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How to Keep Remote Workers Safe from Cyberattacks

Ronald
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How to Keep Remote Workers Safe from Cyberattacks

It’s been almost two years since the Covid-19 pandemic forced businesses across the globe to send their employees home to work remotely. And while there are many advantages to this arrangement, there are also some significant cybersecurity risks that come with it.

What are some of the biggest dangers remote workers face, and what can employers do to help keep their employees safe? Here are some tips:

Phishing Emails

Phishing emails are one of the most common ways that cybercriminals try to gain access to sensitive information. They often look like they’re from a legitimate source, but they contain links or attachments that, when clicked, will install malware on your computer or redirect you to a fake website where you’ll be asked to enter personal or financial information.

Teach your employees to be on the lookout for phishing emails by looking out for red flags like misspellings, unexpected attachments, and unfamiliar senders. If they’re not sure whether an email is legitimate, they should err on the side of caution and contact your IT department for help.

Weak Passwords

Another common way that cybercriminals gain access to sensitive information is by guessing or brute-forcing weak passwords. A strong password should be at least eight characters long and contain a mix of uppercase and lowercase letters, numbers, and special characters.

Passwords should also be unique for each account, so that if one password is compromised, the others will remain safe.

Unsecured Wi-Fi Networks

When working remotely, it’s important to only connect to secure Wi-Fi networks. Public Wi-Fi networks are often unsecured, which means that anyone can access them and view any data being transmitted over them.

This includes things like login credentials, confidential business information, and even personal information like credit card numbers and home addresses.

Outdated Software

Outdated software is another common cybersecurity risk. This is because as new security vulnerabilities are discovered, software developers will release updates to patch those holes. But if you’re not using the latest version of the software, you’ll still be vulnerable.

That’s why it’s important to ensure that all the software on your computer, both operating system and applications, is always up-to-date.

Malware

Malware is a type of malicious software that can wreak havoc on your computer, stealing sensitive information or even holding your data hostage until you pay a ransom.

There are many different types of malware, including viruses, Trojans, ransomware, and spyware. The best way to protect yourself is to install a reliable antivirus program and keep it up-to-date.

Unsafe Websites

Another way that cybercriminals can gain access to your computer is by tricking you into visiting an unsafe website. These websites may look legitimate, but they’re actually loaded with malware.

When browsing the internet, always double-check the URL of the website before entering any personal or financial information. And if you’re ever unsure whether a website is safe, don’t hesitate to contact your IT department for help.


If you need help keeping your remote workers safe from cyberattacks, contact a reputable IT support company. They can provide you with the tools and resources you need to keep your business safe.

Tips on Making a Gold Investment

inspiredn
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Tips on Making a Gold Investment

While Americans have encountered economic instability before, it’s never been like this.

Sure, we all learned about The Great Depression in school. It was a period in American history when the stock market crashed and people were left struggling to find enough money to support their families. 

At the same time, the government’s decision to push Americans to move to the Midwest and farm hit a turning point. While these new farmers had experienced a few years of plentiful harvests, in the nineteen twenties they were in for quite a shock.

It was called the dust bowl, and it was a series of wind storms that blew away crops that were planted too shallowly in the soil. These two factors combined to upend American life. Many people struggled to put food on the table.

One hundred years later and it seems as though not much has changed. The stock market has crashed again and experts are saying that we’re on our way to another recession. 

Because of shipping issues and supply chain disruptions, many Americans are struggling to find the things that they need. Infant formula and tampons are in short supply, and consumers have become desperate to find what these items and more.

Inflation has increased the cost of everyday goods such as milk, eggs, and butter. Suddenly, your grocery money doesn’t go quite as far. Click the link: https://www.imf.org/external/pubs/ft/fandd/basics/30-inflation.htm for more information about inflation.

If you’re preparing for retirement, all of these things may be concerning to you. That is because what you once thought would be an adequate nest egg to retire with might not make it quite as far as you thought.

So what can you do?

Many people are choosing to look into alternative investment options when it comes to their retirement account. You may already have a 401k, a Roth Ira, or a 403b account from your employer or a previous financial decision.

But are those the only options? 

Lucky for you, the answer is a resounding “No!” You have another option when it comes to retirement funds. It’s called a Gold IRA, and it might be just what you’re looking for.

Gold IRA? What’s That?

If you’ve never heard the term before, it could be shocking to you. It sounds like a marketing gimmick, a way for you to think that this investment opportunity is “as good as gold.”

You’ll be happy to know that there is no trickery involved with the name. A gold IRA is just what it sounds like. It’s a retirement fund based on the investment of gold, and sometimes other precious metals.

Instead of investing in US currency, which, as we’ve discussed above can be volatile, you’ll be making a more solid investment into physical stock in gold.

Not figurative stock, as you would if you were investing in the stock market. A gold IRA involves real gold that you can hold in your hands. Does it get any better than that?

Can I Get One?

Although they sound like something straight out of the society pages, you won’t need any special references or credit checks in order to invest in a Gold IRA. 

You can choose to roll over an existing retirement account for little to no cost.

If you don’t already have a retirement fund, don’t fret! You’re still eligible to open an account. 

Are They Hard to Get?

While it is not difficult to invest in a Gold IRA, it can take some time. You’ll want to keep that in mind if and when you begin the investment process.

The reason they take time is because you are investing in a physical commodity.

The process often works like this. First, you will contact a reputable company to help you make your investments, such as Kingold Jewelry or another company of your choice. (More on how to choose the right company for you later)

You will often message them through their website or call them directly. Once you have made contact, the company will find you an advisor to work with. If you’ve ever invested in the stock market, you’ll be somewhat familiar with this process.

Once you are assigned an account manager, they will be in contact with you within a few days. Some companies are even able to respond on the same day.

They will discuss your investment needs to be sure that they are able to meet these needs for you. Once you are sure that you are on the same page, your advisor will be ready to start making purchases on your behalf.

These companies are connected to a network of gold sales merchants who are ready to sell at market prices to savvy investors. Your advisor will negotiate, finalize the deal, and arrange shipping on your behalf.

It can take a few days or even weeks for the gold to be deposited in your account. Many companies offer you the option of having your own vault or sharing it with others. No matter which option you choose, your metal will be stored in a temperature controlled environment to ensure long-term durability. It will also be guarded twenty-four hours a day by trained security officers.

Finding the Right Company For You

I promised that we’d get around to this topic!

Once you’ve decided that investing in gold or other precious metals is right for you, you’re ready to take the next step.

There are many companies that offer this service, and you’ll want to be sure that you’re doing business with the best one for you.

Your first step is to check out online resources. You’ll want to read user reviews to see if there any consistent issues brought up by members

Take into account the spelling and grammar of the reviews. Remember that many spam bots are not able to write in perfect English. If you find that many negative reviews are hard to read because they are filled with errors, you may want to disregard them.

If you follow all of these steps you’ll be sure to find the right investment for you.

What Is A Load Board And How Is It Used?

Luna
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What Is A Load Board And How Is It Used?

We are currently living in a digital world. Almost every aspect of life has evolved from analog to digital; that includes the shipping industry. As far as the moving industry is concerned, shippers, brokers, and movers can easily connect via load boards to make the shipping experience easy and quick. Here, we will discuss load boards more and how people can use them.  

Continue reading for more information. 

What’s A Load Board? 

Also known as a freight matching service, a load board is an online platform that brings together brokers with loads to be carried and carriers searching for loads to ferry. Load boards are essential for keeping the freight moving, saving money and time for the parties involved. 

Most load boards are advanced to allow users to post and search for loads using several criteria. They also provide different services for the users. Most load boards offer services such as load matching. They also provide credit information, the ability to make notes, message boards, mobile access, and pre-approved finance through factoring. 

    

Types Of Load Boards 

There are several kinds of load boards suitable for different tasks. The most common ones are paid and unpaid load boards. Nevertheless, there are other load boards like: 

  • Traditional Load Boards: Traditional load boards allow brokers, shippers, and carriers to discuss the cargo, capacity, and destination. 
  • Less Than Truckload (LTL) Load Boards: This term refers to freight that isn’t large enough to fit the trailer; hence they’re more likely to be carried along with other freight. 
  • Miscellaneous Loads: These loads refer to anything between the categories mentioned above. They might include unconventional loads such as livestock. 

Two primary users use load boards: carriers and brokers. However, shippers also use load boards indirectly since most shippers use brokers to find suitable trucks to ferry their cargo. 

How Is Load Board Used? 

As earlier stated, a load board connects the broker and the carrier regarding cargo. The broker posts the load board, indicating the load they want to have carried, the equipment they want to use, and other information concerning the freight. On the other hand, the carrier searches the load board to find truck loads they can handle.   

Ultimately, both load board users, in this case, the broker and the carrier, benefit from using the platform. The carrier hits the road while the broker gets the load ferried to its destination.  

It’s essential to note that brokers use load boards in several ways to find suitable trucks to move their loads and set optimal rates. Among the ways in which brokers use load boards include: 

  • Establishing Rates: Once shippers contact brokers over the need to ship loads, the brokers develop rates for various lanes. However, the broker and the shipper must agree on the shipping costs. These costs primarily depend on lane density, meaning the number of available trucks willing to take the job. But the question is, how does a broker know the number of available trucks capable of delivering the cargo safely to develop the correct rate? 

Simple. Most load boards have rate sourcing tools where suitable market price lanes are posted. It’s therefore easy for brokers to set rates for carriers for negotiation before they both agree on the rate. 

  • Searching For Trucks: For a successful moving process, a broker must find a suitable and capable truck for the job. Instead of asking for referrals from friends and families, brokers depend on load boards to get these trucks. They just have to indicate where they are, the load’s destination, the truck type needed, and the load weight. In a few moments, they will get notified of the available trucks suitable for the job near them. 
  • Posting Loads: Brokers with lots of loads to be carried or too busy for truck search can post the loads on the board. Through this, carriers see the available loads on the board and reach out to learn more about them. They can accept the offer if they agree on the rate and other terms. 

How Do Load Boards Work For Carriers? 

Every truck owner wants their vehicles to be on the move. Therefore, they depend on load boards to find work for their trucks easily and quickly. The truck owners and operators don’t need to tire shippers with endless calls when working with load boards. Instead, they go to the load board apps to check if there are suitable loads for them in terms of location, truck type, and maximum weight. Truck owners and operators access hundreds of loads through load boards, choose the suitable ones, and get on with the task. 

Are Load Boards Paid Or Free? 

The load board market is among the most competitive ones. That said, there are both paid and free load boards. For paid services, the cost depends on the plan. At some point, premium prices can reach up to USD$100 per month. Remember, here, too, you get what you pay for.  

Nevertheless, paid load boards aren’t necessarily better than free ones. Sometimes you can get better deals on free load boards than on paid ones. The secret is to search for a board that suits your requirements, whether free or paid. 

Benefits Of Load Boards 

The following are some of the many benefits of load boards: 

  • Avoid Status Calls: Shipping process transparency is beneficial for every involved party. Load boards enable carriers to update their location, allowing shippers and brokers to understand how the process is proceeding. Other than providing visibility, this feature is also customer-friendly. 
  • Easy To Use: Load boards don’t require advanced knowledge to use. All you need is to develop an account to help you view available tasks. 
  • Efficient And Convenient: Load boards are easily accessible via the internet. Each party involved in the move can access load boards from their devices regardless of the location and the time. 

Conclusion 

Based on the information above, load boards can be referred to as a center where brokers and shippers connect to find suitable trucks and moving tasks. With load boards, loads are effectively and quickly moved to their destinations as truck owners and operators get their vehicles moving. In the end, both parties make money and save time. 

How To Select The Best Fire Pit Table For Your Needs

Sharon
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How To Select The Best Fire Pit Table For Your Needs

With the right fire pit table for your patio or backyard, you can enjoy the great outdoors in comfort for hours. However, before you have friends and family over, you’ll want to find the best fire pit table for your needs and budget.

Tips to choose the perfect fire pit table include the following.

Ask Yourself How You’ll Use The Fire Pit Table

Before buying a fire pit table, ask yourself how you will use it. Will you use the fire pit for entertaining? Then you may want it to be the focal point of your patio with plenty of comfortable furniture around it.

Check Your Local Regulations

Before you purchase a fire pit table or a regular fire pit, check the building codes in your community for any rules. It’s also important if you buy a wood-burning fire pit to determine the rules for burning wood in the backyard.

Remember, localities often have specific rules for placing fire pits a certain distance from the home and other structures, such as placing the unit at least 10 feet from fences and buildings. Your county might even require an inspection by the fire department to ensure your set-up is safe. You want to be sure you are following all the rules after you go to the trouble of buying and installing a fire pit.

If your area doesn’t allow wood-burning fire pits, it’s no problem. Just opt for a propane or natural gas fire pit table.

Permanent Or Portable

Do you want your fire pit table to be a permanent fixture in your yard, or do you want to move it from time to time?

A permanent fire pit table is usually heavier and more robust. It also will give off bigger flames and be better for a larger crowd of guests. These types of fire pit tables are ideal for a deck or patio with a lot of space.

A portable fire pit table is often lighter and smaller and gives off smaller flames. It’s usually ideal for a group of two to four people. They’re best for a small balcony.

Consider Different Materials

Fire pit tables come in many materials, such as metal, concrete, stone, etc. Select a fire pit table material that appeals to your tastes and goes with how your backyard and patio are designed. It should also resist stains and hold up to regular use.

Each material has its advantages and disadvantages. Concrete lasts but can get stained from soot, but that won’t be a problem if you have a fire pit with propane.

With a propane or gas fire pit table, you can choose the fire media which is the material over the flame that covers the burners. Popular options are fire glass and lava rock.

Select Your Style

The fire pit style you select is closely related to the purpose you desire. Of course, you want a fire, but are you interested in cooking steak and vegetables there, too?

Do you want to have large groups over? Or will it just be your close family most of the time? If you want big parties, consider purchasing a bigger fire pit table, and a smaller one if you will have a few people over in the evening.

There are so many types and sizes of fire pit tables that it can be hard to make a choice! Fortunately, it’s easier to select the best product for your needs once you answer some of the questions addressed in this post.

8 Signs You’re Underutilizing Your Managed Service Provider

Ronald
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8 Signs You’re Underutilizing Your Managed Service Provider

​​If you’re working with a managed service provider (MSP), it’s important to make sure that you’re getting the most out of the relationship. Here are eight signs that you may be underutilizing your MSP:

1. You’re relying on them for reactive rather than proactive support.

Your MSP should be more than just a help desk that you call when something goes wrong. Look for an MSP that offers proactive support and monitoring, so they can identify potential problems before they become major issues.

2. You’re not taking advantage of their expertise.

An managed service provider can offer a lot more than just technical support. They can also provide valuable insights into your business operations, helping you to optimize your processes and improve your bottom line. Make sure you’re taking advantage of their expertise by regularly asking for their input on strategic decisions.

3. You’re not using their tools to their full potential.

Most MSPs offer a range of tools and services that can save you time and money. If you’re not using them to their full potential, you’re not getting the most out of your relationship. Make sure you understand all the features and benefits of the tools your MSP offers, so you can make the most of them.

4. You’re not communicating effectively.

Communication is key in any relationship, and that includes the one between you and your managed service provider. If you’re not communicating effectively, you’re not getting the most out of the relationship. Make sure you’re communicating your needs clearly and regularly, so your MSP can provide the best possible support.

5. You’re not keeping up with changes in technology.

Technology is constantly changing, and it’s important to keep up with the latest trends. If you’re not keeping up with changes in technology, you’re not getting the most out of your MSP. Make sure you’re asking them about new features and capabilities that could benefit your business.

6. You’re not leveraging their network.

An managed service provider typically has a wide network of contacts, which can be a valuable resource for your business. If you’re not leveraging their network, you’re not getting the most out of your MSP. Make sure you’re asking your MSP for introductions to potential partners and suppliers.

7. You’re not taking advantage of their discounts.

Many MSPs offer discounts on products and services that can save you money. If you’re not taking advantage of their discounts, you’re not getting the most out of your MSP. Make sure you’re asking about any discounts that might be available to you.

8. You’re not using their reporting features.

Managed service providers typically offer a range of reports that can help you track your progress and identify areas for improvement. If you’re not using their reporting features, you’re not getting the most out of your MSP. Make sure you’re taking advantage of their reporting capabilities to help you make better decisions about your business.

If you’re guilty of any of the above, don’t worry – there’s still time to turn things around. Talk to your MSP about how you can get more out of the relationship. They’ll be happy to help you make the most of their services.

Spring Cleaning 101: Never Too Late For It

Ronald
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Spring Cleaning 101: Never Too Late For It

It’s never too late to begin spring cleaning. In fact, starting later in the season can actually be beneficial. The warmer weather means that you can open up the windows and air out your home while you clean, and there are usually fewer people trying to book professional cleaners during this time of year. However, before you get started, there are some things you should keep in mind.

Set Aside Some Time

Spring cleaning is not something that can be done in an hour or two. You will need to set aside at least a day, if not a weekend, to really deep clean your home. Make sure you schedule some time off from work or other obligations so that you can focus on cleaning.

Make a List

Once you have set aside some time for cleaning, make a list of all the things you want to accomplish. This will help you stay organized and focused while you work. Include everything from dusting to vacuuming to decluttering closets and drawers.

Gather Your Supplies

Before you begin cleaning, make sure you have all the supplies you need. This includes things like rags, sponges, cleaning solutions, and trash bags. Having everything you need on hand will make the process much easier.

Start With the Big Stuff

When you begin cleaning, start with the big tasks first. This means things like vacuuming, mopping, and dusting. Getting these out of the way first will make the rest of the tasks seem much easier.

Don’t Forget the Little Things

Once you’ve tackled the big jobs, don’t forget about the little details. Wipe down baseboards, clean windows, and dust light fixtures. These may seem like small tasks, but they can make a big difference in the overall cleanliness of your home.

Clean the Gutters

After a long winter, your gutters are probably full of leaves and debris. This can cause problems like clogged drains and water damage. Be sure to clean them out before the warmer weather arrives.

Declutter

One of the best parts of spring cleaning is getting rid of all the clutter that has accumulated over the winter months. Go through your closets, drawers, and any other storage areas in your home and get rid of anything you don’t need or use anymore. You can donate items to charity or have a garage sale to make some extra money. Don’t forget to organize your garage as well—consider investing in garage storage in Omaha to create an efficient and clutter-free space that maximizes functionality and keeps your belongings neatly organized.

Rent a Storage Unit

If you find that you still have too much stuff after decluttering, consider renting a storage unit. This can be a great way to get rid of things you don’t need but don’t want to get rid of completely. It can also be a good place to store seasonal items like holiday decorations and winter clothing.

Spring cleaning doesn’t have to be a chore. By following these tips, you can get the job done quickly and efficiently. And, once you’re finished, you’ll be able to enjoy your clean and clutter-free home all season long.

3 Underrated Ways to Increase Employee Productivity

Sharon
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3 Underrated Ways to Increase Employee Productivity

Employee productivity is one of the most important factors in determining the success of a business. Unfortunately, it’s easy for things to get in the way of employees being as productive as they can be. There are some common things that can affect employee productivity, like ineffective managers and company culture. But there are some lesser-known factors that can have a big impact on productivity as well.

So, here are 3 underrated ways to improve employee productivity.

Eliminate Repetitive Mundane Tasks

One of the biggest productivity killers is having employees do repetitive, mundane tasks. This could be anything from data entry to sorting through emails.

Not only are these tasks incredibly boring for employees, but they’re also a huge waste of time. If you can find a way to automate or eliminate these types of tasks, do it.

For instance, if your IT department is still using manual means of responding to IT support requests, it’s time to consider customer service automation that can automate much of the process and leave them free for more important tasks like cybersecurity.

Here’s how to eliminate mundane tasks for your employees:

  • Outsourcing is a great way to get rid of repetitive tasks.
  • Use software to automate. There are now software programs that can automate just about anything, from social media posts to data entry.
  • Hire a Virtual Assistant. A Virtual Assistant (VA) can take care of a lot of different tasks, from scheduling appointments to handling customer service inquiries.

Create a Comfortable Physical Workspace

The physical workspace is often underrated when it comes to employee productivity. But the truth is, employees who have a comfortable and ergonomic workspace are going to be more productive than those who don’t.

There are a few things you can do to make sure your employees have a comfortable workspace:

  • Invest in ergonomic furniture. This includes things like adjustable desks and chairs, as well as standing desks.
  • Make sure there’s enough space. If the workspace is too cramped, it will only serve to add to stress levels.
  • Allow for personalization. Employees should be able to personalize their workspace to some extent. This could be anything from photos to plants.

Encourage Breaks

It might seem counterintuitive, but encouraging employees to take breaks can actually help improve productivity. Employees who take regular breaks are more likely to be refreshed and ready to work when they return to their tasks.

There are a few different ways you can encourage employees to take breaks:

  • Set up a dedicated break area in the office where employees can go to relax and recharge.
  • Offer incentives for taking breaks, like giving employees extra points in a company-wide wellness program.
  • Encourage employees to use their vacation days. This will not only give them a much-needed break from work, but it will also give them something to look forward to.

By eliminating repetitive tasks, creating a comfortable workspace, and encouraging employees to take breaks, you can boost employee productivity in your organization. Try one or all of these methods and see what works best for your business.

ActiveCampaign vs Klavyio: Which Is The Best One For Your Business?

Luna
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0
ActiveCampaign vs Klavyio: Which Is The Best One For Your Business?

Email marketing is something that businesses should consider to expand their reach and quickly increase revenue and conversions. Hence, if you want to take your email marketing to the next level, consider investing in a system that sends timely, personalized emails based on your contacts’ preferences.  

Essentially, it’s time to consider using dependable email marketing software. The right software can provide seamless tools for designing emails, creating data-driven segments, configuring automation, and closely monitoring your marketing campaigns. 

Although you can find an abundance of email marketing software on the market, you might want to check out what Klaviyo and ActiveCampaign offer. You might want to look at this comparison to help you decide on the right one for your business.   

A Comparison Of ActiveCampaign Vs Klaviyo 

Klaviyo boasts marketing automation along with an email platform that automates campaigns for your business. It generally aids in data access, analysis, and storage to ensure successful email marketing campaigns. 

ActiveCampaign is a cloud software platform that mainly caters to small and medium-sized businesses. The software combines several components: marketing and sales automation, email marketing, and customer relationship management (CRM). 

Points Of Comparison To Consider   

Depending on the type of online business you’re running, there are several points of comparison to keep in mind if you’re deciding between ActiveCampaign vs Klaviyo.   

Generally, if you’re running an online business that sells physical products online, consider Klaviyo. Meanwhile, if you’re not selling physical products online, ActiveCampaign may be a better option.   

Here are several points of comparison to keep in mind between ActiveCampaign and Klaviyo to help you decide on the most suitable one for your business.   

  1. Campaigns  

Klaviyo and ActiveCampaign have simple drag-and-drop campaign editors for creating email marketing campaigns. However, the only difference with Klaviyo is the dynamic feed.  

Once configured, you can sync a dynamic product block with your store. In essence, you’re no longer required to alter your emails per your inventory, which is advantageous if your business is solely committed to selling physical goods. 

  1. Dashboard  

When it comes to the dashboard, Klaviyo can provide you with insights on revenue and the earnings from your campaigns. The software provides the essential information eCommerce business owners need. Apart from total revenue, you can see everything at the campaign and automation levels. 

On the other hand, the dashboard of ActiveCampaign displays information about your contacts. When comparing the dashboards, Klaviyo prioritizes revenue, whereas ActiveCampaign prioritizes contacts and client engagement. 

  1. Segments   

You can utilize any data to segment contacts based on repeat purchases, average order values, non-opted in, and many more. Generally, depending on the available data, you can create segments. 

In Klaviyo, it has data feed, reporting, integration with Shopify, and analytics, which shows that the software prioritizes data. Klaviyo provides the most adaptable segmentation among the various email marketing tools. 

As for ActiveCampaign, it offers a segment builder that’s readily accessible all over the platform. In most cases, it’s a floating feature that enables you to make segments as you go. Although ActiveCampaign’s segment builder is a handy tool, Klaviyo has more data storage capacity, better options, and greater flexibility for segmenting contact lists. 

  1. Automation  

Both Klaviyo and ActiveCampaign provide automation builders that you can easily configure. 

The automation in Klaviyo is known as flow. Generally, the flows enable you to trigger messages and send emails depending on customer action, including purchasing a product, subscribing to a list, or cart abandonment. These variables will determine the appropriate suggestions, such as welcome, win back, or browse abandonment. 

Meanwhile, ActiveCampaign offers better automation features with more triggers and options. There are more templates—referred to as automation recipes—that you can use in ActiveCampaign. The availability of a collection of automation recipes organized by industry in ActiveCampaign is a benefit. 

  1. Integrations  

In terms of integrations, both ActiveCampaign and Klaviyo offer a wide range of integrations, including those with all widely used eCommerce platforms and third-party services. Integrations are links between software that exchange information with one another. However, integrations aren’t the same. The main distinction between each software is how it stores data. 

In Klaviyo, it includes past data, while ActiveCampaign is limited to only the latest activities. Even though not every business needs historical data for campaigns, segmentation among eCommerce businesses depends on it. 

  1. Support   

Both ActiveCampaign and Klaviyo offer live chat and email assistance as well as a wealth of resources, including articles and videos. 

Weekend hours for Klaviyo’s email support are 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., and weekday hours are 6 a.m. to 10 p.m. As for live chat support, there are limitations. ActiveCampaign provides 24/7 email support as well as periodic live chat assistance. 

  1. Reporting And Analytics   

You probably know that Klaviyo is all about using data to enhance the effectiveness of campaigns for eCommerce businesses. Hence, when it comes to analytics, Klaviyo boasts the flexibility to build dashboards with live data, which can include revenue, popular products, number of subscribers, and many more.   

ActiveCampaign, on the other hand, showcases reporting, including click-through rates, deals, and many more. It’s more all-encompassing than Klaviyo. 

Final Thoughts   

In the email marketing industry, both Klaviyo and ActiveCampaign are trustworthy choices to consider. They have become the top brands in email marketing automation over time.  

By taking a close look at the comparison between ActiveCampaign vs Klaviyo, it provides you with an insight into how both brands work. Both platforms can give you the tools to help your email marketing efforts, depending on the particular needs of your business. 

Great Customer Service Skills To Hire For In Every Industry

Author
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Great Customer Service Skills To Hire For In Every Industry

Customer service is more than just pasting a smile on your face or not rolling your eyes when a customer complains. It takes certain soft skills to provide excellent customer service in a variety of situations at work.

Successful business owners understand the importance of hiring employees with great customer service skills. It’s essential to have a team that has these skills to create lasting customer relationships and build trust in your brand. 

So what customer service skills should you be hiring for? Let’s take a look at the top seven skills to look for in potential employees. 

Customer Service Skills You Should Never Pass Up

Whether you are the founder of a small startup or the CEO of a multi-million dollar company, keep these skills on your radar when hiring new employees. 

  1. Empathy

Empathy, or the ability to step into another person’s shoes and understand their feelings is a highly valuable skill for those who work in customer service roles. This is because oftentimes, customers may be frustrated or upset when contacting the company. Without empathy, it is far too easy to brush off a customer’s concerns and make them feel invalid. Showing empathy makes a customer feel valued, which goes a long way in customer retention.

  1. Adaptability

Brian Greenberg from Insurist shares that “adaptability is one skill that customer service employees should have because when talking to customers you may need to switch tactics to find the best solutions.” Customers may be contacting you in several different ways such as by phone, email, or instant message. Being able to adapt to the form of communication and showing mental flexibility is a great customer service skill to seek out as an employer. 

  1. Integrity 

Integrity is another skill that makes for a great customer service representative. Nataly Vanunu from Boho-Magic, an artisan hand-crafted online jewelry store, says that “our customer service representatives are honest with customers about the jewelry creation process and aren’t afraid to share the truth.” Having integrity as a customer service representative also means finding true solutions instead of quick bandaid fixes.

  1. Self-Control

Another great customer service skill to have is self-control. In customer-facing roles, there are no doubt going to be times when you are tested. It is easy to get frustrated with customers but good representatives will not show their frustration. Instead of raising their voice or saying something they shouldn’t, good representatives practice self-control and keep a positive demeanor even when it’s difficult.

  1. Clear Communication Skills

“When explaining how our on-demand staffing app works, our representatives must be clear communicators,” says  Qwick’s Chief People Officer, Derek Johnson. “In our business and many others, being able to effectively communicate directions and share the intricacies of how our technology operates with people who are unfamiliar with the product or service is vital. Clear communication includes not only verbal communication but written communication as well. A good representative should be skilled in both areas”. Being able to effectively communicate directions and share the intricacies of technology with people who are unfamiliar with a product or service is vital. Clear communication includes not only verbal communication but written communication as well. A good representative should be skilled in both areas.

  1. Patience

Similar to self-control, one of the best customer service skills candidates should have is patience. Patience is especially important when troubleshooting with a customer. It may take multiple tries or even multiple interactions to fix the issue. Sometimes, customer questions or complaints take longer to address than expected, so being patient is a must. As a business owner, this should be at the top of your list when seeking to fill customer service-based roles.  

  1. Effective Listening

Lastly, let’s discuss effective listening. This skill is necessary in order to provide the best customer experience possible. By actively listening, a customer service representative can soak up all of the information they need to address whatever issue is on the customer’s mind. Showing customers that you are listening by acknowledging what they just said is a great way to let them know you hear their concerns. 

Now that you know seven great customer service skills to look for, go forth and find qualified candidates for your business. Hopefully, this guide helped you understand the importance of these qualities in a customer service representative.

8 Ways to Deal with a Divorce Without it Affecting Your Career

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Getting divorced puts a real strain on the other areas of your life, and it can be hard to stay resilient. In this article we explore 8 ways that you can deal with a divorce without it affecting your career…

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When you’re getting divorced, the experience can have huge impact on your life. During this time many people struggle to remain productive at work, finding themselves feeling stressed and anxious.

Thankfully, there are many things you can do to make things less stressful during this time. Working with a good divorce lawyer can help you to ensure that the process runs smoothly. 

As well as, making sure you take good care of your physical and mental health by exercising regularly and speaking to a counsellor.

If you’re getting divorced and you’re worried about the impact on your career, take a look at these 8 simple ideas to help keep you on track…

1. Take Some Time off

Getting divorced can be a tense and emotional experience and many people find it hard to focus on work. To ease the pressure, and start to feel better, it’s certainly a good idea to get some time off.

During your time off, practice activities that make you feel happy or anything that will distract you from the anxiety you’re feeling. You might take a holiday, spend time with friends, or try some artistic activities. Anything that raises your endorphins is also a great idea.

2.  Speak to Your Boss

When you’re going through a divorce, it’s a good idea to have an open discussion with your boss. If they know what you are going through, they will be able to offer support, and to make allowances for your situation. You might also like to discuss the situation with your co-workers so that everyone is on the same page.

Naturally these conversations can be difficult to have but doing so can make a big difference to your work-life during this tough time. If there’s anything that your boss can do to support you, ensure that you let them know.

3. A Self-Care Regime

Being under ongoing stress can put a strain on your physical and mental health and so it’s vital that you have a self-care regime in place. Self-care means different things to different people and there are plenty of ways that you can take better care of your mind and body.

Some of the best activities to relax include yoga, meditation and journaling. Activities that involve spending time amongst nature are particularly therapeutic, whether it’s gardening, hiking or wild swimming.

If you need a little inspiration, self-care apps are a great place to find activities and ideas.

Apps like these allow you to reflect on your needs, set goals and track your progress.

4. Set Realistic Goals

When you’re going through a divorce, you might find work more of a struggle than usual. It’s important that you make allowances for your feelings during this time, and be realistic about your expectations.

Accept that you may not be as productive as you usually are, and set yourself new achievable goals, without pushing yourself too hard. Setting realistic goals will reduce your stress levels, and ultimately improve your performance.

5. Focus on Success

Going through a divorce is hard, but you’ll have worked hard to establish your career, and you won’t want to jeopardise it. During this time, it’s best to focus on the success you’ve achieved, and keep things in perspective. 

As much as you can, try to focus on working hard, and retaining your confidence. Throwing yourself into your career can actually serve as a great distraction.

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6. Get the Basics Right

When you’re struggling emotionally, remaining productive at work can be hard. To ease your struggles, and focus on your career, it’s important to get the basics right. 

Ensure that you eat plenty of healthy food and get enough sleep. If you’re struggling to sleep it can be a good idea to try herbal sleep aids like valerian root or passionflower. If you find that your lack of sleep is affecting your health, you might consider visiting your GP.

7. Consider Counselling

If your divorce is affecting your mental health, this might have a knock-on effect on your performance at work. If this is the case, it might be helpful to consider counselling. Speaking to a professional can help you to get your emotions off your chest, and learn useful techniques to help you cope with your feelings.

8. Lean on Your Support Network

When you’re going through a divorce, and you’re worried about it affecting your career, it’s important that you have a support network to lean on. Surround yourself with family members and friends who you can share your emotions with and get advice.

If you don’t have anyone you feel that you can talk to you might consider looking into joining some kind of divorce support group. The more that you take care of yourself during this time, the easier that it will be to stay healthy, and focus on what matters.

Dealing with a Divorce Whilst Holding Down a Job Can be Hard…

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It can be incredibly difficult to deal with a divorce and to excel in your career at the same time. Fortunately, there are many things that you can do to deal with a divorce without it affecting your career. 

Make sure that you discuss matters with your boss, set realistic goals and take some time off when you need it. Remember, you’ve worked hard for your career and focusing on it now can serve as a great distraction.

To ensure that the process runs as smoothly as possible it’s vital that you seek the help of a professional divorce lawyer. Accessing the right legal support can help you to ensure that you protect your interests and finances. Making the process easier will enable you to prioritise your work and keep things on track.

Please be advised that this article is for general informational purposes only, and should not be used as a substitute for advice from a trained legal professional. Be sure to consult a Divorce Lawyer if you’re seeking advice on the law. We are not liable for risks or issues associated with using or acting upon the information on this site.

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