Well-Known Mentoring Relationships

There are many successful personalities who were able to get to where they are now on their own. There are also many who were able to reach the pinnacle of their success due to the guidance and help of their mentors.

There have been dozens of mentoring relationships that have been well-documented and are quite well-known. These include the following:

Warren Buffet and Bill Gates. Many regard American business magnate Warren Buffett as the most successful investor of the twentieth century.  Aside from this distinction, The Berkshire Hathaway CEO is known being the mentor of Microsoft co-founder Bill Gates.  Gates first met Buffett at a dinner organized by Gates’ mother and the two spoke about business and philanthropy.  Gates says that he has often turned to Buffett for advice on various subjects, and has often referred to the latter as “one of a kind.”

Steve Jobs and Mark Zuckerberg. The late Steve Jobs, former Apple Inc. CEO, served as a mentor to Facebook CEO Mark Zuckerberg. The two tech giants started their professional relationship during the early days of Facebook and they often met to discuss the best business and management practices for the company. When Jobs passed away in 2011, Zuckerberg posted on his Facebook page this emotional message: “Steve, thank you for being a mentor and a friend. Thanks for showing that what you build can change the world. I will miss you.”

Maya Angelou and Oprah Winfrey. Famous celebrity Oprah Winfrey was mentored by celebrated author and poet, the late Maya Angelou.  According to Winfrey, “She (Angelou) was there for me always, guiding me through some of the most important years of my life”.

Info source: www.christinascalera.com

Most Valuable Items Left And Discovered In Storage Units

Once a storage unit’s lease is not paid for several months, the items inside becomes the ownership of the storage company and they can open the units. They can also sell or rent these units to others again. Whoever owns the unit will usually find an assortment of items inside them. If they’re lucky, they can find really find some valuable stuff in these units.

What are the most valuable items unearthed in storage units in history? These include the following:

Beach Boys Memorabilia. Years ago, a Florida radio station purchased a storage locker for around $300. Employees of the radio station found a stash of documents and papers that were all priceless Beach Boys memorabilia. There were authentic photographs, handwritten lyric sheets, musical arrangements, contracts, and royalty checks from the band. When members of the Beach Boys learned about the discovery, they tried reclaiming ownership of the lost items for more than 8 years. Ultimately, the archive was sold at an undisclosed auction for over 7 million dollars.

Newspapers published the day Elvis Presley died. In 2010, a significant amount of newspapers were discovered in a storage unit. All these newspapers were released on the same day that Elvis Presley passed away, August 16, 1977. All the newspapers were in great and readable condition. The stack of newspapers ended up being valued at a whopping $900,000.

Treasure chest. “Storage Wars” stars Dan and Laura bid on a storage unit in 2011 that contained Spanish gold from the 16th century and a heavy box of coins. It was great find and payoff since the coins themselves were already worth over $500,000.

Info source: easytruckmobilestorage.com

Recruitment: Then And Now

Today, recruitment means keeping up with technology, building a talent network, promoting your company culture, tapping into thousands of passive candidates, marketing your open positions, and developing a great candidate experience. It would be quite interesting to know some historical facts of recruitment.

History Of Recruitment

The recruitment process began with the military. It dates back to ancient Greece, Egypt, and Rome. But the birth of modern recruiting industry began in 1940’s as a result of World War II. Different employment agencies started to advertise for workers who weren’t obliged to military service in an effort to fill the void in the office left by those who were called to duty.

When the war ended, there was an influx of workers returning from the army. And as a response to the growing workforce, headhunting companies became famous. Most headhunting agencies operated in service of those looking for employment until the strong economy of the 1970s led to a transition from working for the employee to working for the employer.

Other Recruitment Facts

Millions of applicants found their job on Facebook – Candidates are putting their professional profiles not just on LinkedIn anymore but also on other social media platforms like Facebook. Today, more and more people are already watching companies on different social media channels to find out when openings are posted and interact with recruiters or hiring managers.

The workforce today caters to 5 generations – Today, traditionalists, baby boomers, gen xers, millenials, and gen 2020 are in the workforce, working hand-in-hand to meet the different needs of various clients. Indeed, the workforce is more diverse than ever. Hence, it requires a unique approach in recruiting.

Trivia Info Resource: http://wearessg.com

Why Do Metals Corrode

Corrosion is defined as the degradation of a material because of a reaction with its environment. Degradation is the weakening of the material because of a loss of cross-sectional area – this can be the shattering of a metal because of hydrogen embrittlement or perhaps the cracking of a polymer because of sunlight exposure.

Materials can be polymers like plastic and rubber, metals, ceramics like brick and concrete or composite-mechanical mixtures of 2 or more materials with different properties. When it comes to metal corrosion, it is often electrochemical in nature.

Facts About The Corrosion Of Metals

Metals corrode simply because they are used in environments where they’re chemically unstable. Only copper, silver, gold, platinum and other precious metals are found in nature in their metallic state. Other metals are processed from minerals or ores.

When metals are unstable, they have a tendency to revert to their more stable mineral forms. Some metals are forming protective ceramic films on their surfaces – and these can either slow down or prevent their corrosion process.

Today, corrosion can be prevented by using metals that form naturally passive films; however, these alloys are often expensive. Remember though that there are other cost-efficient means of controlling corrosion.

Trivia Info Resource: cortec-me.com

Different Types Of Self-Storage Units

A lot of people will amass a number of possessions in their lifetime. Some of these items are valuable and useful while some won’t be. However, due to sentimentality and other reasons, many people will find it hard to get rid of the items that are of no use to them, except as space-eaters.

Renting a self-storage unit or facility is one of the best solutions for people who have a lot of stuff that they simply can’t keep in their homes anymore. There are different types of storage units designed to meet the specific needs of renters or customers. The usual types of self-storage units are:

Personal and business storage units -  These are facilities or units that enable individuals, families, and companies to keep some of the essential items such as the furniture, business documents, vehicles and other important extra inventories. Storage units of this type can also be used for storing items for a short period of time, in case of house or office renovations.

Vehicle storage units - This type of storage facility offers you the convenience of storing recreational vehicles (RVs), sports cars, motorcycles, yacht, boat, and other types of vehicles. If your problem is lack of parking space, then you can drive down to a nearby unit and park the vehicle inside it. The vehicle storage units safeguard your invaluable vehicles from the weather damage, theft, and other types of threats.

Climate-controlled self-storage units – Climate-controlled self-storage units maintain a perfect temperature within which ensures that your precious items do not get damaged due to extreme humidity and dryness. The main advantage of using temperature-controlled units is that it keeps a regular tab on the outside weather round the clock.

Info source: easytruck.ae    

Popular Places To Retire In Australia

One of the many things that people nearing their golden age think about is where to live and enjoy their retirement. Although they may currently own and live in a comfortable property, individuals who are about to retire plan on enjoying and making the most out of their remaining years and as such, choose to move to another place where they can have a better living experience.

There are various places in Australia that are known to be conducive and even excellent for people who want to enjoy their retirement years. Which areas in Australia are known for being preferred places for people to retire in? These places include the following:

Sunshine Coast, Queensland. Sunshine Coast boasts of beautiful blue beaches and perfect weather all year round. It is also home to various retirement villages to choose from. As such, Sunshine Coast is an idyllic place to retire in.  It is also just an hour’s drive away from Brisbane, hence, giving you easy access to the city’s amenities.

Hunter Valley, New South Wales. Hunter Valley is known for its wineries and thriving gourmet food scene, thereby cementing its popularity among retirees. This area is home to 100 stunning vineyards, amazing golf courses, spa getaways, and various amenities and as such, is everything retirees could ask for. What’s more, Hunter Valley is also close to some main urban cities such as Newcastle and Sydney.

Mornington Peninsula, Victoria. Mornington Peninsula is known for its breath-taking, picturesque beauty and gorgeous coastal villages. This place is only an hour’s away from Melbourne. Aside from place itself, retirees flock to Mornington Peninsula for its artisan food producers, fresh markets and organic produce.

Info source: mywealthsolutions.com.au

The Usual Causes Of Commercial Fires

Offices, brick-and-mortar shops, and other types of business or commercial premises always carry various types of fire hazards. The fact that offices and other commercial buildings are usually located in central business areas where hundreds of people frequent day and night makes it highly important for company owners and employees to take fire hazards and safety seriously.

As a business owner or employee, you need to be mindful of the common causes of commercial fires, which are:

The kitchen or pantry. Kitchen fires are normally associated with residential fires. However, in reality, they are the most common cause of any fire anywhere.  Commercial fires that happen in the kitchen usually occur because employees do not use the designated area to prepare their food.

Electrical causes. Electricity-associated commercial fires are usually caused by an overloaded system or a building contractor who violated key electrical codes.

Improper storage methods. Offices, warehouses, and other businesses usually have poor storing practices and incorrect facilities or supplies. One of the common storage mistakes usually made is placing flammable materials near or in contact with a heat source, thus creating the perfect scenario for a fire.

Heaters and boilers. Commercial fires can also be caused by neglected and poorly-maintained boilers, heaters, and furnaces. A fire can also easily start and break out when areas that contain these types of heating equipment are improperly used as storing facilities.

Info source: www.easyfiresafety.co.uk

FAQs About Superannuation

Superannuation is savings put aside for a retirement or if one becomes an invalid or for the beneficiaries upon the contributor’s death. Most people consider this as an excellent form of retirement because 4 primary reasons.

Superannuation FAQs

What will happen to the money?

Your super will be invested either in shares, fixed interest securities, cash, or in property.

Can you decide what your super is invested in?

Generally, you can decide if you want your super in balanced, growth or conservative funds and in what proportions.

How much can you contribute?

Before making contributions, it would be best for you to get the right advice. Be reminded that if you get it wrong, you can actually be it with a penalty tax.

Do you save tax?

Yes. Experts say that significant tax concessions make super a very attractive form of saving.

When can you get your super?

The general rule says that you can get access to your super if you reach preservation age and retire or when you turn 65, even when you aren’t retired yet. However, there are instances wherein you might be allowed to get it earlier.

What happens to your super when you die early?

Most funds will let you nominate who you want your death benefit paid to. Know that if it is paid to people who are not your dependants, it might be taxed.

Trivia Info Resource: www.miradorwealth.com.au

What You Must Know About Interior Designing

After its legislation as a licensed profession by Mr. Puerto in the late 1970s, Interior Design became a huge part of people’s daily lives. Also, lots of myths have risen after its legislation.

Myths And Facts About Interior Design

Myth: Interior Design solely depends on visuals. In other words, it just revolves around combining colors, adding fascinating furniture, and applying finishing touches. It does not have technical aspects.

Fact: Interior Design is full of technical aspects. Professionals must be compliant with the stand code as per the location of the decors and environment.

Myth: Hiring an interior designer is just a waste of money because architects are natural interior designers.

Fact: Interior designers go through years of study and practical experience so they can achieve a maximum level of expertise. Architecture is an entirely different field.

Myth: The main reason why unlicensed personnel are out of business is the Interior Design legislation.

Fact: The Interior Design legislation supports advanced level professionals to research into new areas of field. Under certain conditions, unlicensed professionals can also practice.

Interior Designer Vs. Interior Decorator

Interior Designer – This professional is concerned with building projects. Aside from having structural design know-how, he may use important elements of a room like light, sound, and other design aspects. Official exercise and license are required for him to practice.

Interior Decorator – This professional won’t have any concern with the design or outline of a building’s interior space. He focuses on using decorative pieces like textiles, furniture, and texture to boost the aesthetic appeal of the space. To implement official work, a license may not be required.

Trivia Info Resource: tgp.ae

The Top 4 Financial Blind Spots Eating Your Income

Whether you are working or rely on income from your business, investments, or retirement fund, at the end of each month, you will often ask yourself: where did my money go?

This question is something that torments a lot of people not just monthly but even weekly. If this same enigma also regularly bothers you, as early as now, you may start worrying about your finances in the future, once your regular source of income stops or dries up.

Where Your Money Goes To

In general, you spend a large chunk of your monthly income on your housing, transportation, and food requirements. But there are some other things that could be eating up your money as well. These top 4 financial blind spots are:

1. Loans. These include car, mortgage, and educational loans and credit card debts. Carrying credit card debts, especially if you only make the minimum payments every month, is a bad move that can cost you thousands and lower your credit score.

2. Insurance. Life, medical, travel, and other personal insurance account for only 0.6% of the average budget. Getting a lower rate is easy; as such, there’s no reason for you to not do so.

3. Taxes. If you don’t itemize your tax return, you won’t be able to claim every last deduction you can. Not doing so is just handing that money over to the tax collectors.

4. Entertainment. A lot of people pay thousands of dollars annually for premium cable subscription. You can save money by ditching cable television since the cost is pretty extreme when there are free or less expensive options.

Info source: www.perthfinancialplanning.com

Who Are The Biggest Non-Arab Investors In Dubai’s Real Estate Market?

In the past years, Dubai has slowly grown to be the number one choice for real estate investment. And this is due to a number of reasons. For starters, the properties in Dubai come in much lower price ranges compared to other investment hubs across the world. Second, they also tend to generate a larger profit, and as such, make them good investments. Finally, property investors and businessmen from around the world find the city’s tax-free policy extremely favourable since there are no taxes imposed on capital gain or income.

Majority of the largest commercial, industrial and residential real estate property owners and investors here are of course UAE locals and a number of Arabs from other GCC countries. However, there is one nationality that beats out non-Arab nationals and other countries in terms of property investments in Dubai: Indians.

Non-Arab Property Investors In Dubai
 
In a study conducted regarding Dubai’s real estate market last year, it was found out that Indians have the biggest investments in this market. In Burj Khalifa alone, one of the most expensive investments here was made by BR Shetty, an industrialist based in the UAE, who paid AED 45 million in 2005 to buy the entire 100th floor of the world’s tallest building.

Below is a breakdown of the top non-Arab investors in Dubai’s real estate market based on India Shining’s report:

India: AED 18.1 billion

Britain: AED 9.3 billion

Pakistan: AED 7.6 billion

Iran: AED 4.5 billion

Canada: AED 3.2 billion

Info source: alnowais.com

Some Commonly Used Terms In Islamic Banking

Islamic banking pertains to a banking system or activity that is consistent with Islamic law or Shariah principles and guided by Islamic economics. This type of banking system revolves around several well-established concepts, all based on Islamic canons.

Below are some of the commonly used terms and principles in Islamic banking:

Sharia. This principle literally means “a clear path to be followed and observed”. This is an abstract form of law capable of development, adaptation and interpretation. It does not prescribe general principles of law but instead, deals with specific cases or transactions and sets out rules that govern them. The Sharia is derived from two primary sources: the Quran – the transcription of God’s message to the prophet Mohammed; and Sunna – the living tradition of the prophet Mohammed.

Riba. Riba, when literally translated, means an increase, growth or accretion. In Islamic banking, Riba is strictly forbidden. As such, all Islamic banking activities avoid interest.

Musharaka. This pertains to finance by way of partnership. Under this principle, profits are shared between partners on a pre-agreed ratio. However, losses are shared in exact proportion to the capital invested by each party.

Murabaha. This term literally means cost-plus financing. With a murabaha contract, a bank agrees to buy some assets or goods from a third party, at the behest of its client and then re-sells this to the client with a mark-up profit.

Mudaraba. This is a form of partnership wherein one partner (rab-ul-amal) provides the capital needed for a project and the other party (mudarib) manages the investment utilising its capabilities and expertise. Profits from the investment are then distributed according to a fixed, pre-determined ratio.

Info source: www.hsbc.ae

The Basic Tools And Equipment For An Ideal Meeting Room

When planning for a meeting, whether for your staff, new hires or clients, it is always best to book for a meeting room or venue that has the needed tools and equipment for a successful meeting. Booking for a meeting room that has only a table and chairs will defeat the purpose because you actually have these things in your home, a coffee shop or in a restaurant. In setting up a meeting with important clients or your staff, you need a meeting room that does not only offer privacy but the right tools and equipment you may need. To know this, check out the basic equipment for an ideal meeting room.

- Projector. This is so you can present your ideas and reports clearly.

- Computer. Of course, you may need to access some information needed for the meeting from a computer.

- Speakers. Usually, only the head of the meeting is given the speakers but for executive meetings where other people are expected to talk, a speaker for each attendee is needed.

These three are the basic tools and equipment for an ideal meeting room given that there are also tables and chairs.

Trivia Info Resource: www.doubletreeberkeleymarina.com

Must-Know Facts About Bog Mats

There are many various types of businesses today that regularly require the use of and rely on bog mats. But what exactly are bog mats?

Bog mats are a particular type of temporary floor covering material typically made of durable timber. They are usually made of oak beams with bolts and countersunk nuts including two notches for lifting hooks. They provide the most ideal temporary access solutions to enable cranes and plants to be moved to industrial sites. A hardwood bog mat, when laid on the roadway, helps individuals and machineries cross water-logged, muddy and slippery ground – as such, they are a much sought-after equipment for construction and engineering companies. Using this type of mat will not only help you meet the environmental protection goals but also avoid expensive turf and paving. It also provides a more stable base for machineries such as drilling equipment.

Specific Uses Of Bog Mats

Bog mats are usually used in the construction, civil engineering, oil and gas industries, and various types of utility industry infrastructural projects. They are frequently used as or in:

• Road extensions
• Temporary bridges
• Temporary roads
• River and road embankments
• Makeshift or covering for private lanes and access roads
• Marine projects
• Towpaths
• Wind farms

Info source: www.smarttrack.net.au

Interesting Facts About Demolition

When you hear or read the word demolition, the first image that comes to your mind is a building or any infrastructure being torn down and pulverised through the use of some heavy machinery such as a crane, excavator or bulldozer. However, there is more to demolition than simply hitting the structure with a wrecking ball.

Aside from knowing the procedure involved in demolition, there are some other interesting facts about this part of construction you should know about. These include the following:

• Usually, demolition involves use of wrecking balls and explosives. However, there are instances when the demolition experts have to take buildings down by hand. These include instances when the local ordinances prohibit use of explosives and the structure cannot be reached by any heavy equipment, such as a loader wrecking or an excavator. In such cases, a demolition company would have no other option but to take the building down by hand.

• Many demolition companies realized early how to save and generate money by recycling reusable materials. And this was long before recycling became popular globally.

• Excavators and wrecking balls with hydraulic systems are commonly used for taking down tall buildings without the need to utilise some explosives.

• Preservationists can get help from demolition companies since they can let them know what they need to do in order to save their landmark. This is due to the fact that these specialists have a lot of knowledge about the structures and they can be dependable supporters.

Info source: www.contractorsgroup.com.au

The Top Financial Planning Myths

Today, the economy remains unstable as it was years before. And you can certainly expect the economy to remain volatile in the future as the well.  As such, financial planning has indeed become increasingly significant. This is because creating and having a financial plan can help anyone see the big picture and set long- and short-term life goals.

Financial Planning Myths

Financial planning though is not an easy or straightforward task. There are certain myths associated with this important endeavour that can hinder the whole process or stop you from achieving your goals. Below are the top financial planning myths:

You are saving enough for retirement. A lot of people underestimate how much money they will require when they retire. Keep in mind that how much you save should take into account risks like outliving retirement savings, losing purchasing power or inflation, and market fluctuations.

You should have some investments before getting a financial plan. Financial planning encompasses much more than investing. It is also about protecting what you already have so it's there whenever you require it.

You completed a financial plan years ago, so you’re fine. Many things can change in a year. Even if you feel like your personal finances haven't changed much or that you haven't faced any momentous life-changing events, it does not mean you should wait to review your plan until something big happens. Seasoned financial advisors recommends that you revisit your financial plan at least once a year, just to make sure your plan is still in line with your objectives.

Info source: catchtherisingtide.com.au

Which Type Of Investment Is For You

Did you know that there are 2 basic securities you can choose from for your investment? Your options are between stocks and bonds, also called equity and debt.

1.    Bonds – technically these refer to any securities founded on debt. Purchasing bonds means that you are lending out your money to the government or to a company with an assurance that you will be paid back in full together with the interest that your money has earned.  While this type of investment is risk-free as you buy bonds from stable entities, the rate of return is lower compared to other types of investments.

2.    Stocks – purchasing stocks makes you a part owner of a business. This means that you receive any profits, referred to as dividends that the company allocates to its owners. Compared to bonds, this type of investment does not guarantee returns. Stocks are volatile. It could give you high potential returns or none at all.

3.    Mutual Funds – buying a mutual fund means you are pooling your money with other investors. Here you are paying a professional manager to choose securities for you. The advantage of investing in mutual fund is that you invest your money in a sound investment without having to know some technical details. More often you get better returns because a professional chooses your investment.

There are numerous alternative for investment these days. You have gold, real estate, FOREX, and the online platform called crowdfunding or crowdinvesting.

Trivia Info Resource: eureeca.com

The Top 3 Highest Paid And Easiest Jobs For Full Time Moms

Although being a mom is already a full time job in itself, it doesn’t mean that they can still find some formal or informal way of earning some additional money. They are now many opportunities today that are open to all moms who are interested to earn extra income.

No-Fuss Employment Opportunities For Stay-At-Home Moms

The Internet has made it easier and more convenient for everyone to earn some extra money. For stay-at-home moms, below are the easiest and highest paid jobs they can get:

1. Blogging. If you have a passion or hobby for something, you can start your own blog. Do you love cooking? You can be one of the many foodies who have great blogs on the Internet read by millions. Once you start getting a steady number of readers or visitors, you will start making money from advertisers who want to place their ads on your blog site.

2. Selling products online. You can sell products on behalf of certain vendors. If you are able to sell these products, you will get a commission on them, around 50% or even 75%, depending on the vendor.

3. Freelance writing. If you do not want to start your own blog but have good writing skills, you can be become a freelance writer. A freelance writer has to write articles on demand. In general, for writing just one article, you could make up to $5 to $20.

Info source: www.fastpassiveincome.com

All You Need To Know About The Shipping Process

Today, the shipping industry has become very popular not only for businesses but also even for personal purposes. Many people have taken advantage of shipping as a solution to transport or deliver items without having to spend so much time, money and effort. Check out how shipping really works.

When you need to give someone who is in another area or place something and you do not want to spend so much money and effort in actually bringing the item and giving it yourself or you just do not have the time to actually give it personally to the person, you may want to opt for shipping it instead. When you want to ship an item, you just have to look for a trusted company that you can rely on with whatever you want to ship.

 Once you have found a trusted shipping company, ask for the rates (which usually depend on the size and weight of the item). Once you have signed for the shipping information and all, you just need to get the receipt and the transaction code. Give it to the person you are sending the item to for it will be needed when claiming the item or when tracking its location.

The shipping company usually provides an estimated time of arrival for the items shipped. The company should also have a website where you can track the physical location of the items being shipped.

Trivia Info Resource: www.aflogistics.com

What Is Diamond Drilling All About?

Today, there are many equipment, tools and techniques used by professionals to drill. One of the most popularly used techniques is diamond drilling.

But what is diamond drilling? Diamond drilling is a technique used by experts to drill a hole straight into the earth’s surface. This technique is mostly used in mining, for extracting valuable core samples and minerals. Diamond drilling is also a preferred option of many contractors in creating tunnels for plumbing, electric, Wi-Fi, telephone network and large construction work like tunnelling underground to create a subway system.

Equipment Used In Diamond Drilling

A diamond drill consists of a motorized power source that basically drives the drill. When it is used, the drill rod extracts a piece or several pieces of the core samples when the diamond bit breaks into the Earth. Diamonds are used in this particular type of drill since this element is quite strong and more resistant to the wear and tear that occurs during drilling. A diamond drill can effectively pierce through concrete and various types of natural stones like marble and granite.

Although diamond drills are generally electrically powered, there are devices that are hand-held or battery powered so that contractors can use them in certain areas where the electrical supply is limited or absent. Diamond drilling equipment can also work on a hydraulic power source. And whether the drilling machine is hydraulic or pneumatic, the power source can be connected to a rig.

   

Info source: www.cadrillers.com