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Jason Obrien

4 Ways MBA can Help Entrepreneurs Achieve Business Goals

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To start and grow a business, you need more than just an idea. It doesn’t matter whether you run a traditional business, an innovative startup, or an NGO; your success depends on how you execute your plans. A Master’s in Business Administration (MBA) can help you develop the skills necessary to turn your ideas and goal into a successful business.

However, MBAs may not be the right choice for everyone. The degree is a valuable tool to meet specific career goals only if you know how to take advantage of its perks.

Is an MBA Worth it for Entrepreneurs?

MBA programs for budding entrepreneurs can teach them how to start a business, manage it effectively, and turn it into a profitable enterprise. The degree offers many benefits, including skills development, theoretical knowledge, and network building (after graduation, these contacts serve as a resource for the rest of your career).

Being a business owner, you may have asked yourself if an MBA is necessary. If you’re committed and persistent enough to stay with your business for a long time, then the answer is “yes”. 

This business world is full of challenges and financial difficulties. You will always have to overcome hardships. With an MBA, you will be equipped to use the skills and abilities to solve problems and stay persistent.

If you are interested in becoming a successful entrepreneur or have already started your own business, consider getting a Master’s degree in Business Administration. But, if you find yourself constrained by your current business needs, you can also consider taking online MBA accreditation. Throughout the curriculum, students will learn everything a successful business owner needs to know about finance, management, marketing, and operations.

Still, if you aren’t sure whether an MBA will help you reach your business goals, consider the following four broad categories of skills and advantages an MBA can offer.

Develop Financial Literacy

An important contributing factor to the high failure rate of new businesses resides in entrepreneurs’ lack of financial literacy. They may have a great idea but lack marketing skills and budgeting knowledge. In addition, many make the mistake of over-investing, clinging too tightly to the belief that spending money makes money. Others try to grow too fast, expanding their equipment and staff at the first sign of success without considering long-term sustainability.

An MBA provides the foundation for making solid financial decisions in the early stages of a business. Taking classes in entrepreneurship, business finance, and accounting teaches you how to assess risks and opportunities, maximize shareholder value, finance startups, and set prices that maintain profits.

As part of your education, you can also learn how to read financial reports. The accounting course in your curriculum prepares you to produce and analyze income statements, cash flow statements, and balance sheets, allowing you to see the financial health of your business.

Also, you will be able to review famous case studies, gaining valuable insights into successful business methods. It will teach you what works, what doesn’t, and which warning signs to monitor if your company is in trouble.

Although obtaining a general master’s degree is an expensive endeavor, you might save millions by avoiding costly mistakes. And if you’re considering on-campus learning, the school offers a safe environment for testing ideas, allowing you to experiment with different concepts and assess startup costs. You can also ask teachers and peers for feedback, then use it to improve your business plan. Access to these resources is one of the biggest advantages of an MBA program.

Develop Interpersonal and Negotiation Skills

Even if a business is technically profitable, it may fail due to financial reasons. In most cases, failure is not caused by a lack of payments but rather by the failure to push their clients to pay them before expenses are due. To be cooperative business partners, most entrepreneurs accept payment terms that serve their customers’ needs and not those that serve their financial interests. Thus, despite pricing its products for a profit at the end of the year, the company is unable to pay its suppliers in the middle of the year and shuts down.

Inexperienced entrepreneurs tend to accept long payment collection periods because they think they don’t have any other options. The initial years are crucial for a new business, and many entrepreneurs do not want to alienate their customers by setting strict payment terms. However, new ventures cannot survive without timely payments.

MBA

During graduate school, you will learn how important it is to monitor your cash flow and manage your expenses consistently. You will learn how to handle client meetings and communicate your business terms. As opposed to common belief, MBA education combines hard skills with soft skills, enhancing your abilities as a leader, negotiator, and all-around business professional.

Learn Operations

An MBA is an asset for entrepreneurs since it teaches how to run different aspects of a business. Through courses in operations management, logistics, and data analytics, you will gain the knowledge and skills to run your business effectively from the beginning. In the long run, this may impress potential business partners and investors and motivate them to work with you instead of your competitors.

You can start an efficient business right away once you acquire the necessary knowledge from graduate school.

Establish a Network

The graduate school offers many benefits, including the opportunity to make professional connections. Even if you study for your MBA online, it will allow you to build a valuable network of peers, professors, alumni, and invited speakers. Following graduation, these people can be valuable allies, either joining your company or setting you up with clients and investors.

Business networking cannot be overstated. As senior executives aren’t necessarily afraid of risk, they are interested in investing in new ideas and want to collaborate with people who possess sharp minds and determination. Moreover, they will be more inclined to partner with you as they are already aware of your dedication.

Additionally, companies might be more likely to work with you if you went to school with one of their employees, and connections that you made in graduate school may make investing easier.

Alternatively, you might become lifelong business partners with some of your graduate school peers. Countless major companies have grown out of college friendships. Starbucks is the most prominent example, as the coffee chain was founded by college friends. 

As you approach your education with an eye towards networking, you’re sure to graduate with either a business partner or a list of potential clients and colleagues, or even both.

Final Word

Having an MBA opens doors to financial success and social advancement. For those who don’t have the time or money to go to full-time MBA programs, other options exist. For example, a Management Certificate, or accelerated or specialized programs like MBA in leadership and management, are all tailored to the needs of busy executives and professionals who wish to continue business and studies simultaneously.

In conclusion, an MBA helps you optimize your business operations, giving you the insights and tools for long-term success.

Things you Should know About Car Insurance Before your Next Road Trip

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In a 2022 survey, 80% of all people answered positively when asked whether they were planning a road trip in the near future. Road trips are the perfect tradition with family and friends, as you make memories, visit new places, and experience new things. But, no matter if it’s a 3-hour ride or a cross-country trip, there are some things you should know.

One of those things is having proper car insurance. It is important to have one in case of an accident or an unpredicted scenario. But understanding car insurance can be tricky, especially if you’re not familiar with all the lingo. Here are some basics ideas to help get you started.

Different Types of Car Insurance

There are different types of car insurance available in today’s market. Some of the most common include liability, collision, and personal injury protection (PIP) insurance.

  • Liability insurance is the most basic type of car insurance and covers damages to other people or property that you may be held responsible for in an accident.
  • Collision insurance covers any damages done to your vehicle in the event of an accident.
  • Personal injury protection insurance covers medical expenses for you and your passengers in the event of an accident.

No matter what type of car insurance you are looking for, it is important to shop around before making a purchase. For instance, if you’re living in Ontario, Canada, and are looking for a proper brokerage to help you find a suitable insurance plan, click here to find out more about the different types and compare quotes fast and easily. Different insurers offer different coverage options and prices, so it is important to find the policy that best meets your needs.

Car Insurance Stands No Matter who the Driver is

If you’re road-tripping with friends or family, share the driving to break up the monotony and to get a quick break. This is allowed as the insurance follows the car, not the driver. Most insurance policies will cover the damage if you’re involved in a car accident, no matter who was driving. But, you need to make sure that your relative or friend has an up-to-date license. Make sure to contact your insurer beforehand to put your mind at ease.

Paying for Additional Coverage is Wise

When taking a road trip, it’s important to consider all the possible risks and make sure you’re prepared for them. One thing you may want to consider is additional coverage for your car. This could include things like roadside assistance or collision insurance. By having this extra coverage, you’ll be able to relax and enjoy your trip without worrying about the potential for accidents or other problems.

There are a few different things to consider when deciding if additional coverage is right for you.

  • The length of your trip. If you’re taking a short road trip, it may not be worth it to pay for extra coverage. However, if you’re going on a longer trip, it may be worth it to have that added peace of mind.
  • Your budget. If you can afford to pay for extra coverage, it may be a good idea to do so. However, if you’re on a tight budget, you may want to skip this step. Ultimately, it’s up to you whether or not extra coverage is worth the investment.
car

Passing National Borders Requires Extra Insurance

If you’re planning on driving outside of the country, then you need to buy additional insurance that will cover you while you’re in a foreign country.

You can save money by being specific about the time period you need to be covered. This way, you only pay for what you use instead of wasting money on coverage that extends beyond your needs.

Car Insurance may not Cover Personal Belongings

When purchasing an auto insurance policy make sure you ask whether it covers theft. This is something important to take into consideration, and you may need more coverage than what your current policy offers.

If you have a travel insurance policy in addition to your regular one, this could cover you in the event of theft. However, it depends on the specifics of your provider and product, as well as what led to the theft.

Bottom Line

Road tripping is a lot of fun, but you shouldn’t do it without car insurance. Car insurance is essential to protect yourself and your passengers in the event of an accident. But, keep in mind that not all car insurance policies are created equal. Make sure you understand what your policy covers before you hit the road.

CMBS: Top Benefits and Drawbacks

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Fixed-income investment products known as commercial mortgage-backed securities (CMBS) are backed by mortgages on commercial buildings. The liquidity of CMBS can benefit both commercial lenders and real estate investors.

CMBS loans are often a desirable choice due to their distinctive features. But because they have more intricate terms than conventional loans, it’s crucial to understand the benefits and potential drawbacks of taking one out when investing in commercial real estate. This article discusses the benefits and drawbacks of CMBS in comparison to conventional loans.

CMBS Benefits

The interest rates for commercial mortgage backed securities loans are competitive and lower than those of conventional loans. When calculating the loan amount, borrowers might use a larger loan-to-value ratio to leverage a higher collateral value. Additionally, because some CMBS loans permit interest-only payments for the loan duration, the borrower may have to make fewer debt service payments, which may free up cash flow.

Moreover, upfront costs for originating a new CMBS loan are frequently lower than those for a standard loan, which is also beneficial for freeing up additional funds.

In addition, upon payment of a fee, the loan may be assumed by a buyer of a piece of real estate that has been funded with a CMBS loan, enabling the owner or borrower to sell the property and pass the debt to the buyer without incurring the costs of locating and securing new financing. In this case, the buyer will often be subject to the same conditions as the first owner.

CMBS Drawbacks

There is less flexibility for the borrower to negotiate the loan terms, as CMBS loans are subject to a number of restrictions that may not be present with a typical loan.

CMBS loans also prohibit supplementary or secondary funding. The borrower might also be restricted from refinancing or prepaying a CMBS loan because a CMBS loan aims to maximize returns to investors. Where prepayment is allowed, achieving the payback is often difficult and costly due to prepayment penalties. In a procedure known as defeasance, the borrower can also be obliged to swap out the property for another type of security. Alternatively, the borrower might have to pay yield maintenance, which entails paying the difference between their current interest rate and U.S. Treasury yields. But as was already mentioned, a home buyer might be able to assume the loan.

business-meeting-and-woman-smiling

A servicer also administers CMBS loans in accordance with the PSA and the conditions of the underlying loan papers. These conditions and limitations provide less freedom in loan servicing than may otherwise be allowed in the event of a standard loan. As a result, it could be quite challenging for the borrower to get the master servicer to provide financial support to prevent a loan default. So instead, the loan is transferred to a specific servicer upon the borrower’s default under the loan, whose responsibility is to negotiate with the borrower to resolve the default.

A special servicer can discuss workouts or pursue the foreclosure of defaulted properties. However, a typical loan lender has more flexibility and alternatives for a loan workout with the borrower than a special servicer. Special servicer options include loan modifications, negotiated payoffs, selling the loan, and accepting a transfer instead of foreclosure.

It’s important to note that a CMBS loan has a cash management process that controls cash flow. As a result, the special servicer assumes management of the borrower’s cash flow during the default period once the borrower defaults. This may deprive the asset of vital financial flow needed to maintain the property correctly and need the appointment of a receiver to oversee it. Additionally, because CMBS loans are meant to safeguard the interests of investors, in addition to non-payment, failing to satisfy specific covenant levels may result in cash sweeps or loan defaults.

Loan fees and costs may also be higher in the event of default than they would be with a conventional loan. For example, default interest costs, reports for special services, special servicer fees, legal expenses, loan modification costs, and additional equity contributions add up quickly and are not common in conventional loans.

Final Thoughts

CMBS loans might be a desirable option for borrowers searching for financing because of their competitive upfront costs, rates, and debt servicing obligations. However, before choosing a specific financing option, potential borrowers should carefully analyze their lending alternatives and consider a CMBS loan’s drawbacks.

Corporate Travel Trends you should know About

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Are you a small business operator or solopreneur who regularly travels for work? Or perhaps you’re a department leader or a business travel management expert who helps employees in your organization to get their trips away for work all organized?

Regardless of your position, it’s worth understanding some of the key trends impacting the world of corporate travel so you stay abreast of developments that affect you. Here are some trends to learn more about today.

COVID Impacts Still Being Felt

As we might expect, the impacts of the global pandemic are still being felt and having an impact on corporate travel. While people are more likely to book trips inside their own country, there’s more of a slow and selective return to international departures.

Corporate leaders are concerned about potential COVID-19 outbreaks, the potential for borders to close again or nations to impose strict entry and exit regulations, and other issues that can pose problems for business travelers and the firms they work for. No one wants to be unexpectedly stuck overseas or to travel a long way only to have meetings canceled at the last minute.

At the moment, if corporate travelers do go overseas, they tend to stay closer to home where possible. For instance, for many US-based workers, trips are to Europe. It appears it will take some time and much more certainty before many leaders book or approve travel further afield, and it may take a while before pre-pandemic levels of international trips are seen again.

With so many people working from home now, too, due to shifts brought about by the pandemic, many people have already invested in tech tools to handle meetings and grown accustomed to life without regular sales, marketing, or relationship-building trips.

Sustainability Targets Top of Mind

Many business travel management plans these days include a focus on sustainability as firms set targets to drop their carbon footprints and tread more lightly on the earth. As a result, there’s an increasing number of leaders weighing up the need for trips away from the office as they consider their sustainability priorities and cost considerations.

Plus, business owners, managers, and corporate travel workers are looking at ways to reduce flights and long-haul trips since these tend to be higher carbon emission creators. They’re also more interested in sustainable accommodation options, public transport links, and other travel suppliers that take significant steps to invest in being eco-friendly.

More Use of Private Accommodation Rentals and Other Interesting Choices

Another way in which people are approaching accommodation differently lately is by utilizing more private accommodation rentals. The growth of Airbnb in the past five or so years, as well as other portals for booking non-hotel or motel options, is definitely filtering through to the corporate market.

While once it was primarily individuals booking Airbnb stays and the like for their personal trips, today, entrepreneurs realize the benefits of such properties and the value for money that can be obtained by choosing them over larger places in many instances.

Unconventional lodgings that are interesting and provide more of an experience for travelers are in right now, especially those that provide a homey kind of feel or some sort of novel attraction. People are enjoying staying further away from citer centers yet feeling more like they’re local, provided easy transport access is available.

Many Combining Business with Leisure Travel

Have you heard the term “bleisure” before? If not, you’re sure to start noticing the word creep into more and more vocabularies. It comes from the combination of the words “business” and “leisure” and refers to employees, business owners, managers, etc., doing much more than just work while they’re away.

coperative travel trend

A fundamental shift in corporate travel today, trips of the bleisure type involve some time spent in client meetings or at business events, as well as plenty of time to accommodate area explorations and other leisure activities. Many travelers extend their business trips so they have more time to check out things at or around destinations that are of interest to them, while others are booking travel for fun but adding in a bit of remote work along the way. With the ability to work from anywhere, corporates now tend to take more trips and travel for longer periods at a time.

Some other top corporate travel trends to keep an eye out for include the increasing use of blockchain payments and the rise of artificial intelligence, virtual reality, and intelligent assistants in corporate travel bookings, not to mention sales and marketing avenues in the travel world.

Many people use tech tools to enhance travel experiences and enable more personalization of trips. Plus, many travelers focus on connections while away, not just achieving set business outcomes or ticking items off the to-do list. Think about how some or all of these trends may affect your corporate bookings in 2023 and beyond, and educate yourself on these areas, so you know how to best take advantage of changes.

White Friday Sales on Amazon KSA: Everything You Need to Know

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Have you been wanting a TV for a long time, but the one you want is not really fit for your budget? Or do you wish to give your home a new look with new furniture and decor? Get ready for White Friday, which will be happening on Amazon KSA. It is a one-of-a-kind sale where you will get to purchase all kinds of items at heavily discounted rates. The best Amazon White Friday 2022 coupons and deals can be found here, where you can buy anything from electronics, fashion, appliances, gadgets, pet food, and others. Now you can buy your favorite TV model or brand without worrying about overspending. 

White Friday Sales on Amazon KSA are very similar to what Black Friday sales are in the United States. It takes place at the end of November; however, customers start wishlisting and gearing up for this from the end of October, where you get to enjoy thousands of deals and discounts and get to buy desired products at very cheap rates. This is a great way to increase website traffic as well as sales, and most e-commerce giants take advantage of this to attract more customers every day by offering items at heavily discounted prices.

Why Is It Called White Friday and Not Black Friday Sale?

Black Friday is associated with Thanksgiving in the United States, which is not celebrated in the Middle East Region. Again, Friday is regarded as a sacred day of worship for the people in the Middle East because millions of Muslims worship on this day, considering it to be a holy day.

Usually, black is associated with something tragic and sad everywhere, and it would not be ethical and appropriate to associate black with the holiday day of worship for Muslims. White is a sign of purity, goodness, and sanctity, which is why White Friday associates it with something positive for Middle Easterners.

Friday

When Does White Friday Happen?

As the name suggests, it should be of one day; however, e-commerce sites like Amazon stretch it for several days for the convenience of customers so that more and more people can participate and can enjoy the cheapest rates.

Amazon and Souq launched Amazon in Saudi Arabia, which is an updated version of Souq.com. You can enjoy some unbelievable rates here and find everything under one roof. Amazon operates three service centers as well as 11 delivery stations across Saudi Arabia, with a workforce of more than 1400 people. You can easily enjoy free delivery with them when your purchase is above 200 Saudi Riyals, or you could even opt for same-day delivery by paying some delivery fees.

You can easily search for products using the filter option and find products that you need, and apply coupons which will help you save even more. You can pay using different transaction methods like a credit card, or debit card, and you could even opt for cash-on-delivery. You could even pay in installments using your card and installment schemes that are available.

How Can You Get The Best Deals While Shopping During White Friday?

Have you been looking to buy the latest smartphone or an air fryer for your home? Then the White Friday sale is almost here, where you can fulfill all your shopping desires and save too. Make a list of everything you need beforehand, and get ready to shop till stocks last, and that too on the first few days. It is also important to do some thorough homework before the sale begins so that you are ready to purchase what you want without wasting any moment and earn more rewards.

Before the sale, ensure you have a list ready of everything you want, stay focused, and compare the prices between the brick-and-mortar stores and the online stores so that you get to enjoy the best deals wherever they may be. Check the free shipping facility, and if you want delivery in one-day, then whether they have that facility in your area as well or not. Read reviews of the retailer who would be selling you the items to ensure they are reliable. Read the small prints before you make the final purchase, and make sure you use every possible discount code and coupon to save money so that you can buy more.

Get ready to partner with Almowafir because there are several deals and added discounts that you will get to enjoy. This year White Friday sale will begin in November, so make sure you mark the dates because you do not want to lose time or all the good deals are gone. Using this site, you will get to enjoy some added discounts, especially for Almowafir users. Buy the latest shoe trends, fashion for every age, appliances, electronics, smartphones, pet food, home decor, furniture, furnishings, cosmetics, baby food, and a lot more, and enjoy elite deals.

Wrapping up, get ready for the biggest sale of the year, and enjoy super savings while also having fun.

What is the Distinction Between an ISA and a Savings Account in Singapore?

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For Singaporeans, when it comes to saving money, there are a few options: a regular savings account, a fixed deposit account or an ISA. An Individual Savings Account (ISA) is a particular type of savings account that offers tax benefits. So, what is the distinction between an ISA and regular savings plan in Singapore? Let’s take a closer look.

What is Regular Savings Account in Singapore, and how does it Work?

Regular savings account in Singapore is a type of bank account that allows you to deposit and withdraw money as needed. It typically offers lower interest rates than other bank accounts, such as fixed deposits or ISAs. At the same time, however, it provides more flexibility and accessibility than these other options.

What is an ISA, and how does it Work?

An ISA, also known as a tax-free savings account, is a particular type of bank account that offers some unique benefits when compared to regular savings accounts. For one thing, your contributions to an ISA are not taxed – the interest earned on your investments or savings will be completely tax-free. Additionally, you can withdraw money from your ISA anytime without worrying about tax penalties.

What are the Benefits of having a Regular Savings Account?

One of the main benefits of having a regular savings account in Singapore is that it provides easy access to your money. You can deposit and withdraw funds as needed without any restrictions or penalties. Additionally, many banks in Singapore offer competitive interest rates on regular savings accounts, making them an attractive option for those looking to save money.

On the other hand, one potential downside of regular savings accounts is that they typically offer lower interest rates than other bank accounts. An ISA or fixed deposit account is a better choice if you want higher savings returns.

What are the Benefits of having an ISA Account?

One of the main benefits of having an ISA account in Singapore is that it offers tax-free investment returns. Unlike regular savings accounts, your contributions to an ISA are not taxed, which means you can earn higher returns on your investments over time. Additionally, some ISAs offer flexible withdrawal options and a range of other features that make them an excellent choice for people looking to save money for retirement or other long-term goals.

accounting show on the laptop

Another benefit of having an ISA in Singapore is that it provides greater security than typical savings accounts. Many banks will offer insurance on funds deposited into an ISA, which can help protect your money against market fluctuations and other potential risks.

Comparing and Contrasting Regular Savings Accounts with ISA Accounts in Singapore

When choosing between a regular savings account or an ISA, there are a few key factors to consider. On the one hand, regular savings accounts offer greater flexibility and accessibility than ISAs. It makes them ideal for those who need easy access to their money or prefers not to worry about tax penalties on withdrawals.

At the same time, ISAs tend to offer better interest rates and security than regular savings accounts. They may also be more suitable for investing in long-term goals such as retirement planning or saving for significant expenses like a home purchase or education costs. Ultimately, the best option will depend on your individual financial needs and goals.

So, when choosing a regular savings account or an ISA in Singapore, it is essential to consider your situation and financial goals carefully. With proper planning and decision-making, however, you can find the right banking solution to help you reach your financial goals.

Conclusion

Whether you choose a regular savings account or an ISA in Singapore, many benefits can be gained from using these types of bank accounts. When deciding which option is right for you, it is essential to consider your financial needs and goals and the various features and benefits offered by each type of account. With careful planning and research, you can find the right banking solution to help you reach your financial goals.

What are the Different Banner Materials Available in the Market? And is Vinyl Banners Worth Investing In?

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While most companies nowadays seek digital media marketing strategies to reach customers, many still look for traditional modes to grab customers’ attention, for instance, something as simple as vinyl banners that are bold, cost-effective, and convenient enough to be placed anywhere.

Vinyl banners are the most recognizable form of signage that is often used by businesses for communicating important messages such as sales or event promotions. These are great for constant exposure. So, if you are looking for a low-budget but effective mode of advertising your products and brand, then cost-effective vinyl banners for business are ideal.

Listed below are a few affordable banners that are worth buying for long-term marketing and advertising:

Vinyl Posters

Attractive and durable, these posters are a perfect alternative to paper posters. Unlike paper posters, these are waterproof, scratch resistant, and can be pasted on walls or hung on windows. These are handy and can be carried anywhere. So, whether you want to promote your brand or promote the celebration of any special occasion at any indoor or outdoor location, such signs are perfect to use.

Vinyl Steps And Repeat Banners Backdrops

It is one of the most used types of vinyl banners these days. If you wish to highlight your brand and create a buzz among your target audience, then there’s no better option than using custom-printed steps and repeat banner backdrops. These are perfect for outdoor advertising, such as red carpets, award shows, media events, or press conferences. They offer bolder colors & high-resolution graphic backgrounds to the speakers to get picture-perfect clicks.

Outdoor Yard Sign

Lightweight and easy to install, these outdoor yard signs are perfect for outdoor yard advertising. These come with a double-sided exposure foldable frame that can be carried and fixed anywhere. Such signs often come with banners, bungee cords, and steel frames.

Adhesive Banners

These are primarily used on solid, flat surfaces. Flat, concrete surfaces such as glass, windows, vehicles, etc., where you can paste these signs very quickly and remove them without any residue left on the surface.

Mesh Banners

Made of breathable, strong mesh fabric, the Mesh signs are an excellent option for advertising in locations with windy weather conditions. Although these are slightly transparent, they highlight the text, graphics, and images beautifully. These are perfect for windy outdoor areas as they eliminate flapping, noise, and tearing compared to paper posters.

So, these are some of the most widely used, cost-effect vinyl banners for business purposes such as brand promotion, launch events, red carpets, and more.

Why Use Vinyl Banners?

Despite increasing demand for digital marketing strategies, companies still use the traditional method of print advertising, and vinyl signs are one of them. Today, these are the go-to modes of promotion/advertising. If you are still in a dilemma, then here are the top 3 primary reasons to use them:

banner of 85 percent sale

Constant Brand Exposure

One of the primary reasons businesses need to invest in such signs is their ability to advertise/market brands constantly, be it night or day. These can provide constant exposure if well-placed in a high-traffic area.

Highly Durable & Easy To Install

Another significant advantage of vinyl banners is that they are highly durable and easy to install. Regarding durability, these can withstand temperature, windy conditions, sunlight, humidity, and so on. And when it comes to their installation, they are easy to carry and can be installed anywhere, anytime, without much hassle.

Customizable Solution

Yet another reason businesses use these nowadays is that they can be easily customized in the most cost-effective way. They do not just save you money in terms of design but also a time in terms of installation.

Summing Up

So, as a business owner, you must not overlook the advantages of vinyl banners, as they can be custom-made at the most affordable prices. And not just provide constant brand exposure but also save your time & effort.

What is PMP® (Project Management Professional)?

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A project management professional is a certified candidate who leads and manages the projects of an organization. There is a high demand for skilled and certified PMPs throughout the world. They are recruited by companies to look after complex projects by using their strategic vision and for achieving the company’s goals. They use their skills and knowledge to ensure effective results by managing other tasks.

Project management professionals have to earn the PMP® certification from the Project Management Institute. The certificate helps an individual to stand out from the rest and ensures that he/she possesses the required skills and training for handling different projects. The steps for becoming a certified PMP include proper education and work experience. The candidate also has to clear a written exam conducted by the PMI® to earn the certificate. People who wish to get the PMP® certification can join a Project Management Professional training course to get proper knowledge and information related to the PMP® exam.

What is Project Management?

Project management is a reliable field for small and larger organizations. The field includes initiation, planning, execution, monitoring, controlling, and finishing the project on time. They can work in different industries such as finance, health, etc. A PMP has to manage different tasks. Project management includes implementing the right strategies and ensuring to complete the project on time. Project management also involves the completion of the project but it also includes using the approved budget for finishing the project. A project is not considered to be successful if the given project is not finished within the approved budget. A PMP® professional learns the skills and right tools that help complete the project on time and within the given budget.

Project management involves making a team communicate with each other to work on a project. The project manager has to ensure that everyone in the team is given a specific task for successful project completion. A project manager has to bring all team members close to each other for completing the project successfully and on time.

Responsibilities of a PMP

A PMP® professional has numerous responsibilities when working for an organization. The responsibilities of a PMP include the following:

  • Maintaining high-quality standards of professional integrity and conduct
  • Has to comply with the essential rules and regulations
  • Has to guide the team to work professionally by using the right strategies
  • Seek continuous guidance from others for enhancing professional skills
  • Has to follow ethics, standards, and legal policies
  • Has to protect the interest of stakeholders in the given project
  • Has to manage and maintain confidential information
  • Behaving accurately and in a truthful manner
  • Maintaining professional sensitivity when dealing with the team and stakeholders
  • Has to ensure that company’s policies are followed and do not violate the copyrights
  • Ensuring to work within the budget for a given project

Prerequisites to Get PMP® Certification

 A person who wants to get the PMP® certification must have the following prerequisites:

  • He/she must have a bachelor’s degree of four years
  • A person must have a working experience of 3 years in the project management
  • A person must have professional experience working on different projects as a project manager for 4500 hours.
  • People who do not have a bachelor’s degree of four years should have the following prerequisites:
  • They should have an experience of five years in managing projects
  • They should have a working experience as a project manager for a minimum of 7500 hours
  • They must have completed a project management professional training course of 35 Contact Hours.

How to Get the PMP® Certification?

A person has to follow some steps to get the PMP® certification. The steps include the following:

  • First of all, you must check if you are eligible to get the PMP certificate or not. If you find yourself eligible then you must start filling out the application online.
  • You can visit the official website for creating a professional profile. You have to fill in the personal details to create a profile.
  • Next, you must join a project management professional training course to finish 35 hours.
  • You can get a discount if you become a member of PMI® for the exam. You can also check online resources and publications to prepare for the exam.
  • You must fill out the application within 3 months and give the exam. You will get a confirmation of application acceptance in 4-5 days. You have to pay the fee after getting the confirmation.
  • Select the exam date as per your preparation and needs. Select the nearest center to appear for the exam. You must keep a gap of 3-4 months in the exam date from your start preparing for it.
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How to Prepare for the PMP® Exam?

People who want to prepare for the PMP exam must make & follow an effective study plan. There are 200 multiple-choice questions (MCQs) asked in the exam. Questions are based on different topics such as interpretative questions, formula-based questions, situation-based questions, etc.

  • First of all, you must know the syllabus for the exam. PMBOK® book is the best guide to understanding the syllabus and important topics for the PMP® exam. You can get complete information about the exam from the guide. You must thoroughly read the different topics given in the PMBOK® book. Mark the important terms and definitions so that you can revise them during the exam.
  • You can also consult an extra book to understand the syllabus and different types of questions. Extra study material can help you in preparing properly for the exam. The basic theory of working on the project is entering the inputs, using the right tools and techniques, and getting the outputs.
  • You can also join an online project management professional training course to prepare for the exam. You must select the course that best suits your needs. You have to score 62 percent for clearing the exam. Therefore, you have to study efficiently to get the required percentage of marks.
  • You must attend the workshops and seminars to learn more about the PMP® syllabus and exam. You can meet a wide range of people having extensive knowledge of the exam in seminars and contests who can help you to understand the type of questions asked in the exam.
  • You can also check the sample papers available on the internet to understand the pattern of the exam. Sample papers are designed similarly to the real PMP exam so that you can get an idea about the format of the exam. 
  • You can also join forums to connect with a network of similar people preparing for the PMP® exam. This will help you to talk to experienced people who can tell you more about the exam pattern.

Conclusion

In conclusion, PMP is a well-known and recognized certificate throughout the world. The certificate ensures that a person is capable of handling projects by using the right tools. A PMP® certificate helps a person to get recognition and he/she can stand out from the other candidates. A project manager plays an important role in an organization as he/she is responsible for handling the project from beginning to end. A project manager has to manage the team and ensure that the project is completed on time and high quality is maintained to fulfill the demands of the stakeholders.

FAQs

What is PMP?

PMP is a Project Management Professional certificate suitable for individuals who want to make a career in the field of project management.

What is the Benefit of Getting a PMP Certificate?

The most important benefit of getting a PMP certificate is that it is known throughout the world and can help in getting a job globally. You can earn a good salary and will experience quick growth in your field.

What does a Project Manager do?

A project manager is responsible for handling projects in an organization and ensuring that the given project gets finished on time and with the maximum possible efficiency.

What is the Qualification Required to Give the PMP® Exam?

A person must possess a degree of four years to appear for the PMP® exam. If a person does not have a degree, he/she must have a high school diploma and a working experience.

How can I Prepare for the PMP® Exam?

You can prepare for the exam by joining a project management professional training course online. You can get complete information about the pattern of the exam.

How do I Register for the PMP® Exam?

You can visit the official website of PMP to register for the exam. You have to create a profile and then apply for the exam.

What are the Job Prospects for a PMP®-Certified Individual?

A PMP®-certified individual can work in different fields. He/she can work in the health industry, finance, industrial, banking, and many other fields.

Tips for Attracting and Hiring International Candidates

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Recruitment is all about finding the best talent to propel your business forward. Whether you’re looking for young blood to breathe fresh life into your organization or a senior director to push the company in a new direction – hiring the right people is crucial to your long-term success. The majority of applicants will be from your country of operation, but if your company is prominent enough, you could attract interest from international talent. This can be beneficial for several reasons, as we explore below.

Why Consider more International Candidates?

You may be thinking: why go to the trouble of hiring international candidates? But there are many ways in which they can match, if not exceed domestic candidates. They can bring diversity and fresh perspectives, as well as give you regional and international expertise if you’re thinking of expanding into new regions. Different work ethics and professional cultures can help to inspire and develop your own company culture. So attracting and hiring overseas talent might well be worth it for you – here are a few tips to help you in the process:

Advertise a Career Rather than a Job

Appealing to international candidates is all about making a prospective relocation worth it, otherwise, why would they bother uprooting their life? Advertise a career with progression and opportunities for personal development to entice overseas candidates to consider a move.

Make Effort to Accommodate the Interview

International candidates may be in a different time zone or face other barriers that can make applying and interviewing tricky. Make every effort to overcome these and provide a solution that allows everyone to show their best side – that way you will start a relationship with a potential future employee on a good footing.

Offer Support with Relocation

If you offer an international candidate the opportunity, offer your support with relocation and all the associated processes. Moving overseas can be a stressful task and receiving assistance from the company will help your new employees to focus on their job fully when they start. You may need to assist with finding temporary serviced accommodation to help them while they search for more permanent residence.

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Allow them to Settle

Moving overseas, starting a new job and adapting to new surroundings can be an overwhelming process for anyone. Allow your new employee to settle and don’t be expecting the world from them straight away. You’ll have hired a candidate for something they can bring to your company, and this will come naturally over time as they become more accustomed to the work environment. Offer support with adjustment in the early stages and support them so they can support you in the long term.

Steps to Follow if you are the Target of Credit Card Fraud

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Credit card fraud is a subset of identity theft, which occurs when criminals use your personal information to pose as you and steal your money. For example, identity thieves can use credentials such as confidential information and Social Security numbers to take over bank accounts, loans, and Social Security checks—taking advantage of your earnings.

Credit Card Fraud: What is it?

Credit card frauds are a type of identity theft in which criminals use their credit card account to acquire or obtain cash advances. For example, your physical credit card, account numbers, and PINs may be swiped, or new credit card accounts may be made in your name without your knowledge through one of your existing accounts. Once inside, the thieves rack up charges that get billed against you and your credit card company.

Credit card companies are aware of the issue and are constantly developing new methods to prevent unauthorized card use. At the same time, resourceful fraudsters (including international organized crime syndicates) continue to find workarounds for new technologies.

Because card companies are experienced in dealing with card fraud, being defrauded is unlikely to cost you money in the long run. Still, necessary investigations can take months, and unaddressed credit card fraud can significantly damage your credit reports and scores.

Dealing with different types of credit card scams can be time-consuming and labor intensive, and the theft of hundreds of millions of dollars each year raises the overall cost of using credit cards for all account holders.

Most Common Types of Credit Card Fraud

Credit card fraudsters are eager to incorporate new technologies into their schemes for obtaining credit card numbers and PINs, supplementing tried-and-true methods as old as credit cards.

Card Theft: Taking a credit card from a table or wallet is a standard method of gaining access to someone’s credit card. A variation on this scheme is to swipe newly issued cards from mailboxes. If your card is lost or if you are notified that you should have received a card that never arrived, informs the card issuer immediately.

Account Takeover: In this method, a criminal contacts your card issuer and uses your personal information to change access PINs, passwords, mailing addresses, and other information so that they gain control of your account and cut down your access to it. Depending on how regularly you use your card, this could take some time to notice and even longer to resolve with the card issuer. To prevent this type of theft, some credit card companies allow the creation of a verbal password that is not documented anywhere else.

Cloned Cards: Devices known as “skimmers” that fit over card readers at gas pumps and retail sales terminals can allow thieves to steal your card number when you swipe your card, then duplicate it for their use. EMV chip-enabled cards have made this process significantly more difficult.

Card-Not-Present Theft: It refers to the fraudulent use of a credit card account that does not necessitate possessing a physical card. It is frequently used to make online purchases and only needs your name, account number, and the card’s security code to be stolen. In recent years, data breaches at retailers and other companies that maintain large card-number databases, as well as illicit website traffic in lists of card users, have exposed the personal information of millions of users.

Detecting and Combating Credit Card Fraud

Man Target of Credit Card Fraud

Credit Card Frauds can be detected early by routinely checking your credit accounts for signs of suspicious activity:

Examine your credit card statements every month, whether you receive them online or in hard copy, keeping an eye out for any unexpected purchases or cash advances. Approach the card issuer immediately to dispute the charges if you notice any unusual purchases.

Defending Yourself Against Credit Card Fraud

Because of the increasing majority of credit card fraud, there is no foolproof way to avoid becoming a victim, but common-sense precautions can help you prevent it:

  • Protect your wallet or purse, and never leave your credit cards unattended when you’re out and about.
  • Keep credit cards at home rather than carrying them with you, never take your Social Security card unless necessary (for example, when obtaining a passport), and always return it to safekeeping when you’re done.
  • When purchasing online, ensure the website is secure (look for “https://” at the beginning of the site address), and avoid storing your credit card number on the website.
  • If scammers are asking you to provide a credit card number, Social Security number, or other personal details over the phone, make sure you speak with someone you trust. If the request comes from a phone call, consider whether the organization they claim to represent should already have the information they require. If in doubt, call them back and use a verifiable phone number.
  • Visit the Credit card recovery companies for more information and tips on avoiding credit card fraud. They will assist you by providing a free copy of your credit report, investigating disputed credit report information, and removing the information from your credit report once the fraud is proven.

Conclusion

Fraud is a negative side effect of using credit cards for convenience. However, knowledge and vigilance can help you stop credit card fraud, and acting quickly and decisively can help limit the risks if you become a victim.