Wednesday 1 March 2017

3 Ways To Grow Your Corporate Team Spirit

There are many amazing ways to grow your corporate team, and build lasting relationships with co-workers who have similar, or at least complimentary values. But these have been the three most effective in our experience.
1 - Mission Trip Excursions
Planning and implementing a mission trip that includes employees and their wives, or members of the teams who work together can help your team learn to rely on each other and find innovative ways to work together. Imagine... The team of techno executives in a South American Wilderness helping to build resources for a 3rd world community - sans technology? Do you think they might need to rely on each other and their team for resources that don't necessarily include technology? How much fun would it be to share the adventure and overcome any struggles that might arise due to the location, situations, and adventure of living outside their proverbial techno-box?
2 - Guided Tour or Cruise
Planning a guided tour of any one of the many vacation destinations in the world to include a wide variety of ages, personality types, and skill sets can be as much fun as actually taking the trip. Put your team together and have them plan the trip, including their families, and then send them off to enjoy a week or two of their adventure with a tour guide, or on a cruise ship. Make it a family event and send the kids. Your corporate community will benefit from the lessons learned, from the experiences, and from the adventure of sharing such a vacation with so many recognized individuals who may or may not have started their adventure as friends. They'll come back with a whole different view of their fellow team mates, and a whole new level of respect for their family lives.
3 - Corporate Training Weekend
If you can't justify sending them off for a week or two, how about a weekend excursion to include some training sessions and at least one night of fun and excitement? Cover Band Challenges, or Impersonating Soloists are a few options for your 'night on the town' after a day of hard-hitting corporate training. Strive to find a balance between the training schedule and the fun by not skimping on the fun part of the weekend. Make sure you provide something worthy of their time and effort to show up for the weekend, while you're helping them network together for a time.
The Big BANG theory of creation really didn't happen any more in nature than it will in the process of building a corporate community. Throwing executives together without a plan is just asking for failure. Put them together with a plan, fun and adventure, and group activities where they can interact and you've got a winning program for corporate team building, that works every single time.

Furniture: Points You Should Keep In Mind While Purchasing

The furniture is considered as the most important decorative item. Not only is this considered as the utility but also this act as an item to be used for decorative purposes. The items that are counted in this have been in use since the time immemorial. One can easily judge the importance of these items from the fact that the ancient rulers and kings used to sit on the throne while addressing the gathering.
With the passage of time, the evolution in the furniture industry takes place and different items associated with this come on the surface. Some of the most important items which are counted in this are chairs, tables, sofa sets, dining sets, counters, etc. Nowadays, the plethora of designs and shades are available in the market. The reason behind this is that every person needs this for the different purpose, so it is offered by the leading brands as well as the manufacturers in compelling shapes and specifications. Moreover, the designs are based on the personal choices, so the artists try to add up uniqueness in their range in order to meet the personalized preferences of the buyers.
Let us take some examples to discuss the above-mentioned points. If you are having a bar, then all you need is the different class of furniture. It is quite different from the conventional one. The most important items of this range are stools, chairs, bar counters, tables, and sets. The bar furniture manufacturers are offering their range in different designs and shades. Basically, this range is manufactured using wood and stainless steel. It is always recommended to choose the wood made furniture. The reason behind this is that it offers notable features like durability and reliability.
Another very highly demanded item is the garden furniture. We all have beautiful gardens in front of our homes. Everyone loves to sit and enjoy the beauty of nature while sitting and relaxing in the garden. To decorate these, the manufacturers are offering a comprehensive range of items. Some of the most items are chairs, tables, sofa sets, bench, gazebo, etc. Nowadays, the customized sizes are highly demanded in the market. The artists made their collections as per the design specifications of the buyers. Some of the people need these in the smaller size while other in the bigger. So, most of the manufacturers create their range only after taking the requirement and specifications from the buyers.

10 Quick Tips For an Android Media Box

1) Less is more. Remove apps that you don't use. This will clear up valuable space on your Android Media box.
2) Clean Start. Every week, turn off your box and unplug it from the mains power for 10 seconds. Do the same with your internet Broadband router/hub. This clears the cache and forces the box and router to make new connections, clearing out old unused ones, which sometimes slows the devices down.
3) Shut down. Always ensure you shut down Kodi XBMX correctly. Kodi XBMC is like an operating system. If you simply turn off your box without shutting down Kodi, it will begin to play up. Kodi needs time to tidy away files and close connections. Use the exit icon located on the Kodi main menu to choose EXIT.
4) Be ready. Always have an SD card handy, with the latest firmware already installed on it. Every now and then, its good to do a fresh software install on your box, taking it back to the bare basics and rebuilding. Owning an SD card of at least 2gb in size is essential when owning an Android TV box.
5) Easy input. Spend a little extra and invest in an air remote. An air remote allows you to control the on-screen cursor extremely easily by just waggling the remote like a Nintendo Wii controller. Air remotes also come with a full QWERTY keyboard, allowing you to enter web addresses and search for films and apps very easily, instead of having to use the on-screen keyboard with the standard remote.
6) Take your box abroad. Many owners like to take their boxes on holiday with them. Almost all holiday villas now come with an HDMI-equipped TV and great WIFI. Taking your Android media box with you will allow you to have all your favorite TV and Movies wherever you go. Nothing is worse than trying to find something decent to watch on a foreign TV that doesn't speak your language. The most TV boxes are smaller than the palm of your hand, so don't take up a lot of room.
7) Use reboot manager. Reboot manager is a great app that allows you to reboot your box into recovery mode. If you already have your up to date SD card installed, it will reboot straight into updating the firmware, without you having to fiddle about with a screwdriver to press the reset button.
8) Make use of OTA updates. A few brands have their own OTA (Over The Air) update apps. This means that instead of using an SD card, the box can be automatically updated with any changed by going into OTA and downloading the update straight to the box. This is great for quick and simple installs when a manufacturer identifies a bug that needs a quick fix, or for some new features to be added.
9) Keep it secure. Using a VPN when using your box is a great way of keeping your streaming and browsing traffic secure, anonymous and away from prying eyes. There are a plethora of VPN apps out there that allow you to easily encrypt your traffic when using your box and most of them are very reasonably priced. The other great thing is you are able to watch video services that are locked to a specific country. For instance, you can use a VPN when abroad to watch something back in your home country, using a VPN to give the impression that you are currently there.
10) Clear cache. This is a great tip that can be used for all apps but especially Kodi. Going into settings and then apps, and systematically going through apps, and clearing their cache is a great way of keeping your box running smoothly and not letting it get bogged down with slow connection speeds.

More Philosophy On Leadership

As a former business owner with operations in many states, I'd say I have a decent handle on the definition of leadership; what it is and what is supposed to do. Yet, I am often reminded that "Leadership" has become a catch-all term, which is too bad, we are all too quick to label things leadership or proclaim the need for leadership. Some describe what they call "leadership" and when you look closely it looks more like; how to con humans into doing things you want them to do, akin to that famous saying: "Diplomacy is the Art of Letting Others Get Your Way."
Not long ago, I talked with a Floridian Author of multiple books on leadership. I must say; I am impressed with his sincerity, ethical base, stick-to-it-ness, character and truth seeking - that's pretty rare. Every once in a while someone comes along, and you just think to yourself - wow, good job.
There is a good book titled; "Outliers" perhaps you've read it, one thing I've found is that just because someone is good at something, doesn't mean they will make a good coach, instructor, mentor, or leader. Some would say true leaders are a lot like coaches, yes, there is some of that in leadership, others say it is how you project yourself that gives people confidence in themselves when you tell them; "You Can Do This" which is also a component of leadership (Read About: General Patton and leadership), some say leadership is all about communicating a vision or mission statement - true, that too, getting someone to seize on an idea or brand, to stand for something larger than themselves, to give 110% and expect to win, play on a team and persevere.
And, with that said there are all types of leaders - you have the fearless leader, and you have introverted leaders, you have people who've been thrust into leadership positions merely for leading by example. There are administrative leaders, and so many variations on each type. Sometimes the style of leadership matters, just as the corporate culture matters, or the mindset of a sports team or perhaps the micro-teams in business units (Read: The World On Time by Fred Smith FedEx Founder).
Knowing your limits is also a key to good leadership, however, if we want those who follow to believe that there are no limits - then we need to be careful both how we see our own limits by quantifying them; and, how we communicate such a mental limit to them.
Regarding leadership as a whole, one thing they teach in the Military (West Point, Annapolis for instance) is that to be a good leader you must first be a good follower. Thus, we should be giving more emphasis to followership right? Another interesting point is one of respect. A leader who is not respected makes a lousy leader, and can actually be dangerous to the cause whatever that cause may be.
Some say that "Leadership comes from a barrel of a gun" Mao said that, and perhaps a Machiavellian Prince might also; aka: "It's best to be loved and respected, but if you can't do that, the second best is to be feared and respected." The challenge with being loved and respected is that the leader falls into a trap of promises to all, at the cost of the mission or goals - socialist populist leadership for instance, keep promising everyone everything to be loved, until one day it becomes obvious that "you've run out of other people's money to spend" (Margaret Thatcher said that). Glad to make you think today.

Enjoy The Desert Safari Tour

It is generally perceived to be an extraordinary destination for the riches which renders outstanding blend of distinctive Arabic culture along with modernity. It endows a perfect experience of sightseeing, adventure, travel, history, traditions and ambitions. People from different parts of the world generally plan their excursions in order to unveil the distinctive varieties of experiences encompassed into multiple folds.
When you visit one of the most vibrant and developed Emirates out of the seven, you cannot miss a perfectly planned desert safari. It being one of the most rapidly developing places, it is known for its magnificent structures, eye captivating beauty and warm hospitality. People from all over the world visit to enjoy the memorable beauty in the vast expanse of emptiness. There are a number of tour operators who can help you to relish this unforgettable experience.
It is a fascinating destination to be in. Among all the seven emirates, it has lots to offer in the way of stunning beach resorts and Desert Safari. Besides the implausible stretches of shimmering sand and sparkling waters of the Persian Gulf, the lofty weather turns spending a day on the beach one of the preeminent ways to revitalize and work on your tan.
In order to add some memorable adventure into your expedition, you must also try the Desert Safari. You can significantly obtain an opportunity to acquire the distinctive flavor of Bedouin existence. You can contact a reputed inbound tourism service provider to arrange transportation for your amazing desert safari.
Lots To Enjoy
A desert safari is one of the most suggested excursions during your visit. It can provide you with a lifetime experience if you hire the right tour operator. You should gather information about their service offered, facilities provided and the inclusions in a package before you start. Equally enjoyed and loved by young, adults and kids, there are lots of fun and amusement on a desert safari. Riding the best cars over the undulating sand dunes you will be mesmerized while enjoying your pleasure ride. Apart from it, you can have the fun of sand skiing atop the warm sand dunes. Riding on a camel and overnight camping will give you a taste of exotic Arabian night.
Facilities Provided To You
You will be picked up from your place of stay by a chauffeur drove the luxurious car to the starting point. A 4x4 vehicle will be waiting for you, driven by a highly skilled driver, to ride the ups and downs of the never-ending sand dunes. Stopping on one of the highest sand dunes, you can enjoy the heavenly view of the setting sun. Soon you will be escorted to the campsite where a sumptuous buffet dinner along with BBQ will wait for you to relish and relax. You can enjoy camel riding, henna painting and taking photos in traditional Arabic costumes during this period while you watch belly and Tanoura dancing.
Book Your Tour Wisely
You can choose from a variety of packages for a Desert Safari. There are overnight desert safaris, morning safaris as well as safaris in the evenings. Depending on your choice and preference, you can choose any one from them. Make sure that you book your tour with a government registered and a trusted tour operator only. As you are a stranger, you may not know the rules and regulations and will surely not want your operator to guide you during your trip.
Be Guided To Pleasure
Other benefits that you enjoy when you book your trip with a recognized and reputed tour operator are that they go out of their way to give you the maximum satisfaction, which is their prime objective. They provide personalized care and attention all through the trip to make you feel at home and relaxed. They explain everything on your way about the desert, its surroundings, and history so that you do not miss out on anything during your trip.

Auto Glass - What You Should Know

Simply put, this is glass that you would find in an automobile. Not too many know that there are two major forms of auto glass. Each one is used on certain windows in the automobile. Both types of auto glass are more impact resistant and stronger than regular glass. These two types are:
• Laminated safety glass-this glass is generally used on a car's windshield. It is comprised of a couple of pieces of glass that has a slim layer of vinyl. The glass is then heated and pressed together in an autoclave, which is a type of oven. When this glass receives a tough impact it will shatter also but usually the shattered pieces will stick to the vinyl and not fall on the ground.
• Tempered glass-this type of glass is generally used on the side and rear windows. To make tempered glass it goes through a special process. It is heated and then it is cooled quickly. When it receives a tough impact, it will shatter and fall on the ground in little pieces. They do not have sharp edges like broken regular glass.
Auto glass can be damaged when there is an accident and may need replaced but auto glass may need to be repaired or replaced because of other circumstances like gravel thrown up from the road could cause a tiny vein or chip in the windshield. The vibration of the truck, over time, could cause the tiny vein to become larger. Driving with a glass that is damaged is an offense where you would get a ticket in some states.
Today, having your windshield replaced is easy. Instead of having to make an appointment to take your vehicle to the auto glass repair shop professional auto glass installers will come to the place of business or home to do the replacement. They remove the cowl, wipers, and molding and lift out the windshield. They may also have to clean off some old adhesive before they can put in the new windshield. Once everything is clean, the professional will put new adhesive into the channel that keeps a windshield in place. After this done, the replacement windshield is put in. Next, they put back the cowl, wipers, and molding. In about sixty minutes the job is finished.
If the windshield just has a tiny vein or nick, the auto glass professional may be able to repair the tiny vein or nick to keep it from spreading further. The repair will generally take fewer than thirty minutes. The vein or nick is cleaned thoroughly and dried. Resin is injected and a material like Mylar is used to hold it in place. The professional cures the resin by using an ultraviolet light.

Why Is Sales Training Important for Your Business?

Most of the organisations think it to be an unnecessary expense when it comes to training. However, the fact is that sales training programs can help your organisation make great benefits. Such programs will be invaluable for your both you employees and business. To get maximum ROI, you can invest in some better courses from some well-known sales training companies.
Still wondering how beneficial will these courses be for your business? Here are the 3 invaluable benefits that you can derive:
1. Increased sales
What can be better than generating more sales for your organisation? An effective sales training will help in generating more sales and maximize profit. How? The course will take a complete account of the sales cycle and its processes and will give your sales team a better understanding of the process. This will in return help your team to convert the leads generated into actual sales.
A reputable training consultancy will help your team to get the necessary knowledge and skills for doing better business and making more profits.
2. Improved customer service
Do you know that sales and customer service are integrally linked? Just like you, many other sales professionals and business owners are not aware of it. Therefore, when you opt for sales training or skill development training courses, your team will develop the skills to communicate better. Communicating better with the customers will help the customers respond more positively.
Your customers give many verbal and non-verbal signals that most of the sales professionals do not pay attention to. Training will help your sales team to understand the customers' needs, their reactions better and will help them to react accordingly.
3. Up-selling and cross-selling
To maximize your sales, it is important for your sales team to gauge the purchase habit of your customers. Training from some renowned sales training companies will help them to understand the needs of the customers and then offer them products or services accordingly that will meet their needs.
Armed with the required knowledge and skills, your sales team will first create the need in your customers and then offer products and services that will fulfil their needs. This will make the customers happy and will increase your sales and profits.
There are many more benefits that your organisation can enjoy from training. However, you need to select the best sales training consultancy that can cater to your organisation's needs.

10 Steps For Your AC Service

Honestly speaking, you can't do much as far as the maintenance of your AC unit goes. However, with a few simple tips, you can do a few steps for breathing a new life into your AC unit. Here are those steps.
Unplug the AC unit
First of all, you should disconnect the power supply so that you can follow the next steps without any danger.
Remove the filter or cover
Remove the cover or filter so you can access the cooling coils. In some models, you have to remove the bezel or cover to get access to the inside of the AC unit. In most AC units, the cover is secured by a number of screws. Once the filter is removed, you can see the screws.
Use a Spray
You can use a cleaning agent to spray the frontal part. This will remove bad odors emitted from the mildew, dirt and debris from the coils. Make sure you don't spray the controls, wires or other parts. Ideally, you may want to use a foaming cleaner.
Clean the filter
You can use plain water to clean the filter. If the filter is in worse condition, consider a new one. If it is installed in an area that attracts a lot of dust, remove the filter every 15 hours and clean it. Once you have cleaned the filter, put the cover back and reconnect the power supply in a few minutes.
Turn it on
Turn it on and set it to "cool" mode adjusting the thermostat at the highest level. This will condense the warm air when it will pass through the system. The condensate will start working rinsing the foam and dirt from the coils. Finally, they will get trapped in the drip pipe. And then it will be thrown outside the room.
Repeat the Same Steps if needed
If you have not done anything to maintain it for a long time, repeat the same steps once again. Repeat the steps until the coils are totally clean. If the AC unit doesn't work even after repeated cleaning procedures, chances are that the compressor has failed.
Switch it off
Remove the power cord to disconnect the power supply. Now, take a closer look at the outdoor coils.
Clean the coils
The outside coils may be wet due to the rainwater. They won't need to be cleaned. However, if you are not sure, you can go ahead and clean the coils. Make sure the AC unit is off and then use the foaming cleaner. Let the cleaning agent work for a few minutes before following the next steps.
Use a garden hose
Use the garden hose for rinsing the cleaning agent. Since the outdoor coil has no condensate formed on them, you will need to nines them manually. Remember: using a direct stream of water on the coils is a bad idea. Just flow the water on the coils and the foam will float away.
Restore the power supply
After the power is restored, use a low temperature for the thermostat. The air that will come out of the AC unit should be clean and cold. If it's not, you should consider replacing the AC unit.
Long story short, these are a few steps you can take for the upkeep or service of your AC unit, but, at times, you may have to consider a replacement.

Business to Business - Look For the Less Glamorous Accounts

As a former franchisor and service sector operator I have an important piece of advice to discuss with you today. You see, these days I do a bit of consulting and thus, am constantly reading business plans for small business start-ups. One thing I always find is smaller companies always seem to want to immediately go after high-end clients, consumers and customers - and, if they plan on doing business-to-business contracting, the young and often naïve entrepreneurs tend to go after big brand name corporate clients. Still, I recommend a different tactic in this realm, let's talk.
Sure, it makes sense to go after the high-end customers and name brands, but do not dismiss the less glamorous businesses to do business with. Have you ever heard the saying; "Sell to the masses and live with the classes?" Makes sense right. In fact, when operating my companies we never forgot this strategy. I find many entrepreneurs want to get their product into Home Depot, Target, Wal-Mart, Sears, etc. Or they want to partner with Starbucks, Apple, Nike or Google, but be careful, those companies have the pick of the litter, everyone wants to do business with them, so they always get the best price, meaning you'll make less money and have to work on volume to make a profit, and you'll have to invest big to upgrade just to handle the account - so in essence you are buying the account, not just getting the account.
In my previous company we did on-site contract cleaning and had sales teams and worked off of a Bonzai-Blitz Mission marketing strategy, one which works for any company doing B2B services. What we found was the less glamorous type accounts; cleaning garbage trucks for instance actually paid the most money because no one else ever bid on the account.
Indeed, we ended up cleaning all sorts of things that no one else was competing for such as cleaning off Solar Panels, Restaurant Patios, Garage Doors, Awnings, Rain Gutters, Driveways, Gazebos, Artificial Drought Resistant Grass, Jacuzzi's at Hotels, Storm Drains, Locomotives and Rail Cars. It was truly amazing how easy it was to secure a strong cash flow without ever having to lower our bid to get the work. That's not to say that becoming a vendor for a large company will not be lucrative, it surely can be, but also realize how many companies have gone broke trying to perform with razor thin margins as a vendor of Sears or Wal-Mart.