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Unique Swiggies Product Solves a Simple Problem for Consumers

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Businesses aren’t always built around complicated ideas. In fact, many just solve a simple problem. For example, HydroSport offers a product line to help people get more water while they’re on the go.

You can read more about the company and its signature product in this week’s Small Business Spotlight.

What the Business Does

Sells water bottles you can wear on your wrist.

The line is called Swiggies. And they also offer promotional products that can include company logos.

Business Niche

Selling a one-of-a-kind product.

Founder Julie Austin told Small Business Trends, “It was a NASDAQ product of the year semi finalist and are sold in 25 countries.”

How the Business Got Started

After a bout with dehydration.

Austin explains, “I passed out from dehydration and came up with the idea for a hands-free wrist water bottle.”

Biggest Win

Getting their first large order

First, the company 72,000 water bottles to the Dublin Marathon. However, that wasn’t the only win for the brand.

Austin adds, “It helped jumpstart other large orders.”

Lesson Learned

The importance of product licensing.

Austin says if she could do it over again, she would have licensed the product earlier. However, the process allowed her to understand more about the manufacturing process.

She says, “But I learned a LOT by manufacturing it myself. It was a huge learning curve!”

How They’d Spend an Extra $100,000

Inventory and a pad printing machine.

Austin adds, “I turn down orders all the time because I can’t print small quantities.”

Side Business

Public speaking.

Austin explains, “Being a woman inventor and manufacturer is a very small group. For that reason I book a lot of corporate speaking jobs who are looking for that combination.”

Favorite Quote

“Life is a daring adventure or nothing.” –Hellen Keller.

* * * * *

Image: HydroSport

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Best Office Wall Art to Personalize Your Space

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As Guy Clark said in his song ‘Hank Williams Said It Best,’ “One man’s art is another man’s scrawl.” So, in looking at the artwork in this article, it is important to keep that in mind. However, by showing these pieces you might open yourself to something new with office wall art to personalize your space.

After all, more than half (53%) of employees say having art in the workplace makes them happier. And the impact goes beyond employees because they also influence clients.

When you are ready for some art in your office you can look for artworks that tell the story of your brand and convey the core values of your company. Or you can just have art for art’s sake and enjoy it for what it is.

Best Office Wall Art to Personalize Your Space

 

Walnut Framed Large Old Vintage American Flag

Pyradecor Walnut Framed Large Old Vintage American Flag Canvas

Top Pick: This painting of a vintage flag evokes the weight of history without much else. One look at this painting and it demands solemn respect for what has made the flag what it is. This piece is at home in a law office or anywhere else for that matter.

Pyradecor Walnut Framed Large Old Vintage American Flag Canvas Prints Wall Art Pictures Paintings

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Bushwood. A Tribute to Caddyshack

Bushwood. A Tribute to Caddyshack Fine Art Print

Runner Up: Painted by David O’Keefe this piece brings together all the characters in Caddyshack while capturing their quirks. Whether you love golf, the movie or both, it is a painting that will bring a smile to the people that see it.

Bushwood. A Tribute to Caddyshack Fine Art Print

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Colorful World Map Wall Art

Decor MI Colorful World Map Wall Art on Canvas

Best Value: A map of the world conveys a sense of wonder no matter how many times you have seen it.  This piece is divided into three equal parts with capital and major cities of countries around the world. Each section is 16” high and 12” wide, so it is big, but not too big.

Colorful World Map Wall Art on Canvas Black Deco Prints Paintings 3 Pieces Travel Map of The World

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Las Meninas Maids Of Honour by Diego Velazquez

Alonline Art - Las Meninas Maids Of Honour by Diego Velazquez , print on 100% cotton canvas

In the world of painting Velazquez’s Las Meninas will always stand out as a masterpiece with attention to detail and technique that still astounds centuries later. Velazquez captured 17th-century Spanish royalty as well as himself and his studio in the painting. If you are into the classics, this is a great painting to have in your office.

Las Meninas Maids Of Honour by Diego Velazquez

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The Prayer at Valley Forge

12168 - The Prayer at Valley Forge - 12 x 17 Textured Litho, Black w,gold frame

This painting by Arnold Friberg depicts George Washington at Valley Forge when things were looking dire in the cruel winter of 1777-1778. The painting captures the gravity of the situation concisely and with the posterity of history, one can deeply appreciate the moment. If you want to get inspired, this is the painting to do it, especially once you know the history.

The Prayer at Valley Forge, Textured Litho, Black w/gold frame

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Oak Tree, Sunset City, California

Framed Wall Art Print Oak Tree, Sunset City, California, 1962 by Ansel Adams

Ansel Adams’ ability to capture the majesty, beauty and solitude of nature has yet to be equaled. The picture of this oak tree is a great reminder of the ability to use light, form, and texture to render masterpieces. This is a work of art that can go in any office.

Oak Tree, Sunset City, California, 1962 by Ansel Adams

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Grey and White Animals Canvas PrintsDekHome Grey and White Animals Canvas

As part of his Ashes and Snow exhibition, Canadian filmmaker, and photographer Gregory Colbert has created some uniquely beautiful images. His contemplative pieces look at nature and people as one and this one is no different. If you want a piece you can relax to or start a conversation with, this is it.

DekHome Grey and White Animals Canvas Prints Elephant Meditation at Front of Monk

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Tips for Choosing Office Wall Art

  • Include your employees: By involving your employees in the process, you make the environment they work in more enjoyable. Not everyone is going to agree but making the effort will be much appreciated.
  • Size and space: First figure out the available space you have for the artwork. Then use pieces that complement the space without overwhelming or underwhelming it.
  • Budget: Have a clear budget set because this is one project that can easily get out of hand without strict control.
  • Colors: Take the colors you already have in your office into consideration. Find the right balance.
  • Change it up: If you want to create a new environment every six to 12 months, you can rent the pieces and change them regularly.
  • Lighting: Once you spend the money buying or renting the art, make sure it is properly lit so everyone can appreciate it.
  • Your Industry: Take the industry you are in into account and select the artwork accordingly.

The space you create in your office tells a story. And everyone from your employees to your clients forms an impression of you and your business based on this space. If you choose the artwork you display carefully, you can control the narrative of your brand as soon as people walk into your office.

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Images: Amazon.com

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A Mexican Car Could Become a Hot Wheels Legend

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“La Bracala” will face finalists from the rest of the world where there will be only one winner who will see his car converted into a 1:64 scale Hot Wheels.


2 min read

This article was translated from our Spanish edition using AI technologies. Errors may exist due to this process.


  • “La Bracala” stood out among the five finalists as the favorite of the jury made up of influencers and motorsport experts.

  • In the grand finale of the Hot Wheels Legends Tour, the winner will see their car converted into a Hot Wheels cart that will be sold around the world.

The second edition of Hot Wheels Legends Tour Mexico 2020 now in virtual format announced “La Bracala”, a 1976 Brasilia as the car that will represent the country in the great virtual final of the event.

Daniel Beltrán is the winning participant who registered his customized full-scale car to Hot Wheels Legends Tour Mexico 2020. “La Bracala” stood out among the five finalists as the favorite of the jury made up of influencers and motorsport experts: Juca, Fercho Urquiza , Franky Mostro, as well as Hot Wheels designers: Mario Godoy and Ralph Benitez.

The jury was in charge of evaluating the authenticity, creativity and garage spirit of “La Bracala” to represent the Aztec country in the grand final where the winner will see their car converted into a Hot Wheels cart that will be sold all over the world.

The date for the Hot Wheels Legends Tour virtual grand finale will be announced shortly, where finalists from Mexico and the rest of the world will face off to feel the adrenaline rush and excitement of seeing their custom car transform into a legendary Hot Wheels.

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IKEA reprints and delays the launch of its 2021 catalog for an image

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The company explains that the photo could be interpreted as racist.


2 min read

This article was translated from our Spanish edition using AI technologies. Errors may exist due to this process.


  • A T-shirt was the subject of controversy.
  • The company explains that the photo could be interpreted as racist.

IKEA , a Swedish multinational company, had all its 2021 catalog reprinted. The reason? the material contained an image, which according to the company, could be interpreted as racist.

As reported by Quartz at Work , it was a full-page photograph showing a young black man injured in a leg cast and finger splint, presumably from a skateboarding accident based on the accessories to the left of the frame. .

The model’s shirt is the subject of controversy: An IKEA employee pointed out that a sequence of numbers on his back (45678) could be interpreted as serial numbers on an inmate’s uniform, thus fueling a negative stereotype of a young black man.

Corrected photograph. Image: IKEA catalog digital version .

“After reviewing the photo, we agree that it could lend itself to a negative interpretation and reinforce negative stereotypes,” IKEA explained to Quartz .

The company also commented that the number was only a design detail and recalled that diversity and inclusion are part of its core values. In the corrected digital edition , a black man is shown looking at parts and instructions.

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Best 3D Printer for Your Business

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The one thing 3D printing has accomplished is democratize the manufacturing process so even the smallest business or individual can start making things. Whether it is making a part for a device or designing and making an entire product, a 3D printer makes it possible.

However, finding the right printer can be a task in itself because the market is full of 3D printers. By first identifying your industry, materials, size, and production capacity, you can start choosing the right printer.

This list has the best 3D printer for your business across the very same criteria mentioned above.

Best 3D Printer for Your Business

MakerGear M2

MakerGear M2 Desktop 3D Printer

Top Pick: With a large build volume MakerGear is made from CNC-machined precision hardware on a rigid fabricated steel frame. It has the capability to print items from ABS, PLA, PET, flexible and other filaments through an SD card reader and USB port. And it also comes with open-source electronics and firmware. It has an 80 – 200 mm/sec printing speed with 450 mm/sec max and 50 microns to 0.25mm with a 0.35mm nozzle.

MakerGear M2 Desktop 3D Printer

Buy on Amazon

 

Ultimaker 2+ 3D Printer

Ultimaker 2+ 3D Printer

Runner Up: This printer has much newer versions so take that into consideration if you buy this brand. The print quality on this printer is high with print nozzles at 0.25, 0.4, 0.6, and 0.8 mm. It supports PLA, ABS, and CPE filament with travel speeds of 30 mm/s – 300 mm/s. The type of file types it supports are STL, OBJ, DAE.

Ultimaker 2+ 3D Printer

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FlashForge 3D Printer

FlashForge 3D Printer Creator Pro

Best Value: The price of this 3D printer is lower, but it still delivers great value. First, the company offers a full manufactures warranty, which is not always the case. A metal frame and platform ensure steady printing with PLA, ABS, PLA Color Change, Pearl, ABS Pro, Elastic, PVA, HIPS, as well as wood and other filaments.

FlashForge 3D Printer Creator Pro, Metal Frame Structure, Acrylic Covers, Optimized Build Platform

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MakerBot Replicator + 3D Printer

MakerBot Replicator + 3D Printer

MakerBot is an innovator in the industry. This particular printer works with PLA as well as other materials such as bronze-fill, copper-fill, and wood- fill. The software side provides from WIFI connectivity to an onboard streaming camera, smart sensors in the extruder, and an automated Z-homing build plate with cloud-enabled management. The MakerBot extruder is tested for 16,000 cumulative hours.

MakerBot Replicator + 3D Printer, with swappable Smart Extruder+,

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Dremel DigiLab 3D45

Dremel DigiLab 3D45 Award Winning 3D Printer w,Filament

This Dremel printer is internally tested by Bosch for 800+ hours for safety and performance and 3rd party tested by UL. You can use PLA, PETG, ECO-ABS and Nylon filaments on an automated 9-point leveling system. A built-in HD camera lets you or your customers see the process and the cloud-based software supports multiple platforms. The connectivity includes Wi-Fi, Ethernet.

Dremel DigiLab 3D45 Award Winning 3D Printer w/Filament

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QIDI TECH

QIDI TECH Large Size Intelligent Industrial Grade 3D Printer New Model, X-max

The full metal support this printer provides ensures a steady surface with a double Z-axis to print PLA, ABS, TPU, along with Nylon, Carbon fiber, PC and other materials. A 5” touch screen allows you to carry out precision printing with two sets of the Qidi Tech third-generation extruder assembly.

QIDI TECH Large Size Intelligent Industrial Grade 3D Printer

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BIBO 3D Printer

BIBO 3D Printer Dual Extruder Sturdy Frame

The BIBO printer is known for its ease of use by beginners and its reliability. This unit comes with a touch screen to control the functions and dual extruders to print two projects at the same time along with two-color printing. The filaments it supports include ABS, PLA, Dissolvable filament (HIPS), Flexible filament (TPU), PETG, Nylon, PC, Carbon fiber, and more. And the connectivity includes SD card, USB drive, USB, WiFi.

BIBO 3D Printer Dual Extruder Sturdy Frame WiFi Touch Screen Cut Printing

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Features to Consider When Buying a 3D Printer

  • Print Quality: The quality of the output from your printer will determine what you can print. This is especially the case for detailed and custom parts.
  • Speed: The speed of printers varies greatly. And if time is of the essence, find out how long it takes to fully print products of different sizes and intricacies. Try to find printers with a speed of 50mm/sec.
  • Size: The size of the printer is going to dictate how big the output will be. Consider the specs in its entirety to see the limitations.
  • Materials: Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene (ABS) and Poly Lactic Acid (PLA) are the go-to filaments. However, now you can get everything from food to metals.
  • Reliability: 3D printers work many hours, so reliability is absolutely essential. Find out the type of warranty the company provides along with return policies.
  • Software: A 3D printer requires software, this includes third-party applications to design, share and even print. Find out the kind of updates the company provides.

Small businesses now have more opportunities than ever to prototype and create new products or improve on an old design in their office because of 3D printing. The price, quality and technology of these devices run the gamut, so take your time and choose carefully.

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Images: Amazon.com

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5 lessons from immigrants to manage your wallet

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5 min read

This article was translated from our Spanish edition using AI technologies. Errors may exist due to this process.


Adina Chelminsky’s grandfather left Poland when he was just 13 years old and unable to speak a single word of Spanish. However, when he arrived at the port of Minatitlán in Veracruz, he had no money, but he began to work tirelessly until he managed to open a tlapalería that, believe it or not, continues to operate in Corregidora in Mexico City.

“The most important thing I know about finances I learned from my immigrant grandparents who came to Mexico with nothing,” said Chelminsky in her participation in MoneyFest 2020 . “My grandfather was a true entrepreneur because he knew that entrepreneurship was 50% sweat and not just having a ‘millionaire’ idea”.

Adina Chelminsky is not only an accomplished economist and entrepreneur, she is also the author of the popular finance book Cabrona y Millonaria . However, despite his academic training, he points out that the best lessons he has had on money management always come from immigrants ”.

“People like my grandparents who came to Mexico in search of opportunities understand better than anyone how to handle money in a crisis, because they know how to face adversity and prosper in a world they understand,” said the expert.

Image: Money Fest 2020

5 love lessons told with money

Adina’s two paternal grandparents, both immigrants, taught her five basic universal financial principles. “They not only left me with an unpronounceable last name [he says laughing], but also strategies that can be applied always and by everyone.”

1. There is no asset more valuable than education: Whether for one or the children, education is one of the smartest investments that can be made because it is a portable instrument that does not lose returns over time.

“When I was born, my grandfather opened an account for me to pay for a master’s degree. No BA, a MASTER’S DEGREE . This so that there would be no doubt about what I could achieve ”.

2. “Whoever has a store to attend to it”: And in the same way, whoever has savings and investments, keep an eye on them.

“My other grandfather was the smartest person to make investments because he was always informed. It taught me never to go into a business that I didn’t understand or to sign a contract that I hadn’t read.

3. Don’t screw your kids and plan your retirement: “My grandparents came to Mexico and they knew they wanted to die in it. At that time there were no Afores or retirement plans, but month after month they saved for that moment, even if it was at the cost of a luxury ”.

Adina pointed out that her grandparents always knew that they did not want to be a burden for their children when the time came and on the contrary, they always made an effort to have a dignified old age.

4. Finances are ALWAYS a family affair and especially a couple: Sometimes talking about money with your partner can unleash a pitched battle, but it is about being a team.

“There wasn’t a time when my grandmothers didn’t have a say in financial discussions because they ran the house. In those times, my grandparents had the last word, but they always decided between all of us ”, Adina recalls and points out that especially in times of crisis, her grandparents were precisely a COUPLE , partners.

“Today there is a lot of financial infidelity, individual debts, hidden problems and half truths. It makes me think that my grandparents were ahead of their time ”.

5. There is nothing more patriotic than building well-being for others: Adina’s grandparents lived committed to Mexico and providing jobs was always one of their most active priorities.

“As an immigrant you want to help the country that made you its own. There is nothing more patriotic than building well-being for others ”.

It doesn’t matter where we come from, Adina noted, whether from immigrants, born savers, born profligates, or parents who simply did what they could with what they had. “Learning from the past and the financial history that shaped us is essential to build your future.



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Get Help Managing the Pandemic at Upcoming Linkup Conference

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linkupconferenceshow

As businesses deal with the struggles brought on by the pandemic, they need to build new business relationships, exchange ideas, shop from new vendors and learn from leading industry experts.

The LinkUpConferenceShow, which will be held on December 8, 2020, online, will bring experts from financial technology and telecommunications. And the audience is going to be made up of presidents/founders, C-Level Executives, vice presidents/EVPs/SVPs, directors/managers, partners, and influencers.

The event is going to provide curated networking opportunities with six hours of engagement with 100-plus contacts in a single day. And all this going to take place with unconventional performances with compelling and informative discussions.

Click on the red button and register now.

Register Now

Featured Events, Contests and Awards

Domain and Web Hosting WebinarDomain and Web Hosting Webinar
October 27, 2020, Online

Learn the basics of choosing and registering a domain name. We’ll also go over web hosting options so you can decide what’s best for your business.

Small Business Expo 2020 - PHILADELPHIASmall Business Expo 2020 – PHILADELPHIA
October 28, 2020, Philadelphia, PA

Small Business Expo is a FREE one-day event to attend for small businesses to network, attend great business-growth workshops, build new business relationships, exchange ideas, shop from new vendors and learn from leading industry experts. If you are serious about starting or growing your business, Small Business Expo is a “must-attend” event. Small Business Expo is the #1 Business to Business Networking Event for business owners, entrepreneurs, start-ups, decision-makers or anyone who works for a small business or is interested in starting a Small Business.

Tech Table Talks: Panel Discussion for Business ProfessionalsTech Table Talks: Panel Discussion for Business Professionals
October 28, 2020, Online

Legacy modernization is high on the demand list of decision-makers who want to expedite the ability of their businesses to meet the changing demands of their customers. Tune in to this online discussion with IDC on how low-code platforms can provide the much-needed leverage in getting this done effectively.

Small Business Big Wins: Share Your Story for a Chance to Win $50,000Small Business Big Wins: Share Your Story for a Chance to Win $50,000
October 31, 2020, Online

Barclays US Consumer Bank is asking small business owners to share how the events of 2020 have affected their business. Tell us your story for a chance to win $50,000 and other cash prizes!

Establishing Your Brand Story and Voice WebinarEstablishing Your Brand Story and Voice Webinar
November 03, 2020, Online

Learn how to find, incorporate, and use your brand’s voice throughout your website to increase website traffic, improve customer engagement, and drive brand loyalty. See how to write an awesome About Us page and use keywords for SEO.

Webinar: Elements of Design and How to Talk with a DesignerWebinar: Elements of Design and How to Talk with a Designer
November 10, 2020, Online

Join to gain a basic understanding of visual hierarchy, how to use a grid, and how to effectively communicate with a designer. This webinar is a great resource whether you’re making your own website, hiring a web designer, or using a drag-and-drop website builder.

LinkUpConferenceShowLinkUpConferenceShow
November 12, 2020, Online

LinkUpConferenceShow (LUCS) is a digital networking conference that merges the incredibly dynamic worlds of tech and comedy to provide informative and personalized networking opportunities designed to help executives, entrepreneurs, business leaders and tech professionals grow and scale their businesses. LUCS is the tech conference that combines Silicon Valley insights with New York’s nonstop energy to bring the technology community a totally new virtual experience designed to inspire, engage and entertain.

Zoho Webinar: Converting Visitors to LeadsZoho Webinar: Converting Visitors to Leads
November 17, 2020, Online

Want to learn how to turn website visitors into leads? Then look no further! We’ll go over CTAs, web forms, and Zoho PageSense so you can see how to optimize your website through iterative testing.

Getting Started with Zoho OneGetting Started with Zoho One
November 24, 2020, Online

A walk through overview of Zoho One using real case studies from Zoho customers to demonstrate different ways Zoho One can support your business. Join us!

More Events

  • AI DevWorld 2020
    October 27, 2020, Online
  • Responsible Business USA 2020
    October 27, 2020, Online
  • World-Famous HR Technology Event, Oct. 2020
    October 27, 2020, Online
  • Business Done Right Masterclass (FREE)
    October 27, 2020, Online
  • MetLife’s second annual Triangle Tech X Conference
    October 28, 2020, Online
  • Salt Lake City’s Largest MBA Event! QS MBA Tour
    October 31, 2020, Austin, TX
  • Denver’s Largest MBA Event! QS MBA Tour
    November 02, 2020, Denver, CO
  • San Jose’s Largest MBA Event! QS MBA Tour
    November 05, 2020, San Jose, CA
  • Oregon and Washington State and Local Tax Update for Real Estate Businesses
    November 05, 2020, Online
  • San Diego’s Largest MBA Event! QS MBA Tour
    November 07, 2020, San Diego, CA
  • Brewing Good Business in the Face of Global Crisis: A Conversation with Anheuser-Busch CEO Michel Doukeris
    November 10, 2020, Online
  • neXco National B2B Virtual Speed Networking
    November 11, 2020, Online
  • Reveal Your Inner Awesome
    November 13, 2020, Online
  • Diving Deep into Passive Activities and Real Estate Professional Status
    November 19, 2020, Online
  • Tech Outlook 2020
    November 20, 2020, Online
  • The Investment Summit
    December 03, 2020, Online
  • Social Media Strategies Summit for Small Businesses – Virtual Conference
    December 08, 2020, Online
  • DataScience Contest
    January 01, 2021, Online
  • Rail Cybersecurity Summit USA
    February 09, 2021, Online
  • 5th Advancing Project Controls Summit 2021
    February 22, 2021, Online

More Contests

This weekly listing of small business events, contests and awards is provided as a community service by Small Business Trends.

You can see a full list of events, contest and award listings or post your own events by visiting the Small Business Events Calendar.

Image: linkupconferenceshow.com

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Learn to read the news to earn money

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It seems that the economy is going crazy, but as an entrepreneur you must be aware of what is happening in the world. Journalist Isabella Cota tells us how to understand those numbers and trends that we see every day.


4 min read

This article was translated from our Spanish edition using AI technologies. Errors may exist due to this process.


“Where were you when you realized that the pandemic was going to change your life?”

For Isabella Cota , a journalist specializing in macroeconomic issues, that moment of cold drop came when she was attending a wedding at the end of February and a friend involved in the health industry told her that at some point in the year the stock markets were going to collapse, large amounts of infections would occur and that, if the government did not act soon, a health crisis like no other would occur.

Just a few days later, the National Healthy Distance Day would begin, which practically stopped the country’s non-essential economic activity.

Perhaps the force of the spread of COVID-19 took many by surprise, but Cota asserts that “many people who were used to reading the news saw the pandemic coming and were able to take protective measures even before the authorities.”

For the journalist, information is the best tool that people can access for free to make critical decisions for their health and finances.

“If you want to invest your money well, you have to understand money and for that, you have to read news about economy, finance and yes, science,” said the expert in her participation in the virtual MoneyFest festival.

However, in Mexico we have a stigma with numbers and it is the job of the media to explain to the reader how economic news affects their daily life.

“If the medium does not land that information, it is the MEDIA that is failing the public, not the other way around.”

Image: MoneyFest 2020

How to read the news to help you earn more money

Isabella Cota gives us a three-point checklist to consume financial news to make better decisions.

1. “Cure your fright” with curiosity: You have to ask yourself questions, but don’t panic. “If there is something that the pandemic has given us all, it is fear. Fear of getting infected, losing a job, saying goodbye to a loved one, etc. ”, says Cota. “We must approach the information without fear and not let ourselves be carried away by alarmist news.”

Given this, it is drastic to remember that the headlines do not report and you have to look for different sources.

2. Google is your friend: “The media are like great libraries of stories,” says Isabella. “Before making any financial decision, you have to ask Google what the media says about a brand or investment opportunity that they advertise, what information the bank can ask you by law, what are your rights before collectors, etc.”

3. You don’t have to believe everything: One of the most unfortunate effects of the pandemic has been the spread of false information that is sold as news and is not. “A study says that there are already 800 people in the world who die because of the fake news about the coronavirus.”

So how can we identify real news?

Isabella offers this “accordion” to quickly identify credible information:

  • When the notes or links come without a real or reputable source, do not open them .
  • If the information comes from a medium that you don’t recognize, don’t read it .
  • Finally, if what the article says does not seem true or reasonable, do not share it .

“The media fails, but they also offer fascinating stories. These stories are important and they teach us something. The information that is consumed with calm, curiosity and an open mind, is the best tool for our money ”, concludes Cota.



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Amazon Toughens Its Policies for Selling Plastic Products

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The ecommerce giant will no longer let you sell single-use plastic in certain regions where it operates.


2 min read

This article was translated from our Spanish edition using AI technologies. Errors may exist due to this process.


Amazon increased its revenues by 26% in the first quarter of the year. However, it seems that it has not invested in aspects related to supporting the environment.

This has caused strong criticism, especially with respect to its packaging that it uses for shipments regarding which it is said that materials are wasted and generate a large amount of pollutants.

Added to this, single-use plastic products dominate their ranks. It is for this reason that the company will ban the sale of disposable plastic products and those made with oxodegradable plastic in its stores in the United Kingdom, the European Union and Turkey.

These three will be the regions where you will start with the restrictions. The company’s commercial collaborators will be subject to this policy and it will also apply to all sales, including those of Amazon itself, according to EFE.


Depositphotos.com

It will be from next December 21, 2020 when single-use plastic products and, among others, those made with biodegradable plastics, such as cutlery, plates, straws, stirrers or sticks used to support balloons, are banned.

In the event that a seller stores any of the products in question in an Amazon fulfillment center, “you can sell the inventory until December 20, 2020 or request that it be sent to the location of your choice at no cost”, and that from the company “no fee will be charged for removal of inventory.”

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Work Smarter Not Harder – But How?

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Doesn’t it, therefore, make sense to try and mimic the workings of a timepiece to simplify, automate and integrate the multitude of processes within the business?

“The wheels of the watch are all admirably adjusted to the end for which it was made, the pointing of the hour. All their various motions conspire in the nicest manner to produce this effect. If they were endowed with a desire and intention to produce it, they could not do it better.”

Adam Smith (1723-1790) The Theory of Moral Sentiments

Define Mini-System

Let’s define a mini-system as that referring to any recurring activity or process within a business which has a specific entry and exit point. For instance, a mini-system could refer to:

  • How staff answer the telephone
  • How employee inductions are managed
  • Procedures for grievances and dismissals
  • How visitors are treated
  • How management accounts are prepared for the weekly management meeting
  • How stationery is ordered
  • How the petty cash system works
  • How information from the production department is received and processed
  • Credit control procedures

There are, in fact, hundreds of potential mini-systems within any business. They are yours to seek out and create. They can range from minor detail stuff to heavyweight decision-making processes. Whatever category they fall into, they will have some common traits:

They will…

  • have a specific entry and exit point
  • achieve something useful
  • be a self-contained unit
  • link to other mini-systems
  • be measurable
  • be recurring

We now understand what a mini-system is and how it can help the Intrapreneur in the business. So let’s establish our blueprint for building mini-systems and start the journey to work smarter not harder.

The Work Smarter Not Harder Blueprint

  1. Identify a mini-system opportunity. In a small business start-up, you will use your experience to create the first handful of mini-systems proactively. As time moves on, you will also have to be reactive and set up mini-systems in response to a specific need or crisis as it arises.
  2. Create the mini-system. One may look quite different from another. As long as they exhibit the common traits mentioned above, you will have an effective mini-system ready to take its place in the business clockwork.
  3. Manage the mini-system. In the early days you, the Intrapreneur, may need to manage it yourself but your aim is to put someone else in place, suitably trained, to take responsibility.
  4. Manage the people who manage the mini-system. You are now on the road to scalability. You can now repeat steps 1 to 4 without taking your eye off that horizon.

Can you see what’s happening? As the business grows, the Intrapreneur may end up managing the people who manage the people who manage the mini-systems. Like astronauts being catapulted into space looking back on earth, the perspective changes as every mile passes. As our planet gets smaller, other planets come into vision. The view evolves continuously. You can then ensure that you work smarter not harder.

  1. Interrogate the people and the mini-systems. Because you have introduced the notion of scalability, you can now step back to get the astronauts’ view of what is going on. The picture is different. Look for continuous improvements.
  2. Keep going. Return to step 1 and do it all over again.

Incidentally, have you noticed that this process is our first mini-system itself?

So…

We’ve left a lot of questions unanswered of course. How do we measure and evaluate these mini-systems? How do we introduce each one to the workplace? How do we communicate what is going on so that people feel at ease and empowered? How do we train employees to manage the mini-systems effectively?

And perhaps most importantly of all, how do we link together our mini-systems to create our well-oiled clockwork business administration?

We have, at least, laid the foundations for effective intrapreneurship by introducing scalability and helping to limit growing pains. As an Intrapreneur – the Entrepreneur inside the business – we have started to work smarter not harder.

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Eduardo Zamacois y Zabala - Regreso al convento

Thank you to Eduardo Zamacois y Zabala, for ‘Regreso al convento’, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons

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