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The cloud is everywhere and there’s no escaping it – not that we want to.  The cloud was created as a centralized management system for data; however, today, almost everyone uses it for a multitude of reasons.  Because of the cloud, we communicate differently, share data differently (whether that is visual or text-based), and so much more. Using the cloud means that, not only is our data protected, but also that it is accessible anytime, from anywhere. Whether it’s part of your personal technology strategy or just there because you are stuck with it, at the end of the day, we are all using it at home and at work.  No matter how many users you have accessing your information, storing it in the cloud means keeping it safe. Everyone from business owners (of every size) to individuals with huge iCloud storage files understands that the cloud makes our lives easier and far more secure.

When we use the cloud properly, we are enhancing our productivity for two reasons: first, because our data is stored in one unified location and secondly, because we are able to access it “on the fly” as needed.  And if you are one of the few people that don’t realize they are using the cloud, it’s easy to demonstrate that you probably are. For example, if you are using a Microsoft or Apple product, you’re using the cloud.  If you have an online accounting or even an online gaming program, you guessed it, you’re using the cloud. 

What you may not realize though is that each user modifies how they use the cloud themselves.  Every cloud experience is different, just as every person is different. And, each of us processes information differently as well.  Some of us are more visual, while others are more textual. By understanding this, we can begin to understand how using the cloud to our advantage is not only a time-saver, but also a productivity enhancer!   In fact, with the right attention to detail and setup, the cloud is actually the best insurance money can buy for our data stores. And yes, this even includes pictures and videos!

What you may also not realize is that the cloud enhances our security and reduces the risk of losing our data.  CIO.com and multiple publications have regularly reported that, “20% of cloud storage users recover from a site disaster in four hours or less. For those outside the cloud, a mere 9% of storage users can typically restore their information. For those that don’t use the cloud, this can be disastrous.”

This may not seem like a lot to you at first, but just think how it would be to lose pictures, graphics, documents and other files that cannot ever be recreated.  It is impossible to put a number on the value of those lost files. And it is partially for this reason that the cloud was created in the first place. Since its launch, the cloud has changed significantly.  Today, it’s a natural part of our everyday lives. In the beginning it was a purely a means of data and file storage. Today, there is Social Cloud Storage.

If you don’t know about it yet, you should! Social Cloud Storage, when used personally or professionally, offers a significantly higher rate of data engagement.  It enables the user to organize and personalize their files as they see fit. It also enables the sharing of files and information in a curated manner never seen before.  Between individuals or between departments in a company, Social Cloud Storage makes the cloud adaptable and shareable. The four cornerstones of Social Cloud Storage are: organization, access, control, and customization.

Now that you, the reader, have a better understanding of the cloud, and of Social Cloud Storage as well, it’s time to turn our attention to the two most commonly asked questions about it: bandwidth and cost.   Cost comes in two forms: inherent cost and bottom-line cost. Because Social Cloud Storage is user-friendly and easy to set up, the only inherent cost comes with the time spent setting it up the way you want your data and files archived. 

The real bottom-line cost, according to Arvind Raichur, CEO and Co-Founder of, MrOwl, comes with no cost and low-cost options. After studying the cloud industry and other related ones closely, Raichur and his team literally invented a new category for cloud-based technology applications called Social Cloud Storage™. 

Social Cloud Storage “enables the sharing of content directly out of your cloud storage to a community beyond your contacts. Users can share information, while creating communities of curated information through their own personal cloud storage.”

Raichur notes, “it’s all about enhancing communications and building a wider community where individuals feel heard, understood, and above all, connected.  And, it’s never been easier to share knowledge and resources because MrOwl offers unlimited storage for public content as well as 10GB’s of free private storage.”  Today, MrOwl enables users to store free, unlimited files in public branches, up to 20MB per file. As your files increase in size, moving to the company’s private storage offering is your best bet.

Cloud Storage has changed the way we communicate, keep in touch, and store our information. The cloud has become as integral to us as brushing our teeth, driving a car, or even talking on the phone.  We use it to track our files, photos, data, and other related information – keeping it all in one place. Most organizations utilize the cloud, and it has become a core part of the majority of IT programs.  But that isn’t all, it has also become a core part of our everyday lives, whether storing information from your iPhone, backing up your home computer, or using it to store valued information.

Today’s understanding that the universal cloud protects against disasters is true: just look at how businesses in the Bahamas and other areas hit by storms have survived.   However, this is one reason the cloud is so pervasive because we’ve learned from experience that merely having a cloud just isn’t enough. In everyday life – or in an emergency – it is mission critical to have the ability to access information, in an organized and searchable manner, quickly and efficiently.  It can save the life of a person – or a business. 

Analysts and media have consistently focused on the challenges faced by those who are either using or are not using the cloud.  CIO.com regularly reports that, “20% of cloud storage users recover from a site disaster in four hours or less. For those outside the cloud, a mere 9% of storage users can typically restore their information. For those that don’t use the cloud, this can be disastrous.”

Whether at home or in the office, the cloud enables the centralizing of your data management and the organization of it. Users of social cloud storage, on the other hand, can merge their information into one searchable area, controlled by them, and utilized for both storage and social purposes.  

The bottom-line for companies is always the cost savings.  However, you don’t typically analyze the ways the bottom-line impacts productivity.  This includes everything from time saturation, time loss, and ease and effectiveness of data use which all go directly to your bottom-line.  When productivity is down because you can’t find a critical file or photo, or because it is lost, everyone — from the user to the company’s itself — suffer.  While the majority of organizations look at IT spending as a bottom-line expense, the best way to make the most out of your IT budget, according to the experts, is to make the cloud highly productive for the way you use it. In analyst reports, cloud storage has been proven, time and time again, to reduce IT costs by up to 75% on an ongoing basis, while offering additional security and other benefits.

The cloud is so flexible, with limitless ways to utilize it. It’s future is changing. Arvind Raichur, CEO and Co-Founder of, MrOwl, a platform that utilizes the cloud in new ways, says the answer is actually quite simple. Raichur and his team have literally invented a new category for cloud-based technology applications called Social Cloud Storage™. 

If you haven’t heard about Social Cloud Storage before, here’s the Cliff’s Notes version.  By definition, it “enables the sharing of content directly out of your cloud storage to a community beyond your contacts.” Social cloud storage users can share information, as well as discover what others are sharing, through their own personal cloud storage.

Raichur notes, “it’s all about enhancing communications and building a wider community where individuals feel heard, understood, and above all, connected.  And, it’s never been easier to share knowledge and resources because MrOwl offers unlimited storage for public content as well as 10GB’s of free private storage.”*

“We believe that consumers are looking for new technologies, like MrOwl, that provide them with more of a balance between being able to personalize their experience and having greater control over their privacy. Both things are important. People want to be able to customize the Internet based on who they are and what’s important to them and their digital needs. They want more control over their experience and over their own individual privacy, because they are more aware than ever that their data is being used to target them and they want to have more control.”

By now, you probably have a much better idea of the social cloud but, like all other IT products, gaining personal experience using them is always the best teacher. Just remember that just like all buildings, a foundation must be dug first.  The foundation, in this case, comes in the form of enhanced privacy. MrOwl’s users can opt for a premium package, in an advertisement-free environment, keeping personal information completely anonymous. Otherwise, in contrast, you can elect to use MrOwl’s free version, and will receive advertisements.  Having choices means creating highly customizable user environments. Customization and socialization are the two main keys to MrOwl. Users can use MrOwl, whether professionally or personally, always confident that their data is fully protected, at all times, in the cloud.

“We are really excited as MrOwl has the ability to change the world and become the primary place where people can access, share, and interact with one another in a more positive setting, not just about cool content, but about smarter and more meaningful content,” Raichur concludes. “We’ve come to a point in our “social media lives” where we are a bit drained at just looking at repetition, and we are excited to give everyone a chance at something new that brings more meaning and empowerment to internet users everywhere.”

*Free unlimited files stored in public branches up to 20MB per file. Files over 20MB will count towards private storage.

Over the course of a long career there are going to be setbacks that a person can let impact them for years or overcome. Taking a proactive approach to solving issues and a positive attitude in the face of adversity is important. Take the time to assess what is happening and what your strategy should be to make your situation better. Do not allow the expectation or thoughts of others keep you from going as far in your career as you would like. The following are setbacks that need to be dealt with by some people during their career.

Passed Over For A Promotion

Being passed over for a promotion can hurt our confidence as employees as it can show us that we are not valued as we should be. Do not let this impact your quality or quantity of work that you get done per week or month. What it is time to do is to look for other opportunities while you are at your current job. While you might not be able to be promoted for years you can accept a position with a better title and a possible pay raise from another company. Being valued can be tough in environments where nepotism is rampant or there seem to be cliques in an office.

Fired Unjustly

Being fired unjustly is not the time to lose your cool as you have legal recourse. There could be friends in the office that could be of huge help and give statements that could help in this legal situation. False accusations of harassment or bullying can be used to further careers of accusers. Make sure that you gather all emails if you suspect something is going on and send them to the cloud. This can provide a paper trail of how things transpired which is essential as people will often lie to protect their job as well as the company.

Hurt Outside The Workplace

Being involved in a car accident that renders you unable to work for a period of time can set your career back years. Patino Personal Injury Law Firm should be your first call as you should be compensated for this. Having to take a hit in your career as well as pay for medical expenses due to the accident simply is not fair. The right legal representation will be able to get a settlement or ruling that will help you recover financially. Your job is to recover mentally, physically with rehab, and professionally over the course of time.

Technology Made Your Job Obsolete

Technology has disrupted industries and completely decimated others. For this reason, you need to learn a variety of skills even when employed that could be used to get another job in a completely different industry. People that have the ability to sell will always have a job no matter what as this is a skill that will continue to be valuable. Learning skills like that of web design or becoming a proficient writers are two skills that can be used to freelance full-time or until you find another job.

As you can see it is not always going to go as planned in terms of your career. Overcome adversity and end up at the top of whatever profession you are in.

Cloud storage has grown significantly from the days of yesteryear, when it was simply a means of backup with no bells and whistles. Growth has occurred with the Cloud’s scalability, efficiency, and real-time data access to a point where both businesses and consumers are proactively electing to use it as their primary source of information connectivity.  Study after study has shown that there are several highly relevant reasons to utilize the cloud. ‘Disaster Recovery’ is at the top of almost every study, then Centralizing Data Management, and finally, cost savings. As an aside, cost savings, while noted in a traditional form, truly comes in many; most of which have a very real impact to your personal or professional bottom-line.  As the old adage goes “time is money” and with an organized cloud, productivity goes up, freeing up our time.

Cloud Storage 101: The Roots

For those that may not understand Cloud Storage, it is a way data can be stored on the Internet. To use it properly, Cloud Storage requires a cloud computing provider designed specifically for this purpose. Thanks to Cloud Storage, data users, which include every business, as well as every consumer, can now access their data anytime; all in one place, and reduce their cost(s) with “pay as you go” offerings. Companies from Google to Microsoft and beyond offer Cloud-based storage.  Think this is really just a proverbial digital filing cabinet? Think again! The power of the cloud transcends what its inventors imagined.

Today’s Cloud Is More Robust Than Ever Before

Enter the “Social Cloud.”  According to Arvind Raichur, CEO and Co-Founder of Social Cloud Storage™ platform, MrOwl, social sharing is taking the world by storm. “People want to be able to customize the Internet based on who they are and what’s important to them and their digital needs,” he says. As a direct result, Raichur, a successful Entrepreneur with digital marketing and social media expertise, and his team, created an entirely new, category called Social Cloud Storage™. Created specifically to enhance communication and productivity, Social Cloud Storage™ creates a bridge between our home and work lives, while facilitating a human-first environment wherever we may physically be located.  

The user-friendly MrOwl platform enables users to store, find and connect with documents, links, and media in an organized, collaborative cloud-based platform. It is intuitive and simple; users can upload gigabytes of data with a few clicks while it is automatically organized for them. You can customize and reorder your information, in a manner that becomes their own personal search engine. Users easily identify what’s important to them and why. Information may be kept private or through MrOwl’s discovery capability, content can be shared, and connections made, through curated content, with individuals that share similar passions. Sharing research, data, and interests has never been this easy.  

The Cloud With Artificial Intelligence And More

Artificial Intelligence (AI) has been around for a while; recently, it has become more intelligent than ever before.  As a result, it is easy to understand how companies are integrating it into the cloud. In as much, it is easy to predict with great accuracy that we will continue to see more and more AI integrated into cloud-based applications, platforms, and programming. However, at each and every stage, it is mission critical for us to remember to prioritize human intelligence over direct algorithms.  In other words, humans are the brains behind the intelligence, and we cannot minimize what human brainpower, creativity, and learning bring to the table.

“The MrOwl platform was designed and built to store, organize, and search valuable digital content on demand. It utilizes both artificial and human intelligence in a collaborative environment to enhance the user experience while placing an emphasis on community information over the algorithm. This makes it possible for consumers to find the information that they’re actually looking for that’s been shared by real people, like them,” Raichur adds.

Addressing The Elephant In The Room: Security

If you haven’t guessed yet, we’ve left security last because, without a doubt, it is at the forefront of everyone’s mindset.  Unless you are living under a rock with no connectivity to the Internet, news media, or even human interaction, you understand just how important security is. And with good reason.  Security in the cloud, while an issue of great concern, is also one that is highly manageable. As we connect through the Social Cloud, it is MrOwl that has found a way to restore control through their proprietary solutions. Users can select the level of privacy they prefer, through a variety of membership options. When he/she selects a premium plan, they get increased privacy, and MrOwl doesn’t track anything that they do with identifiable information. 

At the end of the day, Cloud Storage offers a new world of data management and storage. Whether professionally or personally, socially or privately, MrOwl offers 

a tremendous example of what it means to enable progress in a manner that just makes sense.

There are plenty of setbacks that you can run into in your professional life. The most important thing that you can do is not to panic or do anything that will damage your career out of spite. The best thing that any professional can do is to be ready and have a plan for setbacks when they do occur. Taking this proactive approach will help put the situation in perspective as not everything is as devastating as we might think. There are common setbacks that people often encounter and they are listed below along with how to overcome these professional dumpster fires.

Injury Preventing You From Working

People that are injured in an accident due to the negligence or carelessness of another that are rendered unable to work for an extended period need to seek help. In these cases picking a great a law firm by searching the term injury lawyer San Antonio or lawyer in your area. The best thing that an individual in this situation can do is to stay positive as it can be frustrating beyond comprehension. Focus on rehab of an injury as it is going to be a process you need to take seriously in order to fully recover.

Terminated For No Reason

There is a chance that you are terminated from a job for unjust cause but with management in agreement there is not much that you can do short of filing a lawsuit. Document everything that happens throughout this process as a grudge held by a manager could be enough for them to try to terminate you. While you do not want to go back to work for a company like that you could be entitled to wages for a while. Wrongful termination suits can be profitable and for those that have their lives changed by being fired for no reason they deserve every penny.

Passed Up For A Promotion Multiple Times

Being passed up multiple times for a promotion you feel you deserved can take up a substantial part of your professional career. For this reason it is always important to look for other opportunities while you are employed. Another company could value the work that you do far more and will be more than happy to pay you what you deserve. Leaving for a title upgrade can be a good way to climb the corporate ladder in a quicker way than you if you stay at one company. There might just not be a position open for years at a specific company so look into as many jobs as possible.

A Business You Started Is Struggling

A struggling business can be extremely stressful and ruin a person in terms of their personal finances. Cashing in personal and professional favors you have garnered over the years can make a huge difference. Even something as simple as an introduction to the right person at a certain company can change the trajectory of a small business permanently. Being too proud can lead you a company failing as not cashing in favors is a huge mistake.

Do not allow the above setbacks to permanently ruin your career path. Overcoming adversity can teach lessons that are invaluable in business so keep that in mind.

Do you want to be more competitive in the job market? Finding the best professional certifications is not always easy. You need to consider which career path you want to follow and look for the best certifications.

This allows you to have greater chances of securing your dream job. Additionally, professional business certifications help upgrade your resume.

Most certificate programs can be done in less than a year. Most of the job market career need someone with basic knowledge in the field. Around 78% of the well-paying middle-skilled job positions require you to have basic knowledge of technology.

Here are eight professional certifications to make you more marketable.

1. Human Resource Certifications

When looking for a job as a human resource, you don’t necessarily need a certificate in the field. But proving that you have qualifications makes you stand out in the job search market.

Every company would love to hire a qualified human resource manager. They need to be sure that you can do the job you are applying for. For this reason, you need to have a certificate that proves that you know what you are doing.

Nobody wants to hire someone who has no skills or know how to handle people in the company.

2. Sales Certifications

Being a successful salesperson is gained by experience. A great salesperson needs to have great convincing power and persuasion. You need to understand the people around you and know how you can convince them to buy.

However, having a certificate in sales is a great advantage in the job market. Getting professional business certifications allows you to have confidence when looking for employment.

Also, it makes you stand out to your potential employers. It allows them to have confidence in you and that you will do a great job.

3. Help Desk or Desktop Analyst Professional Certifications

If you are looking for a more senior role in the IT field, then these certificates will not be that impressive. But if you want a job on an entry level in the IT field like a help desk or desktop analyst, then the certificates will boost your resume.

Having professional certifications proves that you can work under pressure, and you are a professional. The certificates allow your potential employees to see that you can be able to perform your duties well. Additionally, they make you stand out in comparison to other job candidates.

4. Network Certification

If your dream career is to be a network engineer, then getting a network certificate will be a great addition. The certificate shows that you can be able to handle the pressure of working in a networking environment.

Additionally, the certificate is a great addition to your resume. Your potential employer will love the fact that you have put a lot of dedication in getting the necessary certificates.

When you acquire this business certification, you go through lab training and undertake a written exam. This requires you to have enough knowledge of the subject matter. Additionally, it requires you to be dedicated to this career path and have perseverance.

5. Project Management Certification

Being a project manager requires you to have leadership and organizational skills. This is what enables you to make tough decisions and be ready to take risks.

A project manager is responsible for taking charge of any undergoing project. They take it from the starting point to completion. The certification is not a requirement, but employees love it since it shows them that they can handle any projects and deliver great results.

This certification is also important when you want to take a career as a manager. Since the skills gained can help you take control of situations and solve problems.

6. FolkLift Certification

This is one of the most sought after certification. A trained employee saves the company time and money and also complies with OSHA regulations. It improves workplace safety, thus saving the company claims on injury and illnesses.

The certification program is offered online making it easier for you to access. It also offered in record time, within hours you can secure a forklift certification. Click on this page and learn more about the program

Employers look at such a certification favorably since it a trained employee will reduce the cost of insurance. It also boosts morale and lowers stress since health and safety are the top focus in the workplace.

7. Pharmacy Technician Certification

A pharmacy technician assists pharmacists in the field of medicine. You get roles like filling prescriptions and some administrative responsibilities. Also, you get a role in the customer service where you handle patients.

You can take a pharmacy technician program in less than a year. Having this certificate helps you update your resume. This gives you high chances of competing in the job market.

However, having this certificate does not guarantee you a job as a pharmacist technician. You need to get more certificates and licensing. But having a pharmacist technician certificate makes it easy for you to be licensed.

8. Event Planner Certification

Most event planners don’t require a certificate; talent is all that is needed. A great event planner needs to be talented and has a passion for what they do.

Everybody wants to hire an event planner who loves their job and dedicates all their energy in making the event a success. You need to come up with visions of an event. This keeps your clients happy and interested in seeing the result.

Getting this certificate can help you be prepared to handle any number of events and the size. You get to learn how to make each event stand out and be unique.

Professional Certifications – Summing It Up

Getting professional certifications gives you the required skills and knowledge of the career path you choose. You get to understand the technical skills of the field you are interested in. This puts you in a better position with your potential employer.

You can look for a list of certifications and licenses that you can apply and enroll. This will make you more marketable while looking for a job. Visit our blog and learn more about different certificates that can help you advance your career.

Cloud storage has become increasingly popular in the last decade. Boasting benefits such as scalability, efficiency, and real-time data access, more and more enterprises are choosing cloud storage methods to sustain and empower their business. According to a research survey conducted by Avere Systems and Gatepoint Research, executives and IT professionals believe that there are three main benefits to this method of storage. ‘Disaster Recovery’ was at the very top of their list, followed by Centralizing Data Management, and Cost Savings. Some slightly less prioritized, but notable benefits also included Virtualized Storage Resources and Elimination of Storage Silos.

What Is Cloud Storage?

Essentially, cloud storage is a method in which data may be stored on the Internet. Cloud Storage requires a cloud computing provider that ultimately manages and operates data storage as a service. This eliminates the hassle of having to buy and manage your own data ecosystem, which becomes incredibly cumbersome and leaves your data floating around in chaos. Thanks to Cloud Storage, data users can now access their data anytime; all in one place, and engage in a pay-as-you-go model that cuts down on costs. With everything that Cloud Storage has to offer, our heads are in the clouds and we can’t help but wonder, what’s next?

Carving Out a New Category For Apps

According to Arvind Raichur, CEO and Co-founder of social cloud storage platform, MrOwl, the next big thing is social sharing. “People want to be able to customize the Internet based on who they are and what’s important to them and their digital needs,” he says. It is for this reason why Raichur and his team carved out an entirely new category for digital apps called Social Cloud Storage™. Designed to enhance communication and productivity, Social Cloud Storage™ helps bridge the gap between home and work life, facilitating a human-first environment above all else.

The MrOwl platform enables users to easily store collections of information including documents, links, and media in an organized, collaborative, searchable, and shareable cloud-based environment. Users can upload gigabytes of data with a few clicks and have it automatically organized for them. The links that consumers save can even be customized and reordered like their own personal search engine, identifying what’s important to them and why. Users can then discover new content about things that they are interested in and join a wider community of individuals with similar passions. It’s never been easier to share knowledge and resources!

Consolidating and Streamlining

Aside from moving to a more social structure, the next big thing for the cloud is consolidation. Internet users are now looking to streamline the number of apps that they use on a regular basis. Bringing together the best of social, search, and cloud storage, platforms like MrOwl are responding to users’ needs and making their lives that much easier. In fact, users can now store, share and simultaneously search their cloud, computer files, and the Internet altogether in one search box.

Integrating AI & Human Intelligence

As Artificial Intelligence becomes even more intelligent and advanced, it is no wonder that the technology is seeping over into the cloud storage realm. In the future, we can expect to see more and more integrations with AI. Though, it is paramount that we prioritize human intelligence over hard algorithms. “The MrOwl platform was designed and built to store, organize, and search valuable digital content on demand. It utilizes both artificial and human intelligence in a collaborative environment to enhance the user experience while placing an emphasis on community information over the algorithm. This makes it possible for consumers to find the information that they’re actually looking for that’s been shared by real people, like them,” Raichur adds.

Enhanced Security

And of course, at the forefront of any data-related conversation is security. Individuals are more aware than ever that their data is being used to target them. And with good reason, they are demanding to have more control. Fortunately, MrOwl has found a way to restore that control. Users can choose to receive increased privacy in an ad free environment through one of the platforms’ premium packages. Since the user does not wish to be served more targeted and relevant ads, the platform will keep users’ information completely anonymous. Choice is the main value here and it will empower more and more users as time goes on.

Cloud Storage services have a lot in store (no pun intended). From increased sociability to enhanced security, MrOwl is a great example of where we are headed and what it means to be connected today.

Working all day can leave you wiped out when it comes to heading home, but the last thing you want to do is just call it a day. Then the next thing you know it’s the next morning and you get into this vicious cycle or all work and no play.

Now, you have to take your work seriously, especially if you want to grow a successful business, but that doesn’t mean you have to eliminate all social activities and fun from your life. Doing that would drive you insane and it would lead to stress piling on your back, eventually collapsing you.

It’s always a good idea to find ways to relax and unwind after a long day of work. This helps to reduce stress and it’s also an effective method of recharging your batteries. Here are a few ways to help you spark some ideas of your own.

Spend time with family or friends.

“If you have a family then something as simple as having dinner together or going out to eat as a group is a great way to spend quality time together as well as pre-occupy your mind, taking it off work and your business,” says Darryl Howard, founder of the online resource that helps people make money blogging.

You can also stay in and do a group activity, like have a game night, where you play board games and just spend time interacting. In a day and age where we are glued to our phones and social media all day, something like this is a great way to interact and unwind.

Rotate each game night, allowing a new family member to pick the games played. You can even make it more interesting by awarding prizes.

Physical activity outside or at the gym.

A lot of people use the gym as their time to get away from work and to unwind at the end of the day. It’s also a great form of healthy weight loss, as sitting behind a desk all day and not exercising will lead to unwanted gains in the belly area. If a night time workout is best for you, then by all means take full advantage of it. The gym is often the best place to disconnect and recharge.

But, if you prefer to work out in the morning or if lifting weights just isn’t your thing, then you can do some other form of physical activity instead.

“Something like going for a bike ride or paddle boarding is also great, because it gets you outside and it involves physical activity,” says Ignacio Soria of CANN & Co. “If you are in an office environment all day working on the computer then the time outside and in the fresh air will be great for you.”

Netflix and relaxation.

There is nothing wrong with watching TV, so don’t feel bad if your favorite way to unwind involves the television and some good movies.

One of the most popular streaming services is Netflix and many times a good movie, from a new release or a classic favorite, is all that is needed to disconnect.

“Rest and sleep is vital for recharging your body,” says marketing agency CEO April Gillmore, whose ClickFirst Marketing’s services are tailored for businesses of all sizes and industries. “While you don’t want to veg out on the couch every night, there is nothing wrong with it once in a while. Sometimes you need to just plunk down and do nothing. Listen to your body. If it’s telling you to rest, do it.”

Cook dinner from scratch.

“Cooking can be one of the best stress relievers, and it’s something you can do with your significant other as well,” says Andrew Tran of anxiety blanket manufacturer Therapy Blanket. “It can be quite relaxing as well as satisfying, since you are creating something from scratch.”

You can carve out a few hours and dedicate it to this, from initial prep time to the actual meal itself. A lot of people get into cooking as a way to start a hobby, and they soon realize they truly enjoy it.

Many even say that cooking is therapeutic and relaxing. It’s something that you might not think you will enjoy until you actually give it a try.

Partake in a specialty hobby.

Do you like golfing? Bowling? How about painting? Any hobby that pulls your mind and focus away from work is something that you should make sure you allocate some time to each week.

“Many people will join a sporting league simply to have something to go to,” says Karen Anderson, probate application process specialist at The Probate Law House. “This forces them to commit and for many, they need to have that commitment to pull them out of the office.” Many self-employed people are so wrapped up in their business that they will not leave unless they have that commitment and other people counting on them showing up.

If you fall into this category then it’s a great way to leverage that pressure and commitment to get you away from work and focused on something other than work.

Read a book.

Reading is beneficial for a few reasons. It’s a great personal development tool and it can help expand your mind. It is also very relaxing to many people.

“If you are connected to technology all day reading allows you to stimulate your mind without technology,” suggests Pedro Del Nero of Vaporizer Vendor. “You read and make your own picture in your head.” This type of creative freedom is needed by many, and technology prevents a lot of free thinking.

They say the most intelligent people in the world read daily. So, doing so in the evening sure can’t hurt.

Write in a journal.

Before you cringe at the thought of more ‘work’ you can’t think of it like this, and if it would feel like work to you then this isn’t something you should consider. Remember, not every tip is going to be ideal for everyone. The key is to find things that work and are effective for you, personally.

For many people, writing is almost therapeutic, as it allows them to get thoughts and ideas off their mind and onto paper. This de-clutters the minds, reduces stress and is actually quite enjoyable to some people,” says top cosmetic dentist Brett Moore DDS, of Smile Design Dentistry. “You can write about anything you like; a hobby, and interest or just life happenings.”

Before hiring someone, people usually want to do a background check on the people they want to hire. A wrong hiring decision will ruin your company, and you probably don’t want that to happen to you or to your business. Let’s not even mention time or money, and, in the worst-case scenario, lawsuits.  

7 out of 10 companies have claimed that they have conducted criminal background checks in all their job candidates. It’s a normal thing to do.

We’ve written this article to give you some tips on how to conduct a successful background check.

Be thorough

Don’t settle for less, find out everything you can about that person, from education, past employment, criminal history to social media and driving history. Companies lose a lot of great people because they only focus on one aspect they were able to find out easily. According to Equal Employment Opportunities Commission (EEOC) you cannot exclude applicants who have a criminal record, no matter the charge or when it has happened.

Stay away from the “box”

EEOC and many other local counties try their best to ban the “box”. The box is that question that says “Have you ever been convicted of a crime?”. This way, you discriminate people, instead of of interviewing and considering all of them equally.

Respect the law

When it comes to the background check, you’ll have to have a legal release form, that was completed by the applicant, informing the person of the right he or she has.  You’ll also have to give the person a copy, and adverse actions communications.

Do not bend the law

You can conduct a background check the wrong way – there are so many ways – but you need to be careful and follow the rules. No bending whatsoever. The rules are all about federal, state or local specific laws. Make sure you talk to your company’s legal counsel to see how you can proceed well.

Be consistent

Make sure that the process for all the applicants is consistent. No matter how many people apply for the same job, they should have the same chances at getting it, and they should also have the same searches and investigations run on them. It’s true, some jobs require different levels of investigation, but when it comes to the same job title, make sure the process is uniform. No discrimination whatsoever.

Always communicate

When you find something uncomfortable while conducting the background check, you should talk to the applicant about it. There are so many mistakes, sometimes misconceptions, that can be solved, simply by talking.

 

Helping businesses maintain adequate inventory in a secure way, warehouses are an extremely important part of any business. Leasing or purchasing a warehouse is a major business investment. Having the right warehouse space, at the best possible location, can enhance efficiency and profitability for a business. It can ensure that the company is able to compete in the market and serve their customers effectively.

At present, the US is witnessing low vacancy and strong absorption rates, along with high demand for warehouse space. Although the conditions seem perfect for the growth of the warehousing sector in 2018, business owners need to put in some extra efforts to find the perfect space that will ensure the quickest possible delivery to customers.

As a quick suggestion, it is wise to look for warehouse space for rent in central locations like Houston, TX, which also boasts affordable prices.

4 Important Things to Consider When Choosing a Warehouse

1. Location: Although warehouses are essentially “big boxes” or large commercial buildings meant for the storage of goods by manufacturers, exporters, importers, wholesalers, customs, etc., each warehouse has some distinguishable features that decide its suitability for certain business types, says an expert at Samuel L. Bryant Investments, leading providers of warehouse with office for rent in Houston. Take your business needs into consideration to understand whether a given layout, size and the facilities would suit you.
2. Rent & Taxes: In the US, rental rates are usually based on square feet (SF). Given the rising demand for warehouse space in the country, it is obvious that average prices will spike. Cost is a major criterion when selecting a location for a warehouse, but it must not be the only one. Businesses should focus on other hidden costs and taxes that could derail their budget before deciding on the rent. Fortunately, there are some warehouse providers who are dedicated to offering the most affordable facilities with great amenities.
3. Workforce Availability: Even if you have invested in warehouse space for rent at a great location, unless it is easy to access for your employees, there is going to be a problem. Also, if it in a region where it is difficult to find skilled workforce, it will cost your business. Local demographics play a major role in deciding workforce availability, skills and labor costs. It is really important to consider the geographical location of a warehouse for lease, such as Houston, to ensure access to a skilled workforce.
4. Connectivity: Impacting the attractiveness of the warehousing facility and competitiveness of the company, connectivity is the cornerstone of running a business. No matter what the business type is, the space should have accessibility to roads, highways and any other mode of transportation you might need to ensure smooth delivery of goods.

So, keep these crucial aspects in mind the next time you are looking for appropriate warehouse space for rent, such as those available in Houston.