How Regular Exercise Can Help You Be a Better Employee

US Business News Staff on September 24, 2024

Staying active has many benefits that span every area of a person’s life. One of these is work, and it may surprise you to learn just how much of a benefit there is for you to get active.

One of the most important things to remember is that you can find activities that you enjoy. As long as you’re moving, the activity counts. Some people may want to take advantage of group fitness classes, but others may want activities they can do at their own pace. Think about what you enjoy doing and determine how you can build your daily activities around those.

As you ensure that you’re active on a regular basis, you may start to notice these benefits while you’re working out and working on the job.

Improve Energy and Focus

Being active can give you more energy and help you to focus better. Exercise, such as walking, can help to improve your memory and thinking skills. This benefit can occur in as little as six months to a year, which is the time during which an increase in the volume of the part of the brain that controls memory and thinking is noticed.

Improve Production

Having more energy and better focus can mean that you’re more productive. This can often come because you aren’t as stressed. Endorphins are released when you’re active. These are the neurotransmitters that lead to feeling good. Aerobic activity is particularly helpful for releasing endorphins. The longer you exercise, the more benefits you’ll experience. This can be a reduction in anxiety, improved moods, better self-confidence, and deeper sleep.

Reduce Absences

Absences at work are unproductive to the company, and they can cost you money if you’re taking more than just your paid sick leave time. Exercise helps to improve the immune system, so you’ll be less likely to catch everything that’s going around. Of course, there are some health conditions that might work against this, but most employees will see a reduction in their absences if they go from inactive to active.

Reduced Healthcare Costs

Healthcare costs are skyrocketing. This affects your bank account, but it can also affect the overall costs of a group policy that you have through work. Staying active can improve your overall health, so you’ll need fewer trips to the doctor for unexpected illnesses.

Even though these benefits are primarily for work, they can also have a positive impact on other areas of your life. Because of this, staying active is always a good idea, as long as your doctor hasn’t told you to limit your activity. It’s crucial that you safely do this.

If you want to get more active, it’s best to start where you’re comfortable and then slowly increase your activity. Ideally, you’ll do at least 150 minutes of moderate exercise each week. Moderate activity means your breathing and heart rate are increased, but you can still converse. Brisk walking is an example of a moderate-level activity.

Published By: Aize Perez

How to Protect a Family Business When Getting a Divorce

US Business News Staff on September 24, 2024

When building a business, you’re bound to encounter some challenges. As a result, you need to protect your business at all costs. Here, the main focus is protecting a family business while divorcing your partner. There is a need for careful corporate planning to ensure that the family business will thrive for many years, even amidst issues such as family turmoil.

A corporate or family attorney is well suited to weighing in on such matters, and they can offer tips that will make it possible to protect and grow the family business while also accounting for the risk of divorce and marriage. Some of the tips that can help safeguard a family business even when getting a divorce include:

Establish Formal Corporate Inspections and Maintain Them

A strong corporate shield is supposed to insulate and shield personal assets from claims by family members who are disgruntled. The assets must also be protected from other parties, such as third parties. It is important to ensure that by-laws are in place, a board of directors, directors, and shareholders meetings with resolutions and minutes, and stock certificates should also be issued. Without such items, a court may consider that personal assets and a business are similar entities. As a result, each of these assets can be easily reachable via litigation, and in this case, we’re talking about a divorce.

Have Buy-Out Provisions that are Involuntary

There needs to be an agreement in place that if a certain event takes place, for example, the stockholders decide to divorce, the stock will be sold and that it would be mandatory; this means that the shares will finally end up in the hands of a single spouse and not an in-law. The provisions will set up a mechanism that will be used to calculate the sale price and also provide the method of payment and timing.

Implement Safeguards for the Employment of In-Laws

In a family business that’s already thriving, when children become adults and propose that their spouse should join the company, safeguards must be in place before they can be employed. The employees who are in-laws need to be qualified, and they also need to have the right qualifications for the job they’re applying for. Also, their job description needs to be clear. They also need to take part in benchmarks for performance and the pay scale should be set. Their employment contract can also be terminated at will.

Ownership Needs to Stay in the Family

As a business owner, there is a need to have an agreement that restricts family members from holding stocks. The succession of the company’s ownership is supposed to be set up so that if an issue such as death or divorce happens, the business will still be under the confines of the family bloodline.

Coordinate with Other Legal Protections

Corporate documents come in handy since they can work seamlessly with estate planning documents and post-nuptial and pre-nuptial agreements. To do so, the trusts, corporations, and matrimonial counsel need to communicate effectively.

A family business is a precious entity that should be safeguarded by all means possible. To do so, it is important to forecast issues such as divorce and how to ensure the family business will continue to thrive amidst the problems that arise in such instances. The tips shared above can be useful in helping you manage risks effectively, contributing to the safety of your business and allowing you to operate with greater confidence.

Disclaimer: “The content in this article is provided for general knowledge. It does not constitute legal advice, and readers should seek advice from qualified legal professionals regarding particular cases or situations.”

Published by: Nelly Chavez

Safer Port Inspections: Premergy’s Marine Drone Solutions

US Business News Staff on September 24, 2024

In 2020, a commercial diver was seriously injured while inspecting the Tobin Bridge in Massachusetts due to strong currents and poor visibility. The incident highlighted the dangerous conditions divers face during underwater infrastructure inspections. Divers often risk their safety dealing with unpredictable environments, equipment malfunctions, and low visibility. However, an innovative company called Premergy, with its advanced battery management technology, could advance marine drone capabilities, offering a safer and more efficient alternative to these dangerous tasks.

The Incident: Risks in Port Inspections

The Tobin Bridge incident underscores the risks associated with underwater inspections, particularly in high-current, low-visibility environments. Divers performing these inspections face numerous hazards, from strong underwater currents that can disorient them to potential equipment failures that could compromise their oxygen supply. In the case of the Tobin Bridge inspection, the diver had to navigate poor visibility while conducting the structural examination, which posed an added layer of difficulty and risk. Similar risks are common in port inspections, where divers are often required to work under challenging conditions to assess the state of underwater infrastructure, including piers, bridges, and seawalls. Unfortunately, these risks can lead to injuries or even fatalities.

Marine Drones as a Safer Alternative

Safer Port Inspections- Premergy’s Marine Drone Solution

Photo: Unsplash.com

Given the dangers associated with underwater inspections, the maritime industry has increasingly turned to marine drones, sometimes called Remotely Operated Vehicles (ROVs), to perform these tasks. These underwater drones can be outfitted with high-definition cameras, sonar systems, and various sensors to gather detailed information about underwater structures without risking human lives. Drones can inspect a wide range of port infrastructure, from detecting structural weaknesses in piers to identifying corrosion on submerged pipelines.

However, marine drones are not without their limitations. Their battery life often restricts how long they can operate underwater before needing to resurface for recharging. This can be particularly challenging when inspecting large or complex infrastructure, as it increases the time required to complete the task.

How Premergy’s Technology Enhances Marine Drones

Photo: Unsplash.com

This is where Premergy’s advanced battery technology can make a significant difference. Premergy’s multi chemistry battery management systems address the key limitations of marine drones by extending their operational range and reducing the need for frequent recharging. With Premergy’s multi-chemistry battery systems, drones can switch between different battery banks to optimize energy use, allowing them to stay underwater for longer periods. This extended range is critical when inspecting large or complex structures like bridges, piers, or port facilities.

Moreover, Premergy’s technology enables rapid recharging, ensuring that drones can quickly return to operation after short recharge periods. This minimizes downtime and allows for more efficient inspections, especially in busy port environments where time is of the essence. The ability to perform back-to-back missions without long delays between recharges enhances the overall effectiveness of the inspection process.

Premergy’s thermal management capabilities also ensure that the drone’s battery systems remain at optimal temperatures during extended underwater missions. This prevents overheating, a serious issue for battery-powered drones operating in challenging underwater conditions. By managing heat effectively, Premergy’s system extends the lifespan of the drone batteries, making them more reliable and cost-effective in the long run.

The Future of Underwater Inspections

Marine drones, enhanced by Premergy’s rapid battery recharging technology, offer a safer, more efficient, and cost-effective alternative to diver-based inspections. These drones can perform detailed inspections in harsh underwater environments without risking human lives, all while gathering precise data for infrastructure assessment.

For industries that rely heavily on port infrastructure, including shipping, energy, and transportation, adopting marine drones equipped with advanced battery systems like Premergy’s could lead to faster, safer, and more frequent inspections. This would enhance safety and reduce long-term maintenance costs by detecting issues earlier and addressing them before they become critical problems.

Conclusion

Safer Port Inspections- Premergy’s Marine Drone Solutions

Photo: Unsplash.com

The dangers faced by divers during underwater infrastructure inspections, like the incident at the Tobin Bridge, demonstrate the urgent need for safer alternatives. Marine drones, equipped with Premergy’s innovative battery technology, provide a way to conduct thorough inspections without exposing human workers to unnecessary risks. Premergy is playing a pivotal role in making port and underwater infrastructure inspections safer and more efficient by improving battery life, reducing downtime with rapid recharging, and managing thermal risks. As the maritime industry continues to evolve, Premergy’s advancements in battery management will be essential in driving the adoption of marine drones for safer, more reliable operations.

Published by: Nelly Chavez

Boutique Winery Neu Flessenow Cellars Invites Latinos to Learn About Wine

US Business News Staff on September 24, 2024

Neu Flessenow Cellars is more than just a winery. Situated just four miles outside the charming Bavarian-themed village of Leavenworth, Washington, this boutique winery has a mission to create an environment that is inviting, inclusive, and accessible to all. For co-owners Laura Bruders-Torres and Ruby Ocampo, wine isn’t just a beverage to be sipped—it’s a means of bringing people together, celebrating culture, and making everyone feel at home. Neu Flessenow Cellars, award-winning wines and breathtaking views of the American Alps offer a uniquely welcoming experience, particularly to families, non-native English speakers, and wine novices.

A Winery That Feels Like Home

Visiting a winery can often feel intimidating, especially for those who are not familiar with wine or the culture surrounding it. Neu Flessenow Cellars is changing that narrative. The founders are passionate about creating a relaxed, family-oriented atmosphere where guests of all backgrounds can enjoy the beauty of wine without feeling overwhelmed by jargon or the fast-paced nature of typical tasting rooms. As the team at Neu Flessenow Cellars likes to say, “We believe wine should be fun to drink, not hard to understand.”

This philosophy is reflected in every aspect of the winery. From the moment visitors step onto the property, they are greeted by a serene setting that encourages relaxation. Neu Flessenow Cellars features a cozy, home-like tasting room and expansive outdoor seating areas overlooking the stunning American Alps, offering a sense of peace and tranquility that’s hard to find elsewhere. Families are encouraged to bring their children, and pets are always welcome, making this winery a perfect spot for everyone to enjoy.

The winery’s commitment to inclusivity is particularly evident in its efforts to make non-native English speakers feel at ease. Both Laura Bruders-Torres and Ruby Ocampo, originally from Mexico, bring their rich cultural heritage into the heart of the winery. Having immigrated to the U.S. and navigated the challenges of learning a new language and culture themselves, they deeply understand how intimidating it can be to feel out of place. They aim to ensure that no one feels excluded at Neu Flessenow Cellars. Whether guests prefer to speak Spanish or simply want a relaxed, unpretentious experience, this boutique winery is designed to make everyone feel welcome.

The Power of Community and Heritage

One of the defining elements of Neu Flessenow Cellars is its celebration of immigrant history and the stories that shape the winery’s identity. As a minority women-owned business, the winery embodies the resilience and spirit of its founders, who understand the importance of preserving heritage while creating new legacies in their adopted home. The name “Neu Flessenow” is a nod to the town of Flessenow in northern Germany, symbolizing a blend of cultural influences that mirror the owners’ backgrounds.

Laura Bruders-Torres and Ruby Ocampo both have strong family values, which are reflected in the winery’s philosophy. At Neu Flessenow Cellars, family and friends are at the heart of the experience. Guests are encouraged to come as they are, bringing their loved ones to enjoy the stunning natural surroundings while savoring a glass of carefully crafted wine. The laid-back, family-friendly environment creates a space where conversations flow easily, laughter echoes across the vineyard, and memories are made in the most unpretentious of ways.

Boutique Winery Neu Flessenow Cellars Invites Latinos to Learn About Wines

Photo Courtesy: Bill Bruders

For those interested in learning about wine, Neu Flessenow Cellars offers approachable tastings that focus on the joy of discovery rather than the complexity of the process. The team is always happy to answer questions and share the story behind each bottle, ensuring that everyone feels comfortable, regardless of their wine knowledge. It’s a place where guests can feel free to ask anything without judgment—a rare find in the world of wine.

An Invitation to Experience the American Alps

The winery’s breathtaking location elevates the experience at Neu Flessenow Cellars. Nestled in the foothills of the American Alps, visitors are treated to panoramic views that perfectly complement the fine wines on offer. Whether guests choose to sip a crisp white, bold red, or one of their signature Chateau Slushies featuring latino favorites such Mangoneada and Jamaica, the combination of world-class wine and stunning scenery makes for an unforgettable experience.

The winery has also become a popular event destination, with its outdoor spaces offering a picturesque backdrop for celebrations. Couples looking to host weddings, families seeking a reunion spot, or friends wanting a relaxing afternoon of wine tasting will all find Neu Flessenow Cellars to be the ideal setting.

Photo Courtesy: Bill Bruders

Making Wine Accessible for Everyone

The heart and soul of Neu Flessenow Cellars lie in its commitment to making wine accessible and enjoyable for everyone. The founders, both immigrants with rich cultural heritage, understand the value of creating a space where people can feel comfortable, regardless of their background or experience with wine. Whether it’s a family spending the afternoon together, a couple celebrating a special occasion, or a group of friends exploring the beauty of the American Alps, the winery offers something for everyone.

Neu Flessenow Cellars has carved out a unique space in the world of wine through its emphasis on inclusivity, family values, and a relaxed atmosphere. It’s a place where guests can gather, savor award-winning wines, and create lasting memories. The winery invites everyone—especially those who might otherwise feel intimidated by traditional tasting rooms—to come and experience the joy of wine in a fun, approachable, and deeply meaningful way.

To learn more about Neu Flessenow Cellars and plan a visit, check out their website at www.neuflessenowcellars.com or follow them on Instagram and Facebook for the latest updates on events, new releases, and more.

Published by: Nelly Chavez

Ways a Career Coach Can Help You Advance in Your Job

US Business News Staff on September 24, 2024

Finding your dream career isn’t easy, and it sometimes takes more than hard work and determination to find the right fit for you. Working with a career coach could help those who are struggling to decide what to do with their lives, while others want to change careers but aren’t sure where to begin. From seasoned employees to entry-level job seekers, career coaches help a broad range of professionals hone their skills, improve their resumes, and set achievable career goals. If you are considering career coaching services, here are eight ways they may benefit you.

Identify Career Options Based on Your Skills and Passions

When you work with a career coach, they can help you learn more about your interests and identify potential career paths. It’s not always easy for people to see how their passions may align with a certain job, but the truth is that things you enjoy may have far more applications in the world than you realize.

Build Confidence

Lack of confidence can stop you from applying to jobs you want, do poorly in interviews, and avoid pursuing promotions. Career coaches help professionals become more confident in themselves and recognize their potential to thrive in whatever they do.

Decide on a Career Move

Feeling stuck in your job? A career coach can help you gain clarity and understand why you feel uncertain about making a particular decision. They can help you determine your ideal career and set goals to work toward making it a reality.

Pursue a Business Idea

Becoming an entrepreneur is a career change, even if you plan to keep your 9-5 while you build your dream. A coach can help you make strategic moves to incorporate your business idea into your work schedule and set goals that will help you shift priorities and manage your time better.

Find Better Work-Life Balance

If you struggle to turn your work brain off, then coaching could help you identify the reasons why and implement helpful strategies to become more mindful. You can spend less time focused on work and more time pursuing hobbies, spending time with loved ones, and making the most out of your life.

Design a Career Roadmap

Consulting or career coaching helps you identify your short-term and long-term goals in your career. They can help you identify key players and milestones you have to reach in order to go where you want to be. Whether it’s being a CEO or achieving financial freedom at 50, you can learn how to make your career align with your deepest ambitions.

Update Skills

If you feel like you aren’t getting anywhere in a job search or are being passed over for a promotion, maybe it’s time to revisit your skills. Coaches help their clients identify areas to improve. They stay on top of the current market trends and leverage research to identify the most in-demand skills in your desired position. Then, they help you find the best resources to start learning.

Build a Personal Brand

You have to know how to sell yourself as a professional today. This is a struggle for many people. Coaches can help you break through the imposter syndrome and begin to market yourself, network better, and create more opportunities in the workforce using tools like LinkedIn and Instagram.

Published by: Martin De Juan

7 Easy Ways to Make Your Hotel More Comfortable for Guests

US Business News Staff on September 24, 2024

Running a hotel is no small feat. You’re juggling a lot of responsibilities, and at the end of the day, it all comes down to one thing, which is guest satisfaction. If your guests aren’t comfortable, they won’t come back. Here are seven ways to make your hotel feel like a home away from home.

Pay Attention to the Little Things

It’s often the little things that leave the biggest impression. Imagine walking into your room after a long day of traveling only for you to find that the towels smell musty, the linens aren’t as fresh as they could be, or the shower barely gets warm. This is not exactly a wonderful way to start your stay. Paying attention to details, such as crisp sheets, clean towels, and functioning amenities, is a must. These small touches create an atmosphere of comfort that guests will appreciate.

Make Sure Your Staff Deliver Excellent Customer Service

Of course, none of that matters if your staff isn’t friendly. Guests can overlook a minor inconvenience if the person at the front desk greets them with a smile and offers a solution to the problems they’re facing. Your staff is the face of your establishment, and excellent customer service goes a long way.

Have Enticing Amenities

Speaking of Wi-Fi, modern travelers expect certain amenities. Gone are the days when simply offering a clean room was enough. Today, amenities, such as free Wi-Fi, a fitness center, or a simple grab-and-go breakfast, can be the deciding factor for many guests. People love convenience, so offering a variety of amenities, even small ones, can make a significant difference. What’s more, having options like a pool or on-site restaurant can give your guests something to enjoy without having to leave the property.

Create an Atmosphere That Promotes Relaxation

Creating a relaxing atmosphere is also key. Your hotel should feel like a peaceful escape from the chaos of everyday life. Soft lighting, soothing colors, and calming decor can set the tone for a restful stay. Think about adding a few cozy touches like comfortable chairs in common areas or light background music in the lobby.

Offer Flexible Check-In and Check-Out Options

Another way to make your guests’ stay more comfortable is to offer flexibility around check-in and check-out times. If you can offer early check-in or late check-out options, it’s a small gesture that can make an enormous impact. Imagine how much a guest who just flew in on a red-eye flight would appreciate being able to check in a little early to rest.

Provide Guides Containing Information About the Area

Don’t forget to provide local information. A small guide to nearby restaurants or local attractions can enhance your guests’ experience. Even if they’re just passing through, they might want to know where to grab a good cup of coffee or find a great spot for a quick walk.

Gather Feedback

Ask for feedback. No one knows what your guests want better than the guests themselves. Send out a quick survey after their stay or simply ask them as they’re checking out. Not only will this help you improve, but it also shows that you care about their experience.

In the end, creating a comfortable stay is about focusing on the details that matter most to guests. With a little extra effort and a lot of heart, you can make your hotel a place they’ll want to return to repeatedly.

Published by: Martin De Juan

Creating a Culture of Engagement in the Workplace

US Business News Staff on September 24, 2024

By: Michael Franco

Is your company the kind of place where your employees actually want to come to work? Are you creating an environment where everyone is excited about what they’re doing and feels like they are part of something bigger? This isn’t just a ‘nice-to-have’; it’s a must for companies who want to thrive.

Is it about free snacks, ping-pong tables, and extra days off? Sure, those are nice, but it’s more than that. It’s about feeling valued, connected, and motivated. When people feel good about their work, they’re more productive, they stick around longer, and the whole company benefits.

But how do we actually create this kind of culture? Let’s explore these questions and outline practical steps to build and sustain a positive company culture.

The Elements of an Engaging Company Culture

Having an engaged team doesn’t happen by luck or by hiring the ‘right people.’ It is carefully cultivated over time, with clear communication as the foundation. When employees grasp the company’s vision and goals and their role in achieving them, they feel a stronger connection to its success. This clarity helps to build transparency and trust within your team.

Recognition is equally essential. While financial rewards matter, simple acts like a thank-you note or public acknowledgment in a meeting can significantly boost an employee’s sense of belonging and motivation.
Growth opportunities are also a key component of an engaged workforce. By offering training, workshops, and clear career progression paths, companies enhance their employees’ skills and show a commitment to their future.
A balanced work-life dynamic is another crucial element. According to a Gallup survey, only 33% of employees say they are thriving in terms of overall well-being; companies that offer flexible hours, remote work options, and mental health support will have a happier, more productive, and loyal workforce.
Finally, meaningful work drives engagement. When employees find purpose in their roles and see how their work aligns with their personal values, they are more likely to stay committed and engaged. Companies can support this by clarifying their mission and ensuring that job roles align with employees’ strengths and passions.

Aligning Company Values With Employee Expectations

Your company values need to be aligned with employee expectations. When employees genuinely believe in their company’s values, they are, by default, more committed and motivated. So, how do you achieve this alignment? It’s important to define and communicate your company’s core values in a way that truly resonates with the workforce. These values shouldn’t just be slogans or catchphrases—they need to be woven into every aspect of daily operations.

For example, integrating values into performance reviews, decision-making, and meetings ensures they are an active part of the workplace culture. This daily reinforcement makes the values feel authentic and relevant rather than just lip service. It’s also important to involve your employees in the process of defining and refining values. Through regular feedback sessions and surveys, you can reveal what your employees actually value and align your company values with these expectations. When employees see that their input is taken seriously and changes are made accordingly, they feel more committed to your company’s values.

Your leadership team is essential in this process. Leaders who embody the company’s values set a powerful example, creating a culture where values are discussed and actively demonstrated.

The Role of Diversity and Inclusion in Promoting Engagement

Diversity and inclusion are the core of an engaging workplace. When your staff feels they can be their authentic selves at work, it heightens creativity, encourages innovation, and fosters a sense of belonging. And this, by default, drives higher engagement and commitment.

Inclusion goes beyond just bringing people together; it’s about encouraging the exchange of different perspectives. When employees see their unique contributions are valued, it promotes a more innovative and dynamic work environment.

This also directly impacts employee satisfaction. Employees in diverse and inclusive environments often report feeling more satisfied with their jobs. Boston Consulting Group reported that 81% of those working in an inclusive environment said they were happy in their jobs. Focusing on inclusivity and diversity can also reduce turnover. Employees are more likely to stay with a company where they feel respected and included.

Practical Steps to Build and Sustain a Positive Company Culture

Building and sustaining a positive company culture requires a consistent and strategic approach. It starts with establishing clear goals and expectations so employees understand how their efforts contribute to the company’s mission. Regular communication is vital to keeping everyone aligned and motivated.

Ongoing feedback is essential—don’t just rely on annual reviews. Providing regular, constructive feedback helps employees improve, feel appreciated, and stay engaged in their roles. Encourage teamwork through group projects, team-building activities, and open communication channels. This will strengthen relationships and boost overall engagement.

Offer wellness programs and mental health resources and promote a healthy work-life balance. This will show employees that their well-being is a priority. Celebrate their big and small achievements, as recognizing success boosts morale.

Finally, a vibrant company culture is one that is constantly adapting. Embracing new technologies, responding to market shifts, and staying attuned to evolving employee needs are all vital to sustaining engagement over time.

Implement a Culture of Engagement

Creating a culture of engagement isn’t just about ticking boxes; it’s about cultivating an environment where employees feel valued, connected, and motivated to contribute their best. If you’re ready to take your company’s culture to the next level, consider partnering with an employee engagement and performance management consultant to help you create a successful and resilient organization.

Published By: Aize Perez