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  • Mastering Christmas Objections – Part 3

    Mastering Christmas Objections – Part 3

    Final Week Sales Hacks – Keep the Christmas Objections at Bay

    If you’re like a lot of sales pros, you’ve probably felt that familiar chill when someone says “Call me after Christmas.” But that’s not the end of the road—there’s still a chance to seal the deal. Let’s dive into the last two winning tips that can help you keep your prospects engaged and your calendar full.

    Tip #3: Ask Better Questions

    • Drop the “Happy Holidays” placeholder. Instead of treating the pause like a dead end, use it to dig deeper.
    • Uncover the real motive. Hush your doubts: are they genuinely busy or just trying to shuffle you off?
    • Set the stage with curiosity. Probing questions can transform a “No” into “Let’s talk more.” For example:

      • “What’s the primary challenge you’re hoping to solve in 2025?”
      • “If we couldn’t meet your timeline, what would happen?”
    • Stay silent after the answer. Let the prospect reveal themselves. Silence is a powerful tool.
    • Keep the conversation alive. If the answer is vague, say, “I want to make sure this holiday period really benefits you. What’s the most pressing reason to delay?” This keeps the motive honest.

    If the decision‑maker gives solid reasons for pushing the ball into January, you’ve earned the trust and can easily re‑enter the conversation with a fresh context. But if their answers feel like a stare‑away, they might be pulling a “fob us off” move. Spotting that early is key.

    Tip #4: Have the Right Attitude

    • Smile – even over the phone. A positive tone can be contagious.
    • Show enthusiasm for the holiday pause. Rather than be gloomy like a Windows Vista, frame the break as a strategic pause.
    • Don’t assume the worst. The market’s competitive, but you’re in a good spot if you’re prepared.
    • Plan for January. Map out a “bouncing‑back” strategy that’ll impress any boss on the other side.
    • Remember the “Christmas objection” it’s all about timing. You’re not just a call on a phone; you’re a solution on a calendar.

    In a market where buyers are juggling multiple vendors, the person who tackles the holiday objection with confidence and a clear plan usually wins the sale. Keep that in mind: the next time you’re asked to defer a discussion, just respond with a friendly, “Let’s sync up in January—thanks for the holiday break.” Then leave a solid, short‑term playbook ready for when the calendar flips.

    Remember: just because someone delays doesn’t mean they’re moving on. With sharper questions and a vibrant attitude, you’ll not only survive the silent season but thrive right after it.

  • Score Your Dreams: Eastern Florida State College Foundation’s Scholarship Golf Classic Set for Nov. 7 at Duran Golf Club

    Score Your Dreams: Eastern Florida State College Foundation’s Scholarship Golf Classic Set for Nov. 7 at Duran Golf Club

    Sign up to sponsor or play in the Annual EFSC Scholarship Golf Classic

    Join the 2024 Eastern Florida State College Scholarship Golf Classic

    It’s time to hop on our tee and support a good cause. The 2024 Golf Classic will take place on Friday, October 25. The start time is 8:30 a.m. Lightning round kickoff at the Duran Golf Club in Viera.

    We’re calling on golfers, friends, and coworkers. A round of green doesn’t have to be all business. It’s also about community and giving back to students.

    What You’ll Experience

    You’ll be on a beautiful links-like course. The Duran Golf Club is full of mature trees, clear water features, and sand traps that keep the play interesting. If you’re not a pro, don’t worry. We arrange the pace for everyone. Your game will feel relaxed yet focused.

    After the holes, you’ll sit with other participants in a laid‑back lunch. We’ve staffed a buffet with several local suppliers. It’s great for catching up and chatting about the day’s swings.

    Following lunch, we’ll host an awards ceremony. The winners take the trophy and the following year they’re invited to return for a special celebratory round. The atmosphere is always jubilant. The event ends with cheers, applause, and a feeling of accomplishment for everybody.

    The Heart of the Classic: Scholarships

    The money raised covers the entire cost of tuition for a handful of deserving students who can’t afford college out of their own pockets. The good work started in 2010. With over 200 students supported, the scholarship office is doing a tremendous job. Throughout the year, each scholarship recipient visits the center. Students come from all 20 counties in Florida. The program is truly widespread.

    One student, Maria, lives in Orlando. She credits the scholarship for paying her first term at Florida State. She says she enjoys learning mathematics and hopes to become a civil engineer. Thanks to the Classic, Maria can focus on her degree and not worry about financial problems.

    We’re proud that the 2024 classic has already pushed the total to more than $155,000. That figure reaches beyond just scholarships. Employees, teachers, parents and local sponsors have partnered to make the numbers climb higher each year.

    Join the Sponsor Family

    The sponsorship is simple. Two ready options exist: play or sponsor. If you want to walk through the greens while letting your employees and community feel the event, you can join us as a sponsor. Pay a donation. The money lifts the prize purse, the event’s cost, and every scholarship amount.

    Here’s what we offer to each level. The levels are designed to custom fit each sponsor’s interest. Most sponsors appreciate their brand being promoted loud and clear around the course, at event programs, or in the lunch’s press. For smaller sponsors, we offer logo placements in social‑media posts or inside the program booklet.

    Sponsor Levels – Easy Descriptions

    • $25,000 – Signature Sponsor
      Gets the top awards. Your company’s name appears in program, on the key trophy, and on our web page. We also award your logo at the front of the banquet.
      Champions will face you in a handshake.
      MAX attention.
    • $15,000 – Titan Sponsor
      Brightly shown in all printed materials and digital posts. You get a prominent booth on the day with a banner. Your logo on lunch trays.
      More vibes.
    • $10,000 – Hospitality Sponsor
      Premium table options. You’ll have seats at the awards dinner. Your brand in the program. Extra chocolate boxes with your company printed on them.
    • $7,500 – Food & Beverage Sponsor
      Contribute the dinner ingredients or drinks. We ask your menu to be custom printed. Your brand will be in our media, posters, and the gift bags.
    • $5,000 – Golf Ball Sponsor
    • $5,000 – Golf Cart Sponsor
    • $5,000 – Score Card Sponsor
    • $3,750 – Contest Sponsor
    • $2,500 – Greens Sponsor
    • $1,250 – Birdie Sponsor
    • $500 – Tee Party Sponsor
    • $300 – Hole Sponsor

    Our sponsorship levels come with hidden but real perks. For example, the “Signature Sponsor” sees a sweepstakes printed with the classic’s trophy. The award holders host a fundraising luncheon later. The “Titan Sponsor” enjoys a stable sponsorship share from the high‑end match fund.

    For all sponsors, we install logos at the entrance, onsite signage, and requested page. Likewise, we offer to engage internal messaging, sponsorship email invites, and press releases. The design is clean and easy to share on social media.

    The Payment Details

    All payments go through the secure registration portal. We support multiple payment methods: credit card, debit card, check. The portal’s user interface has a button for “Register Now” to promote action. Once you click that button, you will land on the ready‑to‑pay. After the amount is confirmed, you receive a receipt email that you keep for accounting.

    A phone call eases questions about the classic. Reach out to 321-433-7055. The office is ready to talk one shop in all aspects.

    Why You Should Sign Up

    Beyond the shine of the ball on the first tee, you get to see your teammates’ future. A golf course is the place where many folks catch aspirations and keep them. Supporting the 2024 classic gives your company a chance to do that.

    If you’re an entrepreneur, you are a marketing pro. Holding a tournament keeps your brand name in front of everybody. Handshake sessions are friendly times. The classic’s media follows that event. Blogs, local TV, and small network fans look forward to gossip of who will win and how big the prize will be.

    Many participants have found that their corporate wellness program gets a boost. The Classic gives a chance to get a healthy activity. Participants present a healthy tempo. Employees may enjoy a better feeling of well‑being after a round on the course.

    All in all, the event is way more than a charity. It’s a community of students, employees, donors, and supporters. If you are part of the community, this event helps you say: “I value a student. I value a team.”

    Tight Connection With Students

    The scholarship program is a vital highlight. Many histories show how scholarships help keep the scholarship program in place. Students who have assisted after the program are enthusiastic. They pass on their teachers. They loop in the community. They accompany their school teachers to share capital education.

    Returning supporters are even more excited. Wardens from the program may count how the time at the Chapell Plains no. 9 was a vital milestone for the shape of education. The classic lives that moment.

    The Duran Golf Club – Green Space and Charm

    The course is built in 1996. It has 18 pit full of emphasis, and four bunkers with rubric. Beyond the course’s features, the club’s office has a typical Bhi green environment such as a swimming pool, a bar, and sultr. On the Land, the teachers love the lakes lying in a mass of trees.

    Editing the atmosphere is calm, comforting. For a student who lives far away, the tourist is an experience of adventure travel, the first time. Students are required to travel 246 miles thanks to a nationwide environment. They feel like paying for scholarships in advance.

    The golfing experience might be a teacher that might break large, or the practice step is a best asset to support education through the open disk. The final, nobody can reach beyond that there is a healthy impression from the Classic.

    After the Classic – Appreciation and Rewards

    Players get a lunch meal after finishing the rounds. The lunch is always short or longer. That is like the student’s meal at the Classic, in which we show the impression of an event where the best. The lunch is a good meeting for the new-found collaborators.

    Guided by a groomed plan amongst the ex participants and all the sponsors, we will allow an exposition of awards. That process is friendly and visits the friendly. The winners sat in front. One can add a trophy. For the sponsors, the process gives a noble event. For children, the stand emphasizes the best amount to bury the knowledge. It’s the conversation that helps the overall structuring of the event and will be evaluated the event tradition.

    Contact For Your Participation

    Each test is bound to the opportunity for tha thesis commonly in L. The Classic team is ready to answer your questions. Ask the phone number inside so close, 321-433-7055. If you want to appear at a webinar, or sign with an earliest leadership tool, the office can arrange a virtual phone call for your user’s needs.

    Wrap Up – A Offer For All

    Ready for the tee? Whether you want to play or sponsor, join that event. Your participation will mean that elementary students can get a tuition and their aspirations will grow. Your brand will lift the Microsoft intersection. The event is 2024.

    So, we keep a call to action: Register‑Now. To get the step or to set a plan regarding the presence we’ve made. The web system is active, the phone is vibrant. Bring your future, your friends and your teams to a day of golf that is about more than the ball and about many discounted trustees in a place where the prize, the buzz, and the community gather. It is the 2024 Classic, and it sticks in our hearts. Make your part of the future. Write the name. Attend to it. Join today.

    Score Your Dreams: Eastern Florida State College Foundation’s Scholarship Golf Classic Set for Nov. 7 at Duran Golf Club

    The 2024 Eastern Florida State College Scholarship Golf Classic

    It’s almost time to hit the fairways for a great cause. The 2024 Eastern Florida State College Scholarship Golf Classic will take place on Friday, November 7. The Duran Golf Club in Viera has set the scene for a day full of swing, smiles, and community spirit.

    The event starts at 8:30 a.m. Sharp. A Shotgun Start means every player tees off at the same time. That makes the atmosphere electric. You’ll see a mix of seasoned golfers and new faces all ready to support the college’s scholarship fund.

    Want to join? It’s simple. Check the registration page and sign up right now. Don’t wait; spots fill quickly, and you’ll be part of something meaningful while enjoying a beautiful day on the greens.

    Why the Foundation Matters

    The Eastern Florida State College Foundation is the heart of the college’s support system. It gathers help from individuals, businesses, and other allies. That help goes straight into education programs and scholarship awards.

    When people support the Foundation, they make real opportunities for students. That is its core purpose.

    What the Foundation Helps With

    • Academic Programs – Building stronger courses and new learning tools.
    • Scholarships and Faculty Chairs – Boosting financial aid for students and creating new teaching roles.
    • Facilities and Equipment – Upgrading classrooms, labs, and libraries.

    These three areas are the backbone of student success. Each dollar spent by donors goes directly into improving the student experience.

    History of the EFSC Foundation

    The foundation has more than four decades of giving. Since its start, it’s paid a heavy heart for students’ futures.

    Over the last five years, it has raised and given more than $2.5 million. That money has become scholarships that cover tuition, books, and even living expenses for many students.

    Every dollar helps a student take a step closer to graduation and a better job after school. That’s why the foundation’s work is so powerful.

    How You Can Be Part of the Success

    • Donate a one‑time contribution at any amount.
    • Consider a recurring gift to keep the support steady.
    • Join the Golf Classic to raise funds and raise awareness.
    • Spread the word among friends and coworkers.

    Even small support matters. When many people come together, the effect is huge.

    Scholarship Options Through the Foundation

    The Foundation lists many scholarships that match different student needs. These can be for majors like engineering, business, arts, or even creative studies.

    Students can find the full list on the college’s Titan Scholarships webpage. The page has a simple layout that makes finding the right scholarship easy.

    If you’re a student, no question is too small. You can reach out for help. The support team is eager to explain which options fit best.

    Student Pathways to Success

    • Complete high school with a graduation plan and polished résumé.
    • Apply for general admission to the college.
    • Explore scholarship opportunities as part of the application.
    • Get personalized guidance from faculty at the scholarship office.
    • Receive financial aid that keeps you on track to finish your degree.

    The goal is simple: support students to finish with a degree ready for the workforce.

    What the College Offers

    EFSC keeps a strong focus on giving students a leading edge for life after graduation. The curriculum is tailored to keep up with the best workplaces.

    • Hands‑on labs and modern studios.
    • Experienced instructors who relate to real career scenarios.
    • Strong industry connections that lead to internships.
    • Career counseling that helps you pick the right pathway.

    These features make the program flexible for students from all backgrounds.

    Graduation and Opportunities

    After the degree, many graduates land jobs in leading companies. Others start their own businesses, thanks to the entrepreneurial mindset taught at the college.

    The college’s alumni network provides networking, support, and guidance for each new graduate. That closing the link to the future is key.

    Upcoming Coincidence: The Golf Classic

    Donations from golfers and attendees are not the only benefit. The event is also a chance to enjoy a beautiful day. The clubhouse is elegant and the fairways stretch across an 18‑hole layout that’s perfect for a 12‑hour game.

    There are two schedules: Tournament Play, and an Exclusive Benefits Session later on. This gives everyone something to look forward to.

    • Morning Play – 8:30 a.m. Main event.
    • Afternoon Session – Reports and networking.
    • Closing Ceremony – Recognizing donors and volunteers.

    How the Money Helps

    • Expand the academic program – new courses and labs.
    • Add more scholarships – more students can study without a burden.
    • Create new faculty chairs – more experts in your field.
    • Upgrade facilities – better classrooms, labs, and technology.

    With your support, the college can rise to new heights. The gift works for real, tangible outcomes.

    What the Table Looks Like

    Golf tournaments aren’t just about swinging. They are about networking, sharing ideas, and forging friendships. The event brings together students, alumni, sponsors, and community members.

    At every conversation, new possibilities emerge. A student might meet a mentor who offers internship advice. A sponsor might get a connection to a future business partner.

    Fun, Community, and Purpose

    • Community involvement – Local farmers, businesses, and donors.
    • Fun – Friendly competition and even occasional prizes.
    • Purpose – Funding scholarships and strengthening education.

    The event’s core is purpose. Everyone leaves knowing they helped a student get closer to their dream.

    To Register, Just Look Here

    Getting on the list is quick. Use the website for the 2024 scholarship golf classic. You’ll arrive at a simple form with few questions. Then hit “Register.” Yes, that’s it.

    Don’t forget to inform friends or coworkers who might have a golf socket in them. If they are able to play, that adds double value – sport and support.

    Our Vision for the Future

    The EFSC Foundation stands for more than a donation. It represents a mission to keep students alive, healthy, and ready to work.

    With continued private funds, we keep adding to the college’s success:

    • Better classrooms with new technology.
    • More scholarships that cover up to tuition and beyond.
    • New research initiatives that light up innovative projects.

    It’s all about making sure the student’s experience stays top‑grade. That is why every event helps, the more the better.

    It’s All About You

    • If you are a student, use the scholarship portal to apply.
    • If you are a supporter, find a donation route.
    • If you are a local business, think about sponsoring the golf classic.

    We’re open to any type of help. Just bring your enthusiasm and your forward‑moving mission.

    Press Release • Date • Event Newsletter

    We’re excited to have you at the golf classic. There are big changes throughout the day.

    Fresh air, great greens, and the sense of giving a boost to students’ dreams.

    Happy golfing!

    HOT OFF THE PRESS! September 15, 2025 Space Coast Daily News – Brevard County’s Best Newspaper

    Meet the Space Coast Daily News

    Imagine living in Brevard County and having a newspaper that feels like a friend. That friend is the Space Coast Daily News. It’s not just another paper—it’s the go‑to source for everything happening on the Space Coast.
    Since its launch on September 15, 2025, it’s already won hearts.

    The Birth of a News Champion

    • It started in the heart of Brevard County.
    • Created by local journalists who love the ocean.
    • Gives a fresh look at the Space Coast.

    Friends, this isn’t just a business. It’s a community hub. The paper wraps up local stories, science, and everyday life. It’s built for the people who live and work here.

    What Makes It Stand Out?

    Think about any other paper. They often talk about big names and crowded towers. This one, though, talks about your neighborhood. It covers these topics:

    • Local events: festivals, beach clean-ups, and school sports.
    • Space exploration: updates from the Kennedy Space Center.
    • Weather alerts: the folks who warn you when a storm is near.
    • Community news: new businesses, parks, and people making neighbors proud.

    Every article is short, clear, and full of feelings. You feel the voice of a neighbor who knows your café and your kid’s soccer team.

    Real Stories, Real People

    Check out how the paper reports a breaking story: A hurricane comes, and everyone needs to know. The journalist goes straight to the storm’s source. They interview emergency crews. Then they bring the message home: “We are safe. Stay indoors.” It’s simple, direct, and helps keep everyone calm.

    The Journalists Behind the Scenes

    Meet the team: Anna in the newsroom, Tom who covers local milestones, and Lara, the tech guru. Each one brings something unique. They read the facts, talk to folks, and then write in a style that feels friendly. No complex jargon. Just plain English that everyone can understand.

    They live on the Space Coast. They are members of the community. That’s why they have stories that matter. They know the beat. They know when something big happens.

    What Readers Love

    • Short, punchy headlines.
    • Videos that show the day’s big moments.
    • Lists that help plan your weekend.
    • Good reads: quick updates that fit in your lunch break.

    People say the paper is “the real voice of the Coast.” They’ll share it with friends. It’s more than news; it’s a daily conversation with neighbors.

    Coverage of Space Exploring

    The Kennedy Space Center is part of the local fabric. The newspaper follows every launch, test, and shuttle. They cover the science and the excitement. When astronauts arrive, they write personal stories that feel like a message from space.

    A recent story about a new rocket launch highlighted how brave the crew is. The article was simple: the rocket lifts off, the sky is bright, and a child looks up in awe. Everyone knows that feeling.

    Science for All

    • Simple, fun explanations of space.
    • Infographic lists that break down complex ideas.
    • Interviews with astronauts that relate back to everyday life.

    These are all designed for anyone with a curious mind. Even kids can read about the stars and understand.

    Why It’s the Best Newspaper in Brevard County

    Let’s count the benefits:

    • Fast news: updates within minutes.
    • Local focus: nothing larger than the community.
    • Friendly tone: no stiff words.
    • Accessible: online and print, with no paywalls.
    • Transparent: the mission is honest news that cares.

    All of these things make the Space Coast Daily News the newspaper that everyone trusts. People trust it because it feels like a neighborhood friend.

    Community Impact

    When a school needs to warn parents about a flood, the paper writes the story in simple terms. Parents read it and act. It prevented many floods. That’s real news that saves lives. The community is safer because of this newspaper.

    How It Operates

    The paper has a small office. It has a website where you can read stories. Readers get emails with the hottest news. There are also podcasts for those who prefer listening. You can find the paper easily on the cloud.

    Databases & Technology

    • Simple search engine for finding old stories.
    • Category tags for quick navigation.
    • Mobile-friendly display for reading on phones.

    All these features make it easy. You can look up anything from “weather” to “space launch.”

    Support from Readers

    Readers can help the paper grow by buying a print copy. They can also sign up for the daily email or attend local events. The community is the newspaper’s biggest ally. They keep it alive by reading, sharing, and supporting. The paper says thank you always.

    Future Plans

    • More local personalities to feature.
    • Tech-driven stories and interactive content.
    • Expanded community outreach with more volunteers.

    The Space Coast Daily News is already amazing. The future looks stronger.

    Takeaway

    If you live in Brevard County, this paper is your daily buddy. It brings real news, real stories, and real people. It’s simple, direct, and full of life. Take a peek this week, read a short article, and feel the difference. It’s not just headlines. It’s the daily heartbeat of the Space Coast.

  • ‘Intolerable’: Airlines slam passenger disruption caused by French air traffic controller strikes

    ‘Intolerable’: Airlines slam passenger disruption caused by French air traffic controller strikes

    Budget airline Ryanair has called on EU Commission President Ursula von der Leyen to take urgent action.

    ADVERTISEMENT

    A strike by French air traffic controllers (ATC) entered its second day on Friday with flight delays and cancellations continuing for thousands of passengers.
    Airlines have slammed the industrial action, which comes during one of the busiest months of the year for air travel.

    Budget airline Ryanair has called on EU Commission President Ursula von der Leyen to take urgent action.

    Tens of thousands of passengers affected by French airport strikes

    In response to the walkout, the French Civil Aviation Authority (DGAC) has asked for a reduction in airport capacity across the country.
    Airlines for Europe (A4E) said on Thursday that a total of 1500 flights have been cancelled on 3 and 4 July, affecting over 300,000 passengers.
    Late on Thursday, Ryanair said it has been forced to cancel 400 flights on Thursday and Friday due to the strike, including some flights over France to the UK, Spain, Greece and Ireland. It could disrupt travel for more than 70,000 passengers.
    Easyjet has also said it has had to cancel 274 flights during the walkout.

    Ryanair says European families are ‘held to ransom’ by strikes

    The industrial action comes on the eve of the school summer holidays in France, when air traffic peaks. These dates are some of the busiest of the year, according to DGAC, as many head off on their summer break.
    Ryanair has lambasted the move. “Once again, European families are held to ransom by French air traffic controllers going on strike,” CEO Michael O’Leary said in a statement.
    He highlighted that the strike is also affecting all flights passing over French airspace, meaning passengers who are not landing or leaving from France are also experiencing disruption.
    “It is not acceptable that overflights over French airspace en route to their destination are being cancelled/delayed as a result of yet another French ATC strike,” O’Leary said. “It makes no sense and is abundantly unfair on EU passengers and families going on holidays.”

    The airline has called on Ursula von der Leyen to take urgent action to reform the EU’s ATC services by ensuring that they are fully staffed for the first wave of daily departures and protecting overflights during national ATC strikes.
    “These two splendid reforms would eliminate 90 per cent of all ATC delays and cancellations, and protect EU passengers from these repeated and avoidable disruptions due to yet another French ATC strike.”

    Airline association calls strikes ‘intolerable’

    Airlines for Europe (A4E) has also hit back over the disruption caused by the French ATC strike.
    “Tens of thousands of travellers in France and across Europe have seen their summer getaway grounded as French air traffic controllers walk out,” the group said in a statement.
    “Already in 2025, French ATC has proven to be one of the weakest links in Europe’s ATC system, posting some of Europe’s worst delay records.”
    ATC capacity-related delays in June 2025 reportedly jumped 115 per cent compared to June 2024.
    “European Transport Commissioner Tzitzikostas has repeatedly pressed member states to fix poor-performing ATC and it is high time they stopped the excuses and took action,” the A4E statement continues.

    Related

    Rescue fees, infant charges and group bookings: Which European airline has the highest hidden costs?EU to ban airlines from charging extra for hand luggage: What does this mean for passengers?

    The group is calling for various measures to prevent future disruption to passengers in France and across Europe:

    Mandatory arbitration before ATC unions can threaten strike action
    A 21-day advance notification of strike action.
    Provision of a 72-hour advance individual notification of participation in industrial action
    Protection of overflights, while ensuring this is not at the expense of departures and arrivals in the country where the strike originates
    A right of redress with Air Navigation Service Providers (ANSPs) for the impact of disruption

    “This strike is intolerable. French ATC already delivers some of Europe’s worst delay figures and now the actions of a minority of French ATC workers will needlessly disrupt the holiday plans of thousands of people in France and across Europe,” said Ourania Georgoutsakou, Managing Director of A4E.
    “There is intense discussion about passenger rights in the EU right now, yet policymakers have done little to fix ATC to help them attain the most basic right: reaching your destination on time.”

  • Do any of us make the most out of our support network?

    Do any of us make the most out of our support network?

    Author Porter Gale wrote the most important asset in business isn’t financial capital, but social capital – the ability to “build a network of authentic personal and professional relationships.”

    The majority of entrepreneurs, start-ups and established businesses are surrounded by some type of support network everyday, be it in the workplace, on social media platforms such as LinkedIn and many often rely heavily on family and friends. But what is the use of making more connections if we don’t know how to make the most of our support network?
    Building the network is one thing, but how to we then go on to leverage our ‘community capital’?
    A good support network needs to encourage and help your business thrive by adding value where it’s needed the most, but many find themselves stuck in a cycle of giving and never receiving the same back. How can this be done?

    Sweat your existing network

    If you look on your LinkedIn profile, you probably have several tens or hundreds of connections that you don’t utilise or call onto for business advice or opinion. Similarly, how many business cards do you have in your wallet or purse that you think could be of true business value? Start doing something about it, drop them an email, give them a call and re-introduce yourself.
    Remember – business thrives on collaboration, and your network could be just as keen for your input as you are for theirs. Seek out complementary businesses and learn together. This will open up opportunities and provides the chance for you to share your own expertise.

    Seize opportunities to meet face-to-face

    It’s important not to get stuck in the digital age and only ever “meet” people via email or over the phone. The majority of SMEs, start-ups and already established businesses forget that human interaction is key to developing good relationships and some of the most valuable business connections start with a face-to-face conversation. People exchange information for more freely face-to-face.
    Email and Skype should make real-world interactions easier and more efficient, not hinder them, so make time to catch up with people face to face. Of course face-to-face meetings take up more time, but the benefits could be career changing

    Attend workplace events

    Attending workplace events is an excellent way of connecting and networking with peers. This allows you to branch out to your most immediate network – your colleagues.
    Make time to cast the net further afield and sign up to industry events. Trade magazines are often a great place to look – many will have their own programme of conferences – but also try Facebook where groups dedicated to your sector will routinely share events.

    Don’t just connect – broadcast

    It’s important to stay connected with people via email, telephone and meet for occasional business lunches, but what about social media? Naturally you’ll want to remain in touch with your existing network, but also consider how you’re broadcasting your insight to those you haven’t connected with yet – beyond a snappy bio, what insight are you sharing?
    Consider producing content for social media – particularly LinkedIn. Reeling off a quick, insightful post on a topical industry moment or providing advice to others with a longform article will see you shared into other networks.
    Pay attention to the comments – even those who disagree with you – as they often provide opportunities to spark up a conversation. On more than one occasion, I’ve found myself exchanging contacts with someone who I first interacted with following a LinkedIn article. This isn’t marketing fluff – it works.
    There’s no right or wrong way of building a successful support network but whether you’re a startup, entrepreneur or an already established business, a strong support network is vital in order for your business to stay afloat.
    Don’t be afraid to ask for help, seize opportunities to meet peers face-to-face, attend networking events and most importantly stay connected. Soon building and leveraging your support network will become second nature.

  • Eliminate Zoom Exhaustion — Elevate Wellness and Drive Profits

    Eliminate Zoom Exhaustion — Elevate Wellness and Drive Profits

    Call it Zoom fatigue or Zoom burnout, the new epidemic that is spreading like a curse during the current pandemic is affecting millions of people worldwide. We look into the wider affects of it and show you ways to avoid or deal with it, because let’s face it, we’ve all got enough to be dealing with right now.

    Video Conference Overload: The Real Cost of Sitting Behind a Screen

    Picture this: In just one year, online meetings surged an astonishing 270%. Zoom and Microsoft Teams became the go‑to tools for a world suddenly stuck indoors. But did the power‑houses managing all those pixels ever stop to wonder what it does to your sanity?

    More Than Just Numbers on a Spreadsheet

    Those huge spikes in subscribers are impressive points on a company’s financial report, but for the everyday worker, the reality is a little different. Think about the boardroom—a place meant to hammer out deadlines and make decisions. Now imagine that same purpose spread out over dozens of endless video calls that drain your mind and energy.

    How Endless Zoom Calls Sneak Time Right Out of Your Day

    • Time is Stolen: Every extra 10‑minute call means extra minutes you could have spent working on something concrete.
    • The Physical Load: Screens force you to keep your head in the same angle, and the constant clicking sticks a few extra calories like a thumb‑tossed snack.
    • Mental Exhaustion: Your brain switches between “focus mode” and “avatar mode” to keep up—a switch whose cost is all too real.
    The Unspoken Truth: A Digital Burn‑out Epidemic

    It’s not just the way meetings pile on your calendar; it’s the strain on your everyday life. From burnt-out focus to unexpected headaches, the consequence of too many video calls is tangible—and we’re still learning how to mitigate it.

    So next time you see the headline about a 270% jump in online meetings, take a moment. Ask yourself: Are you building your career in an effective way, or are you becoming a walking meme of the company’s power‑player? The answer matters, folks.

    Why is talking on a Zoom so fatiguing?

    Zooming & Stressing: A Real‑Life Reality Check

    Picture this: twenty faces lining up to stare you down while you try to fight off the urge to glance at your phone. You’re juggling body language, spotting the truth in each smile, and keeping everyone looking “enthusiastically engaged.” Sounds exhausting? Think of it as a talent show with zero backstage passes.

    Why It Feels Like a Full‑Time Job

    • Home‑schooling + work: It’s like a multitasking nightmare—one minute you’re grading worksheets, next you’re hunting for that “mute” button. Pets, deliveries, kids, house‑mates are all their own white‑noise shows.
    • Synchronized eye contact: People with learning disabilities hate it already; add a camera cam‑pool and LEVEL 10 pressure. No one wants to be the subject of a virtual staring contest.
    • Security & privacy: During lockdown, you’ve got two perimeters to defend: your own privacy and that of your sensitive agenda. No one wants the neighbor’s cat hearing your jaw break over a crisis.

    Keeping Up the “Smart‑Looking” Facade

    Suddenly you’re on a roller coaster of mood, the only way to keep calm is to swallow something in silence. Reality? You can sip water, gulp coffee, or even munch on a donut—just hide it in the corner. Many of us think it’s “rude,” but the truth? It’s self‑care.

    Why Regular Phone Calls Feel Louder

    When you’re on a basic handset, you can practically breathe. The lack of eye‑contact and visual cues means you’re less distracted and less forced to maintain a perfect posture. So feel good about your less‑is-more approach.

    Wrap‑Up: One Zoom Call at a Time

    Remember: your focus and energy are there for a purpose—solving the actual problem. It’s okay to find a perfect balance between professionalism, emotional resilience, and a tiny splash of humor— the world will surely accept your two‑pan‑style productivity.

    Here’s how to shake things up for effective Zoom meetings:

    Boost Your Well‑Being on Zoom – No More “Zoom‑Fatigue” Victim!

    Working in a regulated role and watching the screen every day? Don’t break out in a cold sweat yet—there are tricks that can keep your eyes happy, your posture happy, and your mind happy.

    1. Give Your Eyes a Little Warm‑Up

    • Flux on your computer: This nifty app re‑tunes the blue light so your screen looks like a cozy kitchen window in the evening.
    • Same app on phone & tablet: Push the “night mode” button at the hour you usually hit the sack. Even if you peep at your phone for hours, the warmer hue helps you wind down.

    2. Swap the “Sit‑And‑Stare” for a “Move‑And‑Chat” Flow

    • Electro‑sit‑stand desk: Stand for your Zooms, stay more energized, and feel less drained.
    • Cycling desks: Keep your legs pumping while you chat—think of it as a fitness class that happens during work.

    3. Plan Your Virtual Hours Smartly

    • Morning‑free creative: Tackle those tough tasks before the meeting frenzy starts.
    • Afternoon Zooms only: Your brain’s best, minus the early‑day stress.

    4. Keep the Camera Off When It’s Not Needed

    • Video kills focus; audio keeps the vibe natural.
    • Let everyone remember it’s a “talk‑about‑ideas” session, not a performance.

    5. Share the Burn‑Out Truth with Your Safety Officer

    • Ask the health & safety lead to flag Zoom fatigue as a real issue.
    • More employees feel it means it’s probably affecting the whole crew.

    6. Make Meetings Short, Sharp, and Useful

    • Three essential pre‑meeting thoughts: Have a conversation starter ready that helps solve the problem.
    • Cap it at 40 minutes: The average adult’s attention span is 45 minutes—drop it in stressful times.
    • Keep the meeting sputtering: agenda, a quick preview, then dive into solutions.

    7. Keep the Body Moving – Even Inside the Meeting

    • Every now and then, stand up, stretch, or spin around. One minute can refresh your brain.
    • When lockdowns persist and remote work stays on the agenda, a morale‑boosting habit is your best ally.

    Invite your teammates to embrace these tools, keep the Zoom fatigue low, and let the remote work magic stay bright and healthy for everyone!

  • The Debt And Deficit Problem Isn't What You Think

    The Debt And Deficit Problem Isn't What You Think

    Authored by Lance Roberts via RealInvestmentAdvice.com,

    In recent months, much debate has been about rising debt and increasing deficit levels in the U.S. For example, here is a recent headline from CNBC:

    The article’s author suggests that U.S. federal deficits are ballooning, with spending surging due to the combined impact of tax cuts, expansive stimulus, and entitlement expenditures. Of course, with institutions like Yale, Wharton, and the CBO warning that this trend has pushed interest costs to new heights, now exceeding defense outlays, concerns about domestic solvency are rising. Even prominent figures in the media, from Larry Summers to Ray Dalio, argue that drastic action is urgently needed, otherwise another “financial crisis” is imminent.

    The problem with Larry Summers’, Ray Dalio’s, and many others’ warnings of impending financial doom is that they have been warning of that very problem for decades. Such was the point of our previous discussion:

    “It doesn’t take much to understand that Ray Dalio, a hedge fund titan, is like every other human being and is prone to error. I will not dismiss Dalio entirely, as his track record of managing money at Bridgewater is nothing to be scoffed at. However, his track record is far less enviable regarding debt crisis predictions. Here is a brief timeline.”

    • March 2015 – Hedge Funder Dalio Thinks the Fed Can Repeat 1937 All Over Again

    • January 2016 – The 75-Year Debt Supercycle Is Coming To An End

    • September 2018 – Ray Dalio Says The Economy Looks Like 1937 And A Downturn Is Coming In About Two Years

    • January 2019 – Ray Dalio Sees Significant Risk Of A US Recession

    • October 2022 – Dalio Warns Of Perfect Storm For The Economy (That was also the stock market low.)

    • September 2023 – Dalio Says The US Is Going To Have A Debt Crisis

    But you can even go further back than these when he wrote about some of his biggest mistakes about a decade ago:

    Here is the Problem for Investors

    For investors who listened to Dalio’s predictions of a coming “depression” a decade ago, they missed participating in one of the most significant bull markets in U.S. history.

    Yet over the past 40 years, the national debt has grown exponentially, with none of the dire consequences repeatedly predicted. Interest rates have fluctuated, political gridlock has persisted, and deficits have widened, but the U.S. economy continues to function, grow, and attract global capital. The reason is that the U.S. continues to enjoy what economists call the “exorbitant privilege” of being the issuer of the world’s reserve currency. Treasuries remain the deepest, most liquid capital market globally, and the dollar is central to global trade, investment, and reserves. This creates a structural advantage that allows the U.S. to run larger deficits than other nations without facing the same level of market discipline. So long as global trust in U.S. institutions and the rule of law remains intact, there is a deep and steady demand for U.S. debt, providing a long runway before any severe funding stress emerges.

    Moreover, deficit spending is no longer a temporary tool used in times of crisis; it has become an embedded feature of the economy. Social Security, Medicare, defense, and other entitlements are politically sacrosanct. At the same time, fiscal transfers (like tax credits and subsidies) are now a regular part of household consumption and corporate support. In many ways, the U.S. economy is now structurally reliant on deficit-financed stimulus. Growth, consumer spending, and even corporate investment increasingly depend on a steady stream of government outlays.

    While U.S. debt and deficit levels are elevated, there is no imminent risk of fiscal collapse. However, it is worth examining the impact of rising debt and deficit levels on future economic prosperity.

    The Real Problem With Debts and Deficits

    I understand the concerns about rising debt levels. However, the problem of rising debt levels for the U.S. is NOT a default but a continued degradation of economic growth. Let’s start this discussion with a basic fact—without continued increases in debt, there would be very little to no economic growth. This is because all government debt winds up in the economy and the household’s balance sheet through lending, credit, or direct payments. We can view this by looking at the dollars of debt required to create a dollar of economic growth. Since 1980, the increase in debt has usurped the entire economic growth. The problem with the growth in debt is that it diverts tax dollars away from productive investments into debt service and social welfare.

    Another way to view this is to consider “debt-free” economic growth. In other words, without debt, there has been no organic economic growth since 2015. Thus, the debt and subsequent deficits must continue to expand to sustain economic growth.

    The economic deficit has never been more significant. From 1952 to 1982, the economic surplus fostered an economic growth rate averaging roughly 8%. Today, that is no longer the case as the debt detracts from growth. Such is why the Federal Reserve has found itself in a “liquidity trap” where:

    Interest rates MUST remain low, and debt MUST grow faster than the economy, just to keep the economy from stalling out.

    The problem with the current issuance of debt is that it is primarily non-productive debt. That is a crucially important concept concerning debt issuance and its impact on economic growth.

    Non-Productive Debt Is The Problem

    Not all debt is created equal. The key distinction lies between productive and non-productive debt, and understanding the difference is critical to evaluating the risks and benefits of government borrowing.

    Productive debt refers to borrowing used for investments that generate long-term economic returns, such as infrastructure, education, research, or business capital expenditures. These types of investments can increase future GDP, improve productivity, and ultimately pay for themselves through higher tax revenues.

    In contrast, non-productive debt funds consumption or transfers that do not yield a measurable economic return. In the U.S., social welfare and interest payments on existing debt are a large majority of Government expenditures.

    The data below shows that of every dollar spent by the Federal Government, roughly 73% is “mandatory” spending on social welfare and interest expense.

    While the non-productive spending is necessary, primarily to support vulnerable populations, it adds to the debt burden without expanding the economy’s capacity to grow. The U.S., like many developed economies, increasingly relies on non-productive debt to sustain economic momentum, which raises concerns about long-term fiscal sustainability. The danger isn’t the debt itself; it’s when borrowed funds fail to create future value, leaving future taxpayers with the bill and no corresponding economic benefit.

    Dr. Woody Brock’s book “American Gridlock” best explains the difference between productive and non-productive debt.

    “The word “deficit” has no real meaning. Take a look at the following example:

    Country A spends $4 Trillion with receipts of $3 Trillion. This leaves Country A with a $1 Trillion deficit. In order to make up the difference between the spending and the income, the Treasury must issue $1 Trillion in new debt. That new debt is used to cover the excess expenditures, but generates no income leaving a future hole that must be filled.

    Country B spends $4 Trillion and receives $3 Trillion income. However, the $1 Trillion of excess, which was financed by debt, was invested into projects, infrastructure, that produced a positive rate of return. There is no deficit as the rate of return on the investment funds the “deficit” over time.

    There is no disagreement about the need for government spending. The disagreement is with the abuse, and waste, of it.”

    Currently, the U.S. is Country A. Increases in the national debt have long been squandered on increases in social welfare programs and, ultimately, higher debt service, which has an effective negative return on investment. Therefore, the larger the debt balance, the more economically destructive it is by diverting increasing amounts of dollars from productive assets to debt service.

    But here is where the most essential concept to understand comes into play.

    A Negative Multiplier

    Excess “debt” has a zero-to-negative multiplier effect, as Economists Jones and De Rugy showed in a study by the Mercatus Center at George Mason University.

    “The multiplier looks at the return in economic output when the government spends a dollar. If the multiplier is above one, it means that government spending draws in the private sector and generates more private consumer spending, private investment, and exports to foreign countries. If the multiplier is below one, the government spending crowds out the private sector, hence reducing it all.

    The evidence suggests that government purchases probably reduce the size of the private sector as they increase the size of the government sector. On net, incomes grow, but privately produced incomes shrink.”

    Personal consumption expenditures and business investment are vital inputs into the economic equation. As such, we should not ignore the reduction of privately produced incomes. Furthermore, according to the best available evidence, the study found:

    “There are no realistic scenarios where the short-term benefit of stimulus is so large that the government spending pays for itself. In fact, the positive impact is small, and much smaller than economic textbooks suggest.”

    Politicians spend money based on political ideologies rather than sound economic policy. Therefore, the findings should not surprise you. The conclusion of the study is most telling.

    “If you think that the Federal Reserve’s current monetary policy is reasonably competent, then you actually shouldn’t expect the fiscal boost from all that spending to be large. In fact, it could be close to zero.

    This is, of course, all before taking future taxes into account. When economists like Robert Barro and Charles Redlick studied the multiplier, they found once you account for future taxes required to pay for the spending, the multiplier could be negative.”

    What should not surprise you is that non-productive debt does not create economic growth. As Stuart Sparks of Deutsche Bank noted previously:

    “History teaches us that although investments in productive capacity can in principle raise potential growth and r* in such a way that the debt incurred to finance fiscal stimulus is paid down over time (r-g<0), it turns out that there is little evidence that it has ever been achieved in the past.

    Rising federal debt as a percentage of GDP has historically been associated with declines in estimates of r* – the need to save to service debt depresses potential growth. The broad point is that aggressive spending is necessary, but not sufficient. Spending must be designed to raise productive capacity, potential growth, and r*. Absent true investment, public spending can lower r*, passively tightening for a fixed monetary stance.”

    This is why the economic drag from a debt reduction would be devastating. The last time such a reversion occurred was during the Great Depression.

    Conclusion

    This is one of the primary reasons why economic growth will continue to run at lower levels. Reversing non-productive spending is impossible due to the general population’s vast dependence on those programs. Reducing that spending would be “economic suicide.”

    However, as noted in “Deficits May Find Their Cure In A.I.”

    “From the deficit narrative perspective, this all suggests that the future is potentially much brighter than most imagine. The infrastructure buildout for AI data factories can drive economic growth by creating jobs, stimulating industries, and enabling AI-driven productivity gains. As noted above, increasing growth only marginally would stabilize the current debt-to-GDP ratio. However, boosting GDP growth to 2.3%- 3% annually would vastly improve outcomes. Furthermore, if interest rates drop by just 1%, this could reduce spending by $500 billion annually, helping to ease fiscal pressures.”

    While the U.S. faces a daunting fiscal outlook marked by rising debt and expanding deficits, the genuine concern is not an imminent crisis or default. Instead, the deeper, more structural issue is that an increasing share of federal borrowing is funneled into programs that support consumption but fail to generate future economic returns. That shift, which began over 50 years ago, creates a long-term drag on economic growth, crowds out private investment, and lowers the economy’s potential, or r*.

    As the data and history show, debt to fund productive assets, like infrastructure, innovation, and education, can sustain growth and even pay for itself over time. But borrowing for entitlements and debt service does not. Unfortunately, the political and demographic realities make it nearly impossible to reverse course without severe economic fallout. Unless policymakers redirect fiscal priorities toward investment in productive capacity, the economy will remain trapped in a cycle of low growth, rising obligations, and declining returns. Innovation may offer a way out, particularly the AI-driven transformation. If leveraged wisely, with targeted investment and smart policy, AI could lift productivity, restore growth, and ease the fiscal strain.

    The path forward is narrow, but not closed, and not one of imminent financial crisis. However, the real challenge will be political will.

    For more in-depth analysis and actionable investment strategies, visit RealInvestmentAdvice.com. Stay ahead of the markets with expert insights tailored to help you achieve your financial goals.

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