By utilizing these online resources, companies can efficiently screen and identify candidates who meet their specific needs and qualifications. The Interview Process: Evaluating a Business Manager Candidate The interview process is a vital step in the hiring journey, providing a structured framework to assess a candidate’s fit for the business manager role. This phase enables employers to explore a candidate’s qualifications, skills, and cultural alignment in greater depth, leading to more informed hiring decisions. Preliminary Screening for Business Managers Before conducting in-depth interviews, it is crucial to perform preliminary screening to narrow down the candidate pool. This process includes a careful assessment of resumes and cover letters to pinpoint individuals who satisfy the job’s fundamental requirements. Initial phone or video interviews can help narrow down this list further by offering a glimpse into the candidate’s communication skills and enthusiasm for the role. In-Person Interviews and Scenario-Based Questions For a more comprehensive assessment, in-person interviews coupled with scenario-based questions are highly effective. These strategies offer valuable insights into a candidate’s business acumen, decision-making abilities, and leadership skills. Scenario-based questions, in particular, can simulate real-world challenges, allowing you to gauge how well the candidate can build relationships and navigate complex business situations. The Role of Business Owners in Hiring Managers The owner of the business should play a central role in the hiring process, particularly when it comes to selecting a business manager. Doing so ensures that the chosen candidate aligns well with the company’s vision, culture, and long-term goals. By being intricately involved in the hiring process, business owners can make certain that the new manager will be a valuable addition to the team, capable of driving the company toward success. Hiring an Online Business Manager The concept of an online business manager is gaining traction as remote work becomes more prevalent. An online business manager operates from a remote location, overseeing various aspects of business operations, strategy implementation, and team management. The role offers added flexibility, allowing businesses to tap into a broader talent pool without geographical constraints. However, online business managers face unique challenges, such as managing remote teams and ensuring effective communication. To successfully navigate the digital landscape, online business managers must possess strong organizational skills, be proficient in remote work tools, and have excellent communication abilities. Onboarding and Integrating a New Business Manager Successfully integrating a new business manager into your company is crucial for long-term success. Proper onboarding ensures that the manager understands the company’s culture, objectives, and key stakeholders. When designing an onboarding process for your new business manager, be sure to consider the following essential elements: Orientation Program: Conduct a comprehensive orientation program to familiarize the new manager with the company’s policies and culture. This helps in setting the right expectations and provides a roadmap for success. Meet Key Stakeholders: Arrange meetings with key stakeholders within the company. This enables the new manager to understand the dynamics and build relationships from the get-go. Clear Objectives: Clearly outline the objectives and expectations for the role. This ensures that the manager knows what to focus on and how to align their efforts with the company’s goals. Mentorship: Assign a mentor within the organization to guide the new manager during the initial phase. This provides an additional layer of support and facilitates quicker integration. Regular Check-ins: Schedule regular check-ins during the first few months to discuss progress, challenges, and any required adjustments. This keeps the lines of communication open and allows for timely course corrections. Common Mistakes to Avoid When Hiring a Business Manager Hiring the right business manager is a complex process, and mistakes can be costly. Common MistakeConsequenceHow to Avoid Inadequate ScreeningPoor hireConduct thorough background checks and verify references. Vague Job DescriptionAttracts wrong candidatesClearly outline responsibilities, qualifications, and skills required. Ignoring Cultural FitTeam frictionAssess the candidate's values and work style. Rushing the ProcessRegrettable hiring decisionsTake time to evaluate multiple candidates. Neglecting OnboardingHindered effectivenessInvest in a structured onboarding process. Being aware of common pitfalls, such as the following, can help you make more informed decisions: Inadequate Screening: Failing to thoroughly screen candidates can lead to a poor hire. Always conduct background checks and verify references to ensure the candidate’s credibility. Vague Job Description: A poorly defined job description can attract the wrong candidates. Make sure to clearly outline the responsibilities, qualifications, and skills required for the role. Ignoring Cultural Fit: Overlooking the importance of cultural fit can result in friction within the team. Assess how well the candidate’s values and work style align with the company’s culture. Rushing the Process: Hastily making a hiring decision can lead to regret later. Take the time to evaluate multiple candidates and consider conducting second interviews for a more thorough assessment. Neglecting Onboarding: Failing to properly onboard a new manager can hinder their effectiveness. Invest in a structured onboarding process to set the manager up for success. FAQs: How to Hire a Business Manager How often should a business manager report to the business owner? The frequency with which a business manager should report to the business owner can vary depending on the nature of the business and the level of trust between the two parties. However, regular communication is essential for effective management and alignment with the company’s goals. Weekly or bi-weekly meetings are generally recommended for a detailed update, while daily or semi-weekly check-ins may be beneficial for more dynamic or fast-paced businesses. How important is business planning expertise when hiring a business manager? Business planning expertise is a critical skill set for any business manager. This expertise enables the manager to formulate effective strategies, allocate resources wisely, and set achievable objectives for the team. A manager well-versed in business planning can significantly contribute to the company’s growth and profitability. Therefore, when hiring a business manager, prioritizing candidates with strong business planning skills is highly advisable. What distinguishes a great business manager from a good one? The difference between a great and a good business manager often lies in their ability to inspire and lead a team, coupled with a keen sense for innovation. While a good manager can effectively oversee operations and meet targets, a great manager goes beyond these basics. They foster a positive work environment, encourage team members to reach their full potential, and are not afraid to take calculated risks to drive the business forward. Image: Envato Elements This article, "How to Hire a Business Manager" was first published on Small Business Trends View the full article

UK prime minister is expected to hold talks with US president later this monthView the full article

As a subject for delightful conversation, personal insurance ranks somewhere between polyp removal and credit default swaps. Which means most of us don’t know what we don’t know. No one likes to dwell on what might go wrong in the future—which is part of the reason why we all tend to regard insurance professionals with a healthy level of skepticism. But protecting yourself and your money from the unexpected has to be part of getting your financial house in order. Otherwise, a single bad event could erase all your hard work. To figure out what kinds of insurance you might need, start with the following basic rules of the insurance industry. Social benefit and private profit The goal of insurance is to share risk among a large pool of people. If everyone pays a small amount—known as the premium—to their insurance company, the insurer assumes the risk of any one individual suffering a large loss. At that point, the insurance company will pay out to make that individual whole after the loss. But insurance companies are not there just as a social benefit. These companies are in business to make a profit. This means insurers make it their business to understand what kinds of losses are most likely to happen. And if something is more likely to occur, the insurance company will charge higher premiums for it. This is why life insurance for a nonsmoking 20-something costs pennies compared to the giant chunk of change the same insurance costs for a pack-a-day 58-year-old with diabetes. It’s possible the young adult might die in a freak stamp-collecting accident and perhaps the smoker might live to 109—but the odds are that the 20-something has decades of life ahead and the 58-year-old does not. Since it is more likely that the insurance company will have to pay out for the smoker’s life insurance policy relatively soon, the premiums for that policy are higher. This is how the insurance company protects its profits while still offering the payout benefits. Mo’ money, mo’ likely The insurance industry’s understanding of probable outcomes can help consumers identify which policies they need. Specifically, if a personal insurance policy is expensive, that usually means the insurer thinks it’s likely it will have to make a payout—and that can indicate that you might need that kind of coverage. This is not a one-to-one correlation, of course. Just because a policy is expensive doesn’t mean you need it. And some types of insurance—identity theft insurance and renters insurance, for example—are extremely helpful to have and generally low-cost. But understanding why insurers charge high premium prices can help consumers figure out which types of policies they might need. The most expensive types of insurance include the following. Disability This kind of personal insurance helps pay a portion of your salary until you’re able to go back to work, which can help keep you financially stable. While you might assume that you’re unlikely to suffer a disability, since the most strenuous thing you do is staple Mr. Lumberg’s TPS reports, remember that about 1 out of every 4 current 20-year-olds will become disabled before reaching retirement age. That’s why it’s expensive to purchase disability insurance—but also why it’s important. Auto insurance Car crashes are the leading cause of death in the United States, with a total about 120 people killed per day in car accidents. Getting behind the wheel is the riskiest activity most Americans engage in on a daily basis, which means the insurance to protect you from that risk is also expensive. (The good news is that you can lower your risk and your auto insurance costs by driving like your dad: hands on 10 and 2, brake gently, check your mirrors, and assume everyone on the road is trying to kill you.) Life insurance Even though you won’t notice if you die without life insurance, any dependents who rely on your income will struggle if you pass away. And that likelihood is 100%, since none of us are getting out of this thing alive. Life insurance is cheapest for young and healthy individuals—who are the least likely to need it or buy it—and the price goes up with age and health problems. Homeowners insurance This kind of insurance not only covers damage to your home and possessions because of a covered disaster, but also liability for injuries or property damage experienced by a visitor to your home. (This is why dog owners, even apart from the growing trend to take out healthcare policies on our furry friends, may pay a higher premium than pet-free homeowners, and certain dog breeds are not covered at all—since they are more likely to bite a stranger.) And even though homeowners insurance covers damage caused by certain disasters, not all types of hazards are covered. In particular, flooding is a common hazard that isn’t covered. Flood insurance Nearly no insurers include flood damage in homeowners or renters insurance policies. Instead, you may have to purchase a policy through the National Flood Insurance Program, which is a partnership between the federal government, insurance companies, and local communities to provide affordable flood protection. This is because floods are so likely to happen in so many areas that the federal government had to help subsidize the cost of flood insurance. While these are not the only hazards you should protect yourself against, these are the ones the insurance industry (and its army of statistics nerds) think are most likely to occur. That means it’s a good idea to start with the types of losses you are most likely to face. Protect your moneymaker In addition to looking at which hazards are most likely, it’s also helpful to think about what valuables you have that would be most difficult to replace. For most people, these valuables fall into the same categories as the most expensive types of insurance: your earning potential, your life, and your home represent your most valuable assets. But it’s important to insure whatever assets you have that would be financially devastating to lose. For example, opera singers have been known to insure their voices, since they can’t earn their living if they can’t sing. More commonly, small business owners and freelancers often purchase professional liability insurance, also known as errors and omissions insurance, to protect themselves from lawsuits. Thinking about insurance as protection against financial loss can help you pinpoint what kinds of personal insurance you need most. Don’t fear the reaper (or the insurance rep) There’s a reason no one invites Ned Ryerson to dinner: talking about the kinds of doom-and-gloom that insurance professionals know intimately is a major bummer. But personal insurance is an important part of a healthy budget. You need insurance to protect you from the risk of a devastating financial loss, which it does by spreading the risk among a pool of individuals and asking the insurance company to assume the financial risk. Understanding how insurers price their policies can help you figure out which types of personal insurance are most important, since the industry charges higher premiums to protect against the most likely losses. That’s why disability insurance, auto insurance, life insurance, home insurance, and flood insurance are among the most expensive types of policies available. Insurers know they are likely to have to make payouts on these policies, so they price the premiums accordingly. Consumers can also figure out the right coverage by thinking about what assets it would be financially devastating to lose. For most people, that includes their income potential, life, and home, but depending on your circumstances, you may also want to protect other important assets that you rely on or would be unable to replace. View the full article

The American economy runs on what are known as heuristics, a diverse array of mental short-cuts that help consumers make a dizzying number of choices to navigate the wild complexity of everyday life. These shortcuts help us select the restaurants we may choose to patronize, the cars we drive, the food we purchase, and the schools we attend and to which we send our children. We rely on scoring systems, certifications, and ranking methodologies to consider what movies to see, what music to listen to, and whether to purchase fair-trade products. These shortcuts come in many forms, from the complex (like the tools used to rate bonds and other financial products) to the straightforward (like the letter grades that many municipalities generate to inform consumers whether a particular restaurant follows safe food-handling practices). Sometimes these systems are managed and operated by the government, like the National Highway Traffic and Safety Administration’s system for grading automobiles and trucks for their performance in crash tests, but often by private entities, like Consumer Reports. Sometimes the ratings are purely peer-to-peer and aggregated, like the ubiquitous “five-star” rating systems for ride-hailing companies or delivery services. In the end, consumers rely on these systems every day to make decisions great and small, to help make sense of a complex world where we are too easily prone to information overload. One area that cries out for a methodology that would provide consumers with critical details about the products and services they are using is one that is largely devoid of these types of shortcuts: our online life. We search, scroll, bank, shop, talk, text, stream, post, like, stan, and even hook up in the digital world. And we enter sites, download apps, communicate over platforms, access our financial information, and provide intimate details about our health and welfare without the slightest clue about what the entities with which we share such information do with it. The truth is, most will use it for their own profit and often sell it to data brokers: the third-party entities that, in turn, pass it along to other companies that might then use and abuse it, selling us products, pushing content to us we may not want, and perhaps even getting us to engage in behavior we might otherwise avoid if we were truly educated consumers about the uses and abuses of our digital data. AI only amplifies that influence. But what if there was a way to use the power of heuristics to protect our digital privacy through simple shortcuts that could give consumers basic information about how different sites, apps, and platforms were exploiting the digital activities they harvest from us? At present, some American states and the European Union have created rules of the road for the sunny information “superhighway,” as it was once called so quaintly in the 1990s. Instead of an information superhighway where consumers can travel at will, free of harm or surveillance, when we enter the digital world today, a better metaphor is the “Upside Down”: the shadowy, parallel world from the hit TV series Stranger Things, where entities with access to our digital lives create replicants of us that follow us around, always just below the surface, waiting to do us harm. We are already living in a world where we get asked to “accept” a particular company’s “cookies” policy or its terms of service. These relatively “light touch” disclosure regimes are the product of laws and regulations passed around the world. The European’s General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) has largely set the global standard because tech companies do not want to have to ascertain when a particular consumer is subject to those regulations or not. And it is the GDPR, and the European Union, that we have to thank for those ubiquitous pop-ups that ask us to accept the company’s cookies policy. But those rules actually mask what is going on under the hood. Companies can comply with the disclosure requirements by giving consumers the option of accepting their practices or not, and burying those disclosures in user agreements that are unintelligible to the average user. As a result, current practices in the digital world require a far more robust regulatory response than that which the relatively weak disclosure regimes that presently exist currently offer. Consumers are also routinely presented with complex terms of service, which few will read to the end, and even a smaller number will completely understand. Indeed, rare is the consumer who ever actually reviews these policies prior to entering a site or download an app. If they did, they would likely find few privacy-protective policies, if any. Instead, more likely than not, a review of those policies would reveal that the company engages in cross-site tracking, sells consumers’ information, and forces such consumers to go to arbitration even for violations of those very terms of service policies, among other things. What legal protections do exist on the internet actually largely protect companies, and not consumers. Laws like Section 230 of the Communications Decency Act insulate many companies that engage in activities online from being sued for the content on their sites. Courts, too, following federal law, largely enforce the terms of service that require that disputes about a company’s actions must be resolved, not through the courts, but through arbitration. All of this is a result of a powerful tech lobby that not only fights any meaningful regulation of their activities but also complains that any government intervention will stifle innovation and the economic benefits and convenience these companies generate. Enter the Zone But there is another way, one that does not require the heavy hand of government, that can still foster innovation and put the power in the hands of consumers to drive business behavior and not the other way around. A more robust regulatory regime for the digital world could draw on the power of grading systems to send a clear message to consumers about the risks that particular apps or sites may pose to our digital privacy. It would provide this information to consumers in an easy-to-understand format that does not require a deep dive into the bowels of a company’s end-user agreement, or a certificate in legalese. Instead, whenever a consumer accessed a site, app, or platform, that service would communicate whether it is protective of the consumer’s privacy or not. While there are many ways that a company can protect, or violate, a consumer’s privacy, and engage in activity that makes it unaccountable to that consumer should it breach their privacy, a simple, easy-to-understand system would grade companies on how well they do in terms of protecting their customers’ privacy or routinely violate it. That information would be communicated through one letter, a grade, that the company would have to reveal prominently as any consumer accessed the service. The consumer would then know, immediately, whether this is an entity that looks out for consumer privacy and which tends to exploit it. But where would such grades come from? Some grading systems are opaque, with the ultimate grade issued by a government agency, like the restaurant letter grades in New York City. One can assume that an “A” grade means that the restaurant meets basic quality standards. And it’s hard to find a restaurant worth their salt that does not have that A grade. In fact, anything less is usually enough to ward off many customers. In a regime for the digital world, one could adopt a type of digital “zoning” modelled after land-use restrictions in IRL. In land-use zoning, certain uses are permitted and others are excluded in particular areas or zones. You generally don’t have a power plant or waste treatment facility abutting single-family homes. That’s because of zoning. If an area is “zoned” for particular uses, individuals and businesses that wish to engage in those uses are free to do so within it. Developers, government regulators, commercial establishments and residents can easily find out what is permitted and what is not from a predetermined description of particular zones. Anyone can comply with those restrictions, or find themselves facing litigation, fines, an order to stop what they are doing, and perhaps even dismantle any illegal development that has occurred. Zoning in the digital world could work much the same way. Privacy-protective uses will be clustered in the best zone; let’s call it “Zone A.” In that zone, companies would not track a consumer’s activities on their site, not even keep personally identifying information unless it was necessary for their own purposes, and certainly would not sell such information to third parties. They would agree to stiff punishments for violations of their consumers’ privacy and allow those disputes to be resolved in a court of law, instead of forcing individuals to go through business-friendly arbitration settings of those businesses’ choosing, as many companies choose to do today. Ultimately, a company agreeing to provide this suite of privacy-protective practices by operating within Zone A would be able to market to its customers that they are doing so by displaying an “A” prominently on their home page, their app’s site on an app store, or whenever a consumer starts to enter that site from their smartphone. If a company failed to provide these sorts of privacy protections, it would not receive that grade. Instead, it could choose from a number of different zones that would offer a different suite of protections along a spectrum, from best to worst. When a company provides some privacy protective measures, that would justify it displaying a higher grade, even if not an A. The system would cluster an array of practices—covering search, sale of data, monitoring user behavior, etc.—and grade companies on the extent to which they meet the more privacy-protective practices or are more likely to take advantage of their customers. Those companies that are least protective of their customers’ data would earn an “F.” All companies would have to display their grade prominently whenever a consumer engages with that company’s site, service, app, or platform. Consumers would have an immediate read on whether the company is looking out for the customer or abusing their data for its own benefit. While disclosure-based regimes are sometimes themselves abused, by, for example, companies making it difficult to understand what their policies are, or burying the important disclosure in legalese, a disclosure regime that is clear and easy to understand will put the power back in the hands of the consumer. Such a regime could create a race to the top, with companies vying to be more protective of their consumers’ data because they have to be completely transparent about their data privacy practices. Instead of stifling innovation and competition, digital zoning could actually encourage both, prompting companies to find ways to deliver their products and services in ways that are more protective of their customers’ interests and not less. Moreover, companies have a clear choice within this regime: no particular grade would be mandated. Companies would be free to do as they please with their customers’ data—provided they are open and honest about their practices. What are the exact contours of this system and who would get to begin to cluster the different practices that determine the grade companies would receive? All of us. Legislators, technology companies, online safety and security experts, and consumers could engage in a dialogue around these issues to start to chart a course forward when it comes to our digital life that will encourage innovation that is protective of our privacy and does not simply see privacy as, at best, something to get around, or, worse, something to exploit. This type of robust and meaningful disclosure can occur without heavy-handed government intervention. Government will certainly have a hand in helping to write the rules of the road and setting the contours of the zones, with extensive input from a wide range of stakeholders, but it will not need to engage in extensive regulation of private companies. Of course, there will be a need to police company practices to make sure they are complying with the requirements of the letter grade they say they deserve, but that can be accomplished by stiff penalties, fines, and damages actions when companies misrepresent the types of protections they afford their customers. Such policing can come from state attorneys general and consumers themselves. It will also require strong whistleblower protections so that employees are free to come forward if the companies for which they work are not following the law, as well as stiff penalties for companies that engage in this sort of fraudulent behavior. Digital zoning would establish a clear and easy-to-understand approach to online privacy, empowering consumers while promoting corporate transparency and accountability. It could create a market-driven system that makes clear to consumers which companies protect their privacy and which might violate it. And it can enlist the government to police the boundaries of the zones, and not necessarily impose command-and-control policies from on high. Such a market-driven approach would place the consumers in the driver’s seat and give them a clear sense of the rules of the road—and who is following them around. As technology becomes more and more present in our lives, it’s important we have a clearer way to know if the companies we do business with are harvesting our data or selling it to those who will use it for purposes we don’t know, and would never accept if we knew it was happening. The time is right for us to better understand how technology serves us, rather than having such technology serve us up to anyone eager to exploit our data. Adapted from The Private Is Political: Identity and Democracy in the Age of Surveillance Capitalism by Ray Brescia. Published by NYU Press. Copyright © 2025 by Ray Brescia. All rights reserved. View the full article

The American economy runs on what are known as heuristics, a diverse array of mental short-cuts that help consumers make a dizzying number of choices to navigate the wild complexity of everyday life. These shortcuts help us select the restaurants we may choose to patronize, the cars we drive, the food we purchase, and the schools we attend and to which we send our children. We rely on scoring systems, certifications, and ranking methodologies to consider what movies to see, what music to listen to, and whether to purchase fair-trade products. These shortcuts come in many forms, from the complex (like the tools used to rate bonds and other financial products) to the straightforward (like the letter grades that many municipalities generate to inform consumers whether a particular restaurant follows safe food-handling practices). Sometimes these systems are managed and operated by the government, like the National Highway Traffic and Safety Administration’s system for grading automobiles and trucks for their performance in crash tests, but often by private entities, like Consumer Reports. Sometimes the ratings are purely peer-to-peer and aggregated, like the ubiquitous “five-star” rating systems for ride-hailing companies or delivery services. In the end, consumers rely on these systems every day to make decisions great and small, to help make sense of a complex world where we are too easily prone to information overload. One area that cries out for a methodology that would provide consumers with critical details about the products and services they are using is one that is largely devoid of these types of shortcuts: our online life. We search, scroll, bank, shop, talk, text, stream, post, like, stan, and even hook up in the digital world. And we enter sites, download apps, communicate over platforms, access our financial information, and provide intimate details about our health and welfare without the slightest clue about what the entities with which we share such information do with it. The truth is, most will use it for their own profit and often sell it to data brokers: the third-party entities that, in turn, pass it along to other companies that might then use and abuse it, selling us products, pushing content to us we may not want, and perhaps even getting us to engage in behavior we might otherwise avoid if we were truly educated consumers about the uses and abuses of our digital data. AI only amplifies that influence. But what if there was a way to use the power of heuristics to protect our digital privacy through simple shortcuts that could give consumers basic information about how different sites, apps, and platforms were exploiting the digital activities they harvest from us? At present, some American states and the European Union have created rules of the road for the sunny information “superhighway,” as it was once called so quaintly in the 1990s. Instead of an information superhighway where consumers can travel at will, free of harm or surveillance, when we enter the digital world today, a better metaphor is the “Upside Down”: the shadowy, parallel world from the hit TV series Stranger Things, where entities with access to our digital lives create replicants of us that follow us around, always just below the surface, waiting to do us harm. We are already living in a world where we get asked to “accept” a particular company’s “cookies” policy or its terms of service. These relatively “light touch” disclosure regimes are the product of laws and regulations passed around the world. The European’s General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) has largely set the global standard because tech companies do not want to have to ascertain when a particular consumer is subject to those regulations or not. And it is the GDPR, and the European Union, that we have to thank for those ubiquitous pop-ups that ask us to accept the company’s cookies policy. But those rules actually mask what is going on under the hood. Companies can comply with the disclosure requirements by giving consumers the option of accepting their practices or not, and burying those disclosures in user agreements that are unintelligible to the average user. As a result, current practices in the digital world require a far more robust regulatory response than that which the relatively weak disclosure regimes that presently exist currently offer. Consumers are also routinely presented with complex terms of service, which few will read to the end, and even a smaller number will completely understand. Indeed, rare is the consumer who ever actually reviews these policies prior to entering a site or download an app. If they did, they would likely find few privacy-protective policies, if any. Instead, more likely than not, a review of those policies would reveal that the company engages in cross-site tracking, sells consumers’ information, and forces such consumers to go to arbitration even for violations of those very terms of service policies, among other things. What legal protections do exist on the internet actually largely protect companies, and not consumers. Laws like Section 230 of the Communications Decency Act insulate many companies that engage in activities online from being sued for the content on their sites. Courts, too, following federal law, largely enforce the terms of service that require that disputes about a company’s actions must be resolved, not through the courts, but through arbitration. All of this is a result of a powerful tech lobby that not only fights any meaningful regulation of their activities but also complains that any government intervention will stifle innovation and the economic benefits and convenience these companies generate. Enter the Zone But there is another way, one that does not require the heavy hand of government, that can still foster innovation and put the power in the hands of consumers to drive business behavior and not the other way around. A more robust regulatory regime for the digital world could draw on the power of grading systems to send a clear message to consumers about the risks that particular apps or sites may pose to our digital privacy. It would provide this information to consumers in an easy-to-understand format that does not require a deep dive into the bowels of a company’s end-user agreement, or a certificate in legalese. Instead, whenever a consumer accessed a site, app, or platform, that service would communicate whether it is protective of the consumer’s privacy or not. While there are many ways that a company can protect, or violate, a consumer’s privacy, and engage in activity that makes it unaccountable to that consumer should it breach their privacy, a simple, easy-to-understand system would grade companies on how well they do in terms of protecting their customers’ privacy or routinely violate it. That information would be communicated through one letter, a grade, that the company would have to reveal prominently as any consumer accessed the service. The consumer would then know, immediately, whether this is an entity that looks out for consumer privacy and which tends to exploit it. But where would such grades come from? Some grading systems are opaque, with the ultimate grade issued by a government agency, like the restaurant letter grades in New York City. One can assume that an “A” grade means that the restaurant meets basic quality standards. And it’s hard to find a restaurant worth their salt that does not have that A grade. In fact, anything less is usually enough to ward off many customers. In a regime for the digital world, one could adopt a type of digital “zoning” modelled after land-use restrictions in IRL. In land-use zoning, certain uses are permitted and others are excluded in particular areas or zones. You generally don’t have a power plant or waste treatment facility abutting single-family homes. That’s because of zoning. If an area is “zoned” for particular uses, individuals and businesses that wish to engage in those uses are free to do so within it. Developers, government regulators, commercial establishments and residents can easily find out what is permitted and what is not from a predetermined description of particular zones. Anyone can comply with those restrictions, or find themselves facing litigation, fines, an order to stop what they are doing, and perhaps even dismantle any illegal development that has occurred. Zoning in the digital world could work much the same way. Privacy-protective uses will be clustered in the best zone; let’s call it “Zone A.” In that zone, companies would not track a consumer’s activities on their site, not even keep personally identifying information unless it was necessary for their own purposes, and certainly would not sell such information to third parties. They would agree to stiff punishments for violations of their consumers’ privacy and allow those disputes to be resolved in a court of law, instead of forcing individuals to go through business-friendly arbitration settings of those businesses’ choosing, as many companies choose to do today. Ultimately, a company agreeing to provide this suite of privacy-protective practices by operating within Zone A would be able to market to its customers that they are doing so by displaying an “A” prominently on their home page, their app’s site on an app store, or whenever a consumer starts to enter that site from their smartphone. If a company failed to provide these sorts of privacy protections, it would not receive that grade. Instead, it could choose from a number of different zones that would offer a different suite of protections along a spectrum, from best to worst. When a company provides some privacy protective measures, that would justify it displaying a higher grade, even if not an A. The system would cluster an array of practices—covering search, sale of data, monitoring user behavior, etc.—and grade companies on the extent to which they meet the more privacy-protective practices or are more likely to take advantage of their customers. Those companies that are least protective of their customers’ data would earn an “F.” All companies would have to display their grade prominently whenever a consumer engages with that company’s site, service, app, or platform. Consumers would have an immediate read on whether the company is looking out for the customer or abusing their data for its own benefit. While disclosure-based regimes are sometimes themselves abused, by, for example, companies making it difficult to understand what their policies are, or burying the important disclosure in legalese, a disclosure regime that is clear and easy to understand will put the power back in the hands of the consumer. Such a regime could create a race to the top, with companies vying to be more protective of their consumers’ data because they have to be completely transparent about their data privacy practices. Instead of stifling innovation and competition, digital zoning could actually encourage both, prompting companies to find ways to deliver their products and services in ways that are more protective of their customers’ interests and not less. Moreover, companies have a clear choice within this regime: no particular grade would be mandated. Companies would be free to do as they please with their customers’ data—provided they are open and honest about their practices. What are the exact contours of this system and who would get to begin to cluster the different practices that determine the grade companies would receive? All of us. Legislators, technology companies, online safety and security experts, and consumers could engage in a dialogue around these issues to start to chart a course forward when it comes to our digital life that will encourage innovation that is protective of our privacy and does not simply see privacy as, at best, something to get around, or, worse, something to exploit. This type of robust and meaningful disclosure can occur without heavy-handed government intervention. Government will certainly have a hand in helping to write the rules of the road and setting the contours of the zones, with extensive input from a wide range of stakeholders, but it will not need to engage in extensive regulation of private companies. Of course, there will be a need to police company practices to make sure they are complying with the requirements of the letter grade they say they deserve, but that can be accomplished by stiff penalties, fines, and damages actions when companies misrepresent the types of protections they afford their customers. Such policing can come from state attorneys general and consumers themselves. It will also require strong whistleblower protections so that employees are free to come forward if the companies for which they work are not following the law, as well as stiff penalties for companies that engage in this sort of fraudulent behavior. Digital zoning would establish a clear and easy-to-understand approach to online privacy, empowering consumers while promoting corporate transparency and accountability. It could create a market-driven system that makes clear to consumers which companies protect their privacy and which might violate it. And it can enlist the government to police the boundaries of the zones, and not necessarily impose command-and-control policies from on high. Such a market-driven approach would place the consumers in the driver’s seat and give them a clear sense of the rules of the road—and who is following them around. As technology becomes more and more present in our lives, it’s important we have a clearer way to know if the companies we do business with are harvesting our data or selling it to those who will use it for purposes we don’t know, and would never accept if we knew it was happening. The time is right for us to better understand how technology serves us, rather than having such technology serve us up to anyone eager to exploit our data. Adapted from The Private Is Political: Identity and Democracy in the Age of Surveillance Capitalism by Ray Brescia. Published by NYU Press. Copyright © 2025 by Ray Brescia. All rights reserved. View the full article

The 50th anniversary celebration of “Saturday Night Live” is so big, it’s not even on Saturday. Airing Sunday and spanning three hours, the, yes, live “SNL 50: The Anniversary Celebration” will assemble a dream team of stars who have helped the show become an enduring pop culture force, including alumni like Tina Fey and Eddie Murphy, notable hosts like Dave Chappelle and Steve Martin and at least four of the surviving original cast members: Chevy Chase, Garrett Morris, Jane Curtin and Laraine Newman. The show will also pack in musical guests, with Paul McCartney, Sabrina Carpenter, Bad Bunny and Miley Cyrus among those scheduled to appear, as well. The special is double the usual 90 minutes of each “SNL” episode. With so much television and comedy history to cover, here are some key things to know about the “SNL50” show. When is the ‘SNL’ 50th anniversary tribute show? NBC will air “SNL50: The Anniversary Celebration” on Sunday beginning at 8 p.m. Eastern and 5 p.m. Pacific. The anniversary show will also stream on Peacock. Which ‘SNL’ alums are slated to appear? Oh, so many. NBC says in addition to Murphy, Fey and some of the original Not Ready for Prime Time Players, you can expect: Adam Sandler, Amy Poehler, Andy Samberg, Chris Rock, Fred Armisen, Jason Sudeikis, Jimmy Fallon, Kate McKinnon, Kristen Wiig, Maya Rudolph, Molly Shannon, Pete Davidson, Seth Meyers, Tracy Morgan, Will Ferrell and Will Forte. Current cast member Kenan Thompson’s appearance was also touted. Which notable hosts will appear on ‘SNL50’? Martin, who has left an indelible comedic mark on “SNL” over the years, will be among the many successful hosts returning for the show’s 50th celebration. Other prolific and returning hosts range from actors like Tom Hanks, Martin Short, and Scarlett Johansson (who is married to current “SNL” cast member Colin Jost) to athletes like Peyton Manning. Former “SNL” writer John Mulaney will appear, as will Adam Driver, Ayo Edebiri, Kim Kardashian, Paul Simon, Pedro Pascal, Quinta Brunson, Robert De Niro and Woody Harrelson. Is there a regular edition of ‘Saturday Night Live’ this week? No, the show is on a break this week. Timothée Chalamet hosted the most recent “Saturday Night Live” broadcast, on Jan. 25. He did double duty, performing Bob Dylan songs — Chalamet plays Dylan in the Oscar-nominated film “A Complete Unknown” and spent years preparing for the role. But fans tuning in Saturday night during the regular time slot can see the show’s very first episode, from October 1975 and hosted by George Carlin, beginning at 11:30 p.m. Eastern and 8:30 p.m. Pacific. What musical guests will appear during the ‘SNL’ 50th anniversary tributes? Music is a huge part of “SNL” and a mix of global artists are scheduled to make an appearance on “SNL50: The Anniversary Celebration.” It’s important to note that NBC hasn’t specifically said artists like McCartney, Cyrus, Bad Bunny and others will perform. Lovers of music on “SNL” have other chances to celebrate. NBC has scheduled “SNL50: The Homecoming Concert” for Friday night. It’ll stream live on Peacock, beginning at 8 p.m. Eastern and 5 p.m. Pacific. The Backstreet Boys, Lady Gaga, Post Malone, Bad Bunny, Jack White, Cyrus, Robyn, Bonnie Raitt are some of the planned performances. The musical legacy of “SNL” is also explored in the documentary “Ladies and Gentlemen … 50 Years of SNL Music,” from Oscar-winner Questlove. It’s currently streaming on Peacock. “Watching ‘SNL’ those first seasons gave me a musical vocabulary that I don’t think would have happened on its own,” he told The Associated Press last month before the special aired. Who was in the first ‘SNL’ cast and why won’t all of them appear? The first “Saturday Night Live” cast was known as the Not Ready for Prime Time Players and consisted of Chevy Chase, Gilda Radner, John Belushi, Laraine Newman, Dan Aykroyd, Garrett Morris and Jane Curtin. Radner and Belushi have since died. Aykroyd’s absence from the list of returning cast members was unclear, though he posted enthusiastically about the 50th anniversary on social media last week. Aykroyd’s publicist did not return the AP’s request for comment. As part of its anniversary celebration, Peacock is streaming a four-part documentary series, “SNL50: Beyond Saturday Night,” about the show. Will there be a red carpet? It’s fitting that the anniversary special falls smack in the middle of awards season, because it definitely sounds like an awards show — three hours, on a Sunday … and with a red carpet, to boot. “SNL50: The Red Carpet” will air live on NBC, Peacock and E!, the network announced Thursday. Beginning at 7 p.m Eastern, the carpet show will be hosted by “SNL” alum Leslie Jones and NBC News’ Willie Geist. Matt Rogers, an actor and comedian who co-hosts the podcast “Las Culturistas” with “SNL” cast member Bowen Yang, will serve as a correspondent. Amelia Dimoldenberg of “Chicken Shop Date” fame — no stranger to red-carpet correspondency — will report from the red carpet for the “SNL50: Red Carpet Livestream” on “SNL” social and digital platforms. View the full article

I broke its neck. When making a vase at the potter’s wheel, I torqued its slippery neck clear off the pot as I tried to thin it into a graceful curve. I find vases gratifying to make and their shapes especially pleasing to the eye. But vases also must be handled with particular care because one part of their “body” – the neck – is often so narrow that it can be easily broken. That day at the wheel, I realized that it was not unlike the human neck. Though only a small portion of the human body – about 1% by surface area – our necks have an outsize influence on our psyche and culture. From selfies to formal portraits, the neck positions the head in expressive poses. The neck’s vocal cords vibrate to make meaningful words and moving songs. We passionately kiss it and spritz it with alluring perfume. We use it to nod our head in agreement, tilt our head in confusion and bow our head in prayer. Ornaments such as necklaces can express fashion sense as well as signal wealth and status. Collars can accent the face in portraits as well as denote occupational class, blue collar versus white collar. Yet, for all its aesthetic and expressive potency, the neck is also a site of fear and deep vulnerability. Villains and vampires zero in on the neck. Stressful days at work make us clench our neck muscles until they ache. A pleasant meal can be jolted into terror if a morsel slips into the wrong tube in the neck, sending us into a coughing fit. For millennia, people in power have oppressed their subjects by exploiting the narrowness and fragility of the neck – a dark history of dominating and terrorizing one another using shackles, nooses and guillotines. The widely circulated video of George Floyd’s murder was a brutal reminder that violent asphyxiation is hardly confined to the distant past. Marie Antoinette’s execution by guillotine on 16 October 1793: at left, Sanson, the executioner, showing Marie Antoinette’s head to the people. [Art: Wikipedia] As I became aware of the significance of the neck in culture, I began to explore how these two attributes – its expressive vitality and unnerving vulnerability – could coexist and be concentrated so intensely in one small region of the body. Eventually, it became a book. I am foremost a biologist, and in writing my book, I came to see that the neck’s vitality and vulnerability are rooted in its biology: The neck performs an especially wide variety of crucial functions, and it is the product of a quirky evolutionary history. The neck does so many things, all at the same time. For example, it transports over 2,000 pounds (907 kilograms) of blood, air and food between the head and the torso every single day. It moves the head every six seconds on average to direct our visual attention. Its vocal cords vibrate hundreds of times per second with every spoken word. But this multifunctionality, this vitality, is possible only because of its vulnerability. To be mobile and flexible, the neck must be narrow, and so it is easily strained. Its crucial transport tubes – the windpipe, esophagus and blood vessels – must also be thin and near the surface, making them easily punctured and compressed. From water to land Our vertebrate ancestors “invented” this peculiar contraption as they evolved from water to land. Our fish ancestors had no neck because they needed a single rigid axis to move efficiently through water. Since moving around on land did not require a stiff spinal column, early terrestrial vertebrates evolved flexibility just behind the head, enabling them to widely scan the environment and to direct their mouths toward prey without moving their whole bodies. Picture a zebra swinging its head side to side surveying the savanna for predators, or a lizard tilting its head down and to the side to snap up a crawling bug. Early land vertebrates also evolved lungs, and this transformation freed up the gill structures that fish used for breathing to evolve into various useful – and sometimes problematic – neck structures, such as the voice box, tonsils and the little flap that separates the windpipe and esophagus. ‘American Flamingo’ by Robert Havell and John James Audubon, 1838. [Art: National Gallery of Art] This repurposing of scraps left over from the gills of our distant ancestors contributed to the diverse capacities of our neck. But as products of a quirky evolutionary “renovation,” humans and other land vertebrates live with a jerry-rigged design that fates us to carry many collateral vulnerabilities at the neck. The peculiar human neck While the human neck retains the basic design of our ancestors, it’s nonetheless quite unusual among vertebrates. Most land vertebrates elevate their bodies on four legs, so their necks must be long enough to lower their heads to the ground to feed and strong enough to raise it up high to look around. Again, think of a zebra feeding on the savanna. Because humans walk on two legs, we balance our head atop our spine. Since we use our hands to grab our food, we don’t need strong neck muscles to move the head around. So, compared with most mammals our size, our necks are relatively weak, making them more prone to strain and injury. As another milestone in human evolution, the voice box migrated to a relatively low position in the neck, and this unusual placement contributes to our capacity to make an especially broad range of vocal sounds that we use for speech. However, this descent of the voice box within the throat also makes us more susceptible to choking and sleep apnea. The neck epitomizes the dual nature of the human condition, the ways in which beauty and frailty are often entwined, two sides of the same coin in our biology, in our relationships – and, yes, even in ceramic vases. Kent Dunlap is a professor of biology at Trinity College. This article is republished from The Conversation under a Creative Commons license. Read the original article. View the full article

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