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robintek

Mar 07
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Why Your Office Needs a Mediator

By Employment Resources

er-0316-1Conflict is inevitable wherever there are two or more people, and your office is not immune. Personalities may clash, employees might disagree about procedures or a customer may go to social media to bash a policy. In these and other cases, a mediator may resolve problems and prevent expensive lawsuits or irreconcilable relationship breaks.

What is Mediation?

When two parties experience a disagreement or dispute, they may be so focused on their side that they cannot listen to the other party or resolve the conflict amicably. A mediator is a neutral party that can assist both parties in discussing the issue and finding a solution that works. The entire process remains confidential and cannot be used against either party or in court if the dispute escalates. Mediation can take as long as a few hours or a few weeks depending on the conflict.

Why do you Need a Mediator?

Disagreements happen in any office environment between coworkers or clients. Those disagreements can quickly escalate and lead to costly lawsuits if they’re not handled properly and resolved quickly. Instead of paying expensive lawyer fees, consider hiring a mediator. With mediation, you have better control of the situation because you won’t have to allow an outside party to dictate how you resolve the problem.

How do you Hire a Mediator?

Depending on the size of your office and customer base, you may need to hire a mediator who will listen to both sides and help both parties negotiate a fair agreement. All parties will meet in a neutral location for one or multiple times until the issue is resolved.
You can hire a full-time mediator, an independent mediator or an agency. The choice depends on how large your organization is and on how many disputes you have in a given month.

To hire a mediator, check online directories or ask colleagues for recommendations. When you find a mediator you wish to interview, prepare a few questions. Ask potential mediators about their training, experience, availability and hourly charge. You’ll also want to find out if the mediators can be creative and flexible when finding solutions that work, if they are trustworthy and if they’re able to persist until the issue is resolved.

In some cases, a mediator cannot find a solution that works. However, your office should have access to a mediator who can work quickly and efficiently to resolve conflicts before they turn into lawsuits or broken relationships. Your bottom line, office morale and customer base will thank you.

Mar 07
Love0

Quit Smoking to Reduce Health Insurance Costs

By Life and Health

lh-0316-4National No Smoking Day occurs on March 14. If you still struggle with the habit, now’s a good time to kick it. Your health and bank account will thank you.

How Much Does Smoking Really Cost?

The average pack of cigarettes costs $6.36. Smoke a pack a day, and you spend $2321.40 a year on your habit.

Each pack of cigarettes also costs you $35 in health-related expenses. That cost includes treatment for the negative medical health effects of smoking and higher health insurance rates.

What Health Issues are Caused by Smoking?

Numerous illnesses and diseases are linked to smoking. They include:

*Cancer
*Heart disease
*Stroke
*Hypertension
*Emphysema
*COPD
*Osteoporosis
*Impotence
*Pregnancy complications

How Does Smoking Affect Health Insurance Premiums?

Treating the illnesses and diseases associated with smoking is expensive to health insurance companies. Because they are for-profit businesses, they pass those extra costs onto consumers, which means you pay more for your insurance.

On average, smokers pay up to 50 percent more than non-smokers for health insurance. As an example, if a non-smoker in your same demographic and health condition pays $500 for health insurance per month, you as a smoker could pay $750.

This is only an example since premium increases aren’t the same for every smoker. The length of time you’ve smoked, how much you smoke and even previous smoking habits can affect the rate increase you’ll see.

How can a Smoker Reduce Health Insurance Premiums?

Until you kick your smoking habit, check into several ways to reduce your premiums by even a few dollars a month.

  • Choose a smoker-friendly insurance company. More than 20 percent of the adult population smokes, and some companies will reduce premiums in order to attract those customers. Research several companies to find one that offers lower rates for smokers.
  • Bundle health and other insurance policies. When you buy multiple insurance policies from the same company, you could get a break on your premiums. Talk to your health, auto, home or life insurance agent for details on how bundling can save you money.
  • Enroll in a supervised smoking cessation program. This step shows that you’re serious about breaking the habit. Many health insurance companies will pay for the program, and your employer might offer financial assistance, too. While your premiums may not decrease until you’ve been smoke-free for two years, now’s a great time to get started.

Smoking is costly both in dollars and in your quality of life. Commit to quitting on March 14. For more tips, talk to your doctor and insurance agent. And mark March 14 on your calendar as the day you quit smoking for good.

Mar 07
Love0

How to Stay Safe When You Go Indoor Tanning

By Life and Health

lh-0316-3March is here, and it’s a popular month to visit tropical locations or start planning your next getaway. To get a jump on your tan, you may schedule a few indoor tanning sessions. However, your risks of getting cancer increase when you use indoor tanning salons. Stay safe when you consider several tanning safety tips.

Take Melanoma Seriously

The Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center in New York City found that 54 percent of college students who tan don’t see it as significantly risky. They argue that many things cause. No one’s immune to cancer, though, and indoor tanning actually increases your chances of getting melanoma by 90 percent if you’re under 35.

Melanoma is serious. Even a small amount that’s roughly three grains of salt deep can spread to your lymph nodes and other organs. If that happens, your risk of dying from melanoma increases to 85 percent. Think about your future before you hit the tanning bed.

Protect Your Skin

Squamous and basal cell carcinomas are two common non-melanoma cancers. They don’t spread as fast as melanoma, but they can create skin scars that last the rest of your life.

Indoor tanning also produces sun spots and wrinkles and can damage the retinas in your eyes. These effects of tanning do not disappear as you age but do continue to affect your appearance and health.

Resist Peer Pressure

Women especially have a huge need to focus on their appearance. Tanning can help you fit in with your peers and look attractive. Giving in to peer pressure can also kill you.

Use Exercise and Fashion to Change Your Appearance

Golden-brown skin hides cellulite bumps and can help you look thin. Toning exercises produce the same results, though, and don’t include a cancer risk.

You can also wear clothing that complements your figure, shape and skin tone. Talk to your hairdresser, too, about the right hair style and accessories for you.

Understand the Addictive Risks of Tanning Beds

Even after being diagnosed with skin cancer, researchers find that some dermatology patients continue to visit the tanning salon. Those individuals try but are unable to cut back on their visits and avoid family, friends and hobbies to visit the tanning salon. Be aware of the addiction risk of tanning before you get started.

Despite the risks, you may still choose to tan. If so, use a reputable salon. The staff will evaluate your skin tone and recommend the right amount of tan time for you. Read the waiver, too. It outlines tanning risks.

Tanning is dangerous. Proceed with caution as you prepare for your next tropical vacation. For more safety tips, talk to your doctor.

Mar 07
Love0

What is a Life Insurance Beneficiary?

By Life and Health

lh-0316-2When you buy a life insurance policy, you do so because the policy’s death benefit will provide financial support to your loved ones. That’s why you choose a beneficiary. Ensure your wishes are met and your loved ones are taken care of when you understand what a beneficiary is and then decide who that will be.

Beneficiary Defined

A beneficiary is the person or entity who will receive the death benefit of your life insurance policy after you die. If your term policy includes a $300,000 death benefit, for example, your beneficiary will receive $300,000 if you die before your policy matures. If you don’t make the choice, your estate will make it for you.

Whom can you Choose as a Beneficiary?

You have options about who can be your beneficiary. Most people choose their spouse, child or other relative who depends on them for financial support. You can also choose a friend, caregiver or more than one person to receive your death benefit.

A trustee can also be chosen to receive your life insurance death benefit. That person oversees your estate and ensures the death benefit is handled appropriately.

An entity can also be a beneficiary. Your favorite charity, college or cause can be the recipient of your life insurance death benefit.

The Levels of Beneficiaries

You can choose between two levels of beneficiaries, primary and contingent. The primary beneficiary receives the death benefit attached to your life insurance policy after you die. If the primary beneficiary has also died, the contingent beneficiary receives the death benefit. Your estate receives the money if neither beneficiary is alive.

Specify the Beneficiaries

When choosing a beneficiary, include as much detail as possible, such as the person’s full name and social security number. This step can ensure your wishes become reality and reduce conflict over who receives the money. As an example, if your beneficiary list includes “wife” but you get a divorce after your policy is issued, both your current and former wives can claim the insurance policy at the time of your death.

You should also be clear about how your death benefit is dispersed. For example, you may wish to give your primary beneficiary the full amount but split the death benefit in half between two contingent beneficiaries. Be as specific as possible to assist your survivors in fulfilling your wishes.

Your life insurance policy is a wise investment. Understand beneficiaries as you choose who will receive the money from your policy after you die. Update your policy often, too, to ensure your wishes are met. Your insurance agent can provide additional assistance as you handle this important detail.

Mar 07
Love0

How is Life Insurance Sold?

By Life and Health

lh-0316-1Life insurance provides financially for your loved ones after you die. It’s not sold on store shelves, but you have several options for buying a policy that meets your needs.

Single-Company Agent

A single-company agent sells life insurance from only one company. He or she meets with you to discuss your needs and then provides policy options. Typically, the agent is paid by commission that’s loaded into the premium’s cost. With this option, you always talk to a live agent. However, you’ll need to do your homework to make sure you’re getting the best available price and coverage.

Broker

A broker offers life insurance from several different companies. You’ll share your financial needs, and the agent will check the database for the company that best meets your needs. This purchasing option increases your ability to choose the most affordable policy and comprehensive coverage for your needs.

Fee-Only Advisor

A fee-only advisor sells insurance from one or multiple insurance companies. He or she does not receive a commission on sales, so you may experience less pressure to buy. Since fee-only advisors are not typical, do an online search for “no load life insurance” if you want this option.

Employer

As a perk for employees, your employer may offer group life insurance. It’s usually a term policy with a low death benefit, and the premiums are subsidized by your employer or deducted from your paycheck. If you leave your job, you may convert the term policy to a whole life policy with the company that issues the insurance. Consider this option if you are older, experience health problems or want an extra policy just in case.

Organizations

Your labor union, trade group, college alumni association or auto club may also be an option for group life insurance. The policy will be a term policy with a low death benefit that’s beneficial if you need an affordable option because of your age or health.

Financial Institutions

Your bank or credit union may offer life insurance for minimal cost. The death benefit is usually low, no medical exam is required and you can assign any beneficiary you want.

Financial institutions and credit card companies also sometimes offer life insurance solely to repay an outstanding loan with the institution. It may be included in the loan at no additional cost, or you may have the option to buy the coverage for an additional fee. Compare the cost of this policy and your assets before signing up.

Life insurance is a wise investment. You have several options when purchasing a policy, so do your research as you decide where to buy valuable life insurance.

Mar 07
Love0

Stay Safe While Playing On Icy Winter Ponds

By Personal Perspective

pp-0316-4Outdoor play on icy ponds can be fun for kids of all ages as you ice skate, play ice hockey or slip and slide for fun. March temperatures fluctuate, though, and the ice might not be as safe as you think it is. Take precautions and follow several safety tips.

Test the Ice’s Thickness

Even though the pond appears frozen, the ice must be at least four inches thick to support your weight. To test the ice’s thickness, make a small hole with a chisel or auger and insert a tape measure into the hole. Because ice freezes unevenly, you’ll want to make at least one hole every 150 feet to ensure the entire pond is covered with enough ice.

You should also look for other details about the ice as you determine if it’s strong. New ice is stronger than old ice. Additionally,
clear ice is twice as strong as white or snow-covered ice. If the pond is covered in white ice, it should be at least eight inches thick before you walk or play on it.

Dress Appropriately

Any winter outdoor activities require appropriate clothing. You’ll want to wear a base layer that absorbs moisture, a middle layer that provides insulation and an outer layer that protects you from the weather. You also want to wear shoes or boots that offer traction and a helmet that protects your head.

Take a Buddy

Playing on the ice is dangerous even if it’s deep enough, so always take a friend. Also, stay no more than 10 feet apart so that you can help your friend if one of you falls into the water.

What to do if You Fall Through the Ice

Despite following all the safety tips, you may still fall through the ice. Know what to do as you increase your chances of surviving.

  • Use your safety tools. A whistle allows you to signal for help, and you can use an ice pick to secure your way back onto the ice.
  • Stay calm. Panic consumes valuable energy and time. Plus, flailing around could push you away from the surface you need to grab onto. Try to be intentional and slow about your movements as you move toward the safety of solid ice.
  • Don’t stand up when you get out of the water. This action could cause further cracks in the ice. Instead, stay on your stomach or side to distribute your body weight evenly. Then push yourself further onto solid ice and safety.

Playing on the winter ice is fun. Use these safety tips to ensure everyone stays safe while playing, too.

Mar 07
Love0

Do You Need Travel Insurance

By Personal Perspective

pp-0316-3Planning a vacation is hard work. You want all the details to be just right so that you can enjoy your well-deserved time away. Travel insurance can protect your investment. Learn more about whether it’s a necessary purchase for your vacation or if you can skip it. What is Travel Insurance? If you need to cancel, postpone or cut your domestic or international trip short for any reason, travel insurance reimburses your deposit. It can also pay for medical care you need while traveling or cover rescheduling fees if your flight is cancelled. Without insurance, you’re at the mercy of travel companies and vendors who are often unwilling to change travel reservations or refund payments. Is Travel Insurance a Smart Investment? Most travel insurance policies go unclaimed. Trips go off without a hitch, and no change of plans is necessary. However, you’re not guaranteed the same good fortune. Ask yourself these questions as you decide if travel insurance is a smart investment for you.

    1. Can you afford to lose your deposit? If so, you may not need travel insurance. However, if the trip deposit is a significant amount of your travel budget or would take years to repay, purchase the policy and peace of mind.
    1. Is your trip expensive? Travel to a nearby destination, and you probably don’t need travel insurance. It could be a good idea, though, if you’re taking an expensive trip across multiple cities, across the country or around the world.
    1. Do you have health concerns? A pregnancy, chronic medical condition or other health concerns could require you to postpone your trip or cut it short. You could also experience a medical emergency that requires treatment once you arrive at your destination. Insurance will cover necessary schedule changes or medical treatment that affects your trip.
  1. Do you already have travel insurance? Check the insurance policies you already before you purchase travel insurance. Your homeowner’s policy may cover stolen luggage, your auto policy might cover your rental car and your health insurance may pay for emergency medical treatment. You should also find out if your credit card company will offer reimbursement for plan changes that you charged. In these cases, you don’t need to purchase duplicate coverage.

Where do you Buy Travel Insurance? Your travel agent might offer insurance. Check the rates for coverage from your auto club and independent agent, too. For the lowest rates, purchase your policy no more than two weeks after you book your trip. You should also read the fine print to make sure all the details of your trip are covered. Travel insurance provides you with peace of mind. Consider purchasing a policy as you plan your next trip.

Mar 07
Love0

Protect Yourself Against Uninsured Drivers

By Personal Perspective

pp-0316-2Every state in the U. S. except for New Hampshire requires drivers to purchase insurance before they drive. Unfortunately, as many as one in five drivers do not purchase auto insurance reports the Insurance Research Council (IRC). If you’re in an accident with an uninsured driver, you get stuck with the financial costs. Protect yourself with these tips.

Purchase Uninsured Motorist (UM) Insurance

Uninsured Motorist insurance, also known as Uninsured Motorist Bodily Injury (UMBI) insurance, pays medical bills for you and your passengers after an accident. It can also reimburse you for lost wages or if you’re a hit-and-run accident victim or a pedestrian who’s hit by an uninsured driver.

Purchase Uninsured Motorist Property Damage (UMPD) Coverage

Uninsured Motorist Property Damage insurance covers vehicle damage. It may also cover property damage depending on the state in which you live. In most cases, UMPD coverage will not cover hit-and-run accidents.

Purchase Underinsured Motorist (UIM) Protection

Sometimes, at-fault drivers do have insurance, but their policy includes low limits that are insufficient to fix your vehicle repair. Your UIM policy will pay the difference and fix your automobile.

Report Accidents

After an accident with an uninsured driver, you may be asked not report the accident or file an insurance claim. Resist the temptation to cut the driver a break. You could be stuck with any bills related to the accident, particularly since your insurance company will probably not pay the claim if you don’t report the accident.

Always document accidents and damages. Include who was driving both vehicles and who was at fault. Get the other driver’s name and phone number as well as his or her driver’s license number and the vehicle’s registration, plate number, make and model.

If You’re the Uninsured Driver

Maybe you are the driver who cannot afford auto insurance because you need to pay the rent or put food on your table instead of buying insurance. Your state may have a program that assists low-income drivers in obtaining the coverage they need. You can also shop around and compare coverage from several insurance agents, including agencies that specialize in insuring low-income drivers. Whatever you do, make sure you buy at least minimum insurance coverage.

You can’t control the type of insurance coverage other drivers purchase. However, you can make sure you have enough coverage to pay for medical injuries and damages if you’re in an accident. Your agent will assist in you in purchasing the insurance you need.

Mar 07
Love0

Hot Tub Safety Tips

By Personal Perspective

pp-0316-1As many as 6.6 million hot tubs are in use in the United States. They’re great for relaxation, and they soothe aches and pains. Plus, they’re fun. If you own one, be sure to follow several safety tips.

Talk to your physician and make sure you’re healthy enough to use the hot tub. Hot tubs lower your blood pressure, making them potentially dangerous if you’re pregnant or suffer from certain medical conditions like heart disease.

Drink plenty of water to help you stay hydrated and avoid overheating. If you start to feel dizzy, sleepy or nauseous, get out of the hot tub immediately.

Use an accurate thermometer when measuring the water’s temperature. It should be less than 104 degrees if you’re healthy and less than 100 degrees if you’re pregnant or have a heart condition or other medical problems.

Soak less than 20 minutes at a time to prevent overheating. Pregnant women or anyone with a heart condition or chronic medical problem should stay in for only 10 to 15 minutes at a time.

Never use the hot tub if you’ve been drinking or using drugs, including sleeping pills, antidepressants or tranquilizers. You could fall asleep or lose consciousness and drown.

Don’t allow babies and toddlers in the hot tub. Their skin is thin, and they could easily overheat. They could also have diaper accidents that create in unsanitary hot tub conditions.

Children can use the hot tub if their heads are above the water when they stand up. They should get out within five minutes at a max temperature of 104 degrees or for 10 to 15 minutes if the temperature is 98 degrees or lower. Supervise kids at all times and make sure they’re not goofing off or going underwater.

Be sure the drain cover works properly. Otherwise, someone could become entrapped and drown.

Install a locking cover. This preventative measure secures the hot tub and ensures no person or animal gets into it without your permission.

Clean and sanitize the hot tub regularly. In addition to showering before you get in, check the chemical levels weekly and wipe out the hot tub thoroughly at least once every two months. Find more detailed information from your hot tub manufacturer.

Insure your hot tub. Most homeowner’s insurance policies will cover damage to your hot tub or accidents that occur because of it, but verify coverage with your insurance agent.

Your hot tub is designed for fun, especially when you use it safely. Follow these tips to ensure it stays safe and fun for you and your guests.

Mar 07
Love0

How to Avoid Customer Disputes

By Risk Management Bulletin

rr-0316-4Customer disputes are part of doing business. However, you can avoid disputes and retain your important customer base when you try these tips.

  1. Prepare a written agreement before you sell anything. 

    This legal and binding document outlines the products you sell or the services you provide, and it includes pricing details. It also should include all terms and conditions. You don’t want to add terms to the invoice after your customer signs it.

  1. Have professionals proofread the agreement. 

    Your attorney and tax professional will ensure that the document is legal and inclusive.

  1. Be sure all authorized signers read and understand the agreement. 

    As the business owner, you need to understand the contract you’re asking your customers to sign. Any employees who are also authorized to sign the contract should understand it, too.

  1. Identify your customer who is signing the contract. 

    Your client may by a corporation or company, but you need to be sure you’re meeting with an authorized representative of that company. The contact person must have permission to make the deal and sign contracts. Otherwise, the agreement could be void.

  1. Have both parties sign the agreement. 

    Don’t provide goods or services without having both you and the customer sign the contract. This important step can protect you from expensive litigation.

  1. Maintain detailed time sheets if you charge by the hour. 

    You’ll give the customer a reasonable expert before you start working, but keep detailed records of how you spend your time and what you accomplish as you reduce disputes about charges and results.

  1. Remain professional at all times.

    It’s tempting to tell off a customer who complains about a lopsided display or the temperature of the office. Staying professional and keeping a smile on your face can go a long way toward diffusing tension, though. Teach your staff how to remain professional in all situations.

  1. Prepare a procedure for processing complaints. 

    This step includes who deals with problems, how long you spend on resolving the conflict, how to handle an escalating situation and what to do with unresolved complaints. Everyone in the company should understand the chain of command and what to do when a customer is upset.

  1. Admit mistakes. 

    Even though your written agreement includes all the details of the goods and services you offer, you and your staff are human and may make mistakes. Admitting when you mess up is good customer service.

When you avoid customer disputes, you provide a positive experience for your customers and improve employee morale. Try these tips today as you grow your small business.

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